Gathering Evidence in Los Angeles Wrongful Death Cases

Proving a wrongful death claim depends on the evidence. Survivors must establish that someone else’s negligent, reckless, or willful behavior led to their loved one’s death. After establishing the facts of their death, the next step is proving the value of your loved one’s life.

Gathering evidence in Los Angeles wrongful death cases can seem impossible without the help of an attorney. However, it is essential to gather the proper proof to support your case and help you get the compensation you deserve. At CD Law, we are here to guide you through the process.

Why Evidence Matters

Wrongful death cases rely on proving negligence or misconduct. You need to show how the responsible party’s actions led to your loved one’s passing. Without good evidence, it is difficult to hold them accountable. Proving negligence involves four criteria:

The defendant owed a duty of care
They breached that duty
The breach led to the injury, which is death in a wrongful death lawsuit
The plaintiff suffered actual damages

In a wrongful death lawsuit, the survivors are the plaintiffs, and the damages they have to prove are related to the loss of the deceased and not the damages to the deceased. The process starts with gathering evidence of the accident that led to the wrongful death in Los Angeles.

Types of Evidence

Some of the most important types of evidence that can support a wrongful death case in Los Angeles include:

Eyewitness Testimony

People who saw what happened can provide valuable testimony. Their accounts help establish the facts and support your claim.

Photos and Video

Photos and videos are more helpful than witness testimony. Pictures of the accident scene, injuries, or unsafe conditions can be robust evidence. Video footage from surveillance cameras can also show what happened.

Police Reports

If law enforcement were involved, their reports provide an official record of the incident. These documents often contain details that could support your case.

Medical Records

In addition to proving that the event occurred, the survivors must show that the event led to the death. Medical records can be essential. These documents show the cause of death and any medical treatment received. They connect the death to the responsible party’s actions.

Death Certificate

Another critical piece of evidence is the death certificate. This official record provides details on how and when the death occurred. It is key evidence in any wrongful death case.

Expert Testimony

Expert testimony could help establish the case and prove damage claims. Some of the experts we may consult include medical professionals, accident reconstruction specialists, or financial analysts. Their insights help explain complex details in court.

Get Help With Gathering Evidence for Wrongful Death Cases in Los Angeles

The sooner you start gathering evidence, the stronger your case could be. You might be worried that you cannot afford legal help with evidence gathering. At CD Law, we work on a contingency basis, which means you do not pay unless we win or settle your case.