COLUMBUS WRONGFUL DEATH LAWYER

Losing a loved one unexpectedly is one of the most devastating experiences a person can endure. If their death resulted from another party’s negligence or wrongful actions, you may feel anger, confusion, and a strong desire for justice. At 770GoodLaw, our Columbus wrongful death lawyers are here to help you navigate this challenging time with compassion and expertise. We fight relentlessly to hold those responsible accountable and help you secure the compensation you deserve.

WHAT IS WRONGFUL DEATH?

Wrongful death occurs when a person dies due to the negligence, recklessness, or intentional actions of another party. Common causes of wrongful death include car accidents, medical malpractice, defective products, workplace accidents, and criminal acts. While no amount of compensation can replace the loss of a loved one, pursuing a wrongful death claim can help provide financial security for surviving family members and hold negligent parties accountable.

In Georgia, wrongful death claims can be brought under two primary legal frameworks:

• The Full Value of Life: Covers both economic and non-economic losses, including the deceased’s lost income, future earnings, and intangible factors such as companionship and guidance.
• Estate Claims: Focuses on expenses incurred due to the death, such as medical bills, funeral costs, and pain and suffering endured by the deceased before passing.

COMMON CAUSES OF WRONGFUL DEATH IN COLUMBUS

Wrongful death cases can stem from various circumstances, many of which are preventable. Some of the most common causes include:

• Car Accidents: Drunk driving, distracted driving, or reckless behavior behind the wheel can lead to fatal crashes.
• Medical Malpractice: Errors by healthcare providers, such as misdiagnosis or surgical mistakes, can have tragic consequences.
• Workplace Accidents: Unsafe working conditions or inadequate safety measures can result in fatal injuries.
• Defective Products: Manufacturing defects, design flaws, or inadequate warnings can cause deadly accidents.
• Premises Liability: Hazardous property conditions, such as unmarked hazards or negligent security, can lead to fatal injuries.

HOW ARE WRONGFUL DEATH CLAIMS FILED IN COLUMBUS?

Under the Official Code of Georgia Annotated §51-4-2(a), surviving family members of a descendant might be eligible to file a wrongful death claim against an at-fault person, business, or entity. These claims are to hold the negligent party or parties accountable, as well as to provide compensation for the surviving family member’s losses.

However, only certain family members can bring a claim based on the untimely death of a loved one. For example, if a decedent has a surviving spouse, then they are often only the person who can file a claim. If the decedent and the surviving spouse have children, however, then the surviving spouse usually acts as a representative for those children.

Furthermore, when a decedent has no surviving spouse, then the ability to file a claim passes to the children of the decedent. If the decedent has no surviving spouse or children, however, then the right to take legal action falls to the administrator or executor of the deceased’s estate named in their will—according to O.C.G.A §51-4-5. Due to the nuances of this system in Columbus, anyone looking to file a claim may benefit from the counsel of a well-versed wrongful death attorney.

WHO CAN FILE A WRONGFUL DEATH CLAIM IN GEORGIA?

In Georgia, the right to file a wrongful death claim is established by law and follows a specific hierarchy:

1. The Spouse: Has the primary right to file and must represent the interests of any minor children.
2. The Children: If there is no surviving spouse, the children may bring the claim.
3. The Parents: If there are no surviving spouse or children, the parents of the deceased can file.
4. The Estate: If none of the above parties exist, the executor or administrator of the deceased’s estate may pursue the claim.

RECOVERABLE DAMAGES IN UNTIMELY DEATH CLAIMS

Damages in wrongful death cases are based on the “full value of life” of the decedent, which includes both tangible and intangible elements. Tangible—or economic—damages may include compensation for medical bills accrued as a result of the accident and before death, as well as funeral and burial expenses. Additionally, a wrongful death suit also can include a claim for loss of current and future earnings.

Intangible damages, on the other hand, are often more difficult to calculate. These might include:

Any damages awarded in an untimely death suit go toward the surviving spouse or children of the decedent, if any. A meticulous attorney could help to assess the scope of the losses incurred by a decedent’s surviving family to request fair compensation.

COMPENSATION IN WRONGFUL DEATH CASES

While no amount of money can truly compensate for the loss of a loved one, financial recovery can ease the burdens faced by surviving family members. Compensation in wrongful death cases typically includes:

• Economic Damages: Lost wages, future earnings, medical expenses, and funeral costs.
• Non-Economic Damages: Pain and suffering, loss of companionship, and emotional distress.
• Punitive Damages: In cases of gross negligence or intentional harm, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the defendant and deter similar behavior.

HOW 770GOODLAW CAN HELP

Our experienced wrongful death attorneys in Columbus are committed to advocating for justice on behalf of grieving families. When you work with us, we will:

• Conduct a thorough investigation to gather evidence and build a strong case.
• Work with medical experts, accident reconstruction specialists, and other professionals to establish liability.
• Negotiate aggressively with insurance companies to secure a fair settlement.
• Represent you in court if a trial becomes necessary to achieve the best outcome.

FAQS ABOUT WRONGFUL DEATH CASES

1. How long do I have to file a wrongful death claim in Georgia?
   Under Georgia law, the statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death claim is generally two years from the date of death. However, certain circumstances, such as criminal investigations, may toll or extend this period.
2. What if the deceased shared some fault for the accident?
   Georgia follows a modified comparative negligence rule. If the deceased was less than 50% at fault, their family may still recover damages, but the compensation will be reduced proportionally.
3. How much is a wrongful death case worth?
   The value of a wrongful death case depends on factors like the deceased’s age, income, and the circumstances of the death. A skilled attorney can provide an estimate based on the specific details of your case.

WHY CHOOSE 770GOODLAW?

At 770GoodLaw, we understand that pursuing a wrongful death claim is not just about financial compensation—it’s about honoring your loved one’s memory and seeking justice. Our firm stands out because:

• • We have a proven track record of success in complex wrongful death cases.
  • Our compassionate approach ensures you feel supported every step of the way.
  • We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case.

STEPS TO TAKE AFTER A WRONGFUL DEATH

If you believe your loved one’s death was caused by negligence, take these steps to protect your rights:

1. Preserve Evidence: Keep records of any correspondence, medical bills, and incident reports.
2. Avoid Speaking with Insurers: Do not provide statements to insurance companies without consulting an attorney.
3. Contact a Lawyer: Speak with an experienced wrongful death attorney as soon as possible to discuss your case.

CONSULT A COLUMBUS WRONGFUL DEATH ATTORNEY FOR HELP

If your loved one has died suddenly or unexpectedly, the idea of pursuing a legal claim may feel daunting or even petty. However, a successful claim might help to alleviate your financial burden and even bring some form of closure during this difficult time.

However, navigating the legal system alone is often complex. By working with a Columbus wrongful death lawyer, however, you could have help through each step. Whenever you feel ready, consider calling a caring attorney to schedule a consultation.