The tragic event of a fatal vehicular collision in Aiken County is currently under investigation by the local Coroner's Office. This unfortunate incident, which involved two vehicles, resulted in the death of a woman from Aiken.
The mishap unfolded at the junction of Salley Road and South Dixie Road, a short distance away from Salley, South Carolina, around 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 8, 2023. A Ford van reportedly collided with an SUV at this intersection.
The deceased individual was a passenger in the SUV and was declared dead at the accident site due to the grave injuries sustained from the crash.
Both drivers, one from the SUV and the other from the Ford van, were rushed to the hospital, where they are being treated for critical injuries.
The identity of the deceased will be disclosed following notification to her immediate family, as per the guidelines set forth by the Aiken County Coroner's Office.
Initiating a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in South Carolina
Navigating the legal complexities following the loss of a loved one can be overwhelming. However, understanding how to pursue a wrongful death lawsuit can provide solace and financial compensation during a difficult time. Let's explore the steps to initiate a wrongful death lawsuit in South Carolina.
Understanding What Constitutes Wrongful Death
Firstly, it's crucial to understand what qualifies as a wrongful death. Essentially, if your loved one's death occurred due to the negligence or intentional action of another, you might have grounds for a wrongful death lawsuit.
Hiring a Competent Attorney with Experience in Wrongful Death Cases
Legal assistance is pivotal in wrongful death cases. A skilled lawyer can guide you through the intricacies of South Carolina's wrongful death laws. They will help you gather the necessary evidence, prepare, and file the lawsuit, and argue your case.
Filing the Lawsuit
Your attorney will draft and file the lawsuit on your behalf. This document outlines the details of your claim, including the basis for the lawsuit and the damages sought. Remember, the statute of limitations in South Carolina for wrongful death lawsuits is three years from the date of death.
Proving Liability
To succeed in a wrongful death claim, you must demonstrate that the defendant's negligence or intentional action caused the death of your loved one. Your attorney will assist you in gathering and presenting compelling evidence.
Seeking Damages
In a wrongful death case, you can seek both economic and non-economic damages. This could include medical and funeral expenses, loss of the deceased's expected earnings, pain, and suffering, and loss of companionship.
Initiating a wrongful death lawsuit is a complex process that requires patience and resilience. But remember, you do not have to go through it alone. With the assistance of a competent attorney, you can seek justice for your loved one and obtain the compensation you deserve.
