The sudden and unnecessary death of a loved one can be one of the most devastating experiences a person may endure. However, when a death occurs due to another’s recklessness or negligence, South Carolina law provides an avenue for survivors to pursue compensation for both their financial losses and emotional grief.
While a wrongful death claim cannot undo the tragedy, it can offer much-needed financial assistance for families who have lost a breadwinner and send a message about justice in cases of unjust deaths. At David Blackwell Law, our Lancaster wrongful death lawyers are committed to helping families in such difficult times. Our experienced legal team has successfully represented clients in Lancaster and throughout South Carolina, securing justice and compensation for those who have suffered the loss of a loved one.
We proudly serve clients across the state, including areas Indian Land, Fort Mill, and Rock Hill.
If you have tragically lost a loved one in an unexpected event—whether due to a car or truck accident, a slip-and-fall, a defective product, or other similar circumstances—David Blackwell Law is here to stand by your side. Contact us for a free consultation, and rest assured that we do not charge any fees unless we successfully recover compensation for you.
How Our Lancaster Wrongful Death Attorneys Can Support You
At David Blackwell Law, our skilled wrongful death attorney has extensive experience successfully handling these sensitive claims.
- Investigating the incident: We will conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding your loved one’s death, identifying all potentially responsible parties.
- Pursuing insurance claims: We will identify all applicable insurance policies to ensure that claims are filed appropriately and in a timely manner.
- Calculating economic damages: As part of our representation, we will compile a comprehensive list of the expenses related to the accident and your loved one’s passing, ensuring that all financial losses are accounted for.
- Seeking non-economic and punitive damages: We will also present evidence of your emotional pain and suffering, and, when appropriate, pursue punitive damages for egregious conduct.
- Negotiating for fair compensation: With solid evidence in hand, we will negotiate assertively to secure the full and fair compensation you deserve. Although many cases reach settlements before trial, we are fully prepared to go to court if necessary to protect your rights
In the aftermath of a loved one’s death, you may be left with unanswered questions. At David Blackwell Law, we take the time to thoroughly investigate, often uncovering details that law enforcement agencies cannot. Our clients frequently find solace in the answers we provide after investigating the unjust death of their family member.
Our South Carolina personal injury law firm is known for fighting for cases that matter. With your best interests at the forefront, we are dedicated to making a difference in your case. Schedule your free consultation today to learn more about how our Lancaster wrongful death attorneys can help.
Compensation for Wrongful Death in South Carolina
Compensation sought in a wrongful death action is meant to repay the family for costs associated with the death, as well as losses that will be caused by the deceased’s absence. South Carolina law also says survivors may be compensated for their grief and personal loss.
Survivors pursuing a wrongful death lawsuit in South Carolina could demand compensation (or “damages”) for:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Medical expenses (such as for emergency response efforts prior to death)
- Lost wages and benefits
- Damage to personal property, such as car accident repair or replacement costs
- Additional financial losses related to the death
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish (i.e., shock over an unexpected death)
- Loss of support, companionship, comfort, and society
In some wrongful death cases, survivors may also seek punitive damages. This is an additional payment intended to punish the responsible party if recklessness, malice, or a willful act, caused the death.
South Carolina also allows an additional claim known as a “survival action” on behalf of the deceased’s estate in some cases. Pursuing a survival action requires showing that the deceased person survived the accident but died sometime later. This additional claim seeks compensation that the deceased might have sought had he or she lived, including compensation for medical care provided during lifesaving attempts, as well as for the victim’s conscious pain, suffering, and mental distress.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in South Carolina?
Typically, a wrongful death claim follows an accidental death, such as a fatal car or truck accident, or a fatal assault (homicide). South Carolina law allows certain family members of victims to pursue wrongful death claims as a means of speaking for those who can no longer speak for themselves.
Those who may seek compensation in a South Carolina wrongful death claim include the deceased’s:
- Spouse and children
- Parent(s) if there is no spouse or child(ren)
- Heirs if no other eligible family member survives
If you are unsure whether you are eligible to pursue a wrongful death claim after the loss of a loved one, please contact David Blackwell Law now. Our dedicated Lancaster wrongful death attorney will speak with you and answer your questions — at no charge.
Talk to Our Compassionate Lancaster Wrongful Death Attorney Today
You may have already heard from an insurance company about the accident that claimed your family member’s life. It is important to understand that insurance adjustors are interested first and foremost in closing your case as quickly as possible and for as little as possible.
You should not sign anything or accept any payment from an insurance company unless an attorney experienced with South Carolina wrongful death cases advises you to do so. You could inadvertently give up your rights to the compensation you deserve, and effectively end your claim.
If you are dealing with the death of a loved one due to someone’s negligence or reckless behavior, please contact our respected personal injury law firm today. Our team will review the details of your case and address your needs with the sensitivity and compassion you deserve.
Schedule a free consultation today to discuss how our dedicated legal team can help you and your family during this difficult time.
Wrongful Death Resources
Survivor’s Guide to Wrongful Death Cases
The Facts About Insurance, Investigations & the Legal Process