Elk Grove Car Accident Turns Deadly on Waterman Road

A tragic car crash in Elk Grove on May 13, 2025, left one person dead and another seriously injured after a violent two-vehicle accident on Waterman Road near Sheldon Road. According to CBS News Sacramento, officers responded just after 5 a.m. to find both vehicles badly mangled—one flipped upside down. Despite the rapid efforts of first responders, one of the victims died at the scene.

At Kreeger Law Firm, we are heartbroken by this latest fatality and extend our deepest condolences to the family of the victim. We also want to use this moment to raise awareness about how serious car crashes are becoming across Elk Grove and the greater Sacramento region. In this blog, we’ll break down what happened, explore the broader context behind these rising collisions, and explain how our firm helps victims and families pursue justice after a devastating crash.

If you or a loved one was involved in a serious accident in Sacramento County, contact us for a free consultation.
(916) 313-0986
kreegerlaw.com/contact.

Why Deadly Car Crashes Are on the Rise in Elk Grove

Elk Grove has transformed from a quiet agricultural community into one of California’s most rapidly developing suburbs. While the city’s growth has brought new opportunities, it’s also placed enormous pressure on its roadways. With more cars, more distractions, and aging infrastructure, deadly collisions are becoming alarmingly common.

According to the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS), fatal traffic collisions are on the rise statewide—and Elk Grove is no exception. From congested intersections to dangerous rural roads, residents face an increased risk of serious injury or death every time they get behind the wheel.

The Changing Landscape of Elk Grove Roads

As the number of drivers increases, so does the stress on local traffic systems. Elk Grove’s infrastructure was not built to handle the city’s explosive growth, and that has contributed to a troubling rise in serious crashes. Roads that once served light traffic are now overwhelmed with daily commuters, school buses, and commercial vehicles. The strain on these outdated systems has become a serious public safety concern.

Population Growth and Urban Sprawl

Between 2010 and 2024, Elk Grove’s population surged by more than 25%. This rapid expansion has outpaced infrastructure upgrades, leaving many roads ill-equipped to handle current traffic volumes. Waterman Road, where the fatal May 13 crash occurred, was originally designed for light agricultural traffic—not high-speed daily commutes.

As more housing developments emerge in South Elk Grove and Sheldon, traffic congestion has intensified. Roadways like Bruceville Road and Grant Line Road now serve as major commuter corridors, often without adequate lighting, signage, or signal timing.

Dangerous Intersections and Rural Highways

Many of Elk Grove’s most serious crashes happen at intersections that were never built for high-volume traffic. Roads like Sheldon Road and Elk Grove Boulevard intersect at high speeds, often without protected left-turn signals or clear right-of-way guidance. These intersections are especially dangerous during dawn and dusk, when visibility is naturally reduced.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that failure to yield is one of the leading causes of intersection fatalities nationwide, and this trend is clearly reflected in Elk Grove’s recent crash history.

Common Causes of Fatal Car Crashes in Elk Grove

Understanding the most common causes of these tragic collisions can help drivers become more aware—and can also help victims and families understand what went wrong. In Elk Grove, a few key behaviors and environmental issues show up repeatedly in police reports and legal claims involving deadly accidents.

Speeding in Residential and Semi-Rural Areas

Speeding continues to be one of the leading causes of fatal traffic crashes across Sacramento County. In Elk Grove, drivers frequently exceed limits on roads like Laguna Boulevard, Franklin Boulevard, and Bradshaw Road—many of which border schools, residential neighborhoods, or rural farmland.

According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), higher speeds result in longer braking distances, reduced reaction time, and increased severity of injury. These effects are particularly devastating when the crash involves pedestrians, cyclists, or smaller vehicles.

Distracted Driving on Commuter Routes

Distracted driving remains a top concern on Elk Grove’s heavily used commuter corridors. With smartphones, dashboard infotainment systems, and even in-car voice assistants competing for drivers’ attention, it’s no surprise that distraction plays a role in many serious accidents.

The California Office of Traffic Safety states that more than half of California drivers admit to distracted behavior. Even a split-second glance at a text message can result in a high-impact crash, especially on busy roads like Elk Grove Boulevard and Highway 99.

