Were you or someone you love involved in a car accident in Charleston, South Carolina? You may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain, and suffering. That’s where Ty Robinson Law Firm can help. Contact our Charleston car accident lawyer at (843) 278-2222. today for a free consultation.
However, navigating the legal system and dealing with insurance companies can be stressful—especially if you’re recovering from serious injuries.
Our car accident attorney has over half a decade of experience handling personal injury claims and has recovered millions of dollars for our clients. We understand that each case is unique and that the aftermath of a crash can leave you feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. With our guidance, you can focus on getting better while we handle the details of your claim.
Call our Charleston car accident attorney today. We’ll listen to your story, explain your legal options, and help you understand the best path forward in Charleston, SC. There are no obligations and no upfront fees—just honest advice and support during a challenging time.
How Ty Robinson Law Firm Can Help After a Car Accident in Charleston, SC
Car accident cases can be complicated. Insurance companies may try to minimize your claim, argue about fault, or pressure you into a quick but unfair settlement. Without the right representation, you could end up with far less money than you need to move on with your life.
When you hire our Charleston personal injury lawyer, you gain a dedicated team that knows how to stand up to insurance companies and at-fault parties.
Our Charleston car accident attorney will:
- Investigate thoroughly: We’ll gather evidence like police reports, photos, videos, and witness statements to build a strong foundation for your claim.
- Calculate damages carefully: We’ll consider not just your current medical bills and lost wages but also future expenses and the impact on your quality of life.
- Handle all communication with the insurance companies: We’ll deal with the insurance adjusters and defense lawyers on your behalf, so you don’t have to worry about saying the wrong thing.
- Negotiate firmly: If the insurance company offers a low settlement, we’ll push back and fight for every dollar you deserve.
- Go to court if needed: While many cases settle, we’re ready to present your case to a jury if that’s what it takes to achieve a fair outcome.
Our goal is to reduce your stress while maximizing your compensation. With our help, you can focus on healing, knowing that a skilled Charleston car accident lawyer is working hard to protect your interests. Contact our personal injury law firm in Charleston, SC, today for a free case review.
Why Should I Hire a Car Accident Lawyer in Charleston?
You might wonder if you really need an attorney. Technically, you can handle a claim on your own, but having a personal injury attorney often makes a significant difference:
- Evening the playing field: Insurance companies deal with claims every day. They have adjusters, lawyers, and resources at their disposal. Hiring a lawyer ensures you have someone equally skilled on your side.
- Accurate claim valuation: A lawyer knows how to calculate the full value of your claim, including medical costs, future treatments, lost income, and non-economic damages like pain and suffering.
- Protecting your rights: Insurance companies might try to place blame on you or argue that your injuries aren’t severe. A lawyer can counter these tactics and keep the focus on the other party’s negligence.
- Handling the legal details: Filing paperwork, meeting deadlines, and understanding state laws are simpler when you have legal counsel guiding you.
- Better outcomes: Studies show that, even after attorney’s fees, people with lawyers often end up with more compensation than those who go it alone.
In short, hiring a car accident lawyer can give you peace of mind, save you time, and improve your chances of getting a fair settlement for your personal injury case.
How Much Money Can I Get From a Car Accident Claim in Charleston?
There’s no fixed formula for the value of a car accident claim, as each case is unique.
Several factors can influence how much money you might receive:
- Injury severity: Serious injuries that require surgeries, long-term rehab, or lead to permanent disabilities often result in higher settlements or verdicts.
- Medical expenses: The cost of your past, present, and future treatments all matter.
- Lost wages and earning capacity: If you miss work or can’t return to the same job, that increases your claim’s worth.
- Non-economic damages: Pain, suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life can all add to the total value.
- Evidence strength: Clear proof of fault and well-documented injuries often lead to better offers from insurance companies.
- Comparative fault: If you share blame for the accident, that could lower your compensation.
Your lawyer can give you an estimate of what your claim might be worth after reviewing the details. While no attorney can guarantee a specific amount, we can work hard to ensure you don’t settle for less than you need.
How Long Do I Have To File a Car Accident Lawsuit in South Carolina?
