South Carolina Family Receives Almost $1 Million After Filing Wrongful Death Claim
In late December of 2026, Live 5 WCSC reported that a family in South Carolina had received almost $1 million for a wrongful death lawsuit involving a botched medical procedure. The payout reminds us that when families suffer preventable deaths, they at least have a legal avenue through which to pursue compensation. If you find yourself in a similar situation after losing a loved one, you might want to contact an experienced South Carolina wrongful death lawyer.
Man Becomes Paralyzed After Botched Epidural
According to Live 5 WCSC, this case revolves around a botched epidural. In 2022, the 69-year-old visited MUSC in Charleston with complaints of persistent back pain. The victim then received an epidural at MUSC, which left him paralyzed. He could not move his legs after the procedure, and he saw neurosurgeons to try to determine the root cause.
The neurosurgeons told him that his paralysis had been caused by the epidural. From that point on, there wasn’t much doctors could do. After the victim eventually passed away, his family decided to file a wrongful death lawsuit on his behalf. In the lawsuit, they argued that MUSC had carried out a reckless and negligent medical procedure that directly led to his eventual death. The family then accepted a settlement of $975,000.
How Common Is Paralysis After an Epidural?
Paralysis caused by epidurals is supposed to be extremely rare. Most medical sources say that the chances of this happening are 1 in 1 million, although the official statistics seem to vary depending on who you ask. Sometimes, the needle breaks during this procedure, causing serious consequences for victims.
As with all procedures, it is important that the doctor actually knows how to perform an epidural with confidence. Various mistakes could potentially lead to paralysis, including improper needle placement, incorrect dosages, and more.
Can Epidural Mistakes Lead to Wrongful Death Lawsuits?
Yes, epidural mistakes can lead to wrongful death lawsuits. However, plaintiffs in this situation must establish gross and reckless negligence. Doctors are allowed to make mistakes, and their conduct must go against normal practices and procedures to constitute negligence. Consider contacting an experienced wrongful death attorney to determine whether a botched procedure can lead to a valid claim.
What Is an Epidural?
An epidural is an injection that goes into the spinal nerves. Because of its close proximity to the spine and central nervous system, the consequences of a mistake can lead to nerve damage and paralysis. Epidurals are most commonly used for pain relief.
Can a South Carolina Wrongful Death Lawyer Help Me?
A wrongful death lawyer in South Carolina may be able to help if you’re searching for answers after losing your loved one. Whether the death was caused by a negligent driver, a botched medical procedure, an assault at a restaurant, or any other factor, you at least deserve the right to discuss your legal options with an attorney. Continue this conversation by contacting Mickelsen & Dalton, LLC today.
Sources:
live5news.com/2025/12/26/sc-mans-estate-receives-nearly-1m-payout-after-wrongful-death-lawsuit/
my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/21896-epidural
