Losing someone you love is never easy. When their death happens because someone else was careless or acted wrongly, the pain becomes even worse. In such cases, the law allows families in Georgia to seek money through a wrongful death settlement. But not all cases are the same. Some families may receive more money than others, and several key factors affect the final compensation amount.
In Georgia, wrongful death cases are common. According to the Georgia Department of Public Health, unintentional injuries are the 4th leading cause of death in the state. Many families file claims after fatal car accidents, workplace injuries, or medical mistakes. That’s why it’s essential to understand the local laws and work with a wrongful death lawyer in your area who knows how to fight for fair settlements.
Here are five main factors that play a role in how much a wrongful death case might settle for in Georgia:
1. The Deceased Person’s Age, Health, and Earning Potential
One of the most essential things the court looks at is the “full value of life” of the person who died. This means their age, health, job, and what they could have earned.
For example, a young adult with a steady job and good health may lead to a higher settlement. That value is considered if someone has many years to work and support their family. On the other hand, if the person was retired or had health problems, the amount might be lower.
2. The Circumstances of the Death
How the person died also matters. If the death happened because someone else made a grave mistake, like driving under the influence or failing to provide proper medical care, the case may be stronger.
Georgia law looks closely at whether the other party acted with care. If it’s clear that someone’s actions caused the death, the settlement is often higher. A strong case with clear facts can lead to quicker and better results.
3. The Financial and Emotional Impact on the Family
The law also considers how the death has affected the family. This includes money the family has lost, like income the person would have earned. But it also includes non-monetary losses like emotional pain, loss of support, and loss of guidance for children.
In Georgia, family members, such as spouses, children, or parents, can be paid for these losses. If the person who died was a key part of the family’s life and support system, the case becomes even more valuable.
4. Insurance Coverage or Defendant’s Assets
Sometimes, the person or business that caused the death does not have enough money to pay. In that case, a family’s amount may be limited to what insurance will cover. Most wrongful death cases rely on insurance money, like car insurance or business liability policies.
If multiple parties are at fault, or if the at-fault party is a large company, more money may be available. But if there’s little or no coverage, the settlement might be smaller, even in a strong case.
5. The Strength of Legal Help and Evidence
Having a skilled lawyer matters a lot. A good lawyer can collect strong evidence, talk to witnesses, and work with experts. They might bring in people who understand accidents, medical care, or money loss to help show the full impact of the death.
In Georgia, cases with strong evidence and a strong legal team are more likely to end in a fair and full settlement. Lawyers also know how to talk with insurance companies and argue for what the family deserves.
The Final Verdict
Every wrongful death case is different. In Georgia, the final settlement depends on many things, like who the person was, how they died, how it affected the family, and what legal steps are taken. By understanding these five key factors, families can better prepare for the legal journey ahead and ensure their loved one’s life is fully valued.
