In most cases, the statute of limitations for wrongful death claims in California is two years from the date of death. However, there are laws that shorten the time window for filing a claim in certain circumstances. For example, in cases of medical malpractice, the statute of limitations can be shortened to one year from the date of death, and claims against the government (i.e., for fatal collisions involving government vehicles) generally must be filed within six months of the fatal accident.