Victorville Wrongful Death Attorney

Victorville, California, established in 1962 as a planned community in the high desert region of San Bernardino County, has grown into a bustling city of over 120,000 residents. Located at the crossroads of major highways including Interstate 15 and State Route 18, Victorville serves as a vital transportation hub connecting Southern California to Las Vegas and other desert communities. This strategic location, while economically beneficial, has contributed to a concerning number of traffic-related fatalities and wrongful death incidents in the area. The city’s proximity to major trucking routes, combined with its rapid population growth and ongoing construction projects, has unfortunately led to an increased frequency of fatal accidents involving motor vehicles, workplace incidents, and other preventable tragedies.

When families face the devastating loss of a loved one due to someone else’s negligence or misconduct, a wrongful death attorney provides essential legal support during an incredibly difficult time. These legal professionals investigate the circumstances surrounding the death, gather evidence, consult with medical professionals and accident reconstruction specialists, and work to establish liability. A wrongful death lawyer handles all communication with insurance companies, files necessary court documents, and pursues compensation for surviving family members. This compensation can include medical expenses incurred before death, funeral and burial costs, lost future income, loss of companionship, and pain and suffering experienced by surviving relatives.

The wrongful death attorneys at MVP Accident Attorneys understand the profound impact these losses have on families throughout Victorville and the surrounding High Desert communities. Our legal team conducts thorough investigations into each case, working with medical professionals, accident investigators, and other relevant professionals to build strong cases for our clients. We handle all types of wrongful death claims, including those resulting from car accidents, truck collisions, motorcycle crashes, pedestrian accidents, workplace incidents, medical malpractice, and premises liability cases. Our attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning families pay no attorney fees unless we successfully recover compensation for their case.

At MVP Accident Attorneys, we recognize that every wrongful death case is unique and requires personalized attention. We offer free consultations to discuss your case and help you understand your legal options during this challenging time. Our office is open seven days a week, twenty-four hours a day, ensuring that families can reach us whenever they need legal guidance or support. We encourage anyone who has lost a loved one due to another party’s negligence to schedule a free case evaluation to learn how we can help pursue justice and fair compensation for your family’s loss.

What Is Wrongful Death?

Wrongful death occurs when someone dies due to another party’s negligent, reckless, or intentional actions. This legal concept allows surviving family members to seek compensation through civil lawsuits for their losses, including medical expenses, funeral costs, lost income, and emotional suffering. Unlike criminal cases, wrongful death claims focus on financial recovery rather than punishment. Common examples include fatal car accidents, medical malpractice, workplace accidents, and defective products that cause death.

What Is a Wrongful Death Attorney?

A wrongful death attorney specializes in representing families whose loved ones died due to another party’s negligence or intentional actions. These lawyers handle complex legal procedures, investigate circumstances surrounding the death, gather evidence, calculate damages, and negotiate with insurance companies or defendants. They work on contingency fees, meaning clients pay only if they win. Wrongful death attorneys understand state-specific laws, statutes of limitations, and who can file claims, providing crucial legal knowledge during difficult times.

What Does an Attorney Do in Victorville Wrongful Death Claims?

A Victorville wrongful death attorney investigates the incident, gathers evidence, interviews witnesses, and consults medical experts. They calculate economic and non-economic damages, including lost wages, medical bills, and pain and suffering. The attorney negotiates settlements with insurance companies or defendants, files court documents within California’s statute of limitations, and represents clients in trial if necessary. They handle all legal complexities while families focus on grieving and healing.

Is It Necessary to Hire an Attorney for Wrongful Death Claims in Victorville?

While not legally required, hiring an attorney is highly recommended for Victorville wrongful death claims. These cases involve complex California laws, strict deadlines, and challenging evidence gathering. Insurance companies often minimize payouts to unrepresented families. Experienced attorneys understand damage calculations, negotiate effectively, and significantly increase settlement amounts. Most work on contingency, requiring no upfront costs.

What Are the Benefits of Hiring an Attorney for a Wrongful Death Claim in Victorville?

Losing a loved one due to someone else’s negligence creates overwhelming emotional and financial burdens. While grieving families focus on healing, complex legal matters demand immediate attention. Hiring an experienced wrongful death attorney in Victorville provides crucial advantages during this difficult time.

