Columbus, Georgia Wrongful Death Lawyer

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If you are reading this because you lost a loved one in an accident, our hearts go out to you. We are truly sorry for your loss, and we hope the information provided here will be helpful as you explore your options.

Wrongful death occurs when a life is taken without legal justification, and most cases result from accidents. Laws regarding wrongful death vary by state, but the common goal is to bring closure and justice. Justice can be found through the criminal justice system, where the state pursues the responsible party, and the civil justice system, where surviving family members can file a case against the liable party.

At Accident Assistance Now, we connect you with a dedicated wrongful death lawyer in Columbus who specialize in wrongful death cases within the civil justice system. We do not represent you directly as a law firm.

Wrongful Death in Columbus, Georgia

Traffic accidents are a leading cause of wrongful death in Columbus. Pedestrians, motorcyclists, and bicyclists are particularly vulnerable, with the CDC reporting that over 50% of elderly pedestrians are involved in accidents. Sadly, around 20% of fatal crashes involve a drunk driver.

While many resources are available for coping with the loss of a loved one, nothing can truly prepare you for the ordeal of a wrongful death. The experienced skill and perspective of a wrongful death lawyer can make a significant difference in helping you seek justice and compensation for such a tragic loss.

Our Role at Accident Assistance Now

There seem to be numerous resources and ways to deal with the passing of a loved one, leading many to believe that such an ordeal is fairly routine and that they will have no problem coping and making a positive comeback quickly. However, when the grief of having a loved one taken from you strikes close to home, everything you may have known about death is suddenly changed into a very real occurrence.

At Accident Assistance Now, we understand the challenges and anguish that come with wrongful death cases. It is our responsibility to connect you with lawyers who specialize in your needs so that, at this difficult time, you can receive the fervent advocacy and considerate counsel you require.

Schedule your consultation today to explore your options or dial +1 (888) 685-5298 for the best legal care as soon as possible. We're here to offer the guidance and support you need during challenging times.

Why Choose Us: Relationships & Results

The distinction between a typical law firm and a comprehensive service provider like Accident Assistance Now lies in our priorities and approach.

While many law firms concentrate on the mechanics of client intake, case resolution, and profit generation, our approach at Accident Assistance Now in Columbus is distinctly client-focused. This means from the moment you engage with us, you'll notice a difference. Our seasoned network of wrongful death lawyers in Columbus, Georgia invest time to understand you and your unique situation thoroughly, ensuring we offer unparalleled support and representation at every phase of your case. Our commitment extends beyond individual cases; we're deeply rooted in the Columbus community, collaborating with local entities and actively participating in community initiatives.

Beyond our dedication to client and community, our track record speaks volumes. Our network of legal professionals possess the expertise to secure the most favorable outcomes in negotiations with insurance companies. Should negotiations not yield a just settlement, they're prepared to escalate matters, pursuing legal action to ensure justice is served.

Your Columbus, Georgia auto accident attorneys are dedicated to seeking the highest possible settlement for you.

If you or a family member need legal representation, one call to accident assistance now can connect you with a skilled attorney. Our deep knowledge of Georgia laws, experience with local courts, and extensive contacts with medical professionals set us apart. Depending on your case, we will either work tirelessly to secure a fair settlement for your injuries or, if necessary, take your case to trial to ensure justice is served.

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What Is a Wrongful Death Claim?

A wrongful death claim is a civil lawsuit filed in civil court by plaintiffs who want damages for a death brought about by the carelessness, negligence, or recklessness of an accountable individual, business, or entity.

Common Incidents Leading to Wrongful Death Claims in Columbus

Here is a brief list of the types of incidents that often lead to wrongful death claims in Columbus, Georgia:

  • Motorcycle accidents
  • Drunk driving accidents
  • Accidents on construction sites
  • Violent crimes including (but not limited to) homicide
  • Mistreatment (neglect or abuse) of nursing home residents
  • Medical malpractice
  • Truck accidents
  • Drowning
  • Car accidents
  • Dangerous drugs
  • Accidents caused by product defects

This is not a comprehensive list. Georgia's wrongful death statutes allow you to make claims based on a variety of other activities. This is the reason it is so important to get professional legal advice when a loved one passes away in situations where someone else may not have been at fault.

