San Francisco Fatal Car Accident Lawyer

Losing a loved one in a car accident is a devastating experience that no family should have to endure. Unfortunately, fatal car accidents remain a harsh reality on San Francisco’s busy roads and highways. When a fatal crash occurs due to someone else’s negligence, surviving family members have the legal right to seek justice and compensation. At Bostwick & Associates, our compassionate and experienced San Francisco fatal car accident attorneys are here to help you hold the responsible parties accountable and navigate the legal complexities of a wrongful death claim.

Call (888) 831-8448 or contact us online today for a free, no-obligation consultation with a compassionate San Francisco fatal car accident attorney.

Common Causes of Fatal Car Accidents

Fatal car accidents in San Francisco can result from a wide range of dangerous driving behaviors and hazardous road conditions. Some of the most common causes include:

• Driving Under the Influence: Alcohol and drug impairment slows reaction time and impairs judgment, often resulting in high-speed or head-on collisions that are fatal.
• Distracted Driving: Texting, eating, or using a GPS while driving can cause deadly crashes. Even a few seconds of inattention can have catastrophic consequences.
• Speeding: Drivers who exceed posted speed limits or drive too fast for conditions greatly increase the likelihood of causing a fatal crash, especially on freeways like I-280 or US-101.
• Reckless or Aggressive Driving: Tailgating, road rage, weaving through traffic, and ignoring traffic signals can lead to collisions with severe or fatal outcomes.
• Driver Fatigue: Fatigued drivers are less alert and may fall asleep at the wheel, particularly during long trips or late-night driving.
• Vehicle Malfunctions: Sometimes accidents happen because of mechanical failures like brake defects, tire blowouts, or steering issues. In such cases, liability may fall on the manufacturer or mechanic.
• Hazardous Road Conditions: Poorly maintained roads, missing signage, or construction hazards can contribute to fatal crashes. In some cases, government entities may share liability.

No matter the cause, the aftermath of a fatal crash leaves families struggling with grief, confusion, and financial hardship. Our team at Bostwick & Associates is here to provide clarity, support, and strong legal representation during this painful time.

Filing a Wrongful Death Claim After a Fatal Car Crash

When a loved one dies in a car accident caused by another party’s negligence, surviving family members may be eligible to file a wrongful death claim under California law. These claims aim to provide financial relief for losses and to hold negligent parties legally responsible.

Who Can File?

In California, the following individuals typically have the right to file a wrongful death claim:

• The decedent’s spouse or domestic partner
• The decedent’s children
• If there are no direct heirs, other family members financially dependent on the deceased (e.g., parents, stepchildren)

What Damages Can Be Recovered?

Wrongful death claims can include both economic and non-economic damages, such as:

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Loss of financial support the decedent would have provided
• Loss of companionship, love, and care
• Emotional pain and suffering of surviving family members
• Medical expenses related to the fatal injury (via a separate survival action)

Our San Francisco fatal car accident attorneys work closely with families to calculate the full extent of their losses and pursue maximum compensation.

Proving Liability

To succeed in a wrongful death lawsuit, you must demonstrate that the at-fault party acted negligently. This involves showing:

1. The at-fault driver (or another party) had a duty to operate their vehicle or maintain safe conditions.
2. They breached that duty through reckless or negligent behavior.
3. That breach directly caused the fatal accident.
4. The death resulted in damages to the surviving family members.

We gather evidence such as accident reports, eyewitness statements, expert testimony, and more to build a strong case on your behalf.

FAQs About Fatal Car Accidents in San Francisco, CA

How long do I have to file a wrongful death claim in California?

Under California law, the statute of limitations for wrongful death claims is two years from the date of death. Missing this deadline could result in losing your right to compensation.

Can I still file a claim if the at-fault driver was not charged criminally?

Yes. Civil wrongful death lawsuits are separate from criminal proceedings. You can still file a civil claim even if the driver wasn’t arrested or convicted.

What if the fatal accident involved an uninsured or underinsured driver?

You may still be able to recover damages through your loved one’s uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. Our attorneys can explore all insurance options available.

Are multiple parties ever liable for a fatal accident?

Yes. In some cases, liability may be shared by more than one party, such as a negligent driver and a vehicle manufacturer, or a government agency. We’ll investigate thoroughly to identify all sources of liability.

Contact a San Francisco Fatal Car Accident Lawyer Today

At Bostwick & Associates, we understand the immense pain and emotional toll that comes with the sudden loss of a loved one. Our goal is to help you seek justice and find some measure of peace and financial stability during this difficult time. With years of experience handling wrongful death and fatal accident claims in San Francisco, we have the knowledge and resources to fight for your family’s rights.

Let us take on the legal burden while you focus on healing. Call us today for a free, no-obligation consultation with a compassionate San Francisco fatal car accident lawyer. We’re ready to stand by your side and help you navigate the path forward.

Contact us at (888) 831-8448 to let us assist you in moving forward with confidence and peace of mind.