Wrongful death cases involve intricate California statutes, procedural requirements, and strict deadlines. Attorneys understand these complexities, ensuring proper filing procedures and compliance with legal standards that untrained individuals often overlook.

Skilled attorneys conduct comprehensive investigations, gathering critical evidence before it disappears. They interview witnesses, obtain police reports, consult medical professionals, and reconstruct accident scenes to build the strongest possible case.

Determining fair compensation requires calculating complex economic and non-economic damages. Attorneys work with economists and actuaries to assess lost future earnings, medical expenses, pain and suffering, and loss of companionship accurately.

Insurance adjusters aim to minimize payouts and often take advantage of grieving families. Experienced attorneys know industry tactics, negotiate effectively, and ensure families receive fair settlements rather than lowball offers.

If negotiations fail, attorneys provide skilled trial representation. They present compelling arguments, examine witnesses, and advocate zealously for fair compensation before judges and juries.

Most wrongful death attorneys work on contingency fees, meaning families pay nothing unless they win. This arrangement eliminates financial barriers and ensures attorneys are motivated to secure the best possible outcomes.

What Are the Important Steps to Take Immediately After a Wrongful Death in Victorville?

When a wrongful death occurs in Victorville, taking immediate action protects your family’s legal rights and preserves crucial evidence. These essential steps help ensure the strongest possible case while managing the overwhelming aftermath of loss.

Call 911 immediately if not already done. Emergency responders will provide medical care, secure the scene, and create official incident reports that become vital evidence in wrongful death claims.

Document everything possible through photographs and videos. Capture vehicle positions, property damage, road conditions, and any contributing factors before evidence is moved or cleaned up.

Collect names, phone numbers, and contact details from anyone who witnessed the incident. Witnesses may leave quickly, making immediate collection crucial for building your case later.

Request copies of police reports, coroner reports, and any other official documentation. These reports contain factual findings and officer observations that support wrongful death claims.

Collect all medical records related to treatment attempts, emergency care, and the cause of death. These documents establish the connection between the incident and your loved one’s death.

Report the death to relevant insurance providers, but avoid providing detailed statements or accepting quick settlement offers without legal guidance.

Reach out to a wrongful death attorney as soon as possible. California’s statute of limitations requires filing within two years, and early legal involvement protects evidence and witnesses.

Refrain from posting about the incident on social media platforms. These posts can be used against your family during legal proceedings.

Taking these immediate steps protects your family’s legal rights while preserving crucial evidence. Quick action ensures the best possible foundation for pursuing justice and fair compensation for your devastating loss.

How Can a Victim’s Family Find the Right Wrongful Death Attorney in Victorville?

Finding the right wrongful death attorney in Victorville requires research and careful evaluation. Start by checking online reviews, state bar records, and case results. Schedule consultations with multiple attorneys to assess communication style, experience with similar cases, and fee structures. Ask about their track record, trial experience, and resources for investigation. Verify they work on contingency and offer personalized attention rather than delegating cases to junior staff.

What Qualities Should You Look for When Hiring a Wrongful Death Attorney in Victorville?

When hiring a wrongful death attorney in Victorville, prioritize extensive experience with similar cases and proven trial success. Look for strong communication skills, compassionate client service, and immediate availability. Verify they work on contingency with no upfront fees. Check their investigation resources, including access to medical consultants and accident reconstruction professionals. Ensure they handle cases personally rather than delegating to staff. Review client testimonials and settlement amounts to gauge effectiveness.

Which Law Firm Has Extensive Experience Handling Wrongful Death Cases in Victorville?

When tragedy strikes in Victorville, families need compassionate yet aggressive legal representation to pursue justice and fair compensation. Choosing the right wrongful death attorney can significantly impact your case outcome and recovery process.

At MVP Accident Attorneys, our legal team stands out for their dedicated focus on wrongful death cases in Victorville and throughout California. Their attorneys have successfully recovered fair settlements and verdicts for grieving families, demonstrating consistent results in complex wrongful death litigation.

Our firm handles every aspect of wrongful death claims, from initial investigation through trial. They coordinate with accident reconstruction professionals, medical consultants, and economic analysts to build compelling cases that recover fair compensation for families.

We provide direct access to attorneys, not just paralegals or assistants. They maintain regular communication with clients, explaining legal processes in understandable terms while offering emotional support during difficult times.

