Wrongful death occurs when an individual dies due to another party's negligence or misconduct, with examples including medical malpractice and motor vehicle accidents. In South Carolina, the deceased's estate administrator can file a lawsuit within three years of death, and eligible recipients of compensation include spouses and children. The value of a wrongful death lawsuit varies, and settlement timelines differ, prompting individuals to seek legal advice for claim validation.

1. Wrongful
Death
ANSWERING YOUR QUESTIONS

2. What qualifies
as a wrongful
death?
Wrongful death happens
when someone loses their life
because of another person or
entity's negligence or
misconduct.

3. It can be the result of:
· Medical malpractice
· Motor vehicle accidents
· Defective products
· Workplace accidents
· Other circumstances

4. Who can file a
wrongful death
lawsuit?
It varies by state.
In South Carolina, the
administrator of the
deceased's estate files the
claim on behalf of the family.

5. What is the
time limit to
file a wrongful
death case?
A wrongful death claim in South
Carolina must be filed
within three years of the date
of the deceased person’s death.
There are few exceptions.

6. How do you prove
wrongful death?
The elements of a wrongful death claim include:
· Your loved one's death was caused by someone
else's negligence or by intentionally wrongful actions.
· You have experienced monetary losses and
emotional suffering as a result of your loved one's
death.

7. Who is
eligible to
receive
money in a
wrongful
death
lawsuit?
SPOUSE
CHILDREN
PARENTS
HEIRS
Eligible family members
vary by case and depend on
their relationship to the
deceased and the age of
the deceased.

8. How much is a
wrongful
death lawsuit
worth?
Settlement awards vary
significantly by case.
A successful lawsuit
may provide compensation for
damages such as medical bills,
funeral costs, and
lost financial contributions.

9. Multi-Million
Dollar Settlements
Whetstone Perkins & Fulda has
obtained multi-million dollar
settlements on behalf of clients in
wrongful death claims.*
*Attorneys at the firm cannot guarantee results.

10. How long does it
take to settle a
wrongful death
lawsuit?
It depends on the details of
the case.
Some lawsuits settle within a
matter of months, while
others take years to resolve.

11. How do I know if I have
a valid claim?
Wrongful death laws can be complicated.
Let our attorneys determine the merits of your claim
during a free case evaluation.
Call us at 803-799-9400 to get started.