Losing a loved one in a car accident is a devastating experience that no family is ever truly prepared for. In San Jacinto and throughout Riverside County, fatal crashes can happen suddenly — on busy roads like the Ramona Expressway or Sanderson Avenue — leaving families overwhelmed by grief and uncertain about what comes next. If your loved one has been killed in a motor vehicle accident due to someone else’s negligence, you may have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim under California law.

At Lerner, Moore, Silva, Cunningham & Rubel (LMSCR), we know this is an incredibly difficult time. Below, we offer guidance on what steps to take after a fatal accident and how our team can help you seek justice and accountability.

Seek Support and Protect Your Family’s Rights

In the immediate aftermath of a fatal crash, families often find themselves facing a flood of responsibilities — funeral planning, financial questions, and dealing with insurance companies. While no amount of compensation can undo the loss, taking early legal action can help protect your family’s financial future and hold negligent parties accountable.

1. Obtain the Crash Report and Death Certificate

A police report is a key piece of evidence in any wrongful death case. In San Jacinto, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) or Riverside County Sheriff’s Department typically handles fatal accident investigations. Request a copy of the report as soon as it becomes available.

You’ll also need a certified death certificate, which can be obtained through Riverside County Vital Records. This document is necessary when filing insurance claims and legal actions.

2. Preserve Evidence and Document Everything

Photographs of the crash site, damaged vehicles, skid marks, road conditions, and weather can all be helpful later. If possible, gather names and contact information for witnesses. Keep a journal of how the loss is affecting your family emotionally and financially — this can support your claim for non-economic damages.

If your loved one was a pedestrian, motorcyclist, or bicyclist at the time of the crash, these details may be especially relevant to demonstrating the driver’s negligence.

3. Avoid Early Settlement Offers

Insurance companies often reach out quickly after a fatal accident. While it might seem like a relief to settle things early, these offers rarely reflect the true value of your loss. Wrongful death damages in California may include lost income, funeral costs, loss of companionship, and more. It’s critical to speak with an attorney before accepting any payment or signing away your rights.

4. Understand Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in California

Under California law, a wrongful death lawsuit can generally be filed by the deceased person’s:

• Spouse or domestic partner
• Children
• Parents or legal guardians (in some cases)
• Financial dependents

If there are multiple eligible parties, they may need to be included in one consolidated claim. An attorney can help determine who has legal standing and how to proceed.

5. File Within the Statute of Limitations

California’s statute of limitations for wrongful death cases is two years from the date of death. While this may seem like plenty of time, investigations, expert analysis, and settlement negotiations take time. Acting promptly allows your attorney to build the strongest case possible.

Let Us Help You Find Answers and Justice

Fatal accidents in San Jacinto can leave behind more than just emotional devastation — they often create financial hardships, unanswered questions, and a deep need for accountability. At LMSCR, we’re here to walk you through every step of the wrongful death process. We investigate the circumstances of the crash, gather critical evidence, and fight to ensure you and your family receive the compensation you deserve.

If you have lost a loved one in a car accident due to another driver’s negligence, reach out to our team today for a free consultation. We serve families throughout San Jacinto and Riverside County with compassion, commitment, and a focus on results.

Contact Our San Jacinto Wrongful Death Lawyers at LMSCR Today

Let us help you pursue justice during this difficult time. Call 909-889-1131 or fill out our contact form to schedule a free, confidential consultation. Talk to our San Jacinto wrongful death lawyers at LMSCR today to learn more. Located in Ontario and Victorville, California, we serve clients in San Bernardino County, Ontario, Victorville, Hesperia, Apple Valley, Fontana, Rancho Cucamonga, Colton, and Riverside County.