The death of a family member is never something that is easy to deal with, but it can be especially traumatic when the death is unexpected. It can be worse when the death was caused by the actions of someone else. If you believe that this was the case with your loved one, you may want to pursue wrongful death damages with the help of a Decatur wrongful death lawyer.
A settlement cannot bring your loved one back, but your family should be compensated for the expenses and suffering that you have experienced.
Who Can Pursue Wrongful Death Damages in Decatur?
Per OCGA §51-4-2, only specific family members can pursue wrongful death damages. Generally, the first priority is the surviving spouse. If there is no spouse, the children of the deceased can pursue damages. This statute also calls for compensation to be evenly distributed to the surviving spouse and surviving children, with the guardian of the minor children responsible for safeguarding their portion of the settlement.
For a free legal consultation with a wrongful death lawyer serving Decatur, call (404) 888-8888
Compensation in Wrongful Death Cases
Losing a family member can be devastating in many ways. There are economic costs to be sure, but there is also the mental state of you and your family to think about. That is why fair compensation should help make up for:
Medical Bills
Care for your loved one before they passed away likely cost a significant sum, especially if their injuries resulted in a long hospital stay before their untimely passing. If you have seen medical bills pile up as a result of your loved one’s injury (which caused their wrongful death), your compensation will help cover that.
Funeral Costs
A funeral can cost hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars. This cost can be a burden for any family that was not expecting it. Your settlement can help compensate you for the cost of your loved one’s funeral.
Lost Wages and Earning Potential
The wrongful death of one of the breadwinners in your home can result in stark economic distress for your family. That is why the lost wages of your loved one and their future earning potential are considered when fair compensation is calculated. These damages cannot make up for a family member’s absence, but they can help provide for spouses and children that they left behind.
Pain and Suffering
Your compensation can help make up for the pain and suffering your family has experienced.
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How a Wrongful Death Lawyer Can Assist You
You are not required to hire a Decatur wrongful death lawyer when you pursue damages, but one can do much to help you and your family. An attorney will:
File Your Case and Begin the Legal Process
Your lawyer can focus on beginning the legal process and ensuring that you do not run out of time to pursue damages. In accordance with OCGA §9-3-33, a wrongful death case usually has to be filed within two years. While some situations can result in an extended deadline, it may still be in your best interest to act promptly so that your lawyer can begin gathering evidence and building your case.
Handle All Communications
There is no need for you to talk to other involved parties in your case. We will handle communications for you so that you can focus on your life and your family. You will receive frequent updates on your case and any news about settlement offers.
Identify Liable Parties
Your wrongful death lawyer will gather the evidence needed to show that the actions or negligence of someone else caused the wrongful death of your loved one. Your attorney will name the liable parties and make your case. If a settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer will even argue your case in court.
Calculate Fair Compensation
Your attorney will also calculate fair compensation, taking into account both the economic and emotional costs experienced by you and your family members. Then your attorney will help you fight for that compensation.
Fight for the Best Legal Outcome for You and Your Family
Hiring one of our lawyers cannot guarantee a particular outcome, but you can be sure that your lawyer is fighting for you. They will do everything that they can to secure a settlement, hold the negligent parties accountable, and make things right for your family.
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Types of Wrongful Death Cases
There are many types of wrongful death cases pursued in Georgia courts each year. Common categories of wrongful death cases include suits related to:
Car Accidents
If a driver is speeding, driving under the influence, or not paying attention to the road, they are being negligent. They should be held accountable when their actions bring harm to someone else.
Premises Liability
If a property owner is not keeping their property safe and free from hazards, they could be held responsible when someone suffers injuries or dies on their property. Among these types of cases are slip and fall accidents, exposure to toxic chemicals, and dog attacks.
Medical Malpractice
Medical malpractice has quickly become a leading cause of death in the United States. If you believe that your loved one passed away due to the neglect of a medical professional or care team, you may want to pursue a wrongful death suit.
Workplace Accidents
Workers’ compensation does pay out death benefits. One of our lawyers can help you navigate the workers’ compensation system or hold a negligent employer accountable.
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Call for Your Free Consultation
If you believe that your loved one passed away due to the negligence or harmful actions of someone else, do not delay in taking action. Call Bader Scott Injury Lawyers at (404) 888-8888 and get your free consultation today. There is no obligation, but there is the chance to learn more about how our Decatur wrongful death lawyers can assist you and your family in this trying time.
Call or text (404) 888-8888 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form