Lack of Lighting and Roadway Markings

Poor visibility is another major contributor to Elk Grove’s rising crash rate. On many semi-rural roads, there are no streetlights, reflectors, or clear lane markings to help drivers navigate safely—especially at night or during heavy rain.

In these conditions, the margin for error shrinks dramatically. Drivers may swerve into oncoming lanes, miss stop signs, or fail to see cyclists and pedestrians. The Caltrans Highway Design Manual outlines how proper lighting and road markings can dramatically reduce nighttime crashes—a standard that many Elk Grove streets fail to meet.

How Fatal Car Crashes Happen in Elk Grove

The deadly crash on Waterman Road in Elk Grove on May 13, 2025, is a tragic reminder that even a routine morning drive can turn fatal in a matter of seconds. While every collision is different, most serious crashes in this area follow familiar patterns—patterns that can help investigators, attorneys, and grieving families understand what went wrong and who may be held responsible.

At Kreeger Law Firm, we’ve handled hundreds of serious car accident cases across Sacramento County. Below, we break down how fatal crashes typically occur in Elk Grove and what that means for liability and recovery.

Intersection Collisions Are a Leading Threat

Intersections are one of the most dangerous parts of any roadway—especially when visibility is limited or signals are unclear. In Elk Grove, intersections like Waterman & Sheldon and Bruceville & Elk Grove Boulevard have become hot spots for deadly crashes.

Left-Turn Accidents That Violate Right-of-Way

One of the most common fatal crash scenarios involves a driver making a left turn in front of an oncoming vehicle. These accidents often happen when a driver misjudges the speed or distance of another vehicle—especially during low-light conditions around sunrise or sunset.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), nearly 42% of fatal crashes involving two vehicles happen when one is making a left turn.

Failure to Yield at Uncontrolled Intersections

Some intersections in Elk Grove—particularly in rural or transitional zones—lack clear signage, stoplights, or protected turn signals. This creates confusion about right-of-way, especially when drivers are unfamiliar with the area or are traveling at high speeds. Failing to yield in these cases often leads to high-speed T-bone crashes that can instantly prove fatal.

For an overview of intersection safety standards, visit the Federal Highway Administration’s Intersection Safety Program.

Speed and Impact Magnify Crash Severity

The faster a vehicle is going, the more destructive a crash becomes. In fatal accidents like the one on May 13, the extent of damage—vehicles flipped or torn apart—points to high-speed impact as a major factor.

Speeding Reduces Reaction Time

Even at moderate speeds, it takes the average driver about 1.5 seconds to react to an unexpected hazard. At 55 mph, that delay translates to over 120 feet before the brakes even begin to engage. In Elk Grove’s semi-rural areas, these distances can be deadly—especially when roads are narrow and unlit.

Momentum Increases the Force of a Collision

Kinetic energy increases exponentially with speed. A crash at 45 mph can generate nearly twice the force of a crash at 30 mph. When a larger SUV or truck collides with a smaller car, the imbalance in force can flip or crush the smaller vehicle—just as was seen in the Waterman Road tragedy.

Learn more about crash physics at the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

Visibility and Road Conditions Often Play a Role

Environmental and infrastructure-related issues frequently contribute to how and why a crash occurs. These conditions don’t excuse negligent driving—but they can help establish why a crash was especially severe or why a driver couldn’t avoid impact.

Poor Lighting and Limited Sightlines

Many of Elk Grove’s semi-rural intersections, like the one at Waterman and Sheldon, are poorly lit—particularly in early morning hours. Without proper streetlights or reflective signs, drivers may not see cross traffic or stopped vehicles until it’s too late.

Lack of Turn Lanes and Traffic Controls

Some of Elk Grove’s deadliest intersections still lack dedicated left-turn lanes, turn signals, or modernized light timing systems. This leads to increased confusion and aggressive driving behaviors, especially during high-volume morning and evening commutes.

The City of Elk Grove Public Works Department tracks traffic improvement projects, many of which focus on these exact deficiencies.

How Liability Is Determined in Multi-Vehicle Crashes

When a fatal crash involves more than one vehicle, determining who is legally at fault becomes a crucial—and often contested—issue. In the May 13 collision on Waterman Road, two vehicles were involved, and one was overturned. These facts immediately raise questions about speed, right-of-way, road conditions, and driver behavior in the moments leading up to the crash.

