When Your Back Is Against The Wall

Myrtle Beach Medical Malpractice Lawyers

Myrtle Beach is known for its vibrant coastal lifestyle, world-class resorts, and bustling medical centers that serve both residents and visitors year-round. But when medical care falls short of acceptable standards, the results can be devastating. Whether it happens in a hospital, urgent care clinic, or private practice, medical negligence can turn a routine procedure into a life-altering tragedy.

At Lanier Law Group, we represent individuals and families in Myrtle Beach who have suffered due to preventable medical errors. We understand that these cases are more than legal matters—they are about lives interrupted, futures altered, and justice that must be pursued. If you suspect that medical negligence has caused you or a loved one harm, our experienced medical malpractice attorneys are here to guide you every step of the way.

Understanding Medical Malpractice: What It Is—and Isn’t

Medical malpractice occurs when a healthcare provider fails to meet the accepted standard of care, and that failure results in injury or death. The “standard of care” refers to the actions a reasonably competent medical professional would have taken under the same circumstances.

In South Carolina, proving malpractice requires four key elements:

Duty: The provider had a legal obligation to treat you.
Breach: They failed to meet the standard of care.
Causation: Their actions (or inaction) directly caused your injury.
Damages: You suffered measurable harm as a result.

It’s important to note that not every unfavorable outcome qualifies as malpractice. Medicine carries risks, and complications can occur even when providers do everything right. What matters is whether the harm could have been avoided had proper care been taken.

Misconceptions About Medical Malpractice

Many people delay seeking legal help because of misunderstandings about how medical malpractice works. Here are a few of the most common misconceptions:

“If I signed a consent form, I can’t sue.”

Consent forms acknowledge that you understand certain risks, but they don’t give providers a free pass to act negligently. If your injury resulted from a preventable mistake, you still have the right to pursue a claim.

“Only doctors can be sued.”

While physicians are often named in malpractice suits, they are far from the only responsible parties. Nurses, anesthesiologists, radiologists, pharmacists, and even entire hospitals can be held accountable if their negligence caused harm.

“Malpractice claims are only about money.”

For many victims, it’s about more than financial compensation. It’s about holding providers accountable, uncovering the truth, and preventing similar harm to others.

“If treatment failed, it must be malpractice.”

Medical procedures don’t always go as planned, even under proper care. A poor result doesn’t automatically mean negligence occurred. An experienced attorney can help determine whether malpractice was involved.

Understanding what malpractice truly is—and isn’t—is crucial to deciding whether to move forward with a legal claim.

To get started, call 919-342-1368 today.

Who’s to Blame? Determining Liability in Medical Malpractice Cases

When investigating a potential malpractice claim, it’s critical to identify every party whose actions may have contributed to the injury. Liability can extend beyond a single provider and often involves a web of individuals and institutions who share responsibility for patient care. Medical treatment is rarely delivered by a single practitioner, and a breakdown at any point in the system can lead to devastating consequences.

Physicians and Surgeons

These professionals are often the most visible part of a patient’s treatment team. They bear responsibility for diagnosing conditions, recommending treatments, and performing procedures. When a physician fails to diagnose an illness, chooses an inappropriate course of treatment, or makes a critical error during surgery, the consequences can be catastrophic. Failure to obtain informed consent before a procedure is another form of negligence that can give rise to a claim.

Nurses and Medical Technicians

Nurses play a vital role in patient safety by administering medications, monitoring vital signs, and communicating concerns to physicians. A missed dosage, overlooked symptom, or failure to follow protocols can create a cascade of harm. Similarly, technicians who perform diagnostic tests or assist in procedures must adhere to precise standards—errors here can compromise care before a doctor even reviews the results.

Hospitals and Clinics

Medical facilities may be held liable for system-wide failures such as inadequate staffing, poor hiring practices, unsanitary conditions, or lack of proper oversight. A hospital that doesn’t provide sufficient support to its staff, fails to maintain clean and safe environments, or cuts corners in training is contributing to an unsafe healthcare system. These systemic issues often play a major role in malpractice cases.

Radiologists and Lab Professionals

Proper diagnosis depends on accurate testing and interpretation. If a radiologist misreads a scan or a lab technician contaminates a specimen, the patient may receive the wrong diagnosis—or no diagnosis at all. These mistakes often go unnoticed until the patient’s condition worsens, sometimes irreversibly.

Pharmacists and Pharmacies

Dispensing the correct medication at the right dosage is crucial. Pharmacists must review prescriptions for potential interactions or contraindications. A simple oversight, like giving the wrong drug or dose, can turn routine treatment into a medical emergency.

At Lanier Law Group, we investigate all aspects of a patient’s care to identify every party that may have played a role in the harm caused. Our comprehensive approach ensures no one is overlooked and no avenue for accountability is left unexplored.

