Los Angeles Car Accident Lawyer

Legal Recourse for Fatal Car Accidents in Riverside and Los Angeles

A recent fatal car accident that occurred in near Riverside illustrates the devastating consequences of reckless driving. A 22-year-old pregnant woman, Reyna Lisette Rivas Torres, tragically lost her life in a collision. The accident took place when a pickup truck driver ran a red light and broadsided her car, causing it to catch fire. Despite her efforts, Torres was unable to escape the burning car and was pronounced dead at the scene. Her family, including her one-year-old daughter, was left to cope with this heartbreaking loss.  Losing a loved one in a fatal car accident is an unimaginable tragedy that can bring profound emotional and financial turmoil, and the circumstances surrounding this case highlight the importance of understanding your rights following deadly collisions.

If you lost a loved one in a fatal crash in Riverside and Los Angeles, you should consult an attorney to discuss your rights and options as soon as possible. The experienced Riverside and Los Angeles personal injury lawyers of Melo Law understand the devastating impact the sudden death of a loved one can cause, not only emotionally but also financially, and we can provide you with the guidance and support you need during these difficult times. We regularly represent parties in personal injury and wrongful death matters in Riverside County, Los Angeles and cities throughout Southern California.

What Rights Do Surviving Family Members Have Following a Fatal Car Accident?

When a loved one dies in a car accident, California law allows surviving family members to pursue legal action to seek compensation for the harm caused by the person’s death. Wrongful death claims can be filed by the deceased person’s spouse, domestic partner, children, grandchildren, or others who would be entitled to recover under intestacy laws.

How Do I Recover Damages in a Wrongful Death Claim?

In the case of Reyna Lisette Rivas Torres, the negligent actions of the pickup truck driver led to the tragic accident, causing her untimely death. As such, to recover damages in a wrongful death claim arising out of her collision, the plaintiff must prove that the defendant owed a duty of care to Ms. Torres, that this duty was breached, and that the breach directly caused the accident. Additionally, the plaintiff needs to establish that the defendant’s actions were the proximate cause of  Ms. Torres death. The plaintiff must prove the defendant’s negligence by a preponderance of the evidence, meaning that it is more likely than not that the defendant’s actions caused Ms. Torres’s death.

What Damages are Recoverable in Wrongful Death Claims?

In wrongful death cases, damages are typically awarded in a lump-sum verdict, which is then distributed among the eligible heirs. Recoverable damages include the cost of medical treatment the deceased person received before their death, funeral or burial expenses, compensation for the income the deceased person would have earned throughout their life, and compensation for the loss of the person’s comfort, companionship, and affection. It is important to note that damages for the deceased person’s pain and suffering or the survivors’ pain and suffering are typically not recoverable.

How Long Do I Have to File a Wrongful Death Claim?

In cases of fatal car accidents, prompt action is crucial. Wrongful death claims must typically be filed within two years of the person’s death. It is important to act as quickly as possible, though, as important evidence may be destroyed or lost if parties delay in seeking damages.

How Can an Attorney Help Me?

A knowledgeable attorney who specializes in car accident cases  can provide invaluable assistance in navigating the challenging process of pursuing wrongful death claims. An experienced attorney can help you gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and build a strong case to seek the compensation you and your family deserve. While no amount of money can truly compensate for the loss of a loved one, pursuing a wrongful death claim can alleviate some of the financial burdens caused by the tragic accident.

Talk to a Seasoned Riverside and Los Angeles Car Accident Attorney

If you have lost a loved one in a fatal car accident and wish to assert a wrongful death claim, it is advisable to consult an attorney who can guide you through the legal process. At Melo Law, our seasoned Riverside and Los Angeles personal injury attorneys believe your case deserves the personalized attention only a boutique law firm can provide. At our firm, every case is handled directly by seasoned attorneys, not paralegals or new associates. We take a personal approach to your personal injury claim.  We regularly represent parties in cases arising out of fatal car accidents throughout Southern California. You can reach us at 888-MELO-LAW, through email at info@melolaw.com  or via our form online to schedule a confidential and free meeting.