When Do Car Accidents in South Carolina Lead to Wrongful Death Lawsuits?

If you have lost a loved one to a fatal car accident in South Carolina, you might be thinking about a potential wrongful death lawsuit. However, you may not know whether this type of legal action is even possible. Only certain accidents can lead to wrongful death lawsuits, and it helps to review your situation alongside an attorney if you’re serious about this course of action.

Wrongful Death Lawsuit Continues in South Carolina After DUI Conviction 

Many DUI accidents lead to wrongful death lawsuits in South Carolina. A recent example involves newlyweds who were rear-ended by a drunk driver while traveling in a golf cart. The 2023 incident led to a heavily publicized DUI case in which the defendant pleaded guilty and received the maximum sentence of 25 years.

This concluded the criminal case, but the civil wrongful death case is just getting started. In February of 2025, it was reported that the plaintiffs were struggling to obtain a deposition from the DUI driver. One report suggested that the plaintiffs were experiencing serious delays in this regard, and the defendant’s attorney seemed to be unaware of where she was being held.

Fatal Truck Accidents May Lead to Wrongful Death Lawsuits 

Fatal semi-truck accidents in South Carolina may also lead to wrongful death lawsuits. Also in February, authorities reported that a truck driver in Rock Hill “failed to yield,” and that this traffic violation led directly to the death of a motorcyclist. According to the preliminary investigation, the truck driver did not yield to the motorcyclist while making a left-hand turn on Cherry Road.

As long as there is some degree of fault or “negligence,” a wrongful death claim may move forward. South Carolina requires plaintiffs to establish fault in order to recover compensation, and this is something an experienced lawyer can assist with.

Do Not Assume That Wrongful Death Lawsuits Are Impossible 

Often, it takes weeks or even months to fully investigate a fatal crash. In the initial aftermath, law enforcement may not reveal who is to blame. If you are grieving the loss of a family member, do not take this as a sign that a wrongful death lawsuit is impossible.

An experienced wrongful death attorney may be able to look into the crash, communicate with law enforcement, and determine potential negligence. They may also gather evidence on your behalf, perhaps locating and questioning eyewitnesses or reviewing surveillance footage.

Can a South Carolina Wrongful Death Lawyer Help After a Fatal Crash? 

If you have lost a loved one in a fatal crash, a South Carolina wrongful death lawyer might be able to help. While there are many examples of accidents that could lead to wrongful death claims, each crash is slightly different. Consider discussing your specific accident with Mickelsen & Dalton, LLC to learn whether a wrongful death claim might be possible. Contact us today to get started.

Sources: 

live5news.com/2025/02/05/deposition-woman-who-killed-folly-beach-bride-crash-demanded-lawsuit/

wyff4.com/article/rock-hill-deadly-motorcycle-crash/63651950