What You Can Recover: Damages in Myrtle Beach Malpractice Cases

If you’ve suffered due to medical malpractice, South Carolina law allows you to pursue several categories of compensation to help you move forward. These damages are intended not only to offset financial losses but also to recognize the emotional and personal toll of your injury. At Lanier Law Group, we focus on building a full and fair accounting of these damages, ensuring your case captures the true scope of your suffering and recovery needs.

Economic Damages

Economic damages are the measurable, out-of-pocket expenses tied directly to your injury. These typically include your past and future medical expenses, such as hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, and follow-up care. If you require long-term treatments, assistive devices like wheelchairs, or home modifications to accommodate a disability, these costs should be factored into your compensation.

In addition, if you were unable to work because of the injury, you may be entitled to recover lost wages. If your ability to earn a living has been permanently affected—whether because you can no longer work the same job or have had to leave the workforce entirely—you can also claim diminished earning capacity. We work with financial and vocational experts to project these losses accurately.

Non-Economic Damages

These damages focus on the personal, emotional, and subjective losses that arise from a malpractice injury. They include the physical pain and suffering you’ve endured, as well as the emotional toll of living with a disfigurement, disability, or reduced quality of life. For some, the trauma of medical negligence leads to depression, anxiety, or PTSD, and these symptoms can be just as life-altering as the physical injuries themselves.

Loss of enjoyment of life is another form of non-economic damage—referring to the inability to participate in activities and hobbies that once brought joy. In wrongful death cases, surviving loved ones may also seek compensation for the loss of companionship, love, and guidance.

While non-economic damages can be more difficult to calculate than economic ones, they are equally important. At Lanier Law Group, we use testimony, medical evaluations, and personal accounts to bring these losses to life in negotiations or court.

Punitive Damages

In rare but particularly egregious cases, South Carolina law allows for punitive damages. These are not meant to compensate the victim, but to punish the at-fault provider and send a clear message that gross negligence or intentional misconduct will not be tolerated. Cases involving reckless behavior, fraud, or willful violation of medical protocols may qualify for punitive awards.

Because these damages are awarded at the court’s discretion and require a higher burden of proof, it’s important to work with a law firm experienced in making these arguments. We thoroughly investigate each case to determine whether punitive damages are warranted and pursue them aggressively when appropriate.

We understand that no amount of compensation can undo the harm done—but it can provide the means for recovery, dignity, and security moving forward. Whether through strategic negotiation or courtroom litigation, Lanier Law Group is committed to recovering the full value of what you’ve lost.

How to Build a Strong Case: Steps to Take After Suspected Negligence

The steps you take immediately after suspecting medical malpractice can significantly affect your legal case. Documentation, timing, and the right legal advice all play critical roles in strengthening your position and preserving your right to pursue compensation. Acting strategically from the start can make the difference between a dismissed claim and a successful resolution.

Seek a Second Opinion

Your health is your top priority. If you’re concerned about a diagnosis, procedure, or lack of progress, consult another provider as soon as possible. A second opinion can not only confirm that something went wrong but also help mitigate further harm. This provider may also become a key witness in supporting your claim.

Request Your Medical Records

Medical records serve as the backbone of any malpractice case. These include physician notes, imaging results, prescriptions, surgical reports, and communications between healthcare providers. Be sure to request a complete set, and do so early—some institutions are slow to respond, and delays can limit your ability to act. These records provide a timeline and factual foundation that can be used to identify negligence.

Document Everything

Your personal documentation is equally important. Keep a daily journal noting your symptoms, pain levels, emotional state, and limitations. Record conversations with healthcare providers, track appointments, and save all related paperwork. These real-time accounts provide a layer of evidence that can show how the injury has impacted your life.

Avoid Signing Anything

After an incident, hospitals and insurers may present documents for you to sign, such as waivers, settlement offers, or releases. These often limit your legal options and may be presented as standard procedure. Do not sign anything related to your care or compensation until you’ve consulted with an attorney who can review the implications.

Contact a Medical Malpractice Attorney

Time is not on your side. South Carolina law imposes strict deadlines—known as statutes of limitations—for filing a malpractice claim. These deadlines vary depending on the circumstances, and missing them can permanently bar you from recovering damages. Involving an attorney early ensures you stay on track, gather the right evidence, and build a compelling case from the start.

At Lanier Law Group, we know the tactics hospitals and insurers use to avoid accountability. We step in early, handle communications, gather records, and bring in medical experts to analyze your care. From start to finish, our goal is to build a strong, detailed case that positions you for the best possible outcome.

Why Lanier Law Group Is the Right Choice for Myrtle Beach

Since 1997, Lanier Law Group has provided strategic, compassionate representation to victims of negligence throughout the Carolinas. We are known for our relentless advocacy, our ability to take on major hospitals and insurers, and our commitment to every client we represent.

Our medical malpractice lawyers combine legal experience with genuine compassion. We take the time to understand your story, explain your rights, and fight for the outcome you deserve. Our team includes investigators, legal strategists, and medical consultants, all working together to deliver results.

