Wrongful Death Attorneys Serving Delano Families
Common Causes of Wrongful Death Cases in Delano, CA
Delano and the surrounding Kern County communities face unique risks due to busy highways, agricultural industry hazards, and other local factors. Common wrongful death scenarios include:
Car Accidents
Car, motorcycle, bicycle, and pedestrian accidents are unfortunately common on Delano roads. Motor vehicle accidents often occur on Highway 99 and County Line Road, where high traffic speeds and distracted driving create deadly conditions.
Trucking Accidents
With Delano’s strong agricultural economy, large commercial trucks are frequently seen in the area, increasing the risk of catastrophic crashes on rural roads and state highways.
Work-Related Accidents
Accidents at work range from injuries caused by dangerous equipment to health problems due to toxic chemicals.
Elder Abuse
Nursing home neglect or mistreatment in Delano elder care facilities may lead to wrongful deaths.
Industrial Accidents
Processing plants pose risks from machinery failures, chemical exposure, and unsafe environments.
Agricultural Accidents
Tractor rollovers, pesticide exposure, and equipment malfunctions tragically claim lives in Kern County fields.
Premises Liability
Unsafe properties, including poorly maintained rental housing, may cause fatal accidents or injuries.
Dangerous Products
Defective tools or unsafe consumer products may contribute to fatal accidents.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Delano, California?
California law (Code of Civil Procedure § 377.60) outlines who has the legal right to bring a wrongful death claim. In Delano, eligible parties may include:
- The surviving spouse or legal partner of the deceased
- The children of the deceased
- If no spouse or children survive other relatives, such as parents or siblings, may be eligible under California’s intestate succession laws
- Financial dependents, such as stepchildren or putative spouses, may also qualify in certain situations
If you’re unsure whether you qualify, our Delano wrongful death attorneys can explain your rights.
The Wrongful Death Claim Process for Delano Residents
Every wrongful death case follows specific steps under California law:
- Case evaluation. We begin with a free consultation to review the circumstances of your loved one’s passing.
- Investigation. Our team gathers police reports, medical records, witness statements, and expert opinions.
- Filing the claim. A wrongful death lawsuit is filed in the Kern County Superior Court, typically in Bakersfield.
- Negotiation. We will attempt to settle with the insurers or defendants.
- Litigation. If a settlement isn’t possible, we are prepared to take your case to trial.
California families have only two years from the date of death to file, so it’s important to act quickly.
Compensation Available to Delano Families in Wrongful Death Cases
While no amount of money can replace your loved one, compensation can help ease the financial strain caused by their passing. In California, wrongful death damages may include:
Economic Damages
- Funeral expenses
- Burial costs
- Final medical expenses
- Lost household income
- Lost expected future earnings
- Lost value of household services the deceased could have provided
Non-Economic Damages
- Emotional suffering
- Loss of companionship
- Loss of love
- Loss of guidance and support
Our goal is to get you the maximum recovery available so your family can focus on healing.
Statute of Limitations for Delano Wrongful Death Claims
In California, families generally have two years to file a wrongful death lawsuit. However, there are exceptions:
- Medical malpractice cases must typically be filed within one year of discovery of the negligence.
- Claims against government entities (such as a county, city, or state agency) require a claim notice to be filed within six months.
Wrongful death lawsuits for Delano residents are usually filed with the Kern County Superior Court – Metropolitan Division in Bakersfield. Missing the deadline may prevent your family from recovering compensation, so it’s critical to speak with an attorney promptly.
Local Resources for Bereaved Families in Delano
Coping with the loss of a loved one is never easy. In addition to legal help, local grief support groups and memorial services are often held at churches such as St. Mary of the Miraculous Medal and Delano First Assembly.
Families may also benefit from these local resources:
Adventist Health Delano – Bereavement Services
1401 Garces Hwy, Delano, CA 93215 | (661) 725-4800
Hoffmann Hospice of Bakersfield
4325 Buena Vista Rd Bldg. A, Bakersfield, CA 93311 | (661) 410-1010
Kern County Superior Court – Metropolitan Division
1215 Truxtun Ave, Bakersfield, CA 93301 | (661) 868-5393
Our Results: Helping Families Across Kern County Find Justice
PRODUCTS LIABILITY EXPLOSION | Case: Confidential | $15M
After years of litigation, Chain | Cohn | Clark achieved a $15 million jury verdict for our client. The products liability and explosion case resulted in a trial in Federal Court where we were able to secure justice and compensation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wrongful Death Claims in Delano
If their death was caused by someone else’s recklessness, negligence, or intentional act—such as a fatal car accident on Highway 99 or medical malpractice—it may qualify. Our legal team reviews your case before explaining your legal options.
California law allows only one wrongful death claim per deceased person, but all eligible heirs must be included. Our attorneys help coordinate with surviving family members to ensure everyone’s rights are represented.
Not always. Many Delano wrongful death cases settle outside of court. However, if litigation is necessary, your case will likely be heard at the Kern County Superior Court in Bakersfield. Your attorney will handle the process and keep you informed.
Speak With a Compassionate Delano Wrongful Death Lawyer Today
If your family member passed away through someone else’s negligence or misconduct in Delano, CA, you may have the right to file a wrongful death claim. While no legal action can undo your loss, pursuing justice can provide financial stability and closure.
Contact Chain | Cohn | Clark today at 661-616-9829 to schedule a free consultation. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.
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