Common Types of Wrongful Death Cases in Conway

Wrongful death cases can arise from a wide range of tragic scenarios. Some of the most common types of cases handled by wrongful death lawyers include:

Car Crashes

Conway's roads can be dangerous places. Careless drivers, those texting behind the wheel, or individuals driving under the influence can cause fatal accidents.

Motorcycle Wrecks

With little protection against larger vehicles or road hazards, even a minor accident can have fatal consequences. Families who lose a rider are not only left with an empty space at the dinner table but also with questions about how the accident happened and who's responsible.

Truck Crashes

When trucks collide with cars, the results are often catastrophic. Fatal injuries are all too common in these types of crashes. For families who lose someone in a truck accident, the pain is compounded by the complexity of the situation. They're not just dealing with their grief - they're often up against large trucking companies with teams of lawyers and insurance adjusters.

Waccamaw River Accidents

Conway's waterways are popular for boating and other water activities. But what starts as a fun day out can quickly turn tragic. Inexperienced boat operators, reckless behavior, or faulty equipment can lead to fatal accidents.

Nursing Home Deaths

We trust nursing homes to care for our elderly relatives when they need it most. But sometimes, this trust is betrayed. Neglect or abuse in these facilities can lead to premature death, robbing seniors of their dignity and families of precious time with their loved ones.

When neglect causes a fatal accident, surviving relatives deserve support and justice.

What You Might Recover in a Conway Wrongful Death Claim

While no financial compensation can truly make up for the loss of your loved one, it can help provide some stability and a sense that justice has been served. Each case is unique, but here are some of the damages you might be able to recover:

  • Healthcare costs. This covers all the medical expenses related to the incident, from the moment it happened until your loved one's passing. It could include ambulance rides, emergency room visits, surgeries, hospital stays, and any other treatments they received in Conway or nearby facilities.
  • Suffering endured. If your loved one experienced physical pain or emotional distress due to the accident before they passed, you may be able to claim compensation for this suffering.
  • Final expenses. The costs associated with giving your loved one a dignified farewell - including funeral services, burial or cremation, and related expenses - may be recoverable.
  • Lost earnings. Your family might be able to claim the income your loved one would have earned if they had survived. This could include their salary, expected pay raises, bonuses, benefits, and even income from self-employment or side businesses.
  • Loss of companionship. While no amount of money can replace your loved one's presence, this type of compensation acknowledges the emotional impact of their absence. It recognizes the loss of their guidance, support, and companionship in your daily life.

In cases where the responsible party's actions were extremely careless or intentionally harmful, the court may award additional punitive damages. These are meant to punish the wrongdoer and discourage similar behavior in the future.

Steps to Take After a Loved One's Wrongful Death Accident

After a tragic loss, it can be difficult to know what to do next. Here are some important steps to take if you believe your loved one's death was the result of negligence:

  • Seek support. Family, friends, or mental health professionals may help you cope with your grief.
  • Contact a wrongful death lawyer. You can meet with an attorney to discuss your case and learn about your legal options.
  • Gather evidence. Any evidence related to your loved one's death, such as police reports, medical records, or photographs, may be helpful to your claim.
  • Avoid speaking with insurance companies. An attorney may be able to handle these stressful communications for you and help prevent costly mistakes.

Choosing a Conway Wrongful Death Lawyer

When selecting a wrongful death attorney to represent your family, consider the following factors:

  • Experience resolving wrongful death claims. Look for a law firm with experience in handling similar claims. 
  • Handles cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning no upfront costs for your family. During this difficult time, the last thing you need is the added stress of legal fees. You can look for a wrongful death lawyer who operates on a contingency fee basis, which typically means attorney's fees and case related costs are deducted at the conclusion of the case, with attorney fees being deducted only if a settlement or award is obtained. Be sure to review a lawyer's fee agreement carefully to determine what costs will be deducted. 
  • Treats you and your loved ones with empathy, respect, and understanding. The right wrongful death lawyer will recognize the emotional challenges you are facing and approach your case with compassion and sensitivity.
  • Responsiveness to your calls, emails, and questions throughout the legal process. Communication can be key when working with a wrongful death attorney. You want a lawyer who is accessible and responsive, keeping you informed about the progress of your case and promptly addressing any concerns or questions you may have.
  • Willingness to take your case to trial if a fair settlement cannot be reached. While many wrongful death cases can be resolved through settlement negotiations, it's important to have an attorney who is prepared to take your case to trial if necessary.
  • Positive client reviews and a strong reputation within the community. While past results do not guarantee future results, one way to determine if a particular attorney is right for you could be by reading reviews and testimonials from past clients.