Wrongful Death Lawyer Greenville
Losing a loved one due to someone else’s negligence is an unimaginable tragedy. While no legal action can replace the person you lost, pursuing a wrongful death claim may help bring a sense of justice and provide critical financial support. Mann, Blake & Jackson offers compassionate and determined representation for families in Greenville who are facing these heartbreaking circumstances. A wrongful death lawyer from our team can help you navigate the legal process with care and strength. Call 864-777-4262 to schedule a free consultation. We’re here to help you hold the responsible party accountable.
Common Causes Of Wrongful Death Cases In South Carolina
Losing a loved one unexpectedly is one of the hardest experiences a family can go through. When that loss is caused by another person’s carelessness or wrongdoing, the emotional weight is often paired with frustration, unanswered questions, and a sense of injustice. South Carolina law gives families the right to pursue a wrongful death claim when someone else’s actions—or failure to act—lead to a fatal injury.
These cases are not criminal prosecutions. They are civil lawsuits brought by surviving family members seeking compensation and accountability. While no amount of money can replace a life, these claims can help ease the financial burden and bring a sense of resolution.
Fatal Car Accidents Caused by Negligence
Motor vehicle accidents are one of the leading causes of wrongful death across the country, and South Carolina is no exception. A fatal crash may be caused by distracted driving, speeding, reckless behavior, or operating a vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
In these cases, the responsible driver can be held liable through a wrongful death claim, even if they face separate criminal charges. Other parties, such as employers of commercial drivers or manufacturers of defective auto parts, may also share responsibility.
In South Carolina, traffic accidents are a significant concern, especially in more heavily traveled areas like Greenville County. When negligence on the road leads to a preventable death, surviving family members have the legal right to demand answers and compensation.
Medical Errors and Failure to Provide Proper Treatment
Healthcare providers are expected to meet a basic standard of care. When they fail to do so and a patient dies as a result, a wrongful death claim may be appropriate. Common examples of fatal medical mistakes include:
- Misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis
- Surgical errors
- Medication mistakes
- Failure to monitor a patient’s condition
- Birth injuries resulting in the death of a child or mother
Not every bad medical outcome qualifies as wrongful death. But when a doctor, nurse, or facility fails to act as a reasonably careful provider would under similar circumstances, and that failure results in death, the law allows the victim’s loved ones to take legal action.
Workplace Accidents That Could Have Been Prevented
Fatal workplace incidents are another source of wrongful death claims. Construction sites, manufacturing plants, and industrial settings often carry higher risks. Common factors that contribute to these tragedies include:
- Lack of safety protocols
- Inadequate training
- Defective equipment
- Exposure to toxic substances
- Falls from height or being struck by machinery
While most fatal workplace injuries are handled through South Carolina’s workers’ compensation system, there are situations where a wrongful death lawsuit may be possible. This often includes cases where a third party, such as a subcontractor or equipment manufacturer, was responsible for the unsafe conditions that led to the death.
Nursing Home Neglect and Abuse Leading to Death
Elder abuse is a growing issue, particularly in nursing homes and assisted living facilities. When staff fail to provide adequate care, the consequences can be devastating. Wrongful death claims in these settings often involve:
- Untreated infections
- Malnutrition or dehydration
- Falls caused by a lack of supervision
- Bedsores that become fatal
- Medication errors
These cases are emotionally difficult for families, who often trusted the facility to care for their loved one. Proving negligence requires a close look at medical records, staffing levels, and facility procedures. But if substandard care led to a preventable death, legal action may be warranted.
Defective Products That Result in Fatal Injuries
Manufacturers have a duty to ensure the products they put on the market are safe when used as intended. When they fail in this duty, the results can be catastrophic. Wrongful death claims related to defective products may involve:
- Dangerous prescription drugs
- Faulty medical devices
- Defective auto parts (such as airbags or brakes)
- Unsafe consumer goods
- Industrial equipment that malfunctions
In these cases, the legal theory often falls under product liability. That means the manufacturer, distributor, or seller may be held responsible if the product was defectively designed, improperly manufactured, or failed to include adequate warnings.
Criminal Acts Resulting in Death
Wrongful death claims can also arise from intentional acts, such as assault, robbery, or other violent crimes. These cases often proceed alongside criminal charges but are handled separately in civil court. A defendant does not need to be convicted of a crime in order to be found liable in a wrongful death lawsuit.
This type of case may be brought against individuals or, in some situations, property owners who failed to provide adequate security that could have prevented the harm. For example, a fatal attack in an apartment complex or parking lot with a known history of criminal activity may involve a premises liability component.
Pedestrian and Bicycle Fatalities
As cities in South Carolina grow and encourage alternative forms of transportation, pedestrian and bicycle deaths have also increased. These accidents often happen when drivers fail to yield the right of way, are distracted by phones, or drive too fast through neighborhoods and intersections.
In many of these cases, the pedestrian or cyclist was following the rules and had every right to be where they were. When a driver’s carelessness leads to a fatal crash, the surviving family has the right to seek justice.
Who Can File a Lawsuit
Under South Carolina law, a wrongful death claim must be brought by the executor or administrator of the deceased person’s estate. This is usually a family member and may be someone named in a will or appointed by the court.
The lawsuit is filed on behalf of the deceased’s surviving relatives, which may include:
- Spouse
- Children
- Parents (if there is no spouse or children)
- Legal heirs (if no immediate family members exist)
Damages in a wrongful death case can cover funeral expenses, lost financial support, emotional suffering, and the loss of companionship.
Time Limits for Filing a Claim
South Carolina sets a time limit—called the statute of limitations—on filing wrongful death lawsuits. In most cases, the claim must be filed within three years of the date of death. If you miss this deadline, the court will likely dismiss the case, and you lose the opportunity to recover damages.
Because building a wrongful death claim takes time—gathering records, investigating the facts, and negotiating with insurance companies—it’s best to speak with an attorney as soon as possible after the loss.
If you believe your loved one’s death was caused by someone else’s negligence or misconduct, speaking with a personal injury lawyer can help you understand your rights. A legal professional can review the details of your case, explain your options, and handle the process of gathering evidence and building a strong claim.
Wrongful death lawsuits are not about punishment—they’re about accountability and ensuring that families left behind have the financial support they need. They also help shine a light on dangerous behavior, unsafe conditions, or systemic problems that could put others at risk.
How a Wrongful Death Attorney Can Help Your Family Seek Justice
Losing someone you love is never easy—especially when the loss could have been prevented. If your family is mourning a wrongful death due to someone else’s careless or reckless actions, you may have the right to take legal action. A compassionate wrongful death attorney at Mann, Blake & Jackson can help you seek accountability and secure financial support during this overwhelming time. We handle every case with the respect and sensitivity it deserves while pursuing justice for families throughout Greenville. Call 864-777-4262 for a free consultation and let us help you move forward with strength and clarity.