At Kreeger Law Firm, we investigate multi-vehicle collisions by analyzing physical evidence, reviewing official reports, and consulting with expert crash reconstruction teams. Liability is never assumed—it must be proven.

California’s Pure Comparative Fault System

Under California Civil Code § 1714, the state follows a pure comparative fault system. This means that more than one party can be found legally responsible for a crash—and each is assigned a percentage of fault. Even if one driver is mostly to blame, the other may still carry some liability based on their actions (or inaction).

For example, if a driver was speeding but the other failed to yield, a court might assign 70% fault to one and 30% to the other. The compensation awarded is then reduced accordingly.

Evidence Used to Assign Fault

Assigning fault in a two-vehicle crash like the one in Elk Grove typically requires multiple forms of evidence—each helping to establish what happened and who could have prevented it.

Police Reports and Crash Scene Diagrams

Law enforcement officers responding to serious collisions like the Waterman Road crash are required to complete a detailed Traffic Collision Report. This document becomes a foundational piece of evidence in determining fault and liability.

Statements From Involved Drivers

Police typically interview all drivers involved in the crash to get their version of what happened. These statements are documented in the report and can later be compared against physical evidence and third-party testimony. If a driver’s story changes or contradicts the facts, that discrepancy can be used to challenge their credibility or establish negligence.

Witness Testimony

Unbiased third-party witnesses can be incredibly valuable in a liability investigation. Eyewitness accounts often confirm critical details—such as which driver entered the intersection first, whether traffic signals were obeyed, or if someone appeared to be speeding or distracted. The more specific and consistent the witness account, the stronger its impact on the claim.

A Diagram of the Crash Scene

Officers usually draw a diagram showing the positions of all vehicles before and after the crash. These diagrams help reconstruction experts understand how the vehicles moved, where the point of impact occurred, and whether traffic control devices like stop signs or lights were present. In two-vehicle collisions, such diagrams are instrumental in understanding trajectory and force.

Citations Issued (e.g., Failure to Yield, Speeding)

If officers observe clear traffic violations—such as failure to yield, running a red light, or driving at unsafe speeds—they may issue citations at the scene. These citations are strong indicators of fault and can carry significant weight during settlement negotiations or in court. While not conclusive on their own, they often form the basis of an insurance liability determination.

While not definitive proof of liability, these reports often influence how insurers approach the case.

Vehicle Damage and Positioning

The location and extent of damage can also point to fault. For example, a car struck broadside while turning is often not at fault unless it turned illegally or unexpectedly. Photographs, crash debris, and final vehicle positions help accident reconstructionists model the incident and determine relative speeds and angles of impact.

Surveillance Footage or Dash Cameras

Nearby traffic cameras, business surveillance systems, or dashboard cams may have captured the crash or the moments leading up to it. This evidence can be pivotal in disproving false statements or confirming reckless behavior like speeding or illegal turns.

To request public traffic footage in Elk Grove, visit the City of Elk Grove Public Records Portal.

Witness Statements and Cell Phone Records

Eyewitnesses—particularly neutral third parties—can offer valuable insight into who had the green light, who was weaving lanes, or whether a driver was distracted. In cases involving phone use, attorneys may subpoena cell records to determine if someone was texting or calling at the time of the crash.

The Role of Crash Reconstruction Experts

In high-stakes crashes like the Waterman Road fatality, we often work with certified accident reconstructionists. These experts use the following.

Vehicle speed analysis based on skid marks
Damage patterns to assess angle and velocity
Road grade and surface data
Software models to recreate crash dynamics

These findings are admissible in court and can clarify disputed claims about speeding, reaction time, or driver visibility.

What to Do After a Fatal or Serious Car Crash in Elk Grove

In the aftermath of a deadly car crash—like the one that took place on Waterman Road on May 13, 2025—families and survivors are often left in shock, grief, and confusion. Amid the emotional toll, it’s critical to act quickly and strategically to protect your legal rights and preserve crucial evidence.

At Kreeger Law Firm, we help clients navigate this difficult process from day one. The actions taken in the hours, days, and weeks following a crash can dramatically impact the success of a legal claim. Here’s what you need to know.

Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Even if injuries aren’t immediately visible, it’s vital to seek medical care right away. Many life-threatening conditions—such as internal bleeding, concussions, and spinal trauma—may not show symptoms for hours or days.