Georgia wrongful death statute of limitations

The statute of limitations for wrongful death lawsuits varies by state. Georgia allows qualifying family members to file a wrongful death claim two years from the date of the death of their loved one. While there may be some unusual exceptions, filing after the deadline generally makes it unlikely that the courts will take your case and ends your ability to pursue compensation lawfully.

Exceptions to the Statute of Limitations

Two exceptions to the statute of limitations include:

Tolls: In the legal world, "toll" refers to a period when the clock effectively stops counting down to the deadline for filing a claim. In the case of wrongful death, this might occur when the court pursues a related criminal case (e.g., homicide, assault, etc.), and the time limit to file a civil claim is paused (tolled) until the criminal case is resolved.

Probated Estates: Deceased persons cannot own property, so it goes through a probate process to be legally transferred from their ownership to that of a living beneficiary. This process may pause the clock on the statute of limitations deadline.

We at Accident Assistance Now put you in touch with wrongful death attorneys in Columbus that focus on your particular needs, such wrongful death cases in Columbus, Georgia. We are a service that assists you in locating the most appropriate legal counsel for your circumstances; we are not a law company.

Who can sue in a wrongful death lawsuit in Columbus, GA?

Certain people in the state of Georgia are qualified to submit a wrongful death claim on behalf of a deceased person. Among them are:

Eligible Parties:

  • The surviving spouse of the deceased
  • The children and stepchildren of the deceased
  • A designated state representative (if the deceased has no surviving spouse or children)
  • The parents of the deceased (if the deceased has no spouse or children)  

It's important to note that in Georgia, siblings of the deceased may also be permitted to file a wrongful death claim in certain circumstances.

At Accident Assistance Now, we understand the complexities involved in wrongful death cases. Our role is to connect you with reputable lawyers who specialize in handling such cases specific to your needs in the Columbus, Georgia area. We are not a law firm ourselves, but rather a service that facilitates access to legal professionals equipped to navigate the intricate details of your unique situation.

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How Our Attorneys Build a Case for Compensation in a Wrongful Death Claim

Establishing Liability in Wrongful Death Cases

Liability establishment is the first step in wrongful death lawsuits. It entails demonstrating that someone else's carelessness or deliberate action resulted in the death of the victim. Typically, this procedure calls for proving four essential components:

  • Duty of Care: proving that the deceased had a duty of care due to the defendant. For instance, it is the duty of all drivers to follow traffic regulations and drive defensively in order to protect other road users.
  • Breach of Duty: demonstrating that the defendant's wrongdoing or negligence caused a breach of this obligation. An illustration might be a motorist who runs a red light and causes a catastrophic collision.
  • Causation: connecting the tragic killing with the duty violation directly. This entails demonstrating that the defendant's deed or inaction directly caused the deceased's death.
  • Damages: proving that the death caused measurable losses, including the cost of the deceased's burial and medical care, their loss of support and income, and their agony prior to passing away.

Negotiation with Insurance Companies

In most cases, negotiation with insurance companies comes next after demonstrating liability. The goal of this procedure is to get a just settlement that compensates the grieving family for their losses. It consists of:

  • Claim Submission: submitting a thorough claim to the insurance provider that includes the proof of liability and the total amount of losses suffered.
  • Settlement Offers: obtaining and assessing settlement proposals from the insurance provider. It is critical to determine if these offers sufficiently make up for the losses.
  • Negotiation: if required, negotiating a settlement increase with the insurance company. This could entail providing more proof or making legal arguments in support of a larger payout.
  • Legal Representation: To effectively manage the complexities of insurance rules and negotiations, it is necessary to have skilled legal representation throughout this point of the process.

