Wrongful Death Attorney

Losing a loved one unexpectedly is heartbreaking, especially when their death was caused by someone else’s negligence or reckless actions. During this overwhelming time, you deserve a legal advocate who understands what’s at stake and is ready to fight for your family.

At San Diego Law Firm, APC, our skilled wrongful death attorney helps grieving families pursue justice and the compensation they deserve. We understand how complex and emotionally challenging these cases can be — and we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Our team represents spouses, children, parents, and others who have lost loved ones in fatal accidents across San Diego County, from e-bike crashes along the coast to deadly car accidents on I-5. Every case receives personalized attention and compassionate legal support when it matters most.

While no lawsuit can undo your loss, filing a wrongful death claim is about safeguarding your family’s future, holding negligent parties accountable, and making sure your loved one’s story is heard.

Call our wrongful death law firm today for a free consultation — your path to justice starts here.

What is a Wrongful Death Claim in California?

A wrongful death claim is when a person’s death is caused by someone else’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional actions. Under California Code of Civil Procedure § 377.60, certain family members are entitled to seek compensation for both emotional and financial losses resulting from the death. At SDLF, our team pursues wrongful death cases involving:

• Car, truck, and motorcycle accidents
• E-bike and pedestrian accidents, which are becoming increasingly common in coastal communities like La Jolla, Pacific Beach, and Mission Bay
• Premises liability cases, including unsafe properties, slips, and falls
• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) and spinal cord injuries leading to fatal outcomes
• Criminal acts resulting in death

These cases can arise in seconds but leave lifelong impacts. Whether it’s a distracted driver, a negligent property owner, a poorly maintained e-bike rental, an understaffed skilled nursing facility, or a substandard medical facility, our San Diego wrongful death attorney is ready to hold the responsible parties accountable.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in San Diego?

California law allows specific family members or representatives to file a wrongful death claim. Depending on the facts of each case, family members who may have a claim for wrongful death include the following:

• Surviving spouse,
• Domestic partner,
• Children, and
• Issue of deceased children.

In some situations, parents and/or financially dependent individuals or putative spouses may also have the right to file a wrongful death claim. Every case is unique and requires a careful legal analysis to determine who is entitled to sue.

If you’re unsure of your eligibility, our San Diego accident lawyer will review your case, explain your rights, and ensure your family’s interest is protected. You don’t have to face this process alone.

Common Causes of Fatal Accidents in San Diego

San Diego’s population growth, congested freeways, and active communities create many scenarios where fatal accidents can occur. Our firm is equipped to handle wrongful death cases resulting from:

• High-speed collisions on I-805, I-5, and Highway 163
• E-bike and scooter fatalities along the beach boardwalks and coastal bike paths
• Slips and falls at shopping centers, restaurants, apartment complexes, or on unsafe properties
• Drunk driving and distracted driving accidents
• Violent assaults or criminal acts leading to death

We are seeing a rise in fatal accidents involving delivery trucks, rideshare services, and e-bike rentals — fast-growing industries that can create dangerous conditions for pedestrians and riders.

No matter the cause, we’ll investigate thoroughly, uncover the truth, and fight for your family’s right to compensation.

Compensation Available in a California Wrongful Death Claim

While no amount of money can make up for your loss, a successful wrongful death claim helps your family recover financially and hold the responsible party accountable. Compensation may cover:

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Loss of financial support and future income
• Loss of companionship, care, and guidance
• Emotional pain and suffering
• Medical bills related to the fatal injury

We also seek damages for the loss of services your loved one provided — from household support to childcare — which can have a lasting impact on surviving family members.

At SDLF, we calculate damages to reflect the full impact this loss has had — and will continue to have — on your family.

Why Choose San Diego Law Firm, APC?

Choosing the right legal representation matters. At SDLF, Aaron Steigerwalt — a serious injury attorney born and raised in San Diego — handles every wrongful death case with care, dedication, and a focus on your family’s unique needs. Our firm offers:

Local Knowledge & Community Ties

We understand the risks that exist in busy areas like Del Mar, Oceanside, and throughout San Diego County — from dangerous intersections to e-bike traffic hazards.

Compassionate, Client-Focused Approach

We treat every case with care and respect. You’ll receive dedicated support, consistent communication, and honest legal guidance throughout your case.

Trial-Ready Representation

While many cases settle out of court, we prepare every case as if it will go to trial, giving your family the strongest position possible.

Equipped to Handle Emerging Case Types, Including E-Bike Fatalities

With the rise of e-bike use in San Diego, we’re uniquely positioned as a wrongful death law firm capable of navigating the complexities of these cases.

Attorney Aaron Steigerwalt knows that trust is earned through personal attention and communication. That’s why he works directly with every client, providing experienced legal counsel and fierce advocacy for your family when you need it most.

The Legal Process: How We Help After a Fatal Accident

Navigating a wrongful death claim while grieving is overwhelming. That’s where we come in — taking the legal burden off your shoulders so you can focus on healing. From the moment you call us, we handle every aspect of your case.

• We offer a free consultation and case review. We’ll listen, answer your questions, and explain your options.
• We conduct an independent investigation, collecting evidence, police reports, and witness statements.
• We calculate damages with a full understanding of both economic and emotional losses.
• We negotiate with insurance companies and responsible parties on your behalf.
• When necessary, we will file a lawsuit and represent you in court.

We’re not here to rush you into a quick settlement. Our wrongful death attorney in San Diego fights for every dollar your family deserves — even if that means taking your case to trial.

Contact SDLF — Your Trusted Wrongful Death Law Firm

We know no amount of money can replace your loved one, but justice and accountability matter. San Diego Law Firm, APC is ready to fight for your family.

• Free, no-obligation consultation
• Local, personalized legal help you can trust
• Serving clients in San Diego, La Jolla, Carlsbad, Oceanside, and beyond

Call SDLF today at 619-900-0000 to set up your free consultation. Your family deserves answers — and we’re ready to help you get them.