3 Things That Must Be Proven in a Wrongful Death Lawsuit

If someone you love has died due to someone else’s negligence, you may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit. If you choose to take action, your South Carolina personal injury lawyer will need to prove certain things to the court. Cristin Uricchio is a wrongful death lawyer in Charleston who knows how difficult these cases can be on the families who are left behind. In order to prepare you for what lies ahead, here are three things that will need to be proven in order for your lawsuit to be successful.

1. Evidence that someone else’s negligence or intent led to your loss – Your attorney will need evidence that the loss of life occurred as the direct result of another person’s negligence or that they had intent to harm the deceased. Your attorney will want to show the court that your loved one would still be alive if not for the actions of the other party.
2. Survivor’s compensation needs – You’ll also need to prove that you have suffered financially and emotionally in order to justify compensation from the other party.
3. Designation of a representative for the estate – The court will also need proof that the deceased’s estate has a designated representative.

If you should find yourself in this situation, be sure to get the legal help you need. It’s the first step toward getting the justice you deserve. Cristin Uricchio is a South Carolina personal injury lawyer who handles wrongful death cases. Contact Uricchio Law Firm today to schedule your consultation.

Uricchio Law Firm helps people with personal injury, auto accidents, workplace accidents, medical malpractice, and workers' compensation cases. Contact our general practice law firm in Charleston, SC to learn more.

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What Is a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?

The loss of a loved one due to another person’s negligence is heartbreaking. As you work to come to terms with what’s happened, it’s hard to think about anything else. However, you may be entitled to seek legal action as a result of your loss. Cristin Uricchio is a South Carolina personal injury lawyer who handles wrongful death cases. Here is a basic overview of what these lawsuits mean.

What is a wrongful death lawsuit?

When one person’s negligence or misconduct results in the death of another, the survivors can file a wrongful death lawsuit. This lawsuit gives survivors a chance to seek compensation for their losses, including the loss of companionship and any financial losses.

Can these lawsuits vary state from state?

Yes. That’s why it’s so important for you to seek the guidance of a wrongful death lawyer in Charleston if this has happened to you.

Who can file a wrongful death lawsuit?

Surviving parents, spouses, children, and other immediate family members may make this claim. These types of lawsuits are also brought by the trustee or representative of the deceased’s estate.

If you’ve lost someone you loved due to someone else’s actions, you’ll want to work with a South Carolina personal injury lawyer who understands. Schedule your consultation with Cristin Uricchio by calling Uricchio Law Firm’s Charleston, SC office.

Uricchio Law Firm helps people with personal injury, auto accidents, workplace accidents, medical malpractice, and workers' compensation cases. Contact our general practice law firm in Charleston, SC to learn more.

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4 Factors That May Affect Your Drug Charges in South Carolina

When you’re facing drug charges in South Carolina, it’s important to understand how serious the situation is. Even when you’re working with a drug possession attorney in Charleston, SC, you need to learn as much as you can about these offenses. For example, what are some factors that can affect your drug charges? Here’s some information from Uricchio Law Firm.

1. The number and type of prior offenses you have – A judge will consider the number of times you’ve been convicted of drug possession. The type of offense – such as possession, trafficking, or distribution – will be evaluated, too.
2. The time between any prior offenses and the current one – The time span between your current charge and any past offenses will also be considered.
3. The amount and type of drugs involved in the charge – The amount of drugs in your possession will definitely factor into the deliberations. The courts will consider whether the amount was small enough for one individual or large enough to potentially be distributed. The type of drug will also be taken into account.
4. The packaging of the drugs – The packaging of the drug will come under review. For example, small bags are likely to have been packaged for sale rather than for consumption by the person in possession of the drugs.

These are just a few of the things that will be taken into consideration in your drug case. If you need a drug possession attorney in Charleston, SC, call Uricchio Law Firm today.

Uricchio Law Firm helps people with personal injury, auto accidents, workplace accidents, medical malpractice, and workers' compensation cases. Contact our general practice law firm in Charleston, SC to learn more.

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How Serious Are Drug Charges in South Carolina?

If you’re facing drug possession charges, you’ll need to be ready to discuss the legal consequences of your actions. How serious are drug offenses in South Carolina and how will judges view your charges? The Uricchio Law Firm is here to help you. Learn more now from our drug possession attorney in Charleston.

Is my drug charge a felony?

Some charges may be considered felonies based on certain factors. However, it’s best to meet with a drug possession lawyer to discuss all the details of your case and its potential outcomes.

Can drug charges be viewed as violent crimes?