South Carolina law sets a statute of limitations for car accident lawsuits. In most cases, you have three years from the date of the crash to file your claim in court. If you miss this deadline, you likely lose your right to seek compensation, no matter how strong your case might be.
There are some exceptions, such as when a minor is involved or if the defendant is a government entity. It’s best to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible after your accident. The sooner you start, the easier it is to gather evidence and build a solid case.
What Types of Compensation Are Available After a Car Accident in Charleston, SC?
Car accident victims in South Carolina may pursue both economic and non-economic damages. These are called “compensatory damages” and aim to make you whole again as best as possible.
Overall, you may be able to recover:
- Economic damages: Covering financial losses like medical bills, rehabilitation costs, property damage, and lost wages. If you need ongoing care, those future expenses count as well.
- Non-economic damages: These address more subjective losses, such as pain, suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
- Punitive damages: In rare cases, if the at-fault party’s conduct was extremely reckless or intentional, the court may award punitive damages to punish that behavior.
Your attorney can help you understand which types of damages apply to your case and the best strategy for securing them.
How Much Does It Cost To Hire a Car Accident Attorney in Charleston, South Carolina?
Many car accident lawyers in Charleston, SC, work on a contingency fee basis.
A contingency fee arrangement means:
- No upfront fees
- No hourly charges
- We only get paid if we recover compensation for you
If we win your case, we’ll take a percentage of the settlement or verdict. If we don’t win, you pay no attorney’s fees. This setup ensures that everyone can afford quality legal representation and motivates us to fight for the maximum amount possible.
Can I Get Money if I Was Partially Responsible for My Accident?
South Carolina follows a “modified comparative negligence” law. Under this rule, you can still recover compensation as long as you are not mostly at fault for the crash. If you are found to be 51% or more responsible, you lose your right to damages. If you are less than 51% at fault, you can still recover, but your award will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
For example, if you’re 10% at fault and your damages total $200,000, you’d receive $180,000. Having a lawyer can help reduce the chances that you’ll be unfairly blamed for the accident. We’ll gather evidence and present a strong case, pushing back against attempts to shift responsibility onto you.
Will My Car Accident Case Go To Trial?
Not every case goes to trial. In fact, many car accident claims are settled before reaching the courtroom. Trials can be time-consuming and expensive for both sides. Insurance companies often prefer to settle if the victim’s attorney has built a strong case.
Settlements can provide a quicker resolution and ensure you receive money sooner. However, if the insurance company won’t offer a fair amount, we’re fully prepared to take your case to trial. Our willingness to go to court can also encourage insurers to offer better settlements. Whether your case settles or goes to trial, we’ll guide you through each step, making sure your voice is heard and your interests are protected.
What Should I Do After a Car Accident in Charleston?
The steps you take after a crash can affect your claim.
It is helpful to do the following after a collision:
- Seek medical attention: Get checked out by a doctor, even if you feel okay. Some injuries don’t show symptoms right away.
- Call the police: They’ll create an official report you can use to support your claim.
- Exchange info: Get the name, contact details, and insurance info from the other driver.
- Gather evidence: Take photos of the scene, vehicle damage, and your injuries. If there are witnesses, ask for their contact information.
- Don’t apologize or admit fault: Statements made at the scene can be used against you later.
- Report the accident to your insurer: Just give the basics, not detailed statements.
- Contact a lawyer: The sooner you talk to an attorney, the better your chances of building a strong case.
By following these steps, you protect your legal rights and set the stage for a successful claim.
Types of Car Accident Claims We Handle in Charleston, South Carolina
Car accidents can happen in many ways. At Ty Robinson Law Firm, we have experience representing clients in a variety of crash scenarios, including:
Distracted Driving Accidents
When drivers text, eat, or focus on something other than the road, they put everyone in danger. Distracted driving can lead to sudden, severe collisions.
Speeding Accidents
Driving above the speed limit reduces reaction time and makes it harder to avoid crashes. Speeding often results in more serious injuries and property damage.
Intersection Crashes
Busy intersections are common sites for accidents. Failing to yield, running red lights, or turning without looking can cause devastating wrecks.
DUI Accidents
Drunk or drugged drivers have impaired judgment and slower reflexes, making them more likely to cause severe crashes.
