As the shock fades, the questions start to set in. How did this happen? Who is responsible? And is there a way to hold the at-fault driver accountable?
In Charleston, families facing the loss of someone they love in a fatal car accident often feel torn between grief and uncertainty. While no lawsuit can bring a loved one back, a wrongful death claim can provide financial stability and a sense of justice. Here is what you should know about your rights in South Carolina.
A wrongful death claim is a civil lawsuit that allows surviving family members to pursue compensation when a person’s death is caused by another’s negligence or reckless actions. In the context of a fatal car wreck, this might include a distracted driver, a drunk driver, or even a company that failed to properly maintain a commercial vehicle.
In South Carolina, wrongful death lawsuits are filed by the executor or administrator of the deceased’s estate, acting on behalf of certain family members. Those eligible to recover damages typically include:
Determining who has the right to bring a claim is an important step, and a Charleston wrongful death lawyer can help clarify your family’s specific situation.
To bring a successful wrongful death case, your legal team will need to show:
Evidence can include police reports, medical records, witness statements, or testimony from accident reconstruction experts.
While no amount of money can replace a life, wrongful death claims can help ease the financial burdens families face after a loss. Compensation may include:
Each case is unique, and damages will depend on the circumstances and the family’s needs.
Wrongful death lawsuits are complex, and insurance companies rarely make the process easy. Having a Charleston wrongful death lawyer means having someone to investigate the crash, gather evidence, negotiate with insurers, and—if necessary—take the case to court. Just as important, it means having an advocate who understands the emotional weight your family is carrying and will handle the legal side so you can focus on healing.
If you have lost a loved one in a fatal car wreck in Charleston, you do not have to face the next steps alone. Lesemann & Associates has the experience and compassion to guide families through wrongful death claims with care and determination.
Contact our Charleston wrongful death lawyers today to schedule a consultation. We will listen, explain your options, and help you pursue justice for your loved one.
