Bluffton Wrongful Death Legal Assistance
Seek Justice with Compassionate Bluffton Attorneys
Nothing is worse than losing your loved one to an avoidable accident. When you suffer an unimaginable loss as a result of another party’s negligence, you deserve to be fairly compensated.
Our Bluffton wrongful death lawyers at Horton & Associates, LLC can help hold negligent parties accountable and recover damages that will help ease the burden of your loss. We are extremely familiar with how wrongful death lawsuits are adjudicated in South Carolina and are compassionate to what is at stake. Our team will do everything possible to get you and your family the compensation that you need and deserve.
Schedule a free initial consultation to learn more about how we can assist you in this difficult moment. Call (843) 420-1344 or contact us online to get started.
What Counts as Wrongful Death in South Carolina?
Death in South Carolina
The state of South Carolina defines wrongful death as any death directly resulting from the negligence of another party. Loss of life does not have to be immediate to count as wrongful death. If someone passes away due to injuries caused by someone else’s negligence, it likely qualifies as wrongful death. For example, if someone suffers traumatic injuries in a car accident but does not pass away until a week later, the negligent motorist can still likely be sued for wrongful death.
Common examples of situations that lead to wrongful death include:
- Catastrophic car accidents
- Severe slip and fall incidents
- Aggressive dog attacks
- Industrial accidents
- Medical malpractice
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in South Carolina?
Not just anyone can file a wrongful death personal injury lawsuit, even if they are an immediate loved one of the deceased. Only the personal representative, who serves as the administrator or executor of the deceased’s estate, can pursue a wrongful death claim on behalf of the deceased.
If the deceased had an estate plan, they will most likely have named a personal representative in their will. Many choose a close relative or a legal representative to shoulder this responsibility. Should there be no will, or if the named executor or administrator is not available, a court will appoint a personal representative to manage the deceased’s estate.
What Types of Compensation Are Available in a South Carolina Wrongful Death Lawsuit?
It is important to understand that only certain relatives are entitled to compensation as part of a wrongful death lawsuit. Beneficiaries typically include the deceased’s spouse, children, and/or parents. Should there be no surviving spouse, children, or parents, the deceased’s heirs are entitled to any recovered compensation.
Our Bluffton wrongful death attorneys can help you recover the following types of compensation:
- Medical costs. A wrongful death lawsuit can help cover any medical expenses associated with the care of the deceased, including hospitalizations, attempted surgeries, and hospice care.
- Funeral and burial costs. Wrongful death claims can typically reimburse you for all expenses associated with funeral and burial services.
- Loss of emotional support, love, and/or companionship. Immediate relatives can be compensated for the permanent loss of their parent, spouse, fiancé, or partner.
- Emotional suffering. Loved ones can separately be awarded compensation for ongoing emotional anguish and trauma that they experience as a result of the loss.
- Loss of financial support. If the deceased party’s income supported one or more loved ones, awards in a wrongful death lawsuit can include compensation for lost and future wages.
Our team at Horton & Associates, LLC is committed to helping you and your family in this unthinkably challenging moment. We will work to secure maximum compensation and do everything possible to make this process as efficient and painless as possible.
Local Support for Wrongful Death Claims in Bluffton
At Horton & Associates, LLC, we understand the unique challenges faced by Bluffton residents dealing with the loss of a loved one due to negligence. Bluffton, known for its close-knit community and scenic beauty, is also home to various local government entities and resources that can provide additional support during these trying times. The Beaufort County Probate Court, for instance, plays a crucial role in appointing personal representatives when necessary, ensuring that the legal process is handled with care and precision.
Living in Bluffton, you may be familiar with the frequent traffic on Highway 278 or the bustling activity around Old Town. Unfortunately, these areas can also be hotspots for accidents that lead to wrongful death claims. Our team is well-versed in the local landscape and understands the specific pain points that Bluffton residents face, such as dealing with the aftermath of a tragic car accident on a busy road or navigating the complexities of medical malpractice at local healthcare facilities.
We know that the emotional and financial toll of losing a loved one can be overwhelming. That's why our Bluffton wrongful death attorneys are committed to providing compassionate and effective legal assistance. We aim to alleviate some of your burdens by helping you secure compensation for medical expenses, funeral costs, and emotional suffering. Our deep understanding of the local community and its unique challenges allows us to offer tailored support that truly resonates with Bluffton residents.
Whether you're dealing with the loss of a loved one due to a catastrophic car accident on Bluffton Parkway or a severe slip and fall incident at a local business, Horton & Associates, LLC is here to help you navigate the legal complexities and seek the justice you deserve.
Over 15 Years of Legal Support in Bluffton - Contact Us NowContact us online or call (843) 420-1344 to start exploring your legal options.
Commonly Asked Questions
Can emotional suffering be compensated in a Bluffton wrongful death claim?
Yes, in Bluffton, loved ones of the deceased can seek compensation for emotional suffering and trauma as part of a wrongful death claim. This acknowledges the ongoing emotional distress caused by the loss of a family member due to another's negligence.
Why should I choose Horton & Associates, LLC for my wrongful death lawsuit in Bluffton?
Hear From Our Happy Clients
At Horton & Associates, LLC, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.
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“Overall, my favorite thing about that firm is how confident they were able to make me feel.”- Frankie W.
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“Marshall Horton is a true professional and takes great pride in his work.”- Lisa H.
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“Knowledgeable, friendly, and truly cares.”- John R.
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“I would absolutely recommend him to my friends and family because he makes everything very easy to understand.”- Tracy W.
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“Very solid and well-respected lawyers in Beaufort County.”- Rich U.
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“When my attorney knew exactly what was happening and let me know every step of the way, I was ecstatic.”- Christopher W.
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“He was able to continue to keep me informed on the progress of the case throughout the time I was gone.”- Jack S.
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“The location is also super convenient. I am just very satisfied with this practice.”- Teri C.