Georgia Wrongful Death Law

Wrongful death laws were designed to protect the legal and financial rights of dependants and beneficiaries of victims who were killed as a result of the negligence or misconduct or another person or party. Wrongful death lawsuits must be filed in civil rather than criminal court and fall under the umbrella of tort law. If you have recently lost a loved one because of another party’s actions, you should speak to an experienced attorney about filing a wrongful death claim.

There are several major types of wrongful death cases: vehicle accidents, work-related accidents, slip and fall, defective products, defective medications, dog bites, and medical malpractice.

In a wrongful death case, the plaintiff must prove that the victim was killed because of the defendant’s negligence or other wrongdoing. For example, if the victim was in an accident caused by an intoxicated driver, the plaintiff must prove that the driver was aware of the risk involved with drinking driving, and was responsible for the collision that led to the victim’s wrongful death.

If a plaintiff is successful in his or her wrongful death lawsuit, the court may award damages for loss of income, loss of potential earning, medical costs, funeral expenses, mental anguish, pain and suffering, and loss of companionship. The plaintiff may also recover punitive damages, which punishes the defendant and deters him or her from committing similar offenses in the future.

In Georgia, plaintiffs have two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death claim; however, in certain cases, the statute of limitations may be extended.

Head, Thomas, Webb and Willis employs a team of attorneys who are experienced in Georgia wrongful death laws. We know that filing a wrongful death lawsuit is about more the receiving compensation—it is about bringing a sense of justice and resolution for your loved one’s loss.

Our goal is to provide you with the best possible legal representation during this time. We can prepare a solid case in order to prove that the defendant’s actions or negligence were the cause of your loved one’s wrongful death. To learn more about Georgia’s wrongful death laws, and to receive a free consultation, please contact Head, Thomas, Webb and Willis today.