Car accidents typically occur when other drivers violate traffic laws or commit other negligent acts, such as operating a vehicle while intoxicated or engaging in distracted driving. If you suffered injuries in a car crash that a negligent driver recently caused, you may be eligible for compensation.
The knowledgeable Charleston car accident attorneys at Morris Law Accident and Injury Lawyers can handle the legal components of your case while you focus on recovering from your injuries.
We can also file a personal injury claim on your behalf, aggressively negotiate for you during settlement discussions, or litigate your case to a fair resolution in court.
For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with an experienced Charleston car accident lawyer, please contact us online today.
Charleston Car Accident Guide
- Why Choose Our Charleston Car Accident Lawyers for Your Legal Needs?
- What is the Value of a Charleston Car Accident Case?
- Where Do Car Accidents Happen in Charleston?
- Types of Charleston Car Accidents
- Injuries in Charleston Car Accidents
- Fighting the Insurance Company After a Charleston Car Crash
- Steps to Take After a Car Accident in Charleston
- Speak With Our Charleston Car Accident Lawyers Today
Why Choose Our Charleston Car Accident Lawyers for Your Legal Needs?
If you suffered injuries in a recent car accident due to another driver’s negligence, you want an experienced legal team handling your case and fighting for your interests.
The Charleston car accident attorneys at Morris Law Accident and Injury Lawyers can aggressively negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf in pursuit of a fair settlement offer.
If the insurance company does not offer you fair compensation, we are not afraid to take your case to a civil jury trial or pursue other options in your case, such as alternative dispute resolution (ADR).
Unlike many large firms, our lawyers significantly limit the number of cases we take on. Therefore, we can give your car accident case the close personal attention it deserves. You can see some of our most recent client testimonials by clicking here.
Our firm currently has locations throughout South Carolina for your convenience, and we can meet over video conference if necessary. Let us help you secure the compensation you need in your car accident case today.
What is the Value of a Charleston Car Accident Case?
In Charleston, South Carolina, the value of a car accident case can vary based on numerous factors.
First, the severity of injuries that the involved accident victims sustained plays a significant role. This includes physical injuries, such as broken bones, whiplash, or traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), as well as emotional trauma like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The more severe the injuries, the higher the potential compensation.
Additionally, the extent of property damage to the vehicles involved is a consideration. High repair costs or total vehicle loss can contribute to a higher value for the case.
Other factors may include medical expenses incurred for treatment, including hospital bills, medication costs, and ongoing rehabilitation or therapy.
Lost income due to time off work for recovery – or disability resulting from the accident – also factors into the total compensation calculation. Future earning potential may also be considered if the injuries lead to long-term or permanent disability, affecting the accident victim’s ability to earn a living.
The victim’s pain and suffering – both physical and emotional – are also taken into account. This includes the pain experienced during and after the accident, as well as any lasting effects on the individual’s quality of life. Emotional distress, such as anxiety, depression, or loss of life enjoyment, can also be compensated.
In some cases, punitive damages may be awarded if the at-fault party’s actions were particularly reckless or negligent. These damages are intended to punish the at-fault individual and prevent similar acts in the future.
Other potential compensation includes property damage, such as reimbursement for vehicle repairs or replacement, rental car expenses, and compensation for personal belongings damaged in the accident.
At Morris Law Accident and Injury Lawyers, our experienced legal team will do everything possible to maximize the total settlement offer or litigation award in your case.
Where Do Car Accidents Happen in Charleston?
In Charleston, South Carolina, car accidents often occur in several common locations, primarily on the major roads and highways that crisscross the city.
One notorious hotspot is the intersection of Meeting Street and Calhoun Street, where traffic congestion and busy pedestrian crossings increase the likelihood of collisions. Additionally, King Street – known for its bustling shops and restaurants – sees its fair share of accidents, particularly during peak hours.
Another common location for car accidents in Charleston is along Interstate 26, especially where it merges with Interstate 526. The high volume of traffic and frequent lane changes make this stretch of highway prone to crashes, particularly during rush hour and holiday travel periods.
The James Island Connector, connecting downtown Charleston to James Island, is also a site of frequent car accidents. Its elevated roadway and tight curves can catch drivers off guard, leading to collisions – especially in inclement weather conditions.
Furthermore, the Ravenel Bridge, which spans the Cooper River, experiences accidents, often due to its narrow lanes and high speeds. As one of the main arteries connecting downtown Charleston to Mount Pleasant, it witnesses heavy traffic flow throughout the day.
If you suffered injuries in a car accident that occurred in one of these locations, our legal team can investigate your accident circumstances and determine your eligibility for filing a claim or lawsuit.
Types of Charleston Car Accidents
In Charleston, South Carolina, several common types of car accidents occur frequently, often due to various forms of negligence by other drivers.
One prevalent type is the rear-end collision, where a vehicle strikes the car in front of it. This can happen due to tailgating, speeding, or distracted driving.
Another common accident type is the intersection collision, where two vehicles collide while crossing paths at an intersection. These accidents can occur due to drivers running red lights or stop signs, failing to yield the right-of-way, or misjudging the timing of a turn.
Side-impact collisions, also known as T-bone accidents, are another frequent occurrence in Charleston. These accidents happen when one vehicle crashes into the side of another, often at intersections or when one driver fails to yield. Side-impact collisions can result in severe injuries, especially if the impact occurs on the driver or passenger side of the vehicle.
