What Is the Typical Compensation in a Wrongful Death Case?

Losing a loved one is never easy, especially when their death was caused by someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing. In Tyrone, Georgia, families who have experienced such a devastating loss can seek justice through a wrongful death lawsuit. But what exactly can they expect in terms of compensation?

While there is no definitive answer as each case is unique, understanding the factors that influence damages can shed some light on what families may anticipate. An experienced Tyrone wrongful death lawyer can help your family obtain compensation during these challenging times.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Georgia?

In Georgia, the law allows certain family members to file a wrongful death suit on behalf of their deceased loved one. 

  • The spouse has the right to sue for wrongful death
  • Children can sue if there is no surviving spouse
  • Parents can sue if there is no surviving spouse or children

If the deceased did not leave behind a spouse, children, or parents, the personal representative of the deceased’s estate can file the lawsuit.

Consulting with an experienced attorney is crucial. They will help you navigate through every step of pursuing your rightful compensation.

Types of Damages Available in a Wrongful Death Case

When it comes to a wrongful death case, there are several types of damages that may be available to the surviving family members. These damages are intended to compensate for the losses and expenses incurred as a result of the untimely death.

Economic damages are awarded as compensation for medical bills, funeral costs, and loss of financial support. The court will consider the deceased person’s earning capacity and potential future income when determining this aspect of compensation.

Non-economic damages are also awarded in wrongful death cases. These include pain and suffering, loss of companionship, and emotional distress experienced by the surviving family members. While it can be difficult to put a monetary value on these types of losses, they are taken into account during settlement negotiations or trial proceedings.

If you have lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing, consulting an experienced Tyrone wrongful death attorney is crucial. They will help you navigate through legal complexities while fighting for your rights to obtain fair compensation.

crying woman who needs a wrongful death lawyer

Factors that Influence the  Compensation Amount

In a wrongful death suit, several factors come into play when determining compensation. Each case is unique and may involve different circumstances that can impact the final outcome. Listed below are several important elements that impact the damages in a wrongful death case.

1. The Deceased Person’s Age

The age of the deceased person is a significant factor that can influence the damages in a wrongful death lawsuit. In the case of a younger decedent, the courts often award more money. The court considers the potential years of life lost due to the untimely death. Younger victims may have had more productive years ahead of them and potentially higher earning capacity.

Additionally, if the deceased person was relatively young, they may have had dependents or beneficiaries who relied on their financial support. The court takes this into account when awarding damages and aims to provide for those left behind.

2. Education and Training

When assessing damages, courts take into consideration the educational background of the deceased person. Higher levels of education often indicate higher earning potential and thus can result in more compensation for the family.

A person with extensive education and specialized training may have been on track for a successful career or held a high-paying job at the time of their death. This loss of future income is factored into the compensation amount. Additionally, if the individual had obtained advanced degrees or certifications that increased their earning capacity, it could further impact the final figure.

3. Earning Capacity

When it comes to determining the compensation in a wrongful death suit, one crucial factor that is often taken into consideration is the earning capacity of the deceased person. This refers to their potential income had they lived a full and healthy life.

Determining the exact figure for earning capacity can be complex and requires expert analysis from professionals experienced in handling wrongful death cases. A skilled Tyrone wrongful death lawyer will work diligently to ensure that your family receives proper compensation based on this important factor along with others relevant to your case.

An Experienced Tyrone Wrongful Death Attorney Can Help Your Family!

Losing someone dear is never easy. In difficult times like these, navigating the legal process can feel overwhelming. That’s why you need a compassionate and knowledgeable attorney by your side. An experienced Tyrone wrongful death lawyer will work tirelessly to ensure that your family receives the compensation and closure you deserve.

With a combined experience of over 70 years, the legal team at Wade Law is ready to help with your wrongful death lawsuit. We will thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding the death, gather evidence, consult with experts if necessary, and negotiate on your behalf with insurance companies or other parties involved.

Call us now at 770-282-1188 to schedule a free case review!

Read More Related Articles