Filing a Wrongful Death Lawsuit

The next course of action could be to launch a wrongful death case if discussions with the insurance company do not produce a satisfactory settlement. Through the legal system, this action aims to gain recompense and justice. The procedure entails:

  • Filing a Complaint: Start the legal process by submitting a formal document, known as a complaint, to the court outlining the specifics of your claim against the defendant.
  • Discovery: During the discovery process, which may involve interrogatories, document requests, and depositions, both sides exchange information.
  • Trial: The matter will go to trial if pre-trial talks fail to reach a settlement. Both sides submit facts and arguments during the trial, and the judge or jury decides who is liable and how much money is damaged.
  • Time Limits: The statute of limitations, which establishes a deadline for bringing a wrongful death claim, is something you should be aware of. In Georgia, wrongful death lawsuits have a two-year statute of limitations from the date of the decedent's passing.

We at Accident Help Now put you in touch with a dedicated wrongful death lawyer in Columbus that focuses on your particular needs. We can assist you in receiving the best counsel to present a compelling case and pursue compensation for the untimely death of a loved one.

What Are The Benefits Of Pursuing a Wrongful Death Lawsuit In Columbus?

While obtaining just compensation might offer some comfort during this trying time, the knowledgeable staff at Accident Assistance Now is aware that no amount of money can ever fully heal the agony of losing a loved one. We put you in touch with knowledgeable wrongful death lawyers who will battle valiantly to guarantee you get the full amount of money you are entitled to. This can help relieve some of the financial strain you might be carrying, freeing you up to concentrate on getting better and moving on.

In addition, pursuing a wrongful death claim sends a strong message that carelessness that results in fatalities will not be accepted. Hospitals, companies, and other organizations are better able to prioritize safety measures in order to avert similar terrible situations in the future thanks to this responsibility.

We at Accident Help Now are aware of the difficulties associated with wrongful death claims in Columbus, Georgia. Our network of knowledgeable lawyers has vast expertise handling these delicate cases with kindness and commitment. During this difficult time, we are dedicated to helping you find the best legal counsel to fight for the justice and recompense you are due.

What to Expect in an Columbus Wrongful Death Claim

At Accident Assistance Now, we are aware of the deep sorrow that follows the loss of a loved one as a result of the carelessness or deliberate actions of another. Finding out if the situation qualifies as a wrongful death case is our first step. In order for this to be applicable, the person who caused the death had to show that their actions were deliberate or the result of negligence.

Our experts will endeavor to demonstrate that the at-fault party had a duty of care to the dead and intentionally or negligently violated that obligation if we determine that your claim is legitimate. The death and any other losses—such as agony and suffering, loss of financial support, and other losses—must have been directly caused by this violation.

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Common causes of wrongful death

The most common causes for wrongful death cases in Georgia include:

Car Accidents

Car accidents are responsible for the deaths of hundreds of Georgia residents each year. An average of 4 fatalities per day occurred in 2018 alone due to reckless driving, driving under the influence, vehicle defects, road repairs, distracted driving, and other causes.

Slip and Falls

Slip and falls are the third most common workplace fatalities in Georgia alone, only slightly less than the national average. And while this number has decreased in the past few years, it's still the cause of far too many deaths.

Work and Construction Accidents

Work and construction accidents are responsible for a substantial portion of wrongful deaths each year. Workplace fatalities in Georgia totaled 194 in 2017 alone. Surprisingly, 49 percent of those accidents occurred within the transportation industry, not construction.

Medical Malpractice

Medical malpractice is a common cause of wrongful death. No matter how careful nurses, doctors, and other medical experts are, an estimated 251,000 lives are lost each year in the United States because the proper procedures weren't followed. If you or a loved one have suffered a loss at the hands of medical malpractice, Accident Assistance Now can connect you with lawyers who specialize in this area to help you receive compensation to cover the costs. Misdiagnoses, pharmaceutical errors, improper treatment, surgical errors, and lack of informed consent are all examples of medical malpractice.

Defective Products

Defective products can include anything from children's toys to medical devices to toxic food products and even defective vehicles and parts. If a manufacturer or company is responsible for the loss of your loved one, Accident Assistance Now can help you get justice and make sure the same thing doesn't happen to another family by connecting you with lawyers who can pursue a wrongful death claim.

Truck Accidents

Truck accidents are even more deadly, statistically speaking, than car accidents due to the large size and heavy weight of semi-trucks. Jackknives, tire blowouts, adverse weather conditions, negligence on the part of the truck company, and unsecured loads are all dangerous factors that can prove fatal for truck drivers, other motorists, and pedestrians.

