Riverdale Wrongful Death Lawyer

A loss of a loved one could be a painful and overwhelming experience, and the financial burden that often gets left with a family after the passing of a loved one could make things even more difficult. Instead of going through this difficult time alone, let a committed Riverdale wrongful death lawyer help you and your family.

An empathetic personal injury attorney could work on your behalf and ensure that the necessary steps are taken to file a wrongful death claim. Following that, they could work diligently to help you pursue compensation from the responsible party.

The Difference Between Wrongful Death Claims and Estate Claims

There are key differences between a wrongful death claim and an estate claim. Each has its benefits, and each has a set of requirements that the filing party and any Riverdale wrongful death attorney they choose to retain must meet for a claim to be successful.

Wrongful Death Claim

Official Code of Georgia §51-4-2 allows a deceased person’s spouses and children to pursue compensation for damages suffered as a result of their loved one’s wrongful death. The compensation they may be eligible to recover is based on the value of the life of the deceased.

Consequently, the compensation in a successful wrongful death claim typically includes reimbursement for the income the deceased would have made in their lifetime had the accident not occurred. Restitution may also be sought for the loss of enjoyment in life that surviving family members would have experienced.

Estate Claim

In addition to a wrongful death lawsuit, an estate claim could also be filed against a wrongdoer or negligent party after a fatal accident. Also known as a survival action, this claim could only be pursued by the decedent’s estate and their representative. However, the damages that an estate claim could recover go beyond what a wrongful death claim may provide.

As an alternative to recovering compensation for the value of the life of the deceased person, an estate claim could recover the losses that the deceased individual suffered from the accident. For example, their estate could recover compensation for medical and funeral expenses, as well as their pain and suffering.

The Statute of Limitations for Wrongful Death Claims

Family members and loved ones should note that there are limitations to when a wrongful death claim could be filed. O.C.G.A. §9-3-33 states that the statute of limitations for wrongful death and estate claims allows for only two years from the date of the incident in which to file a claim.

However, certain situations could alter this time frame. A skilled wrongful death lawyer in Riverdale could be essential to ensuring that the claim is filed within Georgia’s statute of limitations.

Talk to a Riverdale Wrongful Death Attorney Today

The loss of a loved one could be difficult for any family to handle. In addition to grief, you and your family may experience extreme financial stress. Seeking legal representation could be the most crucial step in getting justice for your loved one.

A Riverdale wrongful death lawyer could represent you through all parts of the legal process, from filing to settlements to potentially a civil trial. Having legal counsel on your side may help you hold the wrongdoer accountable for their actions, so whenever you are ready, call to set up a confidential consultation and get started on your case.