Distracted driving also plays a significant role in many car accidents in Charleston. This includes activities such as texting, eating, talking on the phone, or adjusting the radio while driving.
When drivers take their eyes off the road or their hands off the wheel, they are more likely to cause accidents due to their decreased reaction time and impaired ability to control the vehicle.
Speeding is another form of negligence that frequently leads to Charleston car accidents. Driving above the posted speed limit reduces the driver’s ability to react to hazards and increases the severity of collisions.
Excessive speed can also make it more difficult for drivers to maintain control of their vehicles, especially in adverse weather conditions or on winding roads.
Finally, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a significant contributor to car accidents in Charleston. Impaired drivers have reduced coordination, impaired judgment, and slower reaction times, making them more likely to cause accidents.
Driving under the influence is not only illegal but also incredibly dangerous. It can result in serious injury or death for the driver, passengers, and others on the road.
If you suffered injuries in one of these types of car accidents, the experienced team at Morris Law Accident and Injury Lawyers can determine your legal options and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Injuries in Charleston Car Accidents
Victims of car accidents in South Carolina can suffer from a wide range of physical and mental injuries, each requiring specific medical treatment.
Physical injuries commonly seen in car accidents include whiplash, which affects the neck and upper back due to a sudden jerking motion upon impact. This can lead to pain and stiffness and may affect the range of motion.
Broken bones are another frequent injury, particularly in high-speed collisions. Fractures to the arms, legs, and ribs are common and may require surgery to repair. Head injuries, including concussions and other traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), are also common – especially in accident scenarios where the victim’s head strikes the steering wheel, dashboard, or windows.
Internal injuries, such as organ damage or internal bleeding, may occur even without external signs of trauma. These sometimes life-threatening injuries may require immediate medical attention.
Soft tissue injuries, such as sprains, strains, and bruises, are also common and can cause the victim to experience significant pain and discomfort.
In addition to physical injuries, car accident victims may experience mental and emotional trauma, leading to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Victims may also experience nightmares, flashbacks, and difficulty sleeping or concentrating.
Treatment for car accident injuries varies, depending upon the severity and type of injury. For whiplash and other soft tissue injuries, treatment may include rest, ice, heat therapy, and physical therapy to reduce pain and improve mobility. In more severe cases, doctors may prescribe medications such as muscle relaxants or pain relievers.
Broken bones may require immobilization with casts or splints – and, in some cases, surgery – to realign the bone fragments.
Head injuries may require diagnostic imaging, such as CT scans or MRIs, to assess the extent of the damage. Treatment may include medication to reduce swelling and prevent further injury, as well as rehabilitation therapy to regain lost function.
For internal injuries, prompt medical intervention is crucial to prevent complications. Surgery may be necessary to repair damaged organs or stop internal bleeding.
Psychological treatment, such as counseling or therapy, may be necessary for individuals experiencing mental and emotional distress following a car accident.
Fighting the Insurance Company After a Charleston Car Crash
After a car accident in Charleston, South Carolina, dealing with insurance companies can be a daunting task, but it’s essential to fight for fair compensation. Typically, the insurance company representing the at-fault party will attempt to settle the claim quickly – and for as little money as possible.
Engaging in settlement negotiations is often the first step in resolving a car accident claim successfully. This involves providing evidence of the damages incurred, such as medical bills, repair estimates, and documentation of lost income.
Our lawyers can present a strong case supported by evidence to justify the amount of compensation being sought.
During negotiations, insurance adjusters may offer lowball settlements in an attempt to save money for the insurance company. However, it’s important not to accept any settlement offers without carefully considering whether they adequately compensate for the damages suffered.
An experienced Charleston car accident attorney can be invaluable during this process, as they can provide guidance and advocate for the victim’s best interests.
If settlement negotiations fail to result in a fair resolution, threatening litigation may be necessary. This involves informing the insurance company of the legal action you will pursue if they refuse a reasonable settlement.
The threat of litigation can sometimes incentivize the insurance company to reconsider its offer and negotiate more seriously.
Ultimately, if a satisfactory settlement cannot be reached through negotiations, filing a lawsuit may be the next step. This involves initiating legal proceedings against the at-fault party and their insurance company in civil court.
Litigation may pursue the full compensation deserved for car accident injuries.
At Morris Law Accident and Injury Lawyers, we will aggressively negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf and, if necessary, advocate for you during litigation proceedings in court.
Steps to Take After a Car Accident in Charleston
After a car accident in Charleston, South Carolina, protect your rights and ensure a smoother claims process.
First, report the accident to your insurance company promptly. Provide accurate and detailed information about the incident, including the date, time, and location of the accident, as well as the names and contact information of any other parties involved. However, never admit fault for the accident.
Keep thorough records of all expenses and losses incurred as a result of the crash. This includes medical bills, repair estimates, receipts for any out-of-pocket expenses, and documentation of any missed work and lost income.
Finally, consider consulting with an experienced car accident attorney in Charleston. At Morris Law Accident and Injury Lawyers, we can provide valuable guidance and advocate for your rights throughout the entire claims process.
Speak With Our Charleston Car Accident Lawyers Today
If you recently sustained injuries in a car crash that resulted from another driver’s negligence, it is important that you retain legal help as soon as possible.
The knowledgeable legal team at Morris Law Accident and Injury Lawyers can aggressively advocate on your behalf and pursue the compensation you deserve for your losses.
For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with an experienced Charleston personal injury attorney, please contact us today at (843) 466-4444.
