Under California Code of Civil Procedure Section 377.60, the surviving family members of the victim — including their spouse, children, or parents — may file a wrongful death claim against the at-fault driver. The fact that the driver did not flee and cooperated with police does not eliminate their civil liability. If the driver failed to yield to a pedestrian in a crosswalk as required by California Vehicle Code Section 21950, that failure constitutes negligence and forms the foundation of a civil claim.

If the intersection of Howard and 7th Streets had known design deficiencies — such as inadequate signal timing, obstructed sightlines, or an absence of pedestrian safety infrastructure — the City of San Francisco could face partial liability under the Government Claims Act. Prior complaints or crash history at the location may be relevant. Claims against government entities must be filed within six months of the incident, making prompt legal action essential.

California allows surviving family members to recover economic damages such as the victim’s lost future income and financial support, funeral and burial expenses, and medical costs incurred before death. Families may also seek non-economic damages for the loss of companionship, guidance, and emotional support. A pedestrian accident attorney can provide a thorough evaluation of all available damages in the specific circumstances of this case.

California’s statute of limitations for wrongful death claims is two years from the date of the victim’s death (Code of Civil Procedure Section 335.1). However, claims involving government entities — such as the city — must be preceded by a formal government claim filed within six months. Evidence such as traffic camera footage and physical road conditions can be lost quickly, so consulting with an attorney as soon as possible is strongly advised.