Operating on a strict contingency basis, our firm charges no upfront fees or costs. Families pay nothing unless they secure favorable settlements or verdicts, removing financial barriers to quality legal representation.

With deep roots in Victorville, our firm understands local courts, judges, and opposing counsel tactics. This insight helps them navigate cases more effectively while building strong relationships that benefit their clients.

We offer 24/7 availability for wrongful death cases, ensuring immediate evidence preservation and witness interviews. Quick response times often determine case success in wrongful death litigation.

Our firm’s track record includes numerous fair settlements and verdicts in wrongful death cases, demonstrating their ability to secure fair compensation for economic and non-economic damages.

What Do Past Clients Say About the Wrongful Death Lawyers at MVP Accident Attorneys in Victorville?

At MVP Accident Attorneys, what our clients say about their experiences working with us matters. We pride ourselves on providing the compassionate and dedicated legal guidance, advice, and representation that every client deserves.

“I contacted Sachs law after I was unable to get the medical attention I desired after a bad car accident. Immediately after contacting Sachs law Someone was sent to my house to help me through the paperwork and sign the contracts. From the start Sachs law provided amazing support finding doctors, MRIs, surgeons and recovery appointments. If I wouldn’t have had the support of Sachs law I know my recovery would have been longer and more difficult. When it came to my settlement they really shined and got me a large fair settlement for my injuries. I would recommend them to anyone who needs a great honest lawyer to protect them from the animals that are the insurance companies. Thank you Sachs law for representing me and coming through.”

– Matthew Chase

“I was in a car accident that was not my fault. I thought it was obvious. Long story short I was told the accident was my fault and this information did not sit right with me. I was advised to get a lawyer. Sachs Law has some good reviews so I gave them a call & from our first conversation I was happy I did. They took my case & made me feel as I felt all along the car accident I was in was not my fault. It took a little time because the other company was resistant but Sachs Law overcame that obstacle. I was very impressed. Awesome Job. Thank you Sachs Law.”

– Jamie

“I would definitely recommend Sachs Law! Not only were they professional, they made everything convenient! They settled my case in a timely and orderly fashion and I feel like they got the best settlement for me!”

– Destiny

How Much Do the Lawyers at MVP Accident Attorneys Charge for Handling Wrongful Death Cases in Victorville?

Our attorneys handle cases on a contingency fee basis. This means that you generally do not pay attorney’s fees unless we obtain a recovery for you. Contingency fee percentages are not fixed and may vary depending on factors such as the complexity of your case, the stage at which it is resolved, and other relevant considerations.

Clients may also be responsible for certain case-related costs, as outlined in a written fee agreement. This information is for general informational purposes only and does not create an attorney-client relationship or guarantee any specific outcome.

Where Are the Offices of MVP Accident Attorneys Located?

At MVP Accident Attorneys, we have four convenient locations to serve Californians:

Irvine

4 Park Plaza ste 850, Irvine, CA 92614, United States

Los Angeles

145 S Spring St #850, Los Angeles, CA 90012

Sacramento

1201 J St ste 200, Suite 335, Sacramento, CA 95814

Riverside

6560 Van Buren Boulevard STE G,

Riverside, CA 92503

What Are the Office Hours for MVP Accident Attorneys?

At MVP Accident Attorneys, our wrongful death lawyers are available twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week.

The Legal Team at MVP Accident Attorneys Also Serves Apple Valley, Adelanto & Hesperia

At MVP Accident Attorneys, our team of wrongful death attorneys also serve Adelanto, Apple Valley, Hesperia, and other cities in the High Desert.

Do the Lawyers at MVP Accident Attorneys Offer Free Consultations for the Families of Wrongful Death Victims in Victorville?

Yes, MVP Accident Attorneys provides completely free initial consultations for the families of wrongful death victims in Victorville. These consultations carry no obligation to hire us afterward.

What Types of Wrongful Death Cases Do the Lawyers at MVP Accident Attorneys Handle in Victorville, CA?

At MVP Accident Attorneys, we handle a comprehensive range of wrongful death cases throughout Victorville, representing families whose loved ones died due to preventable accidents and negligence.

Vehicle Accidents: Our firm represents families in fatal car crashes, truck accidents, motorcycle collisions, and pedestrian fatalities. We handle cases involving drunk drivers, distracted driving, speeding, and defective vehicle components.