There are some instances where drug charges are considered violent crimes, even if there weren’t any instances of violence at the time of the incident. In some cases, charges involving the creation or distribution of certain drugs (such as methamphetamine) are considered violent crimes. Again, a drug possession attorney can tell you more about your particular charge.

At what point does a state charge become a federal one?

When an offense involves a large amount of drugs, crosses state borders, or involves multiple parties, it can become a federal charge.

If you need to meet with a drug possession attorney in Charleston, SC, contact Cristin Uricchio of Uricchio Law Firm.

Uricchio Law Firm helps people with personal injury, auto accidents, workplace accidents, medical malpractice, and workers' compensation cases. Contact our general practice law firm in Charleston, SC to learn more.

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Is it Time to Hire a South Carolina Personal Injury Lawyer?

Every step you take to help your personal injury claim will influence the outcome. This is especially true when it comes to hiring a personal injury attorney – and hiring one at the appropriate time. Cristin Uricchio of Uricchio Law Firm would like to discuss when you should hire a South Carolina personal injury lawyer.

• When should I call a lawyer after an incident? While there isn’t a set time limit on calling a lawyer after an accident happens, the sooner you call one, the better. If the event is still fresh in your mind, a lawyer will be better able to build your case.
• What about my insurance company? You should always contact your insurance agency when you’re involved in an accident. However, do note that your insurance company may put their interests above yours. Having a lawyer on your side can be very beneficial when it comes to speaking with insurance companies.
• What about reaching out to physicians? Yes, you should always seek medical care immediately following an accident. This is primarily for your safety and well-being, but it also matters for your case. Your personal injury lawyer will reach out to your physicians and other medical staff as they work on your case. Your lawyer may also be able to pull in medical professionals as expert witnesses.

Get help from a South Carolina personal injury lawyer for your case. Call Uricchio Law Firm today to see how we can help.

Uricchio Law Firm helps people with personal injury, auto accidents, workplace accidents, medical malpractice, and workers' compensation cases. Contact our general practice law firm in Charleston, SC to learn more.

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How to Find a South Carolina Personal Injury Lawyer

When it comes to your personal injury claim, it’s crucial that you get appropriate legal guidance for your case. Before you hire a personal injury attorney, you should do your homework. Uricchio Law Firm has a few tips to help you feel comfortable while you’re searching for a South Carolina personal injury lawyer:

• Ask about experience – As you’re conducting your research on local law firms, look for those that dedicate a considerable amount of time to personal injury cases. You’ll want to work with an attorney who’s had many opportunities to work with clients and handle cases, settlements, and verdicts. These lawyers tend to have a greater knowledge of what to expect as your case travels through the courts.
• Ask about connections – Ask any personal injury lawyer you’re considering about any relevant associations they belong to. Additionally, find out if the firm have resources, such as expert witnesses, that might prove helpful for your case.
• Request a list of referrals – Ask for a list of referrals you can contact. You’ll want to hear from other people about their experiences as they worked with a particular firm.

When you need a South Carolina personal injury lawyer to help you and your family, call Uricchio Law Firm. Our Charleston personal injury attorney, Cristin Uricchio, will work diligently to get the compensation you deserve. See how we can assist you today.

Uricchio Law Firm helps people with personal injury, auto accidents, workplace accidents, medical malpractice, and workers' compensation cases. Contact our general practice law firm in Charleston, SC to learn more.

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3 Mistakes That Can Lead to a Medical Malpractice Claim

Medical malpractice cases are on the rise. Any time you’re under the care of a medical professional or facility, you and your family need to know what to do if an error is made. South Carolina medical malpractice attorney Cristin Uricchio of Uricchio Law Firm wants you to be aware of some common mistakes that can result in a medical malpractice claim:

1. Failure to warn patients about risky procedures or drugs – Many medical malpractice claims are filed because medical professionals fail to fully inform a patient about the risks of a particular drug or procedure. For example, if a doctor doesn’t disclose a serious side effect that could result from a surgery, the patient might be able to file a claim.
2. Failure to properly diagnose a medical condition or illness – Malpractice claims can also stem from a misdiagnosis or failure to diagnose. When conditions aren’t diagnosed or aren’t accurately diagnosed, a patient’s health and well-being can suffer.
3. Failure to follow proper procedures – Medical professionals are obligated to perform certain tasks in certain ways. These include cleanliness and sterilization protocols as well as the steps taken in all types of procedures. Harm can be caused if these steps aren’t followed to the letter.