Violent Crime

Every hour, 7 people in the United States are victims of violent deaths such as homicides and assaults. These acts of violence can happen anywhere — on the road, at home, and in the workplace. While homicide and assault are crimes and will be treated as a criminal case, this does nothing to compensate the surviving family members of a person killed for their loss. Accident Assistance Now can connect you with lawyers who can help you pursue a wrongful death claim, in addition to the criminal case, to recover the financial costs of a violent crime.

Other causes of wrongful death lawsuits include:

  • Criminal acts and violent acts
  • Tour bus crashes
  • Airline crashes
  • Medical malpractice
  • Products liability
  • Prescription use or medical advice
  • Shuttle crashes
  • Premises liability
  • Animal bites
  • Public transportation including school buses, trains, and buses
  • Nursing home/Assisted living communities negligence
  • Drowning and boat accidents
  • Workplace accidents
  • Fire liability
  • Private transportation accidents

What Qualifies as Wrongful Death?

States differ in what exactly constitutes a wrongful death action. Nevertheless, any death brought about by the unlawful, deliberate, careless, or irresponsible behavior of another person or organization is referred to as a wrongful death in Columbus, Georgia. An "entity" could be a business, hospital, or workplace.

Negligence is the first thing that has to be demonstrated. This indicates that the defendant had a responsibility to ensure the deceased person's security and well-being. Injury and death may happen if reasonable precautions were not taken to prevent danger and harm. A case is deemed to be wrongful death if the victim's death was caused by negligence.

Many families find themselves at a loss for what to do in the wake of such a tragedy. Because the magnitude of such a claim would be beyond their ability to completely appreciate, especially during this emotional period, they are unsure of how to file a claim.

But it is important to keep in mind that wrongful death claims are comparable to personal injury claims. Had the departed lived through the experience, they would have demanded payment for their losses. The filing of the claim would have guaranteed that those who caused the accident would be held legally responsible and compensated for their damages. The concept is the same in a wrongful death lawsuit, but the grieving family will be the ones receiving payment for their departed loved one.

Accidents that result in fatalities happen frequently, and they happen in Columbus just like they do everywhere else. Nevertheless, regardless of the reason for the wrongful death, you should get in touch with tragedy Assistance Now so that we can put you in touch with local wrongful death attorneys that focus on wrongful death cases and help you file a lawsuit right away if the tragedy could have been prevented.

Regrettably, automobile crashes rank among the leading causes of untimely mortality, with careless, intoxicated, and distracted drivers being the most frequent offenders. In addition, the cars themselves could contain defects that result in an accident and wrongful death, much like many other bad items.

The poor functioning of establishments such as nursing homes and hospitals might result in a plethora of additional accidents. For instance, when elders require even more delicate care to live comfortably, nursing home staff may be cruel and destructive if correct hiring and screening procedures are not followed. In a hospital, a medical professional who is inexperienced, fatigued, or thoughtless could make any of a number of mistakes that could result in a range of mishaps, many of which could be fatal.

If you fall into any of these categories, get in touch with Accident Assistance Right Away, and we will put you in touch with attorneys in Columbus, Georgia who can offer you advice on your wrongful death case.

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Types of wrongful death damages

Easily quantifiable damages such as medical costs and funeral expenses under Georgia's wrongful death statute, be fully recovered in the event that the case is sufficiently compelling. Other less-tangible harms that are more challenging to measure include loss of consortium and pain and suffering.

We at Accident Assistance Now put you in touch with a qualified wrongful death attorney in Columbus who focus on your particular needs. The following is a list of possible economic and non-economic damages in an Columbus, Georgia wrongful death lawsuit:

Medical Expenses

Any and all medical expenses incurred prior to death can be covered under a wrongful death claim. The court will award damages to help relieve the costs, sometimes down to the last penny.

Impaired Driving: A Preventable Tragedy

Loss of future wages includes the time and pay that the deceased would have made had they lived a full and natural life.

Funeral and Burial Costs

Funeral and burial expenses are commonly covered in the event of a wrongful death.

