Bluffton Wrongful Death Attorney
Offering Guidance & Support to Families Across Hilton Head, Okatie & Beaufort
Nothing can prepare us for the loss of a loved one - especially when it is sudden. Losing a family member in a catastrophic accident can be painful, but losing them due to the negligent or careless acts of another person or entity can be particularly painful. The grief is often compounded by anger and frustration.
While no amount of legal action can ever fully correct the loss of a loved one, civil claims can help survivors create an environment for emotional healing, while holding the responsible party accountable. Wrongful death suits are different from other forms of personal injury cases, so if you have recently lost a loved one, it is important to speak with an Bluffton wrongful death lawyer who has experience trying these difficult cases.
Start the process of filing a wrongful death claim with Bauer & Metro, P.C. Call our office at (843) 920-2844 today to learn what options are available to your family.
Who Can Be Held Liable for a Wrongful Death?
A wrongful death occurs when someone's life is cut short due to the negligent, reckless, or intentional actions of another party. Liability can extend to various individuals or entities, depending on the circumstances. Common examples include:
- Negligent Drivers: Faulty driving behaviors like speeding, distracted driving, or driving under the influence can lead to fatal car accidents.
- Trucking Companies: When large commercial vehicles are involved, liability may lie with the company for failing to maintain trucks or properly vet and train drivers.
- Healthcare Providers: Medical malpractice, such as misdiagnosis, surgical errors, or lack of proper care, can result in wrongful death.
- Employers: Workplace accidents caused by unsafe conditions or lack of training could place responsibility on employers.
- Nursing Homes: Cases of neglect or abuse in long-term care facilities can lead to fatalities, holding the facility accountable.
Each wrongful death case is unique, and determining liability requires a thorough investigation. Our Bluffton wrongful death attorneys at Bauer & Metro, P.C., have the experience to identify all responsible parties and build a strong case on your behalf.
Who Can Recover Compensation for a Wrongful Death in South Carolina?
Under South Carolina law, only the executor or administrator of the deceased person's estate can file a wrongful death lawsuit. However, the lawsuit is brought for the benefit of specific individuals entitled to compensation. These typically include:
- The Spouse and Children of the deceased, who have the highest priority under the law to receive compensation.
- Parents of the Deceased, when the person who has passed away had no spouse or children.
- Heirs, if there are no surviving immediate family members such as a spouse, children, or parents.
The compensation awarded is meant to cover both economic and non-economic losses, ensuring surviving family members are supported after their tragic loss.
What Should You Do After the Wrongful Death of a Loved One?
If you’ve lost someone due to another party’s negligent or wrongful actions, steps you take afterward can significantly impact the success of your wrongful death claim. Here’s what you should do:
Seek Legal Guidance Promptly
Contact a wrongful death attorney in Bluffton early in the process. At Bauer & Metro, P.C., we review your case thoroughly in a free consultation and guide you on the best course of action.
Preserve Evidence
Gather any evidence related to the incident, such as police reports, photographs, witness statements, and medical records.
Avoid Speaking to Insurance Companies Alone
Insurance adjusters may attempt to minimize the value of your claim. Allow an experienced attorney to handle these communications on your behalf.
File Within the Statute of Limitations
South Carolina allows up to three years from the date of your loved one’s death to file a wrongful death lawsuit. Missing this deadline can result in losing your right to seek compensation.
The sooner you act after a wrongful death, the more effectively your attorney can build a case.
What Are the Benefits of Filing a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?
Filing a wrongful death lawsuit not only seeks justice for your loved one but also provides financial relief for your family. Compensation can cover:
- Medical Bills and Final Expenses: Costs incurred before the deceased’s passing.
- Funeral and Burial Costs: Ensuring a proper farewell for your loved one.
- Loss of Income: Recovering wages and future earnings that the deceased would have contributed.
- Non-Economic Damages: Compensation for pain, suffering, and loss of companionship.
- Punitive Damages: In cases of egregious negligence, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the wrongdoer.
By filing a claim, families can hold the responsible parties accountable and help prevent similar tragedies in the future. At Bauer & Metro, P.C., our goal is to secure the justice, accountability, and compensation your family needs during this challenging time.
Seeking Experienced Representation
At Bauer & Metro, P.C., we understand that no amount of money can replace your loved one. However, our goal is to provide you with the resources and support you need to rebuild your life.
Our firm can help families understand what they can expect from the current civil justice system in Bluffton. We offer personalized care and aggressive advocacy to help you achieve the best possible outcome.
Our firm can assist you in bringing wrongful death claims related to:
Why Choose Bauer & Metro, P.C.?
With decades of experience serving Bluffton families, our team has the knowledge and resources to take on even the most complex wrongful death cases. We provide a:
- Proven Track Record: We’ve successfully recovered compensation for families affected by wrongful death.
- Personalized Approach: Every case is unique, and we take the time to understand your family’s specific needs.
- No Fees Unless We Win: You don’t pay any legal fees unless we secure compensation for your family.
Let us help you honor your loved one’s memory by holding those responsible accountable.
Call Bauer & Metro, P.C. at (843) 920-2844 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation with a compassionate wrongful death lawyer in Bluffton.