If you believe you were hurt by a medical error, you need to call a South Carolina medical malpractice attorney who will fight for you. Cristin Uricchio of Uricchio Law Firm will be by your side every step of the way. Call our Charleston, SC office to schedule a free consultation.

Uricchio Law Firm helps people with personal injury, auto accidents, workplace accidents, medical malpractice, and workers' compensation cases. Contact our general practice law firm in Charleston, SC to learn more.

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Why Is Drunk Driving So Dangerous?

Choosing to drink and drive is always a bad decision. When you’re caught, you’ll face very serious consequences. Driving under the influence makes you a danger to everyone on the road. As a Charleston car accident attorney serving the victims of DUI, Cristin Uricchio of Uricchio Law Firm wants you to understand why drunk driving is so dangerous.

Impaired drivers are dangerous drivers.

Alcohol consumption can cause a driver to have trouble seeing, hearing, perceiving depth, and maintaining balance. Even worse, alcohol can slow down a driver’s reaction time. When people get behind the wheel after having a few drinks, they’re automatically disregarding the value of their lives and the lives of others.

Impaired drivers are confused drivers.

A driver under the influence lacks the ability to understand what’s going on. This can result in serious errors in judgement leading to a car crash.

Impaired drivers are out-of-control drivers.

Drunk drivers lack control over themselves and their vehicles. Many deadly accidents have occurred because drivers didn’t know how to respond to a situation on the road – or were on the verge of blacking out.

If you or a loved one have been the innocent victim of a drunk driver, you need a Charleston car accident attorney to fight for you. Hiring a South Carolina personal injury lawyer is the best way to recover damages for the injuries and losses you’ve suffered. Schedule your consultation today with Uricchio Law Firm. Let us get you the justice you deserve.

Uricchio Law Firm helps people with personal injury, auto accidents, workplace accidents, medical malpractice, and workers' compensation cases. Contact our general practice law firm in Charleston, SC to learn more.

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Know the Consequences of a Drunk Driving Accident

If you’re the victim of a drunk driving accident, it can change your life. Charleston car accident attorney Cristin Uricchio of Uricchio Law Firm wants you to know the toll these accidents can take.

Injuries are the first thing you think of with any auto accident. Sadly, it’s rare for a DUI accident to result in no injuries for those involved. The injuries can be quite serious in many cases. Victims may have to endure cuts and gashes, broken bones, and damage to internal organs. In some cases, these injuries can lead to permanent disability or even death.

PTSD can be a secondary consequence of drunk driving accidents. The signs don’t present themselves immediately but can have long-lasting consequences. Symptoms include, but are not limited to, depression, trouble sleeping, reliving the incident, and avoidance of driving.

Financial strain can also result from these crashes. Victims of drunk driving accidents will face costs from medical treatment and damage to their vehicles. If they can’t work, lost wages are also a factor. Hiring a South Carolina personal injury attorney is the first step toward getting appropriate compensation to cover these damages.

If you’ve been hit by a drunk driver, please contact Uricchio Law Firm to speak with a Charleston car accident attorney. Cristin Uricchio is dedicated to helping people get the compensation they deserve for their personal injury cases.

Uricchio Law Firm helps people with personal injury, auto accidents, workplace accidents, medical malpractice, and workers' compensation cases. Contact our general practice law firm in Charleston, SC to learn more.

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5 Common Causes of Intersection Crashes

Auto accidents are a routine occurrence at busy intersections. Unfortunately, the nature of these accidents can cause serious injuries and extensive damage to your vehicle. In a perfect world, we could stop all auto accidents from occurring. But until that happens, your best defense is to stay alert for some of the most common causes of intersection crashes. Charleston car accident attorney Cristin Uricchio of Uricchio Law Firm urges you to be aware of the following situations.

1. Speeding: Not only is going too fast against the law, it can prevent drivers from stopping in time for a stop sign or traffic light. Keep your eyes open for drivers who are speeding whenever you approach an intersection.
2. Tailgating: A vehicle that’s right on your bumper will have a difficult time stopping. Make note of these types of drivers and try to get out of their way when it is safe to do so.
3. Frequent, unpredictable lane changing: Steer clear of drivers that switch lanes without signaling or checking blind spots. Their carelessness can lead to a serious crash.
4. Risky passing and merging: Just like with lane changing, drivers who merge or pass in a dangerous manner may cause a crash when they enter an intersection..
5. Failing to yield and breaking other traffic laws: Failure to yield the right of way is one of the most common causes of intersection crashes. Be mindful of this and other traffic laws as you drive and observe other drivers.

