Family Settles High-Profile Wrongful Death Lawsuit in South Carolina
In 2023, the murder trial of a high-profile lawyer in South Carolina captured the nation’s attention. Despite guilty verdicts on all counts, this story did not truly end until recently. The family of a teen who died because of a boating crash caused by the lawyer’s son just received compensation – and this may finally bring them closure. If a boating accident killed you or someone you loved, you may also have the right to file a wrongful death lawsuit in South Carolina.
Family Finally Receives Insurance Payout Five Years After Fatal Boating Crash
In 2019, the son of a prominent South Carolina lawyer operated a boat under the influence and crashed it, causing the death of a 19-year-old woman. The son and his friends were underage at the time, and they were sold alcohol by an establishment nearby the dock before the crash. As a result, the family of the deceased teen sued the establishment and obtained a $15 million settlement. The family then proceeded to obtain a $500,000 settlement from the lawyer’s own insurance policy.
After the boating crash, the lawyer killed his son and his wife. It was alleged that these murders occurred because the lawyer knew his financial situation would be exposed due to the inevitable wrongful death lawsuit. Prosecutors later alleged that the lawyer also hoped that the deaths of his wife and son would draw attention away from his financial crimes. This proved to be one of the most infamous cases in South Carolina history – and it still isn’t completely over.
Can I File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit After a Fatal Boating Accident in South Carolina?
If you believe that your loved one died due to a reckless boater, you may be entitled to file a wrongful death lawsuit. As we have seen, insurance policies can provide considerable compensation in these cases. While boating insurance is not mandatory under South Carolina law, it is highly recommended – and many boaters have it.
A boating accident caused by an intoxicated boater follows the same general logic as a DUI car accident. The intoxicated boater becomes liable for any injuries they cause – particularly when it comes to their passengers. Wrongful death boating accident lawsuits may be particularly helpful for spouses, children, and dependent seniors. These individuals may have depended on the income of the victim, and financial compensation may be crucial.
Can a Wrongful Death Lawyer in South Carolina Help My Family?
A wrongful death lawyer in Charleston may be able to help your family strive for closure and compensation after a fatal accident. If you have lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence, a lawsuit could help cover your unpaid medical bills, funeral expenses, lost income, and other damages. To discuss this possibility in more detail, speak with Mickelsen & Dalton, LLC today.
Sources:
greenvilleonline.com/story/news/local/south-carolina/2024/10/15/alex-murdaugh-settles-beach-wrongful-death-suit-asset-questions-remain/75684143007/
