Columbia Fatal Car Accident Attorney
Ready to Help Your Family After a Tragic Crash
The sudden loss of a loved one in a car accident is one of the most devastating experiences a family can endure. Beyond the emotional pain, surviving family members often face unexpected financial challenges, including medical bills, funeral expenses, and the loss of future income and support. At Smith Born Leventis Taylor & Vega, LLC, our compassionate legal team is here to help families in Columbia, SC, seek justice and accountability after a tragic accident. If you have lost a loved one in a collision caused by negligence, an experienced Columbia fatal car accident lawyer can guide you through the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Contact us today at (803) 599-2207 for a free consultation and learn how we can help your family move forward.
Common Causes of Fatal Car Accidents
Fatal car accidents are often preventable and result from negligence, recklessness, or dangerous driving behaviors. Some of the most common causes include:
Drunk or Impaired Driving
Alcohol and drugs significantly impair a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely. Impaired drivers often exhibit poor judgment, slower reaction times, and reduced coordination, all of which can result in deadly collisions.
Distracted Driving
From texting behind the wheel to adjusting navigation systems, distracted driving has become one of the leading causes of fatal car crashes in Columbia and across the country. A moment of inattention can cause life-altering consequences.
Speeding and Aggressive Driving
Excessive speed not only reduces a driver’s ability to react but also increases the force of impact in a collision. Aggressive maneuvers such as tailgating, weaving between lanes, and ignoring traffic signals often lead to catastrophic accidents.
Drowsy Driving
Driver fatigue can be just as dangerous as alcohol impairment. Falling asleep or losing focus behind the wheel can cause devastating crashes, especially on highways or during long commutes.
Defective Vehicles or Dangerous Road Conditions
Sometimes fatal accidents occur because of mechanical failures, such as faulty brakes or tire blowouts, or due to poorly maintained roads. In these cases, liability may extend beyond another driver to include manufacturers or government entities responsible for roadway maintenance.
By identifying the cause of the accident, your attorney can hold the responsible parties accountable and build a strong wrongful death claim.
Filing a Wrongful Death Claim After a Fatal Car Accident
In South Carolina, when a fatal accident is caused by another person’s negligence or misconduct, the surviving family members may pursue a wrongful death claim. These claims are designed to provide compensation for both economic and emotional losses suffered by the victim’s loved ones.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim?
Under South Carolina law, wrongful death claims must be filed by the executor or administrator of the deceased person’s estate. However, the compensation is intended for surviving family members such as:
- A spouse
- Children
- Parents (if there is no surviving spouse or children)
- Other heirs, if no immediate family survives
Types of Compensation Available
A wrongful death lawsuit can help families recover damages such as:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Medical bills related to the accident
- Loss of financial support and future income
- Loss of companionship, guidance, and care
- Emotional pain and suffering
In certain cases, punitive damages may also be awarded if the at-fault party acted with gross negligence or reckless disregard for human life, such as in cases of drunk driving.
Time Limits for Filing a Claim
South Carolina has a statute of limitations that typically requires wrongful death claims to be filed within three years of the date of death. Failing to file within this period may result in losing your right to pursue compensation.
Fatal Car Crash FAQs
How much is a wrongful death case worth in South Carolina?
The value of a wrongful death claim depends on several factors, including the deceased’s age, income, life expectancy, and the circumstances of the accident. Each case is unique, and an attorney can evaluate the specific damages in your situation.
What if my loved one was partially at fault for the accident?
South Carolina follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which means that compensation may still be available as long as the deceased was less than 51% at fault. However, the award may be reduced based on the percentage of fault.
Do I have to go to trial to recover compensation?
Not necessarily. Many wrongful death claims are resolved through negotiated settlements. However, if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair amount, your lawyer may recommend taking the case to trial.
How long does it take to resolve a fatal car accident case?
The timeline varies. Some cases may settle in a matter of months, while others could take longer, especially if litigation is required. Your attorney will work to resolve the case as efficiently as possible while protecting your family’s best interests.
How a Columbia Fatal Car Accident Lawyer Can Help
At Smith Born Leventis Taylor & Vega, LLC, we understand that no amount of money can truly make up for the loss of a loved one. However, securing financial compensation can ease the financial burden and help bring a sense of justice to grieving families. Our legal team can:
- Investigate the accident thoroughly, including police reports, witness statements, and accident reconstruction
- Identify all liable parties, which may include negligent drivers, employers, manufacturers, or government entities
- Handle all negotiations with insurance companies, who often attempt to minimize payouts
- Represent your family in court if a fair settlement cannot be reached
- Provide compassionate legal guidance throughout the process, so you can focus on healing
If you have lost a loved one in a car crash caused by negligence, you do not have to face this journey alone. At Smith Born Leventis Taylor & Vega, LLC, we are dedicated to helping grieving families in Columbia, SC, pursue justice and hold negligent parties accountable. Our experienced Columbia fatal car accident lawyers are here to guide you every step of the way.
Reach out to Smith Born Leventis Taylor & Vega, LLC at (803) 599-2207 for a confidential, no-obligation consultation.
Our Satisfied Clients
-
“Being involved in a life-changing event is when you realize that we are really not in control of our lives and how we choose to handle it is where we find our character. Thank God for my legal team, Jacob and Erica, and everyone else involved.”- Former Client
-
“George kept me informed and gave loving advice all the way through. I could call him when I needed. He recognized my personal, mental and physical struggles. You can trust in him. GOD knew EXACTLY what he was doing when he made him.”- Former Client
-
“He was patient, listened, considerate, explained things to me that my previous attorney did not, and broke every part of my case down so I was sure to understand every aspect of my case before leaving his office.”- Cassandra J.
-
“Promises were kept and interactions were both personal and professional. I would highly recommend Mr. George and his firm to anyone in need of legal help.”- Former Client
-
“I had a workers compensation claim that my wonderful lawyer Lawton Harper was able to help me with. He was very attentive to detail and was able to get me the maximum claim I deserved!”- Former Client
-
“When my case took a hit from the doctor’s final impairment rating, Danny didn’t give up – he went full force and earned me a fair settlement!”- Former Client
-
“Lawton Harper has been amazing helping me with my works compensation case. He explained everything about what to expect throughout the case and was there for any questions or concerns I had.”- Kai P.
-
“He was very attentive to detail and was able to get me the maximum claim I deserved!”- Former Client
