Common Causes of Wrongful Death in San Francisco

Many situations and scenarios can result in wrongful death. Wrongful death is defined as a civil action seeking damages against a party responsible for causing a death, typically when criminal action has failed or is not attempted. Regardless of the cause, a wrongful death claim can be filed when a person or party is at fault for the death. 

Examples of Wrongful Death in California

• Murder: While murder is a criminal act prosecuted by the state, wrongful death claims are brought to civil court by individuals or families. If a murderer is not found guilty in state court, a wrongful death claim can still be pursued in civil court. 
• Nursing Home Negligence: The high rate of nursing home abuse in the United States is alarming. If a family member or loved one dies due to improper care in a nursing or retirement home, a wrongful death claim may be filed. Nursing home abuse, whether intentional or negligent, is unacceptable, and sudden deaths under a caretaker’s watch should be investigated. 
• Drowning: Drowning incidents in public or private pools may be considered wrongful death. Public books should have lifeguards and maintenance crews to ensure safety. Negligence by lifeguards or supervisors can lead to wrongful death claims. 
• Faulty, Recalled or Malfunctioning Products: Under California product liability laws, consumers are entitled to safe, functional products. If a defective product causes death, a civil claim can be filed against the manufacturer or supplier. This applies even if the product is recalled. 
• Motor or Bicycle Accidents: San Francisco’s high traffic congestion increases the risk of accidents. If a death occurs due to the negligence or recklessness of a driver or cyclist, they may be held responsible for wrongful death.
• Workplace Accidents: Wrongful death can occur at job sites due to negligence, particularly in construction or heavy-lifting occupations. Causes include maintenance issues, faulty equipment, and electrocution. A wrongful death claim may be due in such cases. 
• Medical Malpractice: Deaths caused by the care or lack of care by medical professionals can be considered wrongful deaths. Medical malpractice, though sadly not so uncommon in the United States, is serious, and families deserve compensation for their losses. The responsible party may be an individual doctor, surgeon, nurse, or the hospital itself. 

Anna Dubrovsky is a highly regarded wrongful death attorney in the San Francisco Bay Area, committed to assisting families with their cases. If you choose to file a wrongful death claim, she will guide you through the process from start to finish, ensuring you are informed and involved in decision-making. 

To work with a professional attorney in the Bay Area, trust Anna Dubrovsky Law Group. Call us today at (415) 746-1477 or (800) 440-6313, or email us using our contact form.