If you’ve been hurt in an intersection crash or any other type of auto accident, call Uricchio Law Firm to tell us your story. Our Charleston car accident attorney, Cristin Uricchio, will review your case and let you know about your legal options.

Uricchio Law Firm helps people with personal injury, auto accidents, workplace accidents, medical malpractice, and workers' compensation cases. Contact our general practice law firm in Charleston, SC to learn more.

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5 Questions to Ask a South Carolina Personal Injury Lawyer

Finding the right attorney is vital when you need to build a strong personal injury case. As you try to find the right South Carolina personal injury lawyer for you, it’s important that you ask some important questions. Here are five critical things to ask according to the personal injury attorney in Charleston, SC at Uricchio Law Firm:

1. Is personal injury law a primary area of your practice? When you first call a South Carolina personal injury lawyer, you’ll want to ask them about their firm’s areas of practice. You want to hire an attorney who devotes a lot of time to personal injury law.
2. What is your experience and success rate with personal injury cases? Ask the attorney about his or her level of experience with these types of cases. How familiar are they with South Carolina’s court system? How successful are they in getting appropriate settlements for their clients?
3. How do you communicate with clients? Ask a law firm about their communications policies. You’ll want to work with an attorney who will keep you well-informed throughout the process.
4. How many cases are you currently working on? Ask about the lawyer’s current case load. Choose someone who will have time to devote to your case.
5. May I have a list of referrals? Ask the lawyer for a list of past personal injury clients who are willing to provide a referral. Talking to people who’ve had similar experiences will give you a good idea of what an attorney can do for you.

If you need an experienced South Carolina personal injury lawyer, contact Uricchio Law Firm. Our personal injury attorney in Charleston, Cristin Uricchio, will listen to your story and determine if she can assist you with your case.

Uricchio Law Firm helps people with personal injury, auto accidents, workplace accidents, medical malpractice, and workers' compensation cases. Contact our general practice law firm in Charleston, SC to learn more.

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4 Good Qualities of a South Carolina Personal Injury Lawyer

Trying to prove that you were harmed due to the negligence of another person is nearly impossible to do on your own. Instead, it’s always best if you seek legal assistance from a South Carolina personal injury lawyer. According to Uricchio Law Firm, there are four important qualities to look for in a personal injury attorney in Charleston, SC:

1. Years of experience – Does the South Carolina personal injury lawyer you’re talking to consider this a main focus of his or her practice? Ask about their experience in this area of the law. The more experience and the more time your attorney devotes to personal injury work, the more knowledge they’ll have to apply to your case.
2. A high success rate – Only work with a personal injury lawyer who has a high success rate in these types of cases. Choosing the right attorney will make you feel more confident when it’s time for your day in court.
3. Excellent resources – What types of resources can a law firm provide for your case? Do they work with highly qualified expert witnesses? These resources can make a big difference, especially if your case goes in front of a jury.
4. Excellent references – Ask your lawyer for references from other personal injury clients. This information will give you a good idea of how an attorney works with clients and the results they’ve gotten in the past.

Call Uricchio Law Firm when you need a South Carolina personal injury lawyer. Cristin Uricchio, our personal injury attorney in Charleston, SC, brings experience, knowledge, and dedication to every case.

Uricchio Law Firm helps people with personal injury, auto accidents, workplace accidents, medical malpractice, and workers' compensation cases. Contact our general practice law firm in Charleston, SC to learn more.

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Can I File a Lawsuit for a Dog Bite?

Auto accidents, medical malpractice, workplace injuries, slip-and-falls – a personal injury attorney in South Carolina can help with all of these claims. Dog bites are another common type of personal injury. The Uricchio Law Firm wants you to know your rights if you’ve been bitten by a dog.

First, you’ll need to review your state’s laws regarding dog injury claims. Every state has certain limitations, requirements, and other guidelines when it comes to these cases. Talk to us today if you’d like to learn about South Carolina’s state laws regarding dog bites.

It’s equally important to determine who was liable in the situation. Did anyone provoke the dog? Did the owner give any warning about their dog? If the owner was liable, then a dog bite could very well warrant a personal injury claim. With this in mind, make sure you consult with an attorney and share all the details you can about the incident.

If you had to pay any expenses in order to recover from the dog bite, a legal claim would help you pay these costs. This is one of the major reasons why any person files a personal injury claim. Again, before you take legal action, review your case with a personal injury attorney in South Carolina.

If you’ve been hurt as the result of a dog bite, call Uricchio Law Firm. Our personal injury attorney in South Carolina, Cristin Uricchio, has successfully represented many clients in these types of cases.