Medical Malpractice: Our attorneys pursue wrongful death claims against healthcare providers for surgical errors, misdiagnosis, medication mistakes, birth injuries, and failure to diagnose critical conditions that result in death.

Workplace Fatalities: Our firm handles construction site deaths, industrial accidents, falls from heights, equipment malfunctions, and exposure to hazardous materials. We pursue third-party liability claims beyond workers’ compensation.

Premises Liability: Cases include deaths from slip and falls, inadequate security leading to violent crimes, swimming pool drownings, fires due to negligent maintenance, and structural collapses.

Product Liability: We represent families when defective products cause fatal injuries, including faulty automotive parts, dangerous pharmaceuticals, defective medical devices, and unsafe consumer products.

Pedestrian and Bicycle Accidents: Our firm handles cases where negligent drivers strike and kill pedestrians or cyclists, often involving crosswalk accidents, hit-and-runs, and failure to yield situations.

Nursing Home Neglect: Cases involving elder abuse, medication errors, falls, infections, and inadequate care that leads to preventable deaths in care facilities.

Aviation Accidents: We handle wrongful death claims from private plane crashes, helicopter accidents, and commercial aviation incidents affecting Victorville residents.

Criminal Acts: Our firm pursues civil wrongful death claims against parties whose criminal actions resulted in death, including assault, robbery, and other violent crimes with liable third parties.

At MVP Accident Attorneys, our diverse case experience ensures they understand the unique challenges each type of wrongful death presents, allowing them to build strong cases regardless of circumstances.

What Types of Evidence Do the Lawyers at MVP Accident Attorneys Collect to Strengthen Wrongful Death Claim in Victorville?

At MVP Accident Attorneys, we systematically collect comprehensive evidence to build compelling wrongful death cases in Victorville, ensuring fair compensation for grieving families.

Physical Evidence: Attorneys photograph accident scenes, vehicle damage, road conditions, and environmental factors. They preserve damaged products, defective equipment, and any physical items that contributed to the death.

Official Documentation: Our firm obtains police reports, coroner’s reports, autopsy findings, toxicology results, and emergency response records. These official documents provide factual foundations for establishing liability.

Medical Records: We collect complete medical histories, emergency room records, surgical notes, and treatment documentation. We analyze medical care quality and establish connections between negligent acts and death.

Witness Statements: Our attorneys interview eyewitnesses, bystanders, and anyone present during the incident. They secure sworn statements and depositions while memories remain fresh and witnesses are available.

Video and Photographic Evidence: Our firm retrieves surveillance footage from nearby businesses, traffic cameras, and body cam recordings. We also collect cell phone videos and photographs taken by witnesses or victims.

Financial Documentation: We gather employment records, tax returns, pay stubs, and benefits information to calculate lost earnings. We document funeral expenses, medical bills, and other economic damages.

Digital Evidence: Our attorneys analyze cell phone records, GPS data, social media posts, and electronic communications that may reveal negligent behavior or state of mind.

Professional Reconstructions: Our firm works with accident reconstruction analysts, medical consultants, and economic professionals who provide detailed reports and testimony supporting the family’s claims.

Employment and Business Records: We obtain safety records, training documentation, maintenance logs, and company policies when workplace negligence or corporate responsibility is involved.

This thorough evidence collection process ensures our attorneys build the strongest possible cases for Victorville families seeking justice for their wrongful death claims.

What Kind of Compensation Can Be Recovered After a Wrongful Death Claim in Victorville?

Wrongful death claims in Victorville can recover significant compensation to help families rebuild financially after devastating loss. California law allows specific types of damages to address both tangible losses and intangible suffering.

Economic Damages

Economic damages represent quantifiable financial losses directly resulting from the death.

Lost Income and Earnings: Families can recover the deceased’s projected lifetime earnings, including salary, benefits, bonuses, and career advancement potential. This calculation considers age, health, education, and work history.

Medical Expenses: Compensation covers all medical bills related to the final injury or illness, including emergency treatment, hospitalization, surgery, and end-of-life care.

Funeral and Burial Costs: Families recover reasonable funeral expenses, burial or cremation costs, memorial services, and related ceremonial expenses.

