Any time a person dies, surviving family members face a stressful and challenging time. Adjusting to life without a loved one can be difficult, and it can be made even more so when the loved one’s death was avoidable. When careless or negligent actions cause a death, families often want answers, they want to hold the responsible person accountable, and they may need compensation to address the effects of the death on their daily life. In South Carolina, a wrongful death claim can help surviving family members address these issues.
Wrongful Death Claims in Myrtle Beach
A wrongful death claim is a legal claim filed against the person responsible for a loved one’s death. The state defines a wrongful death as a death “caused by the wrongful act, neglect or default of another.” This can include both action and inaction, and it typically occurs when a person ignores his duty to act reasonably and responsibly when it comes to the safety of others.
Through a wrongful death claim, surviving family members often seek to meet two goals. First, they may obtain a sense of justice for their loved one when the person responsible is held publicly accountable. Two, it can provide compensation to address the new and changing needs of the family as the result of the death. Family members may obtain compensation for:
● Funeral expenses and burial costs
● Loss of future wages
● Certain medical expenses related to the accident and death
Common Causes of Myrtle Beach Wrongful Death Claims
There are a wide variety of circumstances that can lead to a wrongful death claim. In general, it is understood that everyone has a responsibility to act in a safe manner that will not cause harm or injury to others. When a person fails to uphold this duty, he can be held accountable. Some of the most common causes of a wrongful death claim include:
Traffic Accidents
Traffic accidents are among the leading causes of death in the United States every year. Drivers under the influence of alcohol and drugs, those distracted while behind the wheel, and those who may be unfamiliar with the roads or driving while fatigued can cause serious, deadly accidents in Myrtle Beach.Water Accidents
Boating, swimming, jet skiing, parasailing, and other water activities are common in Myrtle Beach. Warm weather and beautiful beaches draw many to enjoy exciting outdoor fun. However, these activities do come with risks. When operators of water sporting equipment are careless, impaired, or reckless, the results can be deadly.Motorcycle Accidents
Myrtle Beach has long been a popular spot for motorcyclists out to enjoy a ride. However, with high traffic volumes and many drivers unfamiliar with the roads, it can be easy for these smaller, lighter vehicles to be overlooked. Motorcycle accidents are often more serious than other types of road crashes, with riders frequently suffering serious injury and even death.Work-Related Accidents
While work-related deaths are often addressed through the workers’ compensation system, there are times when a third party is responsible for the death of a person on the job.Nursing Home Abuse/Neglect
When families entrust their loved ones to the care of a nursing home, they expect a safe environment and effective treatment. Older people can be especially vulnerable to injury and medical complications, and it’s important to watch for signs of physical abuse in these facilities.Defective Products
Whether it’s a part on your vehicle or a souvenir from a beach vacation, the products that come to consumers should be safe. Manufacturers have the same responsibility as everyone else to act in a responsible manner, and when they fail to provide products that function properly and are safe to use, they can be held accountable.Whenever a loved one dies, surviving family members experience grief and stress. When that death is caused by another person’s careless or negligent behavior, the situation can become even more difficult to manage. At Derrick Law Firm Injury Lawyers, our attorneys understand how upsetting and frustrating this can be, and that’s why we work hard to help surviving family members.
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.
