When Is a Motor Vehicle Accident Fatality Considered a Wrongful Death?

Motor vehicle accidents are a leading cause of fatalities in the United States. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), nearly 43,000 people lost their lives in vehicle crashes in 2021 alone. While any loss of life in an accident is tragic, not every fatality is legally considered a wrongful death. At M. Qader A. Baig & Associates, LLC in Conyers, GA, we help families understand the distinction and determine if their loved one’s fatal accident might qualify as a wrongful death case, offering guidance and support through these difficult circumstances.

What Is a Wrongful Death?

Under Georgia law, wrongful death is defined as a death caused by another party’s reckless, negligent, intentional, or criminal actions. In the context of motor vehicle accidents, a fatality may be classified as a wrongful death if the accident was the result of another person or entity’s misconduct or failure to act responsibly. Common examples include drunk driving, distracted driving, speeding, and other violations of traffic laws.

For a fatality to be deemed a wrongful death, there must be evidence that the death resulted directly from another’s negligent or wrongful behavior. This distinction is crucial because, in wrongful death cases, the family of the deceased may be entitled to pursue compensation for their loss, including medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering.

Fatal Accidents vs. Wrongful Death in Motor Vehicle Accidents

While all wrongful deaths are tragic fatalities, not every motor vehicle fatality qualifies as a wrongful death in the eyes of the law. For example, if a driver loses control due to extreme weather conditions or a mechanical failure not linked to negligence, the accident may be considered an unfortunate fatality rather than a wrongful death.

However, when a fatal accident is caused by negligence or an intentional act, it may be grounds for a wrongful death claim. For instance, if a driver is texting while driving, fails to obey traffic signals, or operates the vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs, these behaviors demonstrate negligence and disregard for the safety of others. In such cases, the victim’s family has the legal right to seek compensation through a wrongful death lawsuit.

Statistics on Negligence and Fatal Vehicle Accidents

Negligence is a leading factor in motor vehicle fatalities. The NHTSA reports that nearly 30% of fatal crashes involve alcohol impairment, while distracted driving contributes to about 3,000 deaths annually. Additionally, speeding is responsible for roughly one-third of all traffic fatalities each year. These statistics underscore the critical role that responsible driving behaviors play in preventing fatal accidents and highlight the conditions under which an accident fatality may be considered wrongful death.

How M. Qader A. Baig & Associates, LLC Can Help

At M. Qader A. Baig & Associates, LLC, we understand that losing a loved one in an accident is an overwhelming experience. Our legal team in Conyers, GA, is here to support you in determining if your loved one’s passing qualifies as a wrongful death and guiding you through the legal process. We work to establish fault, gather evidence of negligence, and pursue rightful compensation to provide financial security for families affected by wrongful death.

Contact Us for a Consultation

If you believe your loved one’s death was caused by another’s negligence, contact M. Qader A. Baig & Associates, LLC today. Our experienced attorneys are here to provide compassionate and knowledgeable guidance, helping you navigate the complexities of wrongful death claims and obtain the justice your family deserves.