Create a Medical Paper Trail

Every doctor visit, test result, and prescription will become part of your legal case. Insurance companies often try to downplay injuries if there’s a delay in treatment. Prompt and ongoing care creates clear documentation that connects your injuries to the crash.

Follow Through With All Treatments

Skipping follow-up appointments or ignoring your treatment plan can jeopardize both your recovery and your compensation. Defense attorneys often argue that a lack of follow-through means the injuries weren’t serious. Stay consistent and keep records of everything.

File a Police Report and Request a Copy

California law requires any serious accident to be reported to the police. If law enforcement responded to the scene, they will file a Traffic Collision Report—but you must request a copy for your records.

Get the Report Number and Officer’s Contact Info

Ask the responding officer for the report number, their name, and badge number. This information makes it easier to track down the official record and follow up if there are errors or omissions.

Review the Report for Accuracy

Once the report is available, review it carefully. If it contains incorrect details—such as the wrong direction of travel or misstated witness accounts—contact your attorney immediately. Inaccurate reports can delay your claim or misdirect liability.

To obtain a police report in Elk Grove, visit the City of Elk Grove Police Department Records Unit.

Document the Scene and Your Injuries

If you’re physically able, try to capture visual evidence at the scene of the crash. If you were seriously injured and couldn’t take photos, return as soon as possible or send someone on your behalf.

Photograph the Vehicles

Take multiple pictures of all damaged vehicles from different angles. Focus on points of impact, dents, broken glass, deployed airbags, and license plates. These photos help determine speed, direction, and the nature of the crash.

Capture the Surrounding Environment

Don’t forget to document the road, traffic signs, skid marks, and weather conditions. Features like potholes, construction zones, or poorly marked intersections may reveal contributing hazards.

Track Injury Progression

From bruises and swelling to surgical scars and mobility aids—photograph your injuries throughout your recovery. These images can be critical in demonstrating pain and suffering damages later in your claim.

Preserve Surveillance and Dash Cam Footage

Many intersections in Elk Grove are monitored by traffic cameras, and surrounding businesses may have outdoor surveillance. Some personal vehicles are also equipped with dash cams that record valuable footage.

Act Quickly Before Footage Is Deleted

Most surveillance systems only store footage for 24–72 hours. If you believe a nearby camera captured the crash, notify your attorney right away so they can send a formal preservation letter to the business or agency involved.

Request Dash Cam Footage From All Parties

If you or another driver had a dash cam running at the time of the crash, download and back up the footage immediately. This may be the most direct proof of what happened and who caused the collision.

Contact an Experienced Car Accident Attorney

Time is critical after a major crash. Insurance companies often begin their investigations immediately—and they aren’t working in your best interest. Having an experienced personal injury attorney on your side ensures your rights are protected from day one.

Why Kreeger Law Firm Is Different

We don’t just handle paperwork—we fight to hold negligent drivers fully accountable. Our legal team launches immediate investigations, preserves critical evidence, and builds a strong claim for maximum compensation. We understand the unique challenges of Elk Grove crashes and use our local experience to your advantage.

For immediate legal help, contact us at (916) 313-0986 or kreegerlaw.com/contact.

Compensation Available After a Fatal Car Crash in Elk Grove

A fatal crash doesn’t just leave emotional devastation—it also leaves families facing overwhelming financial burdens. From funeral expenses and lost income to medical bills and emotional trauma, the aftermath of a deadly collision creates long-term costs that most victims are not prepared to handle.

At Kreeger Law Firm, we fight to ensure that families and survivors receive the full compensation they are legally entitled to. Whether through a personal injury or wrongful death claim, we build cases that account for every type of damage—economic, non-economic, and in some cases, even punitive.

Economic Damages Covering Tangible Losses

Economic damages are the measurable financial costs associated with a crash. These losses are typically documented through medical records, invoices, tax forms, and expert evaluations.

Emergency Medical Treatment and Hospitalization

For victims who are transported to the hospital after a crash—whether they survive or not—those medical costs can be extensive. Ambulance rides, trauma room services, emergency surgeries, imaging scans, and ICU stays often result in tens of thousands of dollars in bills.

Under California law, these costs are recoverable, even if they are later covered by insurance or result in medical debt.