Loss of Household Services: Compensation includes the value of domestic services the deceased provided, such as childcare, home maintenance, cooking, and other household contributions.

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages address intangible losses that cannot be easily quantified but significantly impact survivors.

Loss of Companionship: Spouses can recover for the loss of love, comfort, care, assistance, protection, affection, society, and moral support their partner provided.

Loss of Parental Guidance: Children can claim compensation for losing their parent’s guidance, nurturing, training, and education throughout their remaining childhood and beyond.

Pain and Suffering: If the deceased experienced conscious pain before death, families may recover damages for that suffering.

Punitive Damages

Punitive damages punish defendants for particularly egregious conduct and deter similar behavior. Courts award these only when defendants acted with malice, oppression, or fraud.

Compensation amounts vary significantly based on the deceased’s age, income, family relationships, and circumstances surrounding the death. Experienced wrongful death attorneys maximize recovery by thoroughly documenting all applicable damages.

What Is the Average Settlement Amount for a Wrongful Death Claim in Victorville, CA?

Settlement amounts vary widely depending on the specifics of each case, including the nature and severity of the injury, liability, medical treatment, lost income, and insurance coverage. While some cases may resolve for smaller amounts and others for significantly more, there is no standard or guaranteed settlement amount. Any references to settlements are for informational purposes only and do not represent a prediction or promise of the value of any individual case.

How Long Does It Take the Lawyers at MVP Accident Attorneys to Settle a Wrongful Death Claim in Victorville?

At MVP Accident Attorneys, we typically settle wrongful death claims in Victorville within 12-24 months, though complex cases may take longer. Simple liability cases with clear negligence often resolve in 6-12 months. Medical malpractice or product liability cases requiring extensive investigation and testimony can extend 2-3 years. Factors affecting timeline include defendant cooperation, insurance company negotiations, evidence complexity, and whether trial becomes necessary. We prioritize thorough preparation over rushed settlements.

What Factors Determine the Final Value of a Wrongful Death Claim Settlement in Victorville?

Several key factors determine wrongful death settlement values in Victorville. The deceased’s age, income, and earning potential significantly impact compensation. Family dependency, including spouses and children, increases settlements. The degree of defendant negligence affects amounts, with gross negligence yielding higher awards. Medical expenses, funeral costs, and pain endured before death add value. Insurance policy limits often cap settlements. Strong evidence and attorney negotiation skills maximize final compensation amounts.

Is It Advisable to Accept the Initial Settlement Offer After a Wrongful Death in Victorville?

No, never accept initial settlement offers after wrongful death in Victorville. Insurance companies deliberately lowball first offers, often proposing 10-30% of actual case value. These quick offers exploit grieving families’ emotional vulnerability and financial pressure. Experienced wrongful death attorneys typically negotiate settlements 3-5 times higher than initial offers through proper case evaluation and aggressive negotiation tactics.

Can a Victim’s Family File a Claim If the Deceased Was Partially at Fault for a Wrongful Death in Victorville?

Yes, families can file wrongful death claims in Victorville even when the deceased was partially at fault. California follows comparative negligence laws, meaning compensation is reduced by the deceased’s percentage of fault. If the deceased was 30% responsible, the family recovers 70% of damages.

How Long Does a Victim’s Family Have to File a Wrongful Death Claim in Victorville?

California law requires wrongful death claims in Victorville to be filed within two years of the death date. This statute of limitations is strictly enforced, with rare exceptions for cases involving fraud or delayed discovery of negligence. Missing this deadline typically bars families from recovering compensation permanently. However, claims against government entities have shorter deadlines, often just six months. Immediate legal consultation ensures proper filing within required timeframes.

Can Families Receive Financial Help for Burial and Funeral Expenses After a Wrongful Death in Victorville?

Yes, families can receive financial help for burial and funeral expenses after wrongful death in Victorville. Wrongful death settlements typically include reimbursement for reasonable funeral costs, burial or cremation expenses, and memorial services. Some families may qualify for immediate financial assistance through victim compensation programs or social services while awaiting settlement. Life insurance policies also provide burial funds. Attorneys often negotiate advance payments from defendants’ insurance companies to cover urgent funeral expenses.

Who Is Eligible to File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Victorville?

California law allows specific family members to file wrongful death lawsuits in Victorville:

Surviving Spouse – The deceased’s husband or wife has primary filing rights.

