Losing a loved one to negligence or misconduct is devastating. In Georgia, families have the right to pursue compensation through a wrongful death lawsuit. But one of the most common and confusing questions is: How does a wrongful death lawyer calculate damages?
Wrongful death damages in Georgia include both the full value of the life lost and additional expenses like medical bills and funeral costs. At Ben Crump Law, we guide grieving families through this process with compassion and strength, helping them fight for the justice they deserve.
What Are Wrongful Death Damages in Georgia?
Georgia law defines wrongful death damages in two key categories:
- The Full Value of the Life: This includes lost wages, benefits, and the intangible value of relationships, companionship, and guidance.
- Expenses Associated with Death: Such as medical bills related to the fatal injury and reasonable funeral costs.
Each case is unique, and calculating these damages requires careful documentation and legal expertise.
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Wrongful Death by the Numbers in Georgia
Data shows the impact of wrongful death lawsuits across the state and nation:
- According to the CDC, over 224,000 accidental deaths occur annually in the United States.
- Georgia ranks among the states with the highest rates of fatal car accidents, a leading cause of wrongful death claims.
- Jury verdicts in wrongful death cases have resulted in multi-million-dollar awards, though settlement amounts vary widely based on the circumstances.
The Complexities of Calculating Damages
Determining the “full value of life” is not as simple as adding up bills. It requires:
- Economic Analysis: Reviewing lost income, retirement benefits, and earning potential.
- Non-Economic Evaluation: Considering emotional loss, companionship, and the unique role the loved one played in family life.
- Expert Witnesses: Economists, medical experts, and life-care planners may be called to testify.
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Georgia Law on Wrongful Death Claims
Under Georgia Code § 51-4, surviving family members—including spouses, children, and sometimes parents—are legally entitled to pursue damages. Courts emphasize both financial and emotional losses, thereby reinforcing the state’s commitment to honoring the life that was taken.
With strong legal advocacy, families can ensure these laws are applied fairly and effectively in their case.
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Building Your Case for Justice
A wrongful death lawsuit requires a strong evidentiary foundation. Families should work with legal professionals to compile:
- Statistical Evidence: Data on lost income and economic contributions.
- Anecdotal Evidence: Personal accounts showing the deceased’s role in family life.
- Expert Testimony: Economic and psychological experts explaining long-term impacts.
Your Path Forward
Taking legal action during a time of grief may feel impossible, but you don’t have to carry this burden alone. With the proper guidance, your family can pursue justice and financial stability while honoring your loved one’s memory.
The Ben Crump Law firm is dedicated to standing with families in Georgia who are navigating wrongful death claims. Our team possesses the knowledge and resources to accurately calculate damages, construct a strong case, and pursue the maximum available compensation.
Contact Ben Crump Law today for a free, private case review by calling (844) 777-4453.
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