At Ashby Thelen Lowry, our Atlanta drunk driving crash attorneys know few collisions with injuries or fatalities are more challenging to understand than those caused by impaired drivers. These crashes are entirely preventable and take innocent lives all over the country each year, including throughout Georgia.
The Georgia Governor’s Office of Highway Safety reported that last year alone, there were 391 alcohol-impaired driving fatalities throughout the state last year alone. These crashes changed the lives of countless families without notice. This is why we are here.
Our wrongful death attorneys help Georgia families pursue claims against the drunk driver’s insurance coverage to help ensure they can seek justice for their incredible losses and can pursue the same for your family. We understand no amount of money can bring your loved one back, but it may buy you enough time to grieve without financial worry taking that necessary time away from you.
What Do I Need to Know About Pursuing a Wrongful Death Claim After a Drunk Driving Crash in Georgia?
Wrongful death claims arise when the negligence, recklessness, or intentional wrongdoing of another party causes a person’s death. In the case of a drunk driving crash, the impaired driver’s actions may constitute negligence or recklessness, leading to liability for wrongful death.
In Georgia, the law allows certain family members or legal representatives of the deceased person to bring a wrongful death claim against the party responsible for the death.
The eligible parties who may pursue a wrongful death claim include:
- Surviving spouse or children.
- Decedent’s personal estate representative.
It’s advisable to seek legal representation from an experienced personal injury attorney with extensive experience in wrongful death cases. Our attorneys can help you understand your rights, navigate the legal process, and pursue compensation for your loved one’s estate and beneficiaries.
In Georgia, there is a statute of limitations, or time limit, for filing a wrongful death claim. Typically, the statute of limitations for wrongful death claims is two years from the date of death. Initiating legal proceedings within this time frame is essential to preserve your right to seek compensation.
Damages available in a wrongful death claim may include compensation for medical expenses, funeral and burial costs, lost income and financial support, pain and suffering, and loss of companionship or consortium. Punitive damages, intended to punish the defendant for egregious misconduct, may also be available in drunk driving cases.
Has a Drunk Driver in Georgia Killed Your Loved One?
It’s important to note that a wrongful death claim is a civil legal action separate from any criminal charges that the drunk driver may face. Even if the driver is acquitted or not charged criminally, you may still pursue a wrongful death claim to seek compensation for your losses.
If a drunk driver in Georgia killed your loved one, contact our skilled personal injury attorneys and support team at Ashby Thelen Lowry at (404) 777-7771 to schedule a free consultation. This will ensure your rights are protected so you can make informed decisions about the direction of your claim.