Loss of Consortium

Loss of consortium tries to account for the companionship the surviving relatives lose when their loved one dies. Nothing can ever truly make up for this loss, but the courts will attempt to place a dollar value on this harm and offer it as part of the compensation package.

Loss of Inheritance

Loss of inheritance means the estimated value the deceased would have added to their estate by the end of their life. Spouses & children can claim the lost value when they file a wrongful death claim.

Pain and Suffering

Pain and suffering on the part of the deceased prior to their death is difficult to think about. The court will attempt to put a dollar amount on this harm and add it to the compensation the eligible dependents receive.

Punitive Damages

Punitive damages are generally uncommon in most civil cases, but more often awarded in wrongful death lawsuits. Intentional harm caused by the defendant will often be quantified, and the damages will be awarded by the judge to the family of the deceased.

Categories Of Wrongful Death Claims

There are two categories of wrongful death claims. These are the survival action and wrongful death actions.

A Survival Action

The goal of the survival action is to get payment for the harm the victim endured prior to their passing. This can include the agony, psychological distress, missed income, and the price of pre-death medical costs. It is necessary to prove that the deceased survived the first accident throughout the duration of the damages in order to be eligible for this compensation. As you can see, not every wrongful death case will be covered by this action.

Wrongful Death Action

The goal of the wrongful death lawsuit is to recover damages that the victim's remaining family suffered as a result of their passing. These can include the cost of the funeral, the emotional pain of losing a loved one, and the monetary losses the family will experience as a result of losing this source of income.

The eligibility criteria for compensation in cases of wrongful death are clearly defined by Georgian laws. The remaining family members of the deceased, starting with their spouse and kids, are entitled to this damages payment. The victim's siblings or parents will be the next in line for compensation if the victim did not have a spouse or children to file claims for.

It will be up to the deceased's parents and siblings to file the claim, for instance, if the victim had a spouse or kids. In addition, children of deceased parents in an Columbus wrongful death accident have the right to pursue compensation.

Types of Wrongful Death Cases in Columbus, GA

When discussing wrongful death cases, it's important to understand the following terms:

Decedent: The victim
Tortfeasor: The defendant(s)

At Accident Assistance Now, we connect you with lawyers who specialize in your specific needs, including wrongful death cases. We are not a law firm, but rather a service that helps you find the right legal representation for your situation.

You have the right to seek compensation for the wrongful death of a family member if the circumstances that resulted in the death of your loved one fall into one of the following categories:

Negligence

Negligent accidents are those that could have been avoided if someone had exercised their reasonable duty, responsibility, or actions. In Columbus, negligence can lead to wrongful death cases in various situations, such as:

  • Car accidents caused by distracted, impaired, or reckless driving
  • Medical malpractice resulting in fatal complications
  • Workplace accidents due to safety violations or lack of proper training

Intentional Acts

This category applies if the actions causing the death were criminal or violent. In such cases, the tortfeasor is aware that their actions are dangerous, yet they proceed. These cases may involve:

  • Homicide or manslaughter
  • Assault leading to fatal injuries
  • Intentional infliction of harm resulting in death

It's important to note that in cases involving intentional acts, the state may pursue criminal charges separately from the wrongful death civil case.

If you have lost a loved one due to someone else's negligence or intentional actions, Accident Assistance Now can help you find the right Columbus, Ga Wrongful death lawyer to seek justice and compensation for your loss.  

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Don't Rush Into an Insurance Settlement After a Wrongful Death

When a loved one's life is tragically cut short due to someone else's negligence, the emotional toll can be overwhelming. In the midst of grief, you may feel pressured to quickly accept a settlement offer from the insurance company. However, it's crucial to exercise caution and seek guidance before making any decisions.

We at Accident Assistance Now are aware that insurance companies are for-profit enterprises. They will probably make a modest settlement offer to reduce their financial obligation even if their policyholder is to blame for your loved one's premature death.

Even though money cannot really make up for the severe loss you have experienced, receiving fair and just compensation can help you feel at ease and assist you through this trying time. For this reason, we heartily advise speaking with knowledgeable attorneys in the Columbus, Georgia region who focus on wrongful death claims.