Funeral and Burial Expenses

In fatal crashes like the one on May 13, surviving families are often left with sudden and costly funeral bills. Expenses may include transportation of the body, embalming, casket selection, memorial services, cremation, or burial plot costs. All of these fall under compensable economic damages in a wrongful death claim.

For guidance on funeral compensation, refer to California Civil Jury Instruction (CACI) No. 3921.

Loss of Future Income and Support

When a family loses a primary earner, the financial toll extends far beyond the immediate aftermath. Surviving spouses, children, or dependents may be entitled to compensation for the income the deceased would have earned over their lifetime.

To calculate this, attorneys work with vocational experts and economists who assess factors like age, profession, education level, and life expectancy.

Non-Economic Damages Valuing Human Loss

These damages recognize the emotional, psychological, and relational toll of a fatal or serious crash. Though not tied to invoices or receipts, non-economic damages are just as critical—and often represent the heart of a claim.

Pain and Suffering Before Death

If the victim survived for any length of time after the crash—even briefly—they may have experienced extreme physical pain or emotional distress. These damages are recoverable in what’s known as a survival action, which is separate from wrongful death.

Loss of Companionship and Guidance

Family members may recover compensation for the emotional void left by the death of a loved one. This includes the loss of love, affection, moral support, sexual relations, and parental guidance.

California courts consider the nature of the relationship, the closeness of the bond, and the age of surviving family members when awarding these damages.

Emotional Trauma for Surviving Family Members

Survivors who witness the crash or its aftermath—such as parents arriving at the hospital or children at the scene—may suffer long-term emotional distress. In some cases, this trauma qualifies for its own claim under California’s bystander emotional distress laws.

Learn more about qualifying non-economic damages from the Judicial Council of California’s Model Instructions.

Punitive Damages For Extreme Negligence or Recklessness

In rare but egregious cases, the court may award punitive damages. These are not meant to compensate the victim—but rather to punish the at-fault party for particularly dangerous conduct, such as

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
Racing or excessive speeding
Road rage or intentional misconduct
Fleeing the scene of the crash

Under California Civil Code § 3294, punitive damages require clear and convincing evidence of malice, oppression, or fraud. At Kreeger Law Firm, we investigate every fatal crash to determine whether punitive damages are appropriate and fight to include them whenever justified.

Structured Settlements and Financial Planning

For minor children, surviving spouses, or permanently injured individuals, compensation may be awarded through structured settlements rather than lump-sum payments. These customized financial arrangements can help ensure stability and protection over time, particularly in cases involving large awards or vulnerable beneficiaries. At Kreeger Law Firm, we work with certified financial planners and trust attorneys to guide families through this critical process.

Provide Tax Benefits

Structured settlements can offer significant tax advantages, especially in wrongful death and personal injury claims. In many cases, periodic payments received through a structured settlement are tax-free, unlike interest-bearing bank accounts or investment earnings. This allows families to retain more of their compensation without unexpected tax liabilities—something especially important for long-term medical or educational planning.

Ensure Long-Term Financial Stability

A single lump-sum payment can be overwhelming to manage, particularly during periods of emotional distress or grief. Structured settlements distribute compensation over time—monthly, quarterly, or annually—ensuring a steady income stream to cover future costs. This arrangement helps avoid rapid depletion of funds and reduces the risk of mismanagement or financial strain down the road.

Fund Future Education or Medical Care

For families with minor children or surviving dependents, structured settlements can be tailored to fund specific milestones, such as college tuition, special needs care, or long-term rehabilitation services. Payments can be scheduled to increase at certain ages or aligned with future medical treatment plans, providing targeted financial support exactly when it’s needed most.

Protect Vulnerable Survivors From Financial Exploitation

In cases where the surviving family includes elderly parents, individuals with disabilities, or minor children, structured settlements can act as a protective financial mechanism. Rather than granting full access to a large lump sum, the settlement provides a controlled flow of funds, reducing the risk of exploitation, coercion, or financial abuse by third parties.

Our team works with certified financial planners and trust attorneys to help families make the best decisions for their futures.

Why You Need an Experienced Car Accident Attorney After a Fatal Elk Grove Crash

After a deadly crash like the one on Waterman Road in Elk Grove, families are often left reeling from grief, confusion, and unanswered questions. While no legal action can undo the tragedy, working with the right attorney can help provide justice, accountability, and financial stability for those left behind.

