We call them accidents, which infers that there was nobody at fault when somebody in your family died traumatically and suddenly. However, categorizing many incidents as accidents can mislead the public and the victims into believing that nobody will pay for the horror. When you check into the statistics of accident reporting, it soon becomes clear that in some cases, the negligence or poorly manufactured part played a significant part in the tragedy. That is when you will need to know how a wrongful death attorney can help you bring the perpetrators to justice.
Georgia Ranks 42 in National Accidental Death Rate
Did you know that Georgia is one of the safest states in which to live in the United States? According to the CDC, the Peach State has an accidental mortality rate of just 41.7 per 100,000 people in the year of 2018. This has the Atlanta Metro region ranked among other states like Iowa and North Dakota. You are more likely to suffer an accidental injury while at work, which may be indicated by the amount of time you spend at your job every day. The vast number of accidents are not fatal. However, if you are one of the unlucky individuals, statistics are not relevant or reassuring.
Driving for Work or Fun Places You at the Highest Risk
Nearly 48% of fatal workplace accidents around Atlanta are related to transportation, whether it is commuting, driving a tractor trailer, or running a few errands for the boss. In 2018, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics recorded 186 fatal accidents that were related to the job. Overall, the year saw 1,504 fatal collisions on the highways and back roads of the state.
These deadly accidents can be the result of driving while texting, speeding, driving under the influence, or in some cases, a mechanical failure that was entirely preventable by the manufacturer. All parties associated with the incident should be interviewed to determine just where the breakdown occurred.
Animal Attacks are on the Rise
While driving mishaps log the highest percentage of accidents, the second most common type of accident at work is associated with violence, whether it is an attack by an animal or a person. It is odd how these attacks are listed in the accidental injury section, as many dog bites are a result of a lack of owner supervision. Some cities and towns have implemented bans against specific breeds with a tendency toward viciousness. If you lost a loved one in these circumstances, the pain and anger toward the owner can be nearly unbearable.
Violent Confrontations with Family, Friends, or Enemies
While intent is not always at the heart of a violent outburst, injury caused by a fight or attack sits third in the workplace accident rating. Combined with animal attacks, these violent deaths account for 22% of the workplace fatalities. In the off hours, bar brawls and domestic disturbances easily turn deadly when a weapon is near at hand. What is important in these instances is to remember that somebody is clearly at fault and should be held accountable.
Falling or Tripping can Result in Grave Injuries
Next down the line comes falls or trips, which may or may not be a direct result of negligence on the part of the property owner or manager. The percentages rapidly drop, as falls only account for 12% of the fatal accidents. At home, these types of deadly incidents can include falling off a ladder or tripping over a forgotten toy.
Placing Responsibility on the Parties in Charge
Perhaps one of the worst parts of losing a loved one in a fatal accident, is that there is not always somebody that is to blame. Sometimes it was truly an act of God, something beyond anybody’s control. But when it was a direct result of poor maintenance, a faulty installation, or a failure to take due diligence in providing a safe environment, it is time to take action. Beyond receiving compensation for the lost automobile, medical bills, and lost wages, you need somebody to help you prevent it from happening to anyone else.
When the settlement from the insurance company, employer, or individual just does not seem sufficient for the circumstances, or if you believe that a person acted recklessly that resulted in the death–even an accidental death–of your loved one, it is time to consult the professionals. Take the time to learn how a wrongful death attorney can help you determine what was truly just poor judgement and what actions materially contributed to the disaster. Not only can you recover financial losses, it can give you the peace of mind needed to move on with your life.
