Finding closure is one of the most meaningful ways a wrongful death case can help a victim’s family. These types of claims can also ease the financial burden many families face after they lose a loved one. What can you expect from a wrongful death claim, and what is the chance that your case will go to trial? Keep reading to find out.
Wrongful Death Claims in Georgia
A truck accident, car accident, electrocution, fire, or any number of other situations can cause a wrongful death. Regardless of how your loved one died, the pain of preventable and unexpected death is overwhelming. Wrongful death claims can give victims of fatal accidents and their families a chance at justice.
State law allows certain family members to recover the full value of the life of their loved one in a wrongful death claim. The following people are entitled to file such a claim in Georgia:
- Spouse
- Children
- Parents
- The executor of the estate
Priority is granted to spouses, then children, and so on when filing a claim. It’s a good idea to speak with a wrongful death attorney if you aren’t sure whether you qualify.
What Percentage of Wrongful Death Cases Go to Trial?
Most personal injury cases, including wrongful death claims, are settled before going to trial. The exact numbers are unknown, but some estimates say that only 4% of these cases make it to trial. Why do so many wrongful death claims settle? It depends on the specifics of each claim, but many family members find that prolonging a wrongful death case can make processing their grief more difficult. They often choose to accept a reasonable settlement offer so they can find closure and recover from their loss.
When deciding whether to settle or go to court, your lawyer will help you weigh numerous factors, including:
- The amount of the settlement offer
- The strength of the case and the chance of winning
- The timeframe for going to trial
- The costs of waiting for compensation
- The emotional toll of a trial
Contact an Expert Wrongful Death Attorney in Georgia
Having an attorney on your side makes a substantial difference in a wrongful death case. Clients in Atlanta and the surrounding areas have trusted us to negotiate fair settlements and represent them at trial, if necessary.
No one can undo the harm that’s been done or erase the pain you’re feeling, but we can help you hold those at fault accountable for what they’ve done. Contact our wrongful death attorneys in Georgia to schedule a free consultation.