We also work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. That allows you to focus on your health while we focus on your case.

Ready to Take Action? Schedule a Free Consultation Today

If you believe you or a loved one has been harmed by medical negligence in Myrtle Beach, don’t wait to get answers. The road to justice begins with a single call.

Contact Lanier Law Group at 919-342-1368 or reach out online to schedule a free, confidential consultation. Our Myrtle Beach medical malpractice attorneys are ready to help you pursue the accountability and compensation you deserve.

Your road to recovery starts now. Call 919-342-1368 or contact us online for a free consultation. Let us take on the legal battle so you can focus on healing and moving forward.

We Won't Back Down

Lanier Law Group is Here When Results Matter Most

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Myrtle Beach

We Fight for Our Clients

*Featured Case Results, Settlements, & Trial Wins From Our Attorneys

$4.8 Million

Settlement

A case with multiple plaintiffs who were potentially exposed to a deadly disease while in the hospital.

$3.1 Million

Birth Injury/Hypoxic Brain Injury

The OB doctor’s negligence caused a delay in the baby’s birth which resulted in the baby suffering of a severe hypoxic brain injury.

$1.375 Million

Medication Overdose/Hospital Negligence

Our client died following an overdose of medication that occurred as a result of the negligence of the nursery staff while they were in the hospital.

$1.2 Million

Birth Injury/Developmental Delay

Our client suffers from a severe developmental delay following a birth injury when there were signs of fetal distress that were not responded to.

$500,000

Botched Gall Bladder Surgery

Our client suffered an injury to their common bile duct during a laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

$425,000

Surgical Error

A client had their bowel perforated during a ventral hernia repair.

We Never Back Down From a Fight

Featured Reviews, Testimonials & Results

"20 out of 10 stars."

There are times in your life you are so hurt and feel life has a grudge against you. Nothing in your life is going right. I lost the most important person in my life to death, of which I knew mistakes were made because I witnessed it with my own eyes. When you contact a law group you most of the time get all business and a matter of fact conversation. I want all to know that from the first phone call they listened to my lengthy story, sobbing most of the time with so much compassion. They never made any promises but offered assurances that no stone would be unturned. They fulfilled every word they said. They restored faith that I had lost. Until you are in a position like mine you can never know how invaluable Lanier Law Group is. They were wonderful while maintaining their professionalism. They treated me like a family member. They really do care about their clients. But most of all they are the best at what they do. I worked in the court system for years so I knew how attorneys and law firms basically operated. Understanding the law and it’s interpretation is the ultimate key to winning any case. Also know that if an attorney/attorneys study and review your case and know that you don’t have a chance in a court of law and are big enough to tell you that instead of giving you false hope, you then my friend have a group with valuable shared values. I have so much respect for everyone in this Law Group. I recommend Lanier Law Group, P.A. to anyone who needs representation, they are in your corner. 20 out of 10 stars.

- Diane W.

"Lanier Law Group will always be the choice for me and all my family members"

I started working with Lanier Law Group in 2020 on my Social Security Disability case. They from start to finish were awesome. My case manager Janet Hanks and attorney, Ashley Sappenfield were always available to answer all my questions. I did not have to do much but sit back and let them handle whatever was needed. My case took too long (2 years) and if I did not have Janet and Ashley My case would still not be approved. I would recommend Lanier to anyone to get the job done and approved. Do not go to another firm with your case, who promise the world and do not see it to completion and do not think another firms would have worked as hard as they did on my case. Lanier Law Group will always be the choice for me and all my family members to handle any cases of this type and other legal services they provide. They went above and beyond!

- Phillip J.

"So thankful for your expertise and professionalism"

Mrs. Gonzalez did an awesome job of explaining everything in detail and keeping me informed on the status of my case. Despite poor customer service with the insurance company, Mrs. Gonzalez was able to fix what they could not. Mrs. Gonzalez was very helpful with helping me understand things that I was not aware of when dealing with insurance claims. I am so thankful for her expertise and professionalism.

- Mario H.

"Always ready to answer any questions I may have"

The staff kept me well informed in a more than timely manner and was always ready to answer any questions I may have.

- Timothy M.

"The Lanier Law Group provided excellent customer service!"

The Lanier Law Group provided excellent customer service! My main contact was Denise.

- Malinda P.

Respect. Integrity. Passion.

Our Commitment to Our Clients

We Come Prepared

After an injury, every second counts. We are available to meet with you in person, virtually, or at your location to provide the highest quality legal counsel.

We're In Your Corner

Every case we take on has a team of dedicated professionals assigned to make sure that we're delivering the best possible service and results.

We're Here For You 24/7

Regardless of when you contact our firm, we're here to make sure that you get the answers you need. We also offer weekend appointments and consultations.

We Never Back Down

Our attorneys are confident taking cases to trial and will always seek to maximize your compensation.