6 dead, 13 injured, including the suspect Elliot Rodger. This is the scene that unfolded in Isla Vista Memorial Day Weekend. It is easy to evaluate the tragedy forgetting what Rodger's family has to go through. Rodger's parents not only lost their son, but they suspected something was wrong with him. Once Rodger's family discovered social media posts about suicide and killing, they notified the police. After talking with Rodger's family, a mental health agency suggested they send police officers to check on Rodger's welfare. Unfortunately, the police officers decided that Rodger's attitude was normal and that he was showing no signs of violent nature. This is unfortunate because had the police noticed Rodger's was not mentally stable, they would have noticed the guns in his room and saved the lives of three men, two women, and Elliot Rodger himself.
While many will consider the legal action that can be taken for the families of the five students Rodger killed, they forget about Rodger. Relatively new to the United States Legal Justice System, a wrongful death claim can be made when a person dies due to the legal fault of another individual. Wrongful Death lawsuits can result from a wide range of incidents including: fatal car accidents, medical malpractice, or police brutality. The point of a Wrongful Death claim is to compensate people who were affected by the death of an individual whether it is for lost wages, lost companionship, or funeral costs. Experienced in this field of law, Lessem, Newstat & Tooson, LLP wants to make you aware of California Code of Civil Procedure Section 377.60, the law that describes the course of action one may take when a person is killed due to negligence of someone else.
Who Can Take Action For a Wrongful Death?
A wrongful death lawsuit may be filed by someone whom suffers from damages as a result of the death of another individual. Family members, life partners, financial dependents, and in some cases anyone who is financially affected by the death of an individual may file such a claim. If you think you might have a Wrongful Death case, but are unsure if you are allowed to file it, contact Lessem, Newstat & Tooson, LLP immediately!
Who Can You Sue For Wrongful Death?
Wrongful Death claims can be made against individuals, groups of people, corporations, or government agencies. Without legal help it may be hard to figure out who to take action against in your case. For example, if there is a car accident that took place on a damaged road that involved a drunk driver, a wide range of people could be sued. The list can range from the person at fault for the car accident, the construction company who built the damaged road, a sector of the government who did not warn drivers of the road problems, a car manufacturer, or the person who owns the place where the alcohol was served to the driver. Every case must be carefully analyzed to have the best chance of winning.
If you believe that someone is at fault for the death of a family member, loved one, or friend, do not hesitate to have the case evaluated. Tragedies are common, but like the case of Rodgers, the six deaths in Isla Vista could have been prevented. If you have the slightest belief that you have a case involving Wrongful Death, be sure to contact Lessem, Newstat & Tooson, LLP. The nature of a Wrongful Death case requires an expert's opinion. The attorneys at Lessem & Newstat have the experience, knowledge, and sympathy needed to help those who feel they have no option.