When a loved one dies unexpectedly, surviving family members understandably have many questions. It’s natural to want to know what happened, if someone was responsible, and if the tragedy could have been avoided.
To find out that another person’s carelessness has caused your loss can be extremely distressing. Families often want to seek justice for their loved one, but they may not be sure how. A wrongful death legal claim can provide this closure and offer family members a way forward.
What Is a Wrongful Death Claim?
A wrongful death claim is a legal claim filed by surviving family members against the person or entity responsible for the death of their loved one. Essentially, it is the personal injury claim the deceased would have been legally allowed to file had they survived their injuries. Typically, spouses, children, and parents are permitted to file these claims—which can provide compensation for medical care prior to death, lost wages, future lost wages, and more.
Common Types of Wrongful Death Claims
While it’s natural to look for a reason after the death of a loved one, not every accident warrants a wrongful death claim in Myrtle Beach. Every situation is unique, and the specific facts surrounding your loved one’s death would determine if a claim is merited. However, there are a number of common types of wrongful death claims, including:
Pedestrian Accidents
In a destination town like Myrtle Beach, there are plenty of pedestrians, especially during peak tourist season. If someone you love was struck and killed by a vehicle while walking, you may be eligible to file a claim.
Bike Accidents
Bicycle accidents are similar to pedestrian accidents. Drivers often fail to pay attention or simply disregard the laws concerning the rights of bicyclists. In those situations, it is often the more vulnerable bikers that suffer the consequences.
Vehicle Accidents
Car accidents caused by negligence—such as those caused by impaired, distracted, fatigued, or reckless drivers—could warrant a wrongful death claim.
Slip and Fall Accidents
Property and business owners have a duty to keep their spaces clear of hazards and in safe operating condition. This is especially important in busy, social towns such as Myrtle Beach where people are often sightseeing or traveling on foot, and many people may be unfamiliar with the locale. If your loved one suffers injuries in a slip and fall that leads to their death, it may be possible to file a claim.
Recreation Accidents
A recreation accident could include incidents with boating, jet skiing, parasailing, amusement park rides, and more. Myrtle Beach is known for being a resort town, with many of these activities offered to both locals and visitors alike. It’s important that the operators of these attractions take safety seriously.
Defective Products
Whether it’s a car part, home item, recreation equipment, or even a souvenir from your beach vacation, product manufacturers have a responsibility to bring safe items to the market. When a product does not perform as it should, consumers can suffer serious injuries and even death.
Has Your Loved One Died To The Negligence Of Others?
If you're loved one has died due someone else's negligence you should speak to a wrongful death attorney as soon as possible. Contact us online or call our Charleston, South Carolina office directly at 843.488.2359 to schedule your consultation. We are also able to meet clients at our Conway, Myrtle Beach, Murrells Inlet, Mt. Pleasant, North Myrtle Beach or North Charleston office locations.
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