Man Killed in Highway 108 Head-On Collision
A Modesto man was killed in a recent head-on collision on Highway 108 just east of Oakdale. According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), the car accident occurred around 8:45 a.m. and involved a 2015 Nissan Rogue SUV and a 1993 Toyota pickup truck. Medical responders were called to the scene of the crash to assist those who were injured. The driver of the Nissan, an 83-year-old Oakdale resident, was transported by ambulance to the hospital for treatment of serious injuries. A passenger of the Toyota was airlifted to the hospital for injuries described as major. Sadly, the driver of the Toyota succumbed to his injuries at the scene. Officials have identified the decedent as 57-year-old Hormoz Azizpor of Modesto.
Loss of a Loved One in a Highway 108 Head-On Collision
The unexpected loss of a loved one is never easy. When that loss is caused by the negligence or recklessness of someone else, it can be even more difficult to come to terms with. In times like these, you and your family may benefit from the assistance of an experienced wrongful death lawyer in Modesto. An attorney can explain what rights you and your family have for recovery against the person responsible for your loved one’s death. While legal action may not change the past, you and your family may obtain justice and a sense of closure.
What Types of Damages Are Recoverable in a Wrongful Death Claim?
Filing a wrongful death claim against a driver responsible for a fatal auto accident may lead to the recovery of economic and noneconomic damages, such as:
- Costs of a loved one’s funeral and burial arrangements
- Expenses for medical treatment incurred between the time of the car wreck and a loved one’s death (these may be recovered through a survival action)
- Loss of a loved one’s comfort, care, society, and moral support
- Loss of a parent’s instruction, guidance, and companionship for surviving children
- Lost present and future financial support, including work-related benefits such as medical insurance for the family
- Punitive damages may be sought in wrongful death car accidents involving egregious misconduct, like driving while impaired and excessive speeding
- The reasonable value of lost household services provided by the deceased
Who Can File for Wrongful Death in California?
The immediate family of the deceased are entitled to wrongful death damages under the California Code of Civil Procedure Section 377.60. This includes surviving spouses, domestic partners, or children. If these parties are nonexistent, other family members who depended on the decedent for financial support may be able to file for a loved one’s wrongful death. This includes parents, stepchildren, putative spouses, and children of the putative spouse. For a brief overview of who may file a wrongful death claim in California, watch the below video.
How Long Do I Have to File for Wrongful Death?
A wrongful death claim must be filed within a specific time limit. This deadline is known as the statute of limitations, which is two years from a loved one’s wrongful death in California. Since specific criteria and deadlines must be met in a claim for wrongful death, it is best to leave this process to an experienced attorney so you and your family can focus on grieving your loved one’s death.
Wrongful Death Attorney in Modesto
I’m Ed Smith, a Modesto wrongful death attorney. The wrongful death of a loved one may be one of life’s most challenging ordeals to handle. Aside from coping with grief, you and your family may have concerns and questions about your loved one’s sudden death and its impact on your future. An experienced attorney can explain what your rights are and help you and your family navigate through the wrongful death claims process. To discover what your options may be after the untimely passing of someone you love, please reach out to me at (209) 227-1931 or toll-free at (800) 404-5400 to receive my compassionate, free, and friendly advice.
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Since I opened my law firm in 1982 to help injured parties and families of decedents, I have been invited to join the Million Dollar Advocates and the National Association of Distinguished Counsel. The first forum is for lawyers who have obtained $1 million or more for a past client through a case settlement or verdict. The other group recognizes those attorneys who strive to provide their clients with the highest standards of legal excellence.
As a Modesto wrongful death lawyer, I understand how devastating the loss of a loved one can be. This is why I dedicate my time to helping families of Northern California obtain fair compensation for their wrongful death cases. To get an idea of how our law office has helped others, go to our Verdicts and Settlements page.
Photo Source: By “fotorech” via Pixabay
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