Georgia’s Wrongful Death Act

It is crucial to remember that in the past, it was not always feasible in the US to pursue compensation for a wrongful death. The ancient legislation, which was derived from England, stipulated that a person's right to damages ceased when they passed away. This meant that the individual had to survive in order to be eligible for damages. Prior to the wrongful death act, which altered the legislation in Georgia and the rest of the nation, there was no legitimate basis for pursuing compensation.

Georgia modified its antiquated laws to a more contemporary one approximately a century ago, following the lead of other states. There have been some notable modifications to Georgia's Wrongful Death Act since it was first enacted. The five parts of code it contains are as follows:

  • O.C.G.A. § 51-4-1: Covers definitions
  • O.C.G.A. § 51-4-2: Homicide of parent(s) or spouse; survival action
  • O.C.G.A. § 51-4-4: Death of a child
  • O.C.G.A. § 51-4-5: Recovery by executor or administrator of the deceased
  • O.C.G.A. § 19-7-1: Recovery for the death of a child; parental power

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How Much Money Is a Wrongful Death Settlement Worth?

A number of variables, such as the age and line of work of your departed loved one, will affect how much money you receive. The primary objective of a wrongful death lawsuit is to make up for the damages that a family member's premature passing caused them. Two major types of damages may be included in it:

Economic Losses

The biggest financial loss that can financially strain the remaining family is sometimes the income that the deceased would have received in the future. To determine how much the deceased would have made throughout their lifetime—including increases, promotions, and bonuses—an expert is usually contacted.

A young individual just beginning their profession will typically suffer more financial losses than a person getting close to retirement age, when their years of earning a salary are almost done.

Non-Economic Losses

Those losses include the inability of the departed to raise a family, engage in hobbies, take part in community events and organizations, be a spouse, travel, or simply live life to the fullest. These also include the losses that the remaining family members experienced, like the lack of company.

Even though these losses have no monetary worth, insurance companies typically apply a formula to determine a compensation amount. Usually, they make their choice based on the victim's age as well as the type, extent, and timing of the disease or injury that claimed their life.

Even in cases where you have experienced a catastrophic loss as a result of the negligence of another party, insurance companies frequently refuse to provide a just compensation. Sadly, insurance adjusters will make every effort to convince you to accept a settlement that is far lower than the value of your claim.

How Is The Settlement Shared Among The Surviving Family Members?

Georgia law specifies the allocation of wrongful death benefits among surviving family members. O.C.G.A. Section 51-4-2(d)(1) mandates that the surviving husband and children get an equal share of the wrongful death settlement. Regardless of the number of children, the husband will always receive at least one-third of the recovery.

As stipulated by Georgia law in the event that the victim passed away without a will, or in accordance with the conditions of the deceased's Will, claims against the estate are allocated.

These broad guidelines do have some exclusions according to Georgia law. More specific information regarding filing a wrongful death claim in Columbus, Georgia and receiving its proceeds can be found in our Wrongful Death Law FAQ. Please contact us at Accident Assistance Now with any queries you may have. We will put you in touch with wrongful death lawyers who focus on your particular needs.

What Compensation Can Surviving Family Members Pursue in a Wrongful Death Case in Columbus, Georgia?

The definition of wrongful death compensation is "the whole value of the decedent's life," according to Georgia law O.C.G.A. § 51-4-2(a). A life has an incalculable value, and no amount of money can ever fully capture that worth. Nonetheless, "full value" is defined by Georgian court rulings in two ways: first, as the economic loss, and second, as the non-economic damages.

The money the person would have made in a normal lifetime if their life had not been cut short is included in their economic losses. The worth of services (such cooking or housekeeping) that the victim would have given to family members if they had lived a normal lifespan is also included in the economic losses.

It is considerably more difficult to attempt to quantify the non-economic loss. The calculation of non-economic losses lacks a formula. Jurors in Georgia are instructed by their judges to calculate non-economic damages by considering the victim's loss of life expectancy. What is meant by that? There are many who adore fishing and camping. Every night, some people set aside time to observe the sunset. Those who are married like seeing their kids and grandkids grow up. Kids get to play outside. Kids get to play with their pals.

Teens begin going on dates. A life is worth its worth because of all these gifts. And at Accident Assistance Now, we work to put our clients in touch with attorneys who may pursue just compensation when these priceless assets are taken from them.