Uricchio Law Firm helps people with personal injury, auto accidents, workplace accidents, medical malpractice, and workers' compensation cases. Contact our general practice law firm in Charleston, SC to learn more.

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Can I File a Lawsuit for a Slip-and-Fall Injury?

A personal injury attorney in South Carolina can handle many different types of cases. But in addition to the types of injuries you seem to hear about the most (such as auto accidents, motorcycle accidents, and other vehicle accidents), personal injury lawyers also work with slip-and-fall victims. Today, Uricchio Law Firm wants to share more information on how this type of accident can warrant a personal injury lawsuit.

First and foremost, you need to prove that someone knew of the hazardous area where you fell and chose to not take care of the situation. A personal injury lawyer can sort through the details to prove that the business was negligent.

If you had to pay any money as a result of your slip-and-fall, you may be able to file a personal injury claim. These expenses could include but are not limited to the cost medical treatment, doctor’s visits, prescription medications, and loss of income.

If you believe your slip-and-fall accident may be grounds for a lawsuit, call Uricchio Law Firm today. As an expert personal injury attorney in South Carolina, Cristin Uricchio will help you get the most compensation possible for your personal injury claim. Let us help make your life a little easier as you recover from your injuries.

Uricchio Law Firm helps people with personal injury, auto accidents, workplace accidents, medical malpractice, and workers' compensation cases. Contact our general practice law firm in Charleston, SC to learn more.

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5 Ways to Avoid a Motorcycle Accident

Motorcycle accidents can result in some of the most serious injuries possible. If you own a bike, it’s important to take precautions so this doesn’t happen to you. As your Charleston motorcycle accident lawyer, Cristin Uricchio of Uricchio Law Firm has some tips on how you can stay safe on the road:

1. Make sure drivers see you – Most motorcycle accidents happen because the driver of a vehicle doesn’t see a biker. Keep your headlight on at all times. Wear colored clothing and helmets to increase your visibility during the day. Wear reflective clothing so drivers can see you at night.
2. Don’t rely on a loud exhaust – No matter how loud your exhaust is, a driver still has to be near you to hear it. Loud exhausts aren’t a trustworthy form of protection on the road.
3. Never assume right-of-way – Even though you may have the right-of-way, play it safe. Always keep a close eye on vehicles before you move through an intersection. Never assume that drivers will yield to you.
4. Be careful at turns – A sharp turn could result in a terrible crash. Always pick a “crash spot” before you make a turn. Should you lose control, try to make it to a place that will result in the least amount of impact possible.
5. Change lanes as needed – Many accidents happen from behind. If a vehicle is riding too close behind you, switch to a new lane.

Sometimes a crash can’t be avoided, even if you’re careful. If you’ve suffered injuries in a motorcycle accident, please call Uricchio Law Firm today. Our firm’s Charleston motorcycle accident lawyer, Cristin Uricchio, will review your case and help you receive the compensation you deserve.

Uricchio Law Firm helps people with personal injury, auto accidents, workplace accidents, medical malpractice, and workers' compensation cases. Contact our general practice law firm in Charleston, SC to learn more.

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Can You File a Personal Injury Claim for Your Motorcycle Accident?

You may already know that if you’re involved in an auto accident, you may be able to file a personal injury claim. But is the same true for motorcycle accidents? Charleston motorcycle accident lawyer Cristin Uricchio has extensive experience with cases like these. Generally speaking, if the following circumstances occur in a motorcycle accident, you may not qualify for a personal injury claim:

• Breaking the law – If your accident occurred because you broke the law, your case probably won’t qualify for a personal injury claim.
• No other parties involved – If there’s no one to make a case against, then there cannot be a claim. Riders who receive injuries from self-induced accidents cannot file a personal injury claim.
• Forces of nature – You cannot make a personal injury case against wildlife, weather, or other so-called “acts of God.”
• Tire failures – Tire-related claims can be tricky. That’s because tires have strict design guidelines and mounting requirements. Our team can investigate to determine if there was a manufacturing defect or to prove that a mechanic failed to mount your tire as required.

If you believe your motorcycle accident qualifies for a personal injury claim, call Uricchio Law Firm. As an experienced Charleston motorcycle accident lawyer, Cristin Uricchio will work tirelessly to get you the compensation you deserve.

Uricchio Law Firm helps people with personal injury, auto accidents, workplace accidents, medical malpractice, and workers' compensation cases. Contact our general practice law firm in Charleston, SC to learn more.

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