Contact Us Call: (770) 929-1665

Understanding Wrongful Death Lawsuits in Georgia

older woman resting seated on coach

Losing a loved one is one of the most challenging experiences anyone can face, especially when it occurs due to the negligence or wrongful actions of another party. In Georgia, as in many other states, families who have lost a loved one due to someone else’s wrongful actions may have legal recourse through a wrongful death lawsuit. Understanding the nuances of wrongful death laws in Georgia is crucial for those seeking justice and compensation for their loss.

What Constitutes Wrongful Death in Georgia?

In Georgia, wrongful death is defined as a death caused by the negligence, recklessness, intentional misconduct, or criminal behavior of another person or entity. This can include situations such as car accidents caused by drunk driving, medical malpractice, workplace accidents, defective products, or intentional acts of violence.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Georgia?

According to Georgia law, only certain individuals are eligible to file a wrongful death lawsuit on behalf of the deceased. These individuals typically include the surviving spouse, children, parents, or legal representative of the deceased person’s estate. If the deceased person had no surviving spouse, children, or parents, the next of kin may be eligible to file the lawsuit.

Damages Recoverable in Wrongful Death Cases

In Georgia, wrongful death lawsuits allow surviving family members to seek compensation for various damages resulting from the loss of their loved one. These damages may include:

  • Funeral and Burial Expenses: The cost of funeral and burial arrangements can be significant, and wrongful death compensation can help alleviate this financial burden for the family.
  • Lost Income and Benefits: If the deceased was the primary breadwinner for the family, surviving family members may be entitled to compensation for the loss of financial support, including lost wages, benefits, and potential future earnings.
  • Pain and Suffering: Family members may also seek compensation for the pain and suffering endured by their loved one before their death, as well as the emotional trauma experienced by surviving family members due to the loss.
  • Loss of Consortium: This refers to the loss of companionship, guidance, and support that surviving family members experience as a result of their loved one’s death. Spouses, children, and parents may be entitled to compensation for this loss.

It is important to note that there is a statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death lawsuit in Georgia. Generally, the lawsuit must be filed within two years from the date of the deceased person’s death. Failing to file within this time frame can result in the loss of the right to seek compensation.

Proving Liability in Wrongful Death Cases

To succeed in a wrongful death lawsuit, the plaintiff must prove that the defendant’s actions or negligence directly caused the death of their loved one. This often requires gathering evidence, such as witness statements, medical records, expert testimony and other documentation, to establish liability. This requires the expertise of an experienced wrongful death attorney and legal team.

Navigating the complexities of a wrongful death lawsuit can be challenging, especially for grieving families. Consulting with an experienced wrongful death attorney in Georgia, like our team at M. Qader A. Baig & Associates, LLC, can provide invaluable guidance and support throughout the legal process. Our legal team can assess the circumstances of the case, explain the legal options available and advocate for the rights and interests of the surviving family members.

Understanding wrongful death laws in Georgia is essential for families seeking justice and compensation for the loss of their loved one. By knowing their rights, eligible family members can pursue legal recourse and hold negligent parties accountable for their actions. While no amount of compensation can undo the pain of losing a loved one, it can provide financial support and a sense of closure for those left behind. If you believe you have a wrongful death claim, contact our legal team at M. Qader A. Baig & Associates, LLC, in Conyers, GA, for a free consultation.

Posted on behalf of M. Qader A. Baig & Associates, LLC Attorneys and Counselors at Law

913 Commercial Street
Conyers, GA 30012

Phone: (770) 929-1665

FAX: (770) 929-1197

Email:

Mon - Fri: 9:00AM - 5:00PM

Skip footer