When Is a Fatality Considered Wrongful Death?

When a loved one dies suddenly, the emotional impact is devastating. But when that death is caused by someone else’s negligence or misconduct, the loss feels even more painful, and legally, it may be classified as wrongful death. At M. Qader A. Baig & Associates, LLC, in Conyers, Georgia, we help families pursue justice when a fatality was preventable and unjust.

What Is Wrongful Death?

Under Georgia law (O.C.G.A. § 51-4-1), a wrongful death occurs when a person is killed due to the negligent, reckless, intentional, or criminal actions of another party. This may involve individuals, businesses, or even government entities. In these cases, surviving family members may file a wrongful death claim to seek compensation for their loss.

Common Causes of Wrongful Death

Wrongful deaths can arise in a wide range of tragic situations. Some of the most common include:

1. Car and Truck Accidents

According to the Georgia Department of Transportation, over 1,800 fatalities occurred on Georgia roads in 2023 alone. Many of these deaths were caused by drunk drivers, distracted driving, or speeding—factors that often lead to wrongful death cases.

2. Medical Malpractice

When a healthcare provider’s error leads to a patient’s death—such as surgical mistakes, misdiagnosis, or medication errors—the family may have grounds for a wrongful death suit. Medical malpractice remains one of the leading causes of preventable death in the U.S.

3. Workplace Accidents

In industries like construction, manufacturing, or trucking, employer negligence can result in fatal injuries. If proper safety measures are not followed and a death occurs, the employer or third parties, like subcontractors, may be held liable.

4. Criminal Acts

Wrongful death can also stem from criminal behavior such as assault, homicide, or DUI. Even if the defendant faces criminal charges, families can pursue separate civil claims for damages.

5. Defective Products

When a faulty vehicle part, medical device, or consumer product causes a fatal accident, the manufacturer or distributor may be liable under product liability law.

When Can You Seek Compensation?

If your loved one’s death occurred under any of the circumstances listed above—or due to any actionable negligence or misconduct—you may be eligible to file a wrongful death claim. In Georgia, the claim can generally be brought by:

• The surviving spouse
• Children (if no spouse survives)
• Parents (if no spouse or children)
• The estate representative, on behalf of the next of kin

Claims must be filed within two years of the death, per Georgia’s statute of limitations, though exceptions may apply.

Types of Damages You Can Recover

At M. Qader A. Baig & Associates, LLC, we help families pursue compensation for:

• Loss of the deceased’s income and financial support
• Funeral and burial expenses
• Medical bills related to the injury
• Loss of companionship and emotional suffering
• Pain and suffering of the deceased (in estate claims)

Every case is unique, and we tailor our legal approach to reflect your family’s specific needs and circumstances.

Why Choose Our Conyers Wrongful Death Firm?

With over 20 years of legal experience, M. Qader A. Baig is a trusted name in Rockdale County and across metro Atlanta. Our firm is based in Conyers, GA, and we proudly serve clients in Covington, Lithonia, Stockbridge, and McDonough.

As a former prosecutor, Attorney Baig brings an aggressive, informed perspective to every wrongful death case. We know how to investigate complex claims, work with expert witnesses, and fight for the full compensation your family deserves.

Talk to a Wrongful Death Attorney in Conyers Today

If you’ve lost a loved one due to another party’s negligence, you may be entitled to justice and financial relief. Contact M. Qader A. Baig & Associates, LLC in Conyers, Georgia, today for a free, confidential consultation.

Let us help you hold the responsible party accountable and protect your family’s future.