Protecting Clients’ Future Well-Being After An Accident Or Injury For Over 25 Years

Attorney Erik H. Olson

Atlanta Wrongful Death Lawyers

Losing someone is never easy, especially when their passing could have been prevented. Whether it is due to a car accident, medical malpractice or another tragic event, the emotional toll is often paired with financial stress. In these trying moments, working with a compassionate and knowledgeable wrongful death attorney can help ease the pain during this period.

With over 25 years of legal experience, The Olson Law Firm, LLC, has stood beside families throughout Atlanta, Georgia, offering steady guidance and heartfelt support. We are proud to be a small firm that treats every client like family, because you should not have to face this kind of legal challenge alone. From our first meeting to the final outcome, we are with you every step of the way.

What Is A Wrongful Death Claim?

When a person dies due to someone else’s actions or negligence, it may be considered a wrongful death under Georgia law. A wrongful death claim allows surviving family members to hold the responsible party accountable. These cases often arise from:

  • Medical malpractice, such as a surgical error or failure to diagnose a serious illness
  • Car accidents caused by reckless or impaired drivers
  • Workplace accidents where safety measures were ignored
  • Defective products that led to fatal injuries
  • Nursing home abuse or neglect

In Atlanta, Georgia, these claims give families the right to pursue compensation and some measure of justice.

What Commonly Causes Wrongful Death?

Sadly, wrongful death cases stem from preventable events, such as:

  • Car accidents: One of the leading causes, often due to speeding, distracted driving or DUI.
  • Medical malpractice: Errors during surgery, medication mistakes or failure to diagnose.
  • Workplace accidents: In construction or industrial settings, safety standards are critical.
  • Product liability: Faulty brakes, defective tools or dangerous household products can all be fatal.
  • Nursing home neglect: Failing to monitor or care properly for elderly residents can lead to tragic outcomes.

Each situation has legal complexity. Our wrongful death lawyers help ensure that the family grieving and looking for answers will find justice and compensation, if applicable.

How Does A Wrongful Death Affect Families Emotionally And Financially?

No amount of money can replace the love and presence of someone dear. But in the wake of their loss, financial pressures often hit hard. Families in Atlanta dealing with wrongful death may suddenly face:

  • Unexpected medical bills
  • Funeral and burial costs
  • Loss of household income
  • Emotional pain and suffering
  • The loss of parental guidance or companionship

Wrongful death claims can include:

  • Economic damages like lost wages and medical expenses
  • Noneconomic damages such as emotional distress
  • Punitive damages if the at-fault party acted recklessly or maliciously.

Compensation can ease the financial weight, allowing families to focus on healing and remembrance.

What Legal Rights Do Family Members Have In Georgia?

Georgia law provides specific rights to surviving family members after a wrongful death. The right to file a wrongful death claim falls to:

  • The surviving spouse
  • Children of the deceased, if no spouse survives
  • Parents, if there is no spouse or child
  • The estate representative, if no direct relatives are available

Eligible parties may seek damages for:

  • Loss of the deceased’s income and benefits
  • Loss of companionship and care
  • Funeral and burial expenses
  • Emotional suffering

We take the time to explain your rights clearly and help ensure you understand what you can expect from the legal process here in Atlanta, Georgia.

What is the statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death claim in Georgia?

In Georgia, you have two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death claim. However, there are exceptions, especially if a criminal case is involved or the estate has not been probated yet.

It is important to act promptly to protect your rights and reserve the right to get compensated.

How is liability determined in a wrongful death case?

Liability is based on proving that the at-fault party acted negligently or intentionally, and that their actions directly led to the death.

This involves showing duty of care, breach of that duty, causation and damages. A wrongful death lawyer can gather evidence, speak to witnesses and build a strong claim.

What evidence is needed to support a wrongful death claim?

Supporting evidence might include:
  • Medical records
  • Police reports
  • Expert testimony
  • Photos or video footage
  • Eyewitness accounts
  • Documentation of financial losses

The stronger the evidence, the clearer the picture of why your loved one’s death could have been prevented.

What is the difference between a wrongful death claim and a survival action?

A wrongful death claim is filed on behalf of family members for their losses.

On the other hand, a survival action is filed by the estate to recover damages the deceased could have claimed had they survived, such as medical bills and pain and suffering before death. Both can be filed in tandem in Georgia.