Fatal Car Accident Lawyers Fighting for Georgia Families
Our attorneys can help you pursue a wrongful death lawsuit
Fatal car accidents are tragically common occurrences in Atlanta and communities throughout Georgia, with the number of car crash fatalities steadily increasing in recent years. Many of these devastating incidents could have been avoided if not for the negligent actions of drivers taking unnecessary road risks. The aftermath of such accidents leaves surviving family members feeling overwhelmed and unsure of their next steps.
In these difficult times, it's crucial for those affected by a fatal accident caused by another driver to be aware of their potential legal options. Our attorneys at Johnson Greer Law Group in Decatur are here to provide guidance and support throughout the legal process. With a deep understanding of Georgia's car accident laws and effective legal strategies, our Atlanta fatal car accident lawyers are dedicated to helping our clients navigate the complexities of these sensitive cases and seek the justice they deserve.
Georgia car accident fatalities by the numbers
Each year, on average, in Georgia, there are:
- 380,000 car accidents.
- 150,000 car accident injuries.
- 1,800 car accident fatalities.
- One death every 4 hours and 51 minutes.
Source: National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA)
Common causes of car accident deaths
Car accident fatalities in Georgia stem from a variety of factors, each presenting its own risks on the road. Among the leading causes of fatal accidents are:
- Drunk driving, accounting for over 20 percent of all car accident deaths in Georgia, as reported by NHTSA data.
- Speeding, contributing to an additional 20 percent of car accident fatalities annually in the state.
- Distracted drivers, particularly those engaged in texting while driving, despite laws prohibiting this behavior in Georgia.
- Failure to adhere to traffic regulations, such as disregarding stop signs and running red lights, leading to fatal intersection accidents and head-on collisions.
- Fatigued drivers who fall asleep behind the wheel, often resulting in late-night car accident fatalities, notably on highways.
- Aggressive drivers, whose lack of sharing the road safely with others poses a significant risk, especially on highways.
Remember, every fatal car accident is unique. That’s why our lawyers never take anything for granted. We carefully investigate every accident and find the details that matter. That’s because we understand the importance of such legal cases, especially if a family decides to file a wrongful death lawsuit in response to a fatal car accident.
Where do most fatal car accidents occur?
Fatal accidents can happen anywhere, but there are certain factors that contribute to higher risks in specific areas.
For instance, intersections are common sites for fatal collisions, especially those with heavy traffic flow and inadequate signage. Similarly, highways and rural roads, where higher speeds and limited visibility increase the likelihood of serious accidents, are often areas of concern.
Additionally, areas with a history of impaired driving, such as near bars or nightlife districts, may see higher rates of fatal accidents.
What is the average car accident wrongful death settlement?
Each case is unique, so there's no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. However, consulting with a fatal car accident lawyer experienced in handling wrongful death lawsuits in Georgia can provide valuable insights into the value of your potential claim. An attorney can assess the specific circumstances surrounding the accident and provide a more accurate estimate of the potential settlement amount based on factors such as medical expenses, funeral costs, lost income, pain and suffering, and available insurance coverage.
Holding negligent drivers accountable
If the at-fault driver's actions were particularly egregious and resulted in a fatal accident, criminal charges may be filed against them.
While criminal prosecution is separate from civil legal action, a conviction can provide additional evidence of the driver's liability in a civil lawsuit.
Depending on the circumstances of the accident, you may have several avenues to pursue compensation, including:
- File a wrongful death claim: In many cases, surviving family members have the right to file a wrongful death lawsuit against the at-fault party. This legal action seeks compensation for damages such as medical expenses, funeral costs, lost income, and emotional pain and suffering.
- File a survival action: In addition to a wrongful death claim, you may also have the option to file a survival action on behalf of the deceased person's estate. This legal action allows you to seek compensation for damages that the deceased suffered before their death, such as medical expenses and pain and suffering.
- File insurance claims: Depending on the insurance coverage involved, you may be able to file claims with the at-fault driver's insurance company or other relevant insurance policies. These claims can help cover medical expenses, funeral costs, and other financial losses resulting from the accident.
Even though you have two (2) years from the date of your loved one’s death to file a wrongful death lawsuit in Georgia, it’s important to talk to an attorney who can help you identify all potential sources of compensation and lead you down the right path.
Who can file a wrongful death lawsuit in Georgia?
In Georgia, only specific family members are eligible to file a wrongful death lawsuit, including the surviving spouse, adult children, and parents of the deceased. Alternatively, if the victim has no surviving family members, a personal representative may pursue legal action on behalf of the victim's estate.
Put your wrongful death claim in experienced hands
Navigating the legal aftermath of a fatal car accident can be overwhelming, especially while grieving the loss of a loved one. Seeking guidance from an experienced fatal accident attorney can help you understand your rights, explore your legal options, and pursue the compensation you deserve.
In Georgia, many people rely on the knowledge and experience of our Atlanta fatal car accident lawyers at Johnson Greer Law Group to guide them through this complicated legal ordeal. Put your trust in a law firm that stands up for crash victims and demands justice. Contact us today for a free and confidential case evaluation.