At Kreeger Law Firm, we don’t treat fatal crashes as routine cases—we handle them with the depth, urgency, and precision they deserve. Here’s why having an experienced legal team on your side makes all the difference.

Fatal Crash Cases Are More Complex Than Standard Accidents

Wrongful death and catastrophic injury cases involve a level of legal and factual complexity far beyond a typical insurance claim. These cases demand a strategic approach, expert resources, and the ability to push back against aggressive insurance tactics.

Multiple Liable Parties May Be Involved

In many fatal collisions, responsibility doesn’t fall on just one driver. A single crash may involve the following.

A negligent driver
A government agency responsible for poor road design
An auto manufacturer if a vehicle malfunction contributed

At Kreeger Law Firm, we investigate every possible angle. We’ve brought claims against individuals, companies, cities, and even state transportation agencies when warranted.

Evidence Disappears Quickly Without Legal Action

Key footage from surveillance cameras, vehicle data modules, and witness memories can vanish within days of a crash. Our firm sends immediate evidence preservation letters, conducts field inspections, and works with forensic experts to lock in every available piece of proof—before it disappears.

Insurance Companies Will Work Against You

While insurance companies may sound sympathetic after a fatal crash, their real goal is to limit payouts. Adjusters are trained to settle fast and settle low—often before the full financial impact is even known.

They May Try to Shift Blame

In the May 13 Elk Grove crash, for example, the insurance carrier may argue that each driver contributed to the outcome. Even in fatal cases, insurers may assert comparative negligence to reduce liability. Without an attorney to challenge those claims, families risk accepting far less than they deserve.

They Exploit Grieving Families

Insurers often approach families during the most vulnerable time, hoping to secure a lowball settlement before legal representation is in place. This is especially common in wrongful death cases, where a surviving spouse or parent may not yet understand the long-term value of the claim.

Local Legal Experience Matters

Elk Grove isn’t just another city—it’s a unique legal environment with its own traffic patterns, risk zones, and court processes. We know the intersections, the infrastructure failures, and the claims adjusters who handle these cases. That experience gives our clients an edge.

Familiarity With Elk Grove Crash Zones

From Waterman Road and Sheldon to Laguna Boulevard and Highway 99, we know the areas where crashes are most likely to occur. That knowledge helps us anticipate defenses, identify surveillance cameras, and find expert witnesses familiar with local traffic patterns.

Relationships With Local Medical Providers and Courts

We’ve built relationships with local trauma hospitals, therapists, and court staff—enabling us to move quickly and efficiently through the legal system. When lives have been upended by tragedy, that speed can make all the difference.

Frequently Asked Questions After a Fatal Car Crash in Elk Grove

Losing a loved one in a sudden crash leaves families overwhelmed and full of questions—many of them urgent and time-sensitive. At Kreeger Law Firm, we’ve helped countless Sacramento County families navigate the legal aftermath of a fatal collision, and we know exactly what concerns come up in the first few days, weeks, and months.

Here are the most common questions we receive—along with clear answers based on California law and decades of experience.

What Is a Wrongful Death Claim?

A wrongful death claim is a civil lawsuit filed by the surviving family members of someone who was killed due to another person’s negligence or reckless behavior. In California, wrongful death claims allow certain relatives to seek financial compensation for both economic and emotional losses caused by the death.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in California?

According to California Code of Civil Procedure § 377.60, a wrongful death claim may be filed by the deceased person’s spouse or legally registered domestic partner. If no spouse or partner is present, the children of the deceased may pursue the claim. In some cases, parents or financially dependent stepchildren can also file, particularly when they were relying on the deceased for financial or emotional support. Additionally, if no eligible surviving relatives exist, a personal representative of the deceased person’s estate may be appointed to pursue the case on behalf of the estate.

For a full list of who qualifies, the California Courts Self-Help Center provides useful information for families navigating this process.

How Long Do I Have to File a Claim?

The general statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death lawsuit in California is two years from the date of the person’s death. This deadline is strictly enforced, and missing it can bar you from ever pursuing financial compensation in court. However, if your claim involves a government agency—for example, if the crash was caused by a city-owned vehicle or occurred due to unsafe road design—you must file an administrative claim within six months of the incident. These shorter deadlines make it even more urgent to speak with an attorney immediately.