Domestic Partner – Registered domestic partners have equal standing with spouses.

Children – All biological and adopted children can file claims, regardless of age.

Issue of Deceased Children – Grandchildren whose parent (the deceased’s child) has died.

Parents – Can file if no spouse, domestic partner, or children survive.

Dependents – Anyone financially dependent on the deceased, including stepchildren who relied on their support.

Putative Spouse – Someone who believed in good faith they were married to the deceased.

Only one lawsuit can be filed per death, but multiple eligible parties can join the same case. If eligible parties disagree on pursuing a claim, the court may appoint a representative. Personal representatives of the estate cannot file wrongful death claims unless they’re also eligible family members.

How Common Are Wrongful Death Cases in Victorville?

Wrongful death cases occur regularly in Victorville due to its location along major highways and growing population. The city sees fatal accidents from Interstate 15 traffic, including truck crashes and multi-vehicle collisions. Medical malpractice deaths happen at local hospitals and care facilities. Construction and industrial workplace fatalities contribute to wrongful death statistics.

Exact numbers aren’t publicly tracked by type, but San Bernardino County records hundreds of preventable deaths annually. Motor vehicle accidents represent the largest category, followed by medical negligence and workplace incidents. The aging population increases nursing home neglect cases.

At MVP Accident Attorneys, we handle dozens of wrongful death cases yearly in Victorville, indicating these tragedies are unfortunately common enough to require dedicated legal representation.

What Are the Common Causes of Wrongful Death Accidents in Victorville?

Wrongful death accidents in Victorville stem from several common causes:

Motor Vehicle Accidents – Interstate 15 and Highway 18 see frequent fatal crashes involving speeding, drunk driving, distracted drivers, and commercial truck accidents.

Medical Malpractice – Surgical errors, misdiagnosis, medication mistakes, and delayed treatment at local hospitals and clinics.

Workplace Accidents – Construction site falls, industrial equipment malfunctions, and exposure to hazardous materials in mining and manufacturing.

Premises Liability – Slip and falls, inadequate security leading to violent crimes, and swimming pool drownings at residential and commercial properties.

Pedestrian and Bicycle Accidents – Drivers failing to yield, hitting pedestrians at crosswalks, and striking cyclists on busy roads.

Product Defects – Faulty automotive parts, dangerous pharmaceuticals, defective medical devices, and unsafe consumer products.

Nursing Home Neglect – Medication errors, falls, infections, and inadequate care at elder care facilities.

The desert location and extreme temperatures also contribute to heat-related deaths and dehydration incidents, particularly affecting vulnerable populations.

What Are the Current Statistics on Wrongful Death Cases in Victorville, CA?

In 2022, San Bernardino County reported a total of 18,847 deaths. The leading causes of these deaths were heart disease, cancer, accidents, and stroke. This data highlights the significant health challenges faced by the population and the potential for preventable deaths through improved health and safety measures.

How Can Wrongful Death Accidents Be Prevented in Victorville, CA?

Preventing wrongful death accidents in Victorville requires proactive safety measures across multiple areas where fatal incidents commonly occur.

Safe Driving Practices – Avoid speeding on I-15 and Highway 18, never drive under the influence, eliminate distractions like texting, maintain safe following distances, and use seat belts consistently
Medical Safety – Research healthcare providers, ask questions about treatments, seek second opinions for major procedures, verify medications, and maintain updated medical records
Workplace Safety – Follow OSHA guidelines, use proper protective equipment, report hazardous conditions immediately, receive adequate safety training, and maintain equipment regularly
Property Maintenance – Keep walkways clear and well-lit, install proper security systems, maintain swimming pool barriers, repair structural issues promptly, and address slip hazards
Pedestrian Awareness – Use crosswalks and sidewalks, wear reflective clothing at night, stay alert around vehicle traffic, and avoid walking in high-traffic areas when possible
Product Safety – Research recalls regularly, follow manufacturer instructions, replace defective items immediately, and report dangerous products to authorities
Elder Care Oversight – Visit nursing homes regularly, monitor medication administration, report neglect or abuse, and maintain communication with care staff

Community-wide prevention requires improved infrastructure, stricter safety enforcement, public education campaigns, and holding negligent parties accountable through legal action when preventable deaths occur.