Montebello Fatal Car Accident Lawyer

Car accidents are not a rare occurrence in California, which is why it’s important to understand your rights if you or a loved one is a victim of a crash. The unfortunate fact of the matter is a fraction of these crashes can end in fatalities, which can leave the surviving family members of the deceased lost and in challenging situations. A Montebello fatal car accident lawyer can ease the burden and help people receive the compensation they deserve for their losses.

Heimanson & Wolf, LLP, has years of experience helping surviving families of victims of fatal car accidents obtain justice for their damages caused by the negligence or misconduct of others. If you’ve lost someone in a serious accident, a Montebello personal injury lawyer can help you pursue the compensation you deserve while you focus on healing. We believe that the healing process includes recovery through legal recourse when it’s owed, and we’re ready to fight on behalf of our clients.

What Is a Fatal Car Accident?

A fatal car accident is a motor vehicle crash that results in the death of one or more persons within 30 days of the incident. This means that victims who incur severe injuries and end up passing away after the fact can determine the accident was fatal. Fetal deaths experienced by pregnant people in a crash also count as fatalities from a car accident.

In 2022, Los Angeles County reported 58,147 deaths and injuries related to car accidents. Montebello alone made up for about 111 of those cases. Of those incidents reported, five involved alcohol, another 11 were speed-related, and nine involved pedestrians.

No matter the circumstances surrounding the accident for which you want to file a claim, it’s important to understand your options for seeking legal recourse. A Montebello fatal car accident lawyer can be a great asset to have on your side when going through this process.

Filing a Claim After a Fatal Car Accident in Montebello

After a fatal car accident, it’s up to the insurance company of the at-fault driver to reach out to the family of the deceased. That said, you should report the incident to the decedent’s insurance company right away. If the at-fault driver’s insurance does not contact you within 15 days after the accident, you can reach out to your insurance to let them know and contact the California Department of Insurance for further assistance.

If the insurer denies your claim or offers an unfair settlement, you can file a wrongful death claim with the Los Angeles Superior Court. Working with a Montebello car accident lawyer can facilitate the claims process with the insurance company and in court so you can recover the damages you’re owed for the loss of your loved one.

Fatal Car Accident Statistics in California

California boasts the highest number of car registrations across the United States, reporting 36,850,300 registered vehicles in 2024. With the notoriously high traffic volume and expansive roadways, it’s safe to say car accidents are an inherent risk when driving in the Golden State. In 2022, California reported 4,428 deaths from fatal car accidents, followed by 3,052 deaths in 2023 and 2,824 deaths in 2024.

While these numbers appear to be trending downward, car crashes are still a potential risk every driver faces when they get on the road. That’s why it’s important to understand what to do in the aftermath of a crash—especially one that ends with a fatality. A Montebello fatal car accident lawyer can help guide you as you try to settle a case through negotiations with insurance companies or in a court of law.

FAQs About Montebello, CA Fatal Car Accident Law

What Is the Most Fatal Type of Car Accident in Montebello?

Head-on collisions are considered the most fatal type of car accident, followed by multi-vehicle pile-ups, rollovers, and side-impact collisions. Other particularly fatal accidents that can occur involve bicycles, motorcycles, and pedestrians. From 2020 to 2021, bicycle fatalities saw an 8 percent decrease, pedestrian fatalities saw a 9.4 percent increase, and motorcycle fatalities saw a 3 percent increase.

Who Is Allowed to File a Wrongful Death Claim Due to a Car Accident in Montebello?

In California, only certain people are eligible to file a wrongful death claim after a loved one passes away in a fatal car accident. Typically, you can only file a claim if you are the decedent’s spouse or domestic partner, child, or a beneficiary listed in their will. Be sure to check your eligibility for filing a claim before you begin the process. A lawyer can help you determine if you are eligible.

At What Speed Does a Car Crash Become Fatal in Montebello?

There is no set speed that indicates when a crash becomes fatal, but it is a general rule of thumb that the higher the speed, the more likely a crash is to be fatal. In 2022, 29 percent of all crash fatalities were due to speeding. Higher speeds increase the distance a vehicle needs to stop and the risk of losing control of the vehicle when attempting any evasive maneuvering.

How Much Time Do I Have To File a Claim for a Fatal Car Accident in Montebello?

After a fatal car accident, you have up to two years to file a claim to recover damages from the at-fault driver. This process typically involves negotiating with the insurance company and then filing with the Los Angeles Superior Court. You must file a claim with the court within this time period, so it’s important to work with the insurance company as soon as possible. If the accident involved a government vehicle, you only have six months to file your claim.

Connect With a Montebello Fatal Car Accident Lawyer to Learn More Today

Navigating the aftermath of a fatal car accident can be emotionally and financially challenging for loved ones left behind. Instead of trying to navigate the legal aspects on your own, trust a Montebello fatal car accident lawyer from Heimanson & Wolf, LLP, to get you through your case. Call our office to set up an appointment to tell us your story today. One of our dedicated attorneys can assist you.