Orangeburg Car Accident Lawyer

Dedicated Orangeburg Car Accident Attorney

A severe collision can cause drivers and passengers serious injuries, costly medical bills, lost wages, and many unanswered questions. If you’re looking for an Orangeburg car accident lawyer, learning about South Carolina car accident laws and the legal process could allow you to make educated decisions after an accident.

Vehicle collisions happen across Orangeburg, including on busy roads like Interstate 26, US Route 301, Highway 601, and at local intersections countywide. Even low-speed accidents can lead to serious injuries requiring long-term medical treatment, physical therapy, and time off work.

About the Law Office of Charles T. Brooks III

The Law Office of Charles T. Brooks III has been serving customers in Sumter, Orangeburg, Camden, Florence, Charleston, Columbia, Manning, and other South Carolina cities since 1996.

Car accident claims, truck accident cases, personal injury cases, wrongful death cases, criminal defense cases, and family law problems are all handled by our firm. We are dedicated to giving our clients accurate information, prompt communication, and committed legal advice based on their unique situation.

Car Accident Laws in South Carolina

In 2023 in South Carolina, there were 976 fatal collisions and 2,041 serious injury collisions. Additionally, 110,128 collisions resulted in only property damage. South Carolina sees its fair share of accidents.

South Carolina operates under a system based on fault when it comes to motor vehicle accidents. In general, this means that the person who caused the accident could be financially responsible for the damages. Victims may be able to pursue insurance claims or personal injury claims to recover compensation, depending on the facts of their car accident case.

One law that plays a role in many car accident claims is South Carolina’s modified comparative negligence law. Under South Carolina’s modified comparative negligence statute, victims can recover damages even if they were partially at fault. However, if an injured person was found to be over 50% responsible for causing the accident, they would be barred from receiving compensation.

South Carolina’s statute of limitations also plays a role in injury claims. Generally speaking, injured victims have three years to file a personal injury claim starting at the date of the accident. If you fail to file your claim within three years, your opportunity to recover monetary compensation may be gone forever.

Common Causes of Car Accidents

There are many reasons why car accidents occur; however, human error is one of the leading causes. Some of the common causes of car accidents include:

• Distracted driving. Drivers who are distracted by their phones, GPS systems, food, or other objects may not notice changing traffic conditions before it is too late to avoid an accident.
• Speeding. Speeding also contributes to car accidents in South Carolina. Not only do drivers have less time to react when they are driving faster, but the damage caused by high-speed collisions is often more severe.
• Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol can also cause accidents. Drinking impairs a driver’s judgment, motor skills, and reaction time, which can lead to a collision.
• Inclement weather. Bad weather also has the potential to increase the risk of accidents. Rain, fog, and wet roadways can make it more difficult to operate a vehicle safely.

Other common reasons include failure to yield, ignoring road signs, tailgating, and driving while drowsy. In order to determine liability, you need to figure out exactly how the accident happened. This typically requires significant evidence, including photo and video evidence and witness statements.

Hire a Car Accident Lawyer in Orangeburg, SC

People decide to hire a car accident lawyer for many reasons. Insurance settlements and injury claims can present complex legal and financial issues. Serious injury claims may require detailed paperwork and negotiation before your compensation matter is settled. Representing clients after a car wreck may include reviewing the crash report, obtaining medical evidence, speaking with insurance adjusters, and analyzing liability based on South Carolina car accident law.

Insurance companies can settle some car accident injury claims. Others might need to file a claim in court and go through the litigation process. Every car accident claim is different, but it is often based on injury severity, insurance coverage, and disputed fault. An Orangeburg car accident attorney can help you.

FAQs About Orangeburg, SC Car Accident Laws

What Is the Average Settlement for a Car Accident in South Carolina?

Settlements for car accidents in South Carolina can range depending on how badly someone was hurt and what type of treatment they needed to recover. Other factors include loss of income, damages to personal property, and the amount of available insurance coverage. Some minor car accidents only settle for small amounts. Serious accidents with permanent injuries can yield high amounts of compensation.

Is It Worth Hiring an Attorney After a Car Accident?

Some people decide to hire an attorney after being involved in a car accident. Injury claims can become complex very quickly. Insurers may deny fault, challenge medical care, or provide a low-ball settlement that doesn’t cover future costs. Lawyers can review your evidence, correspond with the insurance company, and explain your legal choices. If you don’t feel comfortable handling an injury claim on your own, consider speaking to an attorney.

What Should I Not Say to a Car Insurance Company After an Accident?

After being involved in a car accident, you should generally avoid admitting fault, speculating about injuries, or making statements that downplay the accident. Saying you are fine or that the accident was your fault can come back to haunt you later on in the claims process. Drivers should also avoid speculating about what occurred if they don’t know for sure. You should only offer basic information and let the facts speak for themselves.

What Is the Three-Collision Rule?

The three-collision rule is often mentioned when discussing accident investigations and injury causation. This term describes the three collisions that occur during a crash. The vehicle collides with something, the occupant collides with some portion of the vehicle’s interior, and internal organs collide with the skeleton upon impact. The rule is usually used to describe how serious injuries can result from accidents that seem minor.

Contact an Orangeburg Car Accident Attorney at the Law Office of Charles T. Brooks III Today

If you have been injured in a car accident in Orangeburg, SC, the Law Office of Charles T. Brooks III can help you. Contact us today for more information.