When a loved one dies due to someone else’s negligence or reckless behavior, families are left devastated, confused, and searching for justice. This kind of tragic loss is known in legal terms as a “wrongful death.” At the Law Offices of Harold J. Cronk, we understand that no legal resolution can ever bring your loved one back. However, a successful wrongful death claim can provide you with a sense of justice, financial relief, and a path toward healing.
We are your trusted wrongful death attorneys in Savannah, Georgia, offering compassionate representation and aggressive advocacy for those left behind. Whether your family member died in a car accident, on unsafe property, or due to medical malpractice, we are here to help you pursue fair compensation and protect your rights.
What Is a Wrongful Death Claim?
A wrongful death claim is a civil lawsuit filed when someone dies as a result of another party’s negligence, carelessness, or intentional misconduct. Georgia law (O.C.G.A. § 51-4-2) allows the surviving spouse, children, or in some cases, parents or the estate to seek compensation for the “full value of the life of the decedent.” This includes both economic and non-economic damages.
At the Law Offices of Harold J. Cronk, we help clients understand what this means for them. We guide families through the legal process and fight for the compensation they deserve.
Examples of wrongful death claims include:
- Car accidents involving reckless or intoxicated drivers
- Fatal truck or motorcycle crashes
- Workplace accidents caused by safety violations
- Medical errors, including surgical mistakes and misdiagnoses
- Unsafe premises resulting in slips, falls, or electrocution
- Criminal acts, including assault or homicide
Why Hire the Law Offices of Harold J. Cronk?
There are many wrongful death lawyers in Georgia—but not all offer the dedication and personal attention you’ll receive at our firm. The Law Offices of Harold J. Cronk provides more than legal counsel; we deliver a commitment to helping you navigate one of life’s most difficult journeys.
Benefits of working with our team:
- Local Savannah Experience: We understand the legal landscape in Chatham County and the surrounding regions.
- Personalized Service: Your case won’t be passed from lawyer to lawyer—we provide consistent support from start to finish.
- Proven Results: We have a track record of success in personal injury and wrongful death cases.
- No Fees Unless You Win: We take wrongful death cases on a contingency basis, so you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.
We pride ourselves on being empathetic yet fierce when it comes to advocating for our clients. You need a wrongful death lawyer who is ready to take action—and we’re here for you.
Understanding Georgia’s Wrongful Death Laws
In Georgia, wrongful death law is governed by a combination of statutes and case law that determine who may file a claim and what damages they may seek. The primary statute is O.C.G.A. § 51-4-2, which outlines the rights of surviving family members.
Key points include:
- The right to file belongs first to the surviving spouse, then to children, then to parents or the estate.
- Claims must generally be filed within two years of the date of death.
- Damages can include both economic (lost income, funeral expenses) and non-economic (loss of companionship, pain and suffering).
For more information, visit the Georgia General Assembly Code.
Types of Wrongful Death Claims We Handle
At the Law Offices of Harold J. Cronk, we have handled a wide variety of wrongful death claims, including:
1. Auto Accidents
Whether it’s a distracted driver, a DUI, or failure to yield, fatal car crashes are tragically common in Georgia. According to GDOT, Georgia saw 1,179 fatalities in 2013 alone. We represent surviving family members in both urban and rural crash cases.
2. Workplace Accidents
Fatal injuries can occur in industries like construction, manufacturing, and transportation. We investigate safety violations and pursue justice when employers or third parties are at fault.
3. Medical Malpractice
Negligent surgical procedures, misdiagnoses, and improper treatment can lead to death. These are some of the most complex wrongful death cases and require a skilled wrongful death attorney with medical case experience.
4. Premises Liability
Slip and falls, poor lighting, unguarded swimming pools, or unsafe stairwells can result in tragic deaths. We hold property owners accountable for failing to provide safe environments.
5. Intentional Violence
In cases involving assault, manslaughter, or homicide, survivors may also file civil wrongful death lawsuits alongside any criminal charges.
What Compensation Can You Receive in a Wrongful Death Claim?
A successful wrongful death claim may allow you to recover compensation for:
- Medical expenses prior to death
- Funeral and burial costs
- Loss of the deceased’s income and benefits
- Loss of companionship, guidance, and emotional support
- Pain and suffering endured by the deceased
Georgia law allows for two separate claims: one for the “full value of the life” (brought by survivors) and one for the estate (covering expenses and suffering). We help families maximize their compensation under both.
Timeline: How Long Do You Have to File?
In most cases, Georgia law imposes a two-year statute of limitations to file a wrongful death lawsuit. However, this timeline can be shortened or extended depending on the circumstances (for example, if criminal proceedings are also underway).
