Wrongful Death Lawyer
San Diego, California

At Gingery Hammer & Schneiderman LLP, we assist heartbroken families who have just experienced the devastating loss of a loved one. We provide a caring and compassionate family approach. Our team is available to handle wrongful death claims that occur as the result of fatal car accidents, healthcare mistakes, dangerous products, fires, workplace deaths, and other tragic events. At Gingery Hammer & Schneiderman LLP, we are proud to provide parents, spouses, siblings and other family members with experienced legal counsel in wrongful death cases throughout the Southern California area. We help ease the burden on our clients by making their legal issues as painless as possible in the wake of their loss.

TYPES OF CLAIMS WRONGFUL DEATH LAWYERS CAN FILE

Gingery Hammer & Schneiderman LLP can help in many wrongful death claims including:

Fatal Motor Vehicle Accidents – Such as car crashes, truck wrecks, catastrophic motorcycle accidents, mass transit crashes, drug related accidents, DUI-related accidents, plus uninsured, underinsured, and other negligent driver issues.

Medical Malpractice Claims – Involving fatal birth injuries, misdiagnosis of fatal conditions, prescription overdoses, surgical errors, and more.

Defective or Dangerous Product Cases – Including product liability matters such as defective seat belts, tires, and other auto parts. Product liability cases also include faulty tools and equipment, substandard building materials, defective prescription drugs and many other products.

Premises Liability Claims – Such as construction accidents, dog bites, explosions, falling debris, fires, inadequate security, slips and falls, workplace accidents, and a host of other fatal injuries that were caused by negligence or recklessness.

When to Hire a San Diego Wrongful Death Lawyer

The loss of a loved one is a devastating experience, made even more tragic when the negligence or wrongful actions of another caused their death. In such situations, the surviving family members are left grappling with grief, as well as the difficult task of steering the legal system to seek justice. This is where a San Diego wrongful death lawyer can provide critical support and guidance.

Wrongful death claims in San Diego are complex legal matters that require the expertise of lawyers who specialize in this area of law. These lawyers deeply understand the nuances of California’s wrongful death statutes and have the experience necessary to build strong cases on behalf of you.

Understanding Wrongful Death Claims in San Diego 

Wrongful death in San Diego, CA, refers to a legal action where a person’s death has been caused by the wrongful act or negligence of another. These claims are pursued by the surviving family members or the estate of the deceased, aiming to secure compensation for their losses, including lost wages, funeral expenses, and emotional distress. A wrongful death lawyer in San Diego is specifically trained to handle these emotionally charged cases with the sensitivity and thorough legal expertise required.

San Diego wrongful death lawyers are deeply familiar with the nuances of state and local laws that will impact your case. Whether the death resulted from a vehicular accident, medical malpractice, or a hazardous work environment, these lawyers are equipped to navigate the complexities of each scenario. They provide not just legal representation but also an understanding of the procedural intricacies that can influence the outcome of your claim.

The right San Diego wrongful death law firm can offer clarity and guidance through the legal maze, helping to alleviate some of the burdens during this difficult time. 

In the next sections, we will discuss the specific types of accidents and claims that a wrongful death lawyer in San Diego can assist with.

Accidents in San Diego That Can Lead to Death

There are numerous types of accidents that, due to negligence or wrongdoing, can tragically lead to death. Understanding these can help families recognize when they may have a wrongful death claim.

Car Accidents

San Diego’s busy roads can unfortunately be the scene of fatal accidents, often caused by speeding, drunk driving, or distracted driving.

Construction Accidents

These can include falls from heights, machinery accidents, and failures to follow safety protocols, all of which can be fatal.

Workplace Accidents

Varied by industry, these can range from accidents in office settings to more severe incidents in manufacturing or industrial environments.

Truck Collisions

The size and weight of trucks mean that collisions often result in severe consequences, including fatalities.

Motorcycle Wrecks

Motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable on the road, and accidents can lead to severe injuries or death.

