Accident Fatally Injures Modesto Church Leader
An auto accident northeast of Ripon claimed the life of a Modesto church leader on January 22, 2019. The incident occurred at the intersection of Mello Road and Murphy Road. A driver of an Acura SUV was traveling west on Mello Road and approached a stop sign at the intersection. The Acura driver entered the intersection and was struck by an oncoming Chevrolet Silverado, according to the California Highway Patrol. The impact of the collision caused damage to the front-end of the Chevrolet and driver’s side of the Acura. Sadly, the Acura driver was pronounced deceased at the scene by medical personnel. Officials have identified the decedent as 57-year-old Tony Marshall of Modesto.
I would like to send my healing thoughts and prayers to the friends and family of Mr. Marshall while they are mourning their tragic loss.
Loved One Forever Remembered
Tony Marshall was a beloved member of his family and the local community. He served as the former president of the Modesto North Stake of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for nearly eight years. He was well-known in the community and devoted his time to helping others in need. He is survived by his wife and four children.
Auto Accidents and Wrongful Death
When a loved one is lost in an auto accident, it can be a heartbreaking experience for the family. Feelings of grief and sorrow can be compounded if the loss was caused by the fault of another person. Often, surviving family members may be able to pursue compensation from the party responsible for their loved one’s wrongful death. While no amount of compensation from a wrongful death claim can bring a loved one back, it can help a family focus on recovering emotionally without financial worry.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim?
Only certain individuals related to the deceased may file a wrongful death claim in California. Typically, these include the children, domestic partner, or spouse. Others who may be eligible to bring these claims include those who were financially dependent on the deceased for at least 50 percent and lived in the home for at least 180 days. These include minors and parents. To learn more on who can file for wrongful death, watch the following YouTube video.
Damages in a Wrongful Death Claim
The following damages may be recovered in a wrongful death claim:
- Costs of a loved one’s funeral and burial
- End-of-life medical care, if the deceased person lived a short time during hospitalization following an accident
- Loss of society, companionship, and love from the decedent
- Loss of consortium from a deceased spouse or domestic partner
- Loss of income for the household. This is calculated based upon the occupation held by the decedent as well as age, education, and other factors
- Loss of benefits such as pension, IRA contributions, insurance, and other monies the deceased would have provided for the family
- Mental anguish and emotional distress for the survivors
- Punitive damages are recoverable if the death was caused by felony homicide such as drunk driving
- The financial loss of household services performed by the deceased. This may include vehicle maintenance, childcare, tax preparation, and other areas.
How a Wrongful Death Attorney Can Help
The loss of a loved one is tragic but even more so when that loss is caused by a negligent driver or entity. The family may endure significant emotional and financial hardship, especially if the decedent was the primary provider for the household. Although a wrongful death case may be the last thing that comes to mind in difficult times such as these, it is an essential avenue to consider if you believe your loved one’s death was caused by another party’s negligent actions. Nothing compares to losing a loved one and no family should face that alone. A Modesto personal injury lawyer who is experienced in handling wrongful death cases can help protect a family’s best interests and work to provide them with the closure they need.
Modesto Personal Injury Lawyer
I’m Ed Smith, a Modesto personal injury lawyer. Suffering an injury or losing a loved one in an auto accident is devastating. It can feel even worse knowing that the injury or death could have been prevented. If you have been injured or lost someone you love in an accident caused by the negligence of someone else, I am here to provide you with compassionate, free and friendly advice. Please give me a call anytime at (209) 227-1931 or toll-free at (800) 404-5400.
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Accident Fatally Injures Modesto Church Leader: AutoAccident.com
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