What Happens if I Miss the Deadline?

Unfortunately, if you wait too long to file your claim, the court may dismiss your case entirely, regardless of how strong your evidence may be. Exceptions are extremely rare, so it’s crucial to act quickly, even if you are still mourning. The sooner legal counsel is involved, the more likely it is that key evidence can be preserved and your case filed within the necessary window.

Do I Have to Prove Who Was at Fault?

Yes. In any wrongful death case, the burden is on the plaintiff (the surviving family or estate) to prove that another party was legally responsible for the death. This involves demonstrating negligence—or in some cases, recklessness or intentional misconduct—and linking that behavior directly to the fatal outcome.

What Evidence Do I Need?

Strong wrongful death cases are built on a foundation of credible, well-documented evidence. This includes the police report generated at the scene, which often contains officer assessments and witness statements. Traffic or surveillance camera footage can provide real-time proof of the crash. Testimony from bystanders or other drivers often helps confirm events. Vehicle damage, speed calculations, black box data, and forensic analysis from crash reconstruction experts can also establish how and why the crash happened. At Kreeger Law Firm, we gather and analyze all this evidence for you to ensure that nothing is overlooked.

What If My Loved One Was Partially at Fault?

California follows a system known as pure comparative fault, which means that a person’s financial recovery is reduced—but not eliminated—by their share of responsibility. For example, if your loved one was found to be 25% at fault for the collision, your family could still recover 75% of the total awarded damages. This rule allows families to pursue compensation even in complicated cases where the actions of both drivers may have contributed to the crash.

How Is Fault Calculated?

Fault is calculated based on all available evidence, including police reports, vehicle positioning, physical damage, eyewitness accounts, and expert testimony. Insurance companies and defense attorneys may try to exaggerate your loved one’s role in the crash to reduce their payout. That’s why having a dedicated legal team is so critical—we investigate independently and push back against any attempts to unfairly shift blame.

What Types of Damages Can I Recover?

Wrongful death claims can include a wide range of damages, divided into two categories, economic and non-economic. These damages are designed to compensate surviving family members for both the financial and emotional impacts of the loss.

Economic Damages

Economic damages refer to out-of-pocket and measurable financial losses resulting from the death. These may include funeral and burial costs, which can range from several thousand to tens of thousands of dollars depending on the arrangements. If the deceased received medical treatment before passing, those bills can also be recovered. Perhaps most significantly, families may seek compensation for the loss of household income—particularly if the deceased was the primary earner—as well as the loss of benefits like health insurance, pension plans, or retirement contributions that would have been provided had the individual lived.

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages are intended to compensate family members for the deeply personal, emotional, and relational losses that occur after a loved one’s death. This includes the loss of companionship, affection, and emotional support that the deceased provided. For spouses, it also includes the loss of marital relations and daily shared life. Children may recover for the loss of parental guidance, nurturing, and moral instruction. In some cases, survivors may also pursue a survival action to recover for any pain or suffering the victim experienced between the crash and the time of death.

The Judicial Council of California provides official jury instructions that courts use when calculating these non-economic damages.

Injured or Lost a Loved One in an Elk Grove Crash? Call Kreeger Law Firm Today

The tragic May 13 crash on Waterman Road is a painful reminder that even a single moment of negligence can change lives forever. If you or someone you love was seriously injured—or if you’re mourning the loss of a family member after a fatal collision—you don’t have to face the aftermath alone.

At Kreeger Law Firm, we’ve helped countless Elk Grove and Sacramento families recover the compensation they need to move forward. We understand the pain, uncertainty, and legal confusion that follows a devastating crash. That’s why we take the burden off your shoulders—so you can focus on healing while we focus on justice.

When you contact our team, we will

Launch a full investigation into the crash before key evidence disappears
Handle all communication with insurance companies and opposing counsel
Fight for full and fair compensation for medical costs, lost income, and emotional loss
Walk with you through every stage of the legal process, from case evaluation to trial if needed

You’ve been through enough. Let us fight for you—because your case matters, and so does your future.

Call us now at (916) 313-0986 for a free, no-obligation consultation.
Or visit kreegerlaw.com/contact to get started online today.

We’re here when you need us most.