The earlier you speak with an experienced wrongful death lawyer, the better chance you have of preserving evidence and protecting your claim.
How to Start Your Wrongful Death Case
If you believe your loved one’s death could have been prevented, it’s important to act quickly. The Law Offices of Harold J. Cronk provides free consultations to help you understand your options and make informed decisions.
Here’s what to expect when you contact us:
- A confidential consultation to discuss the facts of your case
- Guidance on next steps and how Georgia law applies to your situation
- A review of your eligibility to file a claim
- No fees unless you win
You don’t have to go through this alone. We are your advocates, and we’re here to help.
Contact the Law Offices of Harold J. Cronk Today
If you’re looking for experienced wrongful death attorneys in Savannah, Georgia, look no further than the Law Offices of Harold J. Cronk. Our firm is committed to helping families find justice, closure, and financial support after the unexpected loss of a loved one.
Call (912) 236-4878 today or fill out our contact form to schedule a free consultation. We’re ready to listen and fight for your future.
Final Thoughts: Why Choosing the Right Wrongful Death Lawyer Matters
Not all wrongful death lawyers offer the same level of dedication or results. When your family’s future is at stake, choose a firm that truly cares. At the Law Offices of Harold J. Cronk, we offer local insight, legal skill, and relentless commitment to our clients’ wellbeing.
Let us help you hold the responsible parties accountable and secure the justice your loved one deserves.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wrongful Death in Savannah, Georgia
1. What does a wrongful death attorney in Savannah do?
A wrongful death attorney in Savannah represents families who have lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence. At the Law Offices of Harold J. Cronk, we investigate your case, build evidence, and pursue full compensation for your losses.
2. How can wrongful death attorneys in Savannah help my family?
Wrongful death attorneys in Savannah help you navigate Georgia’s complex legal system, meet deadlines, and file a strong claim. We also offer emotional support and legal clarity during a difficult time.
3. Who qualifies to file a wrongful death claim in Savannah, GA?
In Savannah, a wrongful death claim can usually be filed by a surviving spouse, child, or parent of the deceased. If none are available, the estate may be eligible to bring the claim.
4. What types of compensation can a Savannah wrongful death lawyer recover?
A wrongful death lawyer in Savannah can help you pursue compensation for medical bills, funeral expenses, lost income, loss of companionship, and the pain and suffering of your loved one.
5. Is there a time limit to file a wrongful death claim in Savannah, Georgia?
Yes, the statute of limitations in Georgia is typically two years from the date of death. Contact our Savannah office right away so a wrongful death attorney can ensure your claim is filed on time.
6. How are wrongful death lawyers in Savannah different from personal injury lawyers?
While both handle injury-related cases, wrongful death lawyers in Savannah focus specifically on cases where someone’s death was caused by another party’s wrongdoing, offering specialized experience in this area of law.
7. What should I bring to my consultation with a Savannah wrongful death attorney?
Bring any police reports, medical records, insurance correspondence, and the death certificate. These will help your wrongful death attorney in Savannah evaluate the case quickly and accurately.
8. What are common causes of wrongful death claims in Savannah?
Common causes of wrongful death claims in Savannah include car accidents, truck crashes, medical malpractice, workplace injuries, and violent acts.
9. How much does it cost to hire a wrongful death lawyer in Savannah?
At the Law Offices of Harold J. Cronk, our Savannah wrongful death lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. That means you pay nothing unless we win your case.
10. How long does a wrongful death claim take to resolve in Savannah, Georgia?
A wrongful death claim in Savannah may take several months to over a year depending on the complexity of the case, available evidence, and willingness of the opposing party to settle.
11. Can I file a wrongful death claim in Savannah without going to court?
Yes, many wrongful death claims in Savannah settle out of court through negotiation. However, if a fair offer isn’t made, your wrongful death lawyer can represent you in trial.
12. Do Savannah wrongful death attorneys handle cases involving medical malpractice?
Yes, wrongful death attorneys in Savannah, including at our firm, frequently handle fatal medical error cases involving surgical mistakes, misdiagnoses, or negligent treatment.
13. Can multiple family members be represented by one Savannah wrongful death attorney?
Yes, multiple eligible survivors can be represented by a single wrongful death attorney in Savannah to streamline the case and maximize the compensation awarded.
14. What makes the Law Offices of Harold J. Cronk the right wrongful death attorneys in Savannah?
Our firm has local experience, deep knowledge of Georgia law, and a compassionate team of wrongful death attorneys in Savannah who treat your case with the care it deserves.
15. Where can I learn more about filing a wrongful death claim in Savannah?
You can speak with one of our experienced wrongful death lawyers in Savannah or review the Georgia Code (O.C.G.A. § 51-4-2). We offer free consultations to guide you through your next steps.
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