California Survival Action FAQs
Answers to the questions families ask most about survival actions in California, offered with care. This is general information, not legal advice — for your situation, a free, confidential review can help. Se habla español.
What is a survival action?
It is the injury claim your loved one could have brought had they lived, now brought by their estate for what they endured before passing. Read more →
How is it different from a wrongful death claim?
A wrongful death claim is the family's own claim; a survival action is the estate's claim for your loved one's own losses. They are often brought together. Read more →
Who brings a survival action?
Generally the estate's personal representative or successor in interest. If no estate is open, we can help appoint the right person. Read more →
Can the estate recover for what my loved one suffered?
In many circumstances, yes — though the rules vary and have changed. It is worth confirming what applies. Read more →
Can we recover the medical bills from before the death?
Generally, yes — a survival action can recover the pre-death medical expenses and lost income. Read more →
Is the deadline the same as for wrongful death?
Not necessarily — a survival action's timing can differ from the wrongful death deadline, so confirm both early. Read more →
How much does a survival action lawyer cost?
We work on contingency — no fee unless we recover for you — and the first review is free and confidential. Read more →
Still have questions about your crash?
A quick, confidential review can answer them — about two minutes, no cost, no obligation.