Injury cases
Wrongful death claims in Riverside County
When a crash or unsafe property in Riverside County causes a death, certain family members may bring a wrongful death claim. California lists who may sue (CCP § 377.60) and what damages are available (CCP § 377.61). The general filing deadline is two years (CCP § 335.1).
Who may bring the claim
California's wrongful death statute (Code of Civil Procedure § 377.60) identifies who may sue, starting with the surviving spouse or domestic partner and children, and in some circumstances others who would inherit or who depended on the person who died. Because the list is specific, it's worth confirming early who the proper claimants are.
What damages may be recovered
Damages are those that are just under all the circumstances (CCP § 377.61). They commonly include the financial support and household services the family lost and the loss of the person's love, companionship, comfort, care and guidance.
Fatal crashes and records
Collision reports for fatal crashes can take longer and may be handled differently. For example, the Riverside Police Department notes that reports involving a fatality are not available through its online vendor and must be requested from the department (see our crash report guide).
Deadlines
- Two years for most wrongful death lawsuits (CCP § 335.1).
- Six months to present a claim if a public entity may be responsible (Gov. Code § 911.2).
We handle these matters with care and at the family's pace, while protecting the deadlines.
Related pages
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