Bicycle Crashes

Cyclists face risks from both vehicular traffic and road conditions, leading to potentially fatal outcomes.

Falls

Whether from a ladder, roof, or through an unprotected floor opening, falls can be deadly, especially in construction and industrial settings.

Structural Collapses

Buildings or structures that collapse due to poor maintenance or construction can lead to fatalities.

Each of these accidents could potentially be the result of negligence, making it imperative to consult with a wrongful death lawyer to discuss possible legal actions.

When to Consult a San Diego Wrongful Death Lawyer

Knowing when to seek the expertise of a wrongful death lawyer is imperative for taking timely action and protecting your rights. Here are several scenarios when consulting a lawyer is advisable:

Immediate Signs of Negligence

If the death resulted directly from an accident where negligence or a clear fault is suspected, such as a drunk driving incident or a gross safety violation at a work site.

Complex Legal or Insurance Issues Arise

Sometimes, the circumstances surrounding the death involve complicated legal challenges or disputes with insurance companies, requiring professional legal intervention.

To Preserve Evidence

Consulting a San Diego wrongful death lawyer early can help ensure that important evidence is preserved and that witness statements are recorded while still fresh.

Statute of Limitations

It’s imperative to initiate legal proceedings within the statute of limitations, which in California typically allows two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death lawsuit.

Types of Claims Wrongful Death Lawyers Can File

San Diego wrongful death lawyers can help families navigate various claims stemming from different circumstances. These claims include but are not limited to:

Fatal Motor Vehicle Accidents

These claims often involve car crashes, truck wrecks, and catastrophic motorcycle accidents. They can include incidents involving drunk driving, DUI-related accidents, and complications with uninsured or underinsured drivers.

Medical Malpractice Claims

Wrongful death claims in this category can arise from fatal birth injuries, the misdiagnosis of life-threatening conditions, prescription overdoses, and surgical errors that result in death.

Defective or Dangerous Product Cases

These involve product liability issues such as defective auto parts (like seat belts or tires), faulty tools and equipment, substandard building materials, or defective prescription drugs that lead to fatal outcomes.

Premises Liability Claims

Claims can be filed for deaths resulting from construction accidents, dog bites, explosions, falling debris, fires, inadequate security, slips and falls, and other fatal incidents that occur due to property owner negligence or recklessness.

Each type of claim requires a specific legal approach and understanding of the applicable laws, making the expertise of a wrongful death lawyer invaluable.

Choosing the Right San Diego Wrongful Death Lawyer

Selecting the appropriate wrongful death lawyer in San Diego is a critical decision that can significantly affect the outcome of your case. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a lawyer:

Specialization and Experience

Look for a lawyer or law firm that specializes in wrongful death claims and has extensive experience handling cases similar to yours.

Reputation and Reviews

Research potential lawyers through reviews and testimonials from past clients. A strong track record of successful settlements or verdicts often indicates a competent lawyer.

Communication and Compassion

Because wrongful death cases are sensitive, it’s important to choose a lawyer who communicates clearly and shows genuine compassion and understanding toward your situation.

Resources and Network

Effective handling of a wrongful death claim often requires substantial resources, including access to expert witnesses, medical professionals, and accident reconstruction analysts. Make sure your chosen lawyer has the necessary resources and network to thoroughly investigate and pursue your claim.

Fee Structure

Most wrongful death firms in San Diego work on a contingency fee basis. They only get paid if you win your case. Understanding the fee structure and any potential costs upfront is imperative.

Get Your Free Case Evaluation Today 

Hiring a skilled wrongful death lawyer can provide the necessary support and guidance to navigate these challenging waters. If you believe your family has suffered a wrongful death due to negligence or wrongdoing, don’t hesitate to seek professional legal help. Gingery Hammer & Schneiderman LLP specializes in wrongful death claims in San Diego and is committed to fighting for the rights and dignity of every client. 

Let our wrongful death lawyers handle the legal burdens so you can focus on honoring the memory of your loved one.