Hit-and-Run Accidents
When a driver flees the scene, it complicates the claims process. We can help track down liable parties or explore alternative routes for compensation after a hit-and-run.
Highway Crashes
High speeds and heavy traffic on highways can increase the severity of accidents. Merging errors, distracted driving, or reckless behavior can lead to serious wrecks.
No matter what type of car accident caused your injuries, we’re here to help. We’ll review your case, identify who’s at fault, and pursue the compensation you need to rebuild your life.
Who Could Be Liable for My Auto Accident Injuries?
Determining liability is crucial.
While the other driver is often at fault, sometimes others share responsibility, including:
- Vehicle owners: If the driver doesn’t own the car, the owner’s insurance might apply.
- Employers: If the driver was on the job, their employer might be liable.
- Car manufacturers: If a defect caused the crash, the manufacturer may share the blame.
- Government agencies: Poorly maintained roads or broken traffic signals can lead to accidents, placing some fault on the agency responsible.
Our experienced car accident law firm in Charleston will investigate the facts, identify all responsible parties, and pursue compensation from every available source.
Common Types of Charleston Car Accident Injuries
Car accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, from minor cuts to life-altering conditions:
- Whiplash and neck injuries
- Crushing injuries
- Nerve damage
- Back and spinal cord injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) and concussions
- Broken bones and fractures
- Soft tissue damage (sprains, strains)
- Catastrophic injuries
- Burns, lacerations, and bruises
- Road rash
- Knee injuries
- Rotator cuff injuries
- Internal bleeding and organ damage
- Amputations and permanent disabilities
- Wrongful death of a loved one
Even “minor” injuries can lead to major expenses and discomfort. We’ll ensure all your injuries and their long-term impacts are considered in your claim.
Common Causes of Car Accidents in Charleston
Many accidents occur due to driver negligence.
Some common causes include:
- Distracted driving: Texting, talking on the phone, eating, or any action that takes attention off the road.
- Drunk or drugged driving: Impairment affects judgment, reaction time, and decision-making.
- Reckless or aggressive driving: Tailgating, weaving in and out of traffic, or ignoring traffic signals.
- Speeding: Driving too fast reduces the driver’s ability to avoid crashes.
- Poor weather or road conditions: Rain, fog, or potholes can contribute to accidents if drivers don’t adjust their behavior.
- Failure to yield: Ignoring right-of-way rules at intersections leads to collisions.
Identifying the cause of your accident helps us determine who should be held accountable.
Charleston Car Accident Statistics
Car accidents are a serious concern in Charleston, SC. According to government statistics from the South Carolina Department of Public Safety (SCDPS), Charleston County saw thousands of car accidents in 2022 (the latest year from which data are available). Many crashes lead to injuries, and some result in fatalities. The streets can be crowded with tourists, commuters, and commercial vehicles, all increasing the chance of a crash.
This data shows that car accidents are not rare events. Drivers need to stay alert and follow traffic laws to keep everyone safer.
The Most Dangerous Intersections in Charleston
Some intersections in Charleston are known for being more dangerous due to heavy traffic, poor design, or driver behavior.
Examples may include:
- Calhoun Street and Meeting Street: Busy downtown roads with lots of visitors and confusion.
- Savannah Highway and Sam Rittenberg Boulevard: Heavy traffic flow, complex turns, and retail areas.
- Folly Road and Maybank Highway: High-volume intersection prone to congestion and impatient drivers.
Being aware of these trouble spots can help you stay extra cautious when traveling through them.
Call Our Charleston Car Accident Attorney for Help
A car accident can change your life in an instant. You might face steep medical bills, missed workdays, ongoing pain, and constant worry about the future. You deserve more than a quick, low settlement from an insurance adjuster. You deserve a legal team that will stand up for you, fight for every dollar you’re owed, and take your case as far as it needs to go.
Ty Robinson Law Firm has over half a decade of experience and has recovered millions for our clients. We understand South Carolina’s laws, how insurers think, and what it takes to build a winning case. Our Charleston car accident attorney will work tirelessly to help you move forward, providing the guidance and support you need at this difficult time.
Call our law office in Charleston, SC, today to schedule a free consultation. We’ll review your case, answer your questions, and help you recover the compensation you deserve.