Although it can be difficult to value the things in life, the attorneys we put our clients in touch with make every effort. To resurrect the victim in the eyes of the jurors, they gather proof. We anticipate that Georgia jurors would provide surviving family members favorable recompense after they have a clear understanding of the victim's losses.

Compensation Available in an Columbus, GA Wrongful Death Lawsuit

Even though money cannot bring back the loss of a loved one, Accident Assistance Now may put you in touch with wrongful death attorneys who will put in endless effort to support you in pursuing any damages to which your family may be entitled, including:

Potential Damages

  • Lost wages
  • Loss of retirement benefits
  • Life insurance settlements
  • Medical bills
  • Changed quality of life
  • Debt
  • Loss of parental companionship, guidance, and instruction
  • Pain and suffering
  • Punitive damages
  • Burial expenses

We understand that you cannot place a monetary value on human life, and those seeking our assistance desire justice and closure for their loved ones above financial damages. However, we also recognize the peace of mind that can come from holding the responsible party accountable and obtaining fair compensation. The lawyers we connect you with work diligently to secure the results needed to help families move forward after such a tragic loss.

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FAQ

If you were injured in an accident due to someone else's carelessness, it may be crucial to consider your legal options. When to seek advice could have a big impact on how well your case goes. You may obtain the direction you need to manage the complexities of your case and ensure that you receive the compensation you are entitled to by scheduling a free consultation with a local wrongful death lawyer through Accident Assistance Now.

Here are some frequently asked questions at Accident Assistance Now regarding wrongful death cases in Columbus, GA:

What is wrongful death?

Any avoidable mishap or damage brought on by carelessness or misbehavior that ends in a fatality is referred to as a wrongful death. If a deceased person's spouse, child, or parent is among the eligible surviving family members, they may initiate a civil case to seek legal action.

What If the Other Driver Doesn’t Have Insurance?

Having knowledgeable legal counsel is crucial when pursuing justice against organizations that might be accountable for a wrongful death. It can be tough to make wise selections during this trying period because of emotional turmoil.

Here's where Accident Assistance Now comes into play, offering you a free consultation with knowledgeable wrongful death attorneys who can offer professional expertise and objective clarity. Some of the remedies they can provide are as follows:

  • Represent your interests when communicating with the responsible party and their attorneys
  • Thoroughly investigate your case
  • Communicate with insurance companies on your behalf
  • Use direct accounting techniques to highlight all your losses
  • Navigate the bureaucracy and red tape involved in wrongful death lawsuits

Who Is Liable in a Rideshare Accident?

In Columbus, Georgia, the compensation process for wrongful death victims typically involves filing a wrongful death lawsuit against the party responsible for the death. The compensation awarded can cover various damages, including:

  • Funeral and burial expenses
  • Medical expenses incurred prior to the death
  • Lost wages and future earnings of the deceased
  • Loss of companionship, guidance, and support for the family
  • Pain and suffering experienced by the deceased before death

The process generally follows these steps:

  1. Building the case: An attorney gathers evidence to establish negligence or wrongful conduct that led to the death. This includes medical records, police reports, witness statements, etc.
  1. Negotiating a settlement: The attorney will attempt to negotiate a fair settlement with the responsible party's insurance company or legal team. Many cases are resolved through settlement negotiations.
  1. Filing a lawsuit: If a settlement cannot be reached, the attorney will file a wrongful death lawsuit in court on behalf of the deceased's estate or eligible family members.
  1. Determining damages: If the case goes to trial, a judge or jury will determine the amount of compensation based on evidence of damages presented.

It's crucial to note that in Georgia, there is a two-year statute of limitations to file a wrongful death claim from the date of death. Additionally, only certain parties are eligible to file, such as the spouse, children, or parents of the deceased, or a court-appointed estate representative if there are no eligible family members.

Consulting an experienced Columbus wrongful death attorney is highly recommended to navigate the legal process and ensure the family receives fair compensation for their loss.

What makes Accident Assistance Now different from other wrongful death law firms in Georgia?

