Was your spouse killed in a tractor trailer accident on I-20?
If so, you may be wondering what damages you can sue for. Please see below a breakdown on the different types of damages that you can recover in wrongful death cases.
TYPES OF DAMAGES IN WRONGFUL DEATH CASES
Georgia law states that you are entitled damages that are equal to the full value of the life of your deceased spouse. How is the full value of the life of the deceased measured? The full value of the life of the deceased is generally measured by the economic value of the deceased’s life and the non-economic value of the deceased’s life.
ECONOMIC VALUE OF THE DECEASED’S LIFE
The economic value of the deceased’s life is based on the projected lifetime earnings of the deceased. To determine this amount, there would need to be a determination of the life expectancy of your spouse and what the projected earnings would be for your spouse’s remaining lifespan had your spouse survived.
NON-ECONOMIC VALUE OF THE DECEASED’S LIFE
The non-economic value of the deceased’s life includes things that money cannot buy, like the joys of marriage, parenthood, vacations, hobbies, and all of the things your spouse enjoyed and valued that your spouse lost when he/she died. The non-economic value of the deceased’s life does not have an exact value, but is instead calculated by the jury based on the jurors’ judgment.
ESTATE CLAIMS
The estate of your spouse may also bring a claim. The estate is entitled to recover for the funeral, medical, and other necessary expenses resulting from the injury and death of your spouse. The estate may also bring a claim for punitive damages as well as for any pain and suffering your spouse suffered in the moments prior to your spouse’s death.
CONTACT BARTLETT BENTON
If your spouse was killed in a tractor trailer accident on I-20 and you would like a free case evaluation, please call Bartlett at 770-365-6414.