Possible Injuries From Beach Drowning Accidents
A fun day at the beach is quickly ruined by an unfortunate drowning accident. Possible injuries related to water accidents and submersion may include the following:
- Catastrophic brain injuries with possible permanent damage
- Hypoxic brain injuries from a lack of oxygen
- Spinal cord injuries
- Lung damage, like pulmonary edema
- Cardiac arrest or arrhythmia
- Secondary drowning problems
- Death from drowning
- Broken bones and fractures from collisions during drowning
Legal Liability and Statute of Limitations
When a drowning accident happens on private property, it can sometimes be easier to attribute legal liability. Hotels and resorts with private beach access have a legal responsibility to keep their guests safe. With drowning accidents at public beaches, it may not be as straightforward. Government entities or third-party managers may be responsible if their negligence contributed to the accident. If you believe someone is to blame, speak with a South Caroline personal injury lawyer right away.
An experienced attorney can assess your case and answer any questions you may have. They can review your case to see if you can hold a negligent party responsible. Could the incident have been avoided? You may be able to seek to recover damages through a legal claim. This could be against another individual, a business, or even the local government.
The statute of limitations in South Carolina is generally three years. You must file your lawsuit within this time period. If you or a loved one was hurt by a government official, this may be reduced to two years.
Potential Compensation for Damages
A drowning accident in South Carolina may lead to legal action. In personal injury lawsuits, plaintiffs may seek to recover damages. With wrongful death claims, survivors may seek justice on the victim’s behalf. Compensation may include:
- Medical bills, past and future
- Lost wages
- Lost or reduced earning capacity
- Mental pain and suffering
- Reduced quality of life
- Funeral and burial costs
- Loss of companionship
- Punitive damages