At Accident Assistance Now, we take pride in connecting you with a network of highly experienced and dedicated local attorneys who specialize in wrongful death cases. Our partners are deeply knowledgeable about the specific legal landscape in Columbus and throughout Georgia, ensuring you receive personalized attention and a tailored approach to your unique situation.

Our affiliated attorneys are committed to providing clear communication, comprehensive legal strategies, and aggressive advocacy to pursue fair compensation for your loss. Their expertise extends beyond the courtroom, as they prioritize understanding your needs and guiding you through the complex legal process with compassion and empathy.

How Much Does It Cost To Hire An Columbus, Ga Wrongful Death Lawyer?

Wrongful death lawyers in Columbus, GA typically work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don't pay any upfront costs or hourly fees. Instead, the lawyer takes a percentage of the compensation awarded in the case if they are successful in obtaining a settlement or verdict on your behalf.

The contingency fee percentage can vary, but it is commonly around 33-40% of the total amount recovered. This percentage is outlined in the contract you sign when hiring the lawyer. So if the lawyer secures $100,000 in compensation for your wrongful death case, and the contingency fee is 33%, the lawyer would receive $33,000 as their fee.

Essentially, you do not owe any legal fees to the wrongful death lawyer unless and until they win your case and recover money damages for you. This contingency fee arrangement allows families to access experienced legal representation without having to pay costly upfront retainers or hourly billing during a very difficult time financially after losing a loved one.

Do I Need To Give A Statement To An Insurance Company In The Case Of A Wrongful Death?

No, you are generally not legally obligated to provide a recorded statement to the insurance company of the at-fault party in a wrongful death case. It is advisable to avoid giving such a statement, as the insurance adjuster's role is to protect the company's interests, and anything you say could potentially be used against you to minimize or deny your claim.

Instead, you should politely decline to give a recorded statement and let the insurance company know they can contact your personal injury attorney if they have any questions. An experienced wrongful death lawyer can guide you on what to say or not say, and will advocate for your rights to ensure you receive a fair settlement.

The insurance company may try to pressure you into giving a quick statement or accepting an unfair settlement, taking advantage of your grief. However, you have the legal right to refuse their settlement proposal unless the court rules otherwise. Your lawyer will investigate the case thoroughly, gather evidence, and negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf to maximize your rightful compensation.

In summary, it is in your best interest to consult a wrongful death attorney before providing any statements or accepting settlements from the at-fault party's insurance company in a wrongful death case in Columbus, GA.

How Long Does A Wrongful Death Settlement Take?

There is no definitive timeline for how long a wrongful death settlement takes in Columbus, GA, as it depends on various factors. However, here are some key points about the typical duration:

  • Most wrongful death cases are settled through negotiations between the parties involved, without going to trial. This process can take several months to over a year, depending on the complexity of the case and the willingness of both sides to reach a fair agreement.
  • If negotiations fail and the case proceeds to trial, it can significantly prolong the process, often taking 1-3 years or more from the initial filing to reach a resolution.
  • Georgia has a statute of limitations of 2 years from the date of death to file a wrongful death lawsuit, so the settlement process must begin within this timeframe.
  • Factors that can influence the duration include the amount of evidence that needs to be gathered, the number of parties involved, the degree of liability disputes, insurance company negotiations, court schedules and backlogs, and whether appeals are filed.
  • Experienced Columbus wrongful death attorneys can help move the process along more efficiently by properly investigating, building a strong case, negotiating skillfully with insurers, and being prepared to take the case to trial if needed.

So while there is no set timetable, most wrongful death settlements in Columbus take at least several months to over a year if settled out of court, but can extend much longer if the case goes to trial. Having a knowledgeable lawyer is crucial for achieving a fair resolution as expeditiously as possible.

Injured in an accident? Accident Assistance Now is here to support you and your loved ones.

Suffering an injury in an accident can create financial strain for your family, especially if the costs and expenses related to the incident aren't addressed.
By partnering with a dedicated wrongful death Lawyer in Columbus, Georgia with Accident Assistance Now, you can relax while the claims process is managed on your behalf.
To arrange your complimentary, obligation-free case review, please schedule your free consultation or reach out to us at +1 (888) 685-5298

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