What damages can be recovered in a wrongful death case?

When a loved one is lost due to someone else’s negligence or misconduct, surviving family members may be entitled to financial compensation through a wrongful death lawsuit. In Georgia, the types of damages that can be recovered generally fall into two main categories: economic damages and non-economic damages.

Economic Damages

These damages compensate for the financial impact of the deceased’s death and may include funeral and burial expenses, which cover the costs associated with laying the deceased to rest, medical bills incurred before death, which include any expenses related to the injury or illness that led to the wrongful death, and lost income and future earnings, which provide compensation for the wages the deceased would have earned if they had lived, including lost benefits and potential retirement funds.

Non-Economic Damages

These damages address the emotional and personal losses suffered by the surviving family members and may include loss of companionship and emotional support, which compensates for the loss of love, guidance, and support the deceased would have provided, and pain and suffering of the deceased before passing, which may result in compensation if the deceased experienced pain and suffering due to their injuries before death.

Punitive Damages

In cases where the wrongful death resulted from particularly reckless or intentional actions, punitive damages may also be awarded. These damages are designed to punish the responsible party and deter similar behavior in the future.

Why Legal Representation Matters

Determining the full value of a wrongful death case can be complex, requiring legal knowledge and expert analysis. A skilled wrongful death attorney can help ensure that all possible damages are accounted for and that the family receives fair compensation.

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If you need an Atlanta wrongful death lawyer, we’re here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options.