What Is a Wrongful Death Claim?

A wrongful death claim is a civil lawsuit brought when someone dies due to the negligent, reckless, or intentional actions of another party. These claims are separate from criminal cases, meaning even if the at-fault party faces criminal charges, the family may still pursue financial compensation in civil court.



Common Causes of Wrongful Death in Sonoma

Wrongful deaths can occur in various ways, including:

• Car, Truck, and Motorcycle Accidents – Drunk, distracted, or reckless driving can lead to fatal crashes.
• Pedestrian and Bicycle Accidents – Poor road conditions, speeding, or driver negligence can result in tragic fatalities.
• Medical Malpractice – Surgical errors, misdiagnoses, or negligent care can lead to preventable deaths.
• Workplace Accidents – Construction site injuries, defective equipment, or unsafe working conditions can be deadly.
• Defective Products – Dangerous pharmaceuticals, faulty vehicles, or defective machinery can cause fatal injuries.
• Premises Liability – Slip and falls, drowning accidents, or inadequate security leading to violent crimes.

If your loved one’s death was caused by any of these (or other) negligent actions, you may have grounds for a wrongful death lawsuit.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Sonoma?

Under California’s wrongful death laws (Code of Civil Procedure § 377.60), the following individuals may be eligible to file a claim:

• The deceased’s spouse or domestic partner
• Children (including stepchildren if financially dependent)
• Parents (if they were financially dependent on the deceased)
• Other dependents or putative spouses (in some cases)

If no immediate family members are available, a personal representative of the estate may file the claim on behalf of beneficiaries.

What Compensation Can Families Recover?

A wrongful death lawsuit seeks to provide financial relief for the family’s losses, which may include:

• Medical expenses related to the final injury or illness
• Funeral and burial costs
• Lost wages and future financial support the deceased would have provided
• Loss of companionship, love, and guidance (non-economic damages)
• Pain and suffering the deceased endured before passing (in some cases)

Every case is different, and the amount of compensation depends on factors such as the deceased’s earning potential, the circumstances of the death, and the impact on surviving family members.

How Flahavan Law Can Help Sonoma Families

At Flahavan Law, we know that no amount of money can replace your loved one. However, a successful wrongful death claim can provide financial stability, hold negligent parties accountable, and prevent similar tragedies from happening to others.

Why Choose Our Wrongful Death Attorneys?

✔ Compassionate Advocacy – We treat every case with the sensitivity it deserves while aggressively pursuing justice.
✔ Thorough Investigations – We work with accident reconstructionists, medical experts, and investigators to build a strong case.
✔ Experience with Insurance Companies – Wrongful death claims often involve high-stakes negotiations with insurers; we fight to maximize your compensation.
✔ Trial-Ready Approach – While many cases settle, we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial to ensure the best possible outcome.

Time Limits for Filing a Wrongful Death Claim in California

California law imposes a two-year statute of limitations (from the date of death) to file a wrongful death lawsuit. However, exceptions may apply in cases involving government entities or delayed discovery of negligence.

Don’t wait—contact Flahavan Law as soon as possible to protect your rights.

Contact Flahavan Law for a Free Consultation

If you’ve lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence in Sonoma, you don’t have to face this battle alone. Flahavan Law is here to guide you through the legal process with empathy and determination.