Lexington Wrongful Death Legal Support
Empathetic Wrongful Death Representation in Lexington, SC
If you recently lost someone you love suddenly in an accident, you deserve to have the time and space to grieve with your family. Losing a beloved family member is one of the most emotionally challenging experiences a person can go through, and it can take a long time to recover. Unfortunately, after an accident caused by negligence, family members are unable to concentrate on healing when they have medical bills and other damages to worry about paying. Though some families may want to bring at-fault parties to justice, many don’t know where to begin in the legal process or who they can turn to for assistance. As a personal injury law firm that has helped countless individuals and families recover damages since 1982, The Rick Hall Law Firm, LLC can be trusted to handle your case professionally and with respect. Our Lexington, South Carolina wrongful death lawyers understand how overwhelming loss can be and can shoulder the legal burdens of your case so you can be with your family during this time.
Contact us online or by phone at (803) 590-9900 to schedule your free, same-day consultation with our law firm. Our wrongful death attorneys in Lexington are available any time.
What is a Wrongful Death Case in South Carolina?
In South Carolina, you may have a wrongful death case if a loved one died due to a negligent, reckless, or intentional act by another person or entity. Wrongful death cases may arise out of other accident cases such as auto accidents, construction accidents, premises liability, and more.
Wrongful Death Statute of Limitations in SC
South Carolina defines “wrongful death” as one that is caused by the wrongful act or neglect of another. Families wishing to file a successful wrongful death claim must prove that the at-fault party was negligent in their actions, and that those actions contributed to their family members’ injuries and/or death.
All states of their own statute of limitations, or an amount of time that people have to file a personal injury claim. In South Carolina, families have three years to file a wrongful death claim, meaning they have three years from the date of the deceased person’s death to file a claim to be heard by the court. Failing to file a claim in the allotted time results in your family being unable to hold negligent parties responsible and unable to collect compensation for damages. Our Lexington wrongful death attorney is able to file your claim quickly so your family has a chance at recovering damages.
Leading Causes of Fatal Accidents in Lexington
Virtually any accident can result in fatalities or serious injuries that result in death. Our wrongful death attorney has dealt with various forms of negligence and has seen several common kinds of accidents that result in wrongful death cases.
Common types of wrongful death cases include:
What Damages Can I Recover in a Wrongful Death Claim?
Recovering the damages your family deserves after the unexpected passing of a loved one can bring peace of mind knowing your expenses are covered and the negligent party was brought to justice. According to South Carolina law common types of damages that can be recovered include:
Medical expenses
Funeral and burial expenses
Lost wages and benefits the deceased would have earned
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim?
A wrongful death claim must be filed by the executor of the deceased person’s estate. If the deceased person has an estate plan, this executor is often named, but if not, the court may name one. An executor pursues a wrongful death claim on behalf of the deceased person’s surviving family members.
In South Carolina, the individuals who can recover damages after the loss of a loved one include:
- Spouses
- Children
- Parents, if there is no spouse or child
- Heirs at law if there are no parents, spouse, or child
Our attorneys can help your family cover the costs of expenses you may have accrued as a result of your loved one’s death. Your finances may be especially strained if your family was dependent on the deceased person’s income. We’re able to recover damages that include funeral and burial expenses, property damages, lost wages and benefits, medical bills and expenses related to your loved one’s final illness or injury, and pain and mental anguish suffered by your family members.
Your family deserves closure after trauma. Our Lexington wrongful death lawyers work around the clock to hold negligent drivers, employers, and other entities responsible for damages to make this closure possible for you.
Understanding Local Resources and Support in Lexington, SC
When dealing with the aftermath of a wrongful death in Lexington, SC, it's crucial to be aware of the local resources and support systems available to you. The Lexington County Government and the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) are key entities that can provide valuable information and assistance during this difficult time. While our law firm does not partner directly with these entities, we recognize their importance in the community and can guide you on how to access their services.
One of the significant pain points for families in Lexington is navigating the legal and bureaucratic processes while coping with their loss. The local probate court, located at the Lexington County Judicial Center, handles matters related to the deceased's estate, which can be overwhelming without proper guidance. Our wrongful death attorneys are familiar with the procedures and can help you understand what to expect, ensuring that you are not alone in this journey.
Additionally, the traffic congestion on major roads like U.S. Route 1 and Interstate 20 often leads to severe car accidents, which are a common cause of wrongful death in the area. Understanding the local traffic patterns and accident hotspots can be crucial in building a strong case. Our team is well-versed in the specifics of these local issues and can leverage this knowledge to support your claim effectively.
We also understand that the financial strain following a wrongful death can be particularly challenging for families in Lexington. With the cost of living in South Carolina rising, unexpected expenses such as medical bills and funeral costs can be daunting. Our attorneys are committed to helping you recover the compensation you deserve, so you can focus on healing without the added stress of financial burdens.
By choosing our Lexington wrongful death attorneys, you are selecting a team that truly understands the local landscape and the unique challenges faced by families in this community. We are here to provide compassionate and knowledgeable support every step of the way.
Seek Justice for Your Loved One with Lexington's Trusted Wrongful Death Attorneys. Contact us online or call (803) 590-9900 for a compassionate consultation.
Settlements & Verdicts
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$2,000,000 Wrongful Death
Wrongful death and survival action in which our client’s husband was killed after being struck by a tractor that had just collided with a wide load.
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$1,000,000 Defective Product
The plaintiff and her two children, causing severe burns which resulted in extensive burn treatment, including skin grafts.
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$550,000 Negligently Performed Hip Operation
The client suffered as a result of a negligently performed hip operation.
"I want to cry. Thank you so much for being there for our family and helping us through our tragedy. There are no words to describe the impact you had and still have, in our lives."
- Debbie J.