Personal injury laws cover injuries to individuals caused by another party. Most cases are based on negligence claims, but a personal injury in Myrtle Beach, SC, can also cover acts of intentional harm or criminal wrongdoing. The best way to determine whether you have a legal claim for damages is to contact an attorney who handles cases of personal injury in Myrtle Beach, SC.
Some of the most common questions that we address when were are contacted about cases of personal injury in Myrtle Beach, SC, are:
1. Does Personal Injury Cover More Than Car Accidents?
Yes, personal injury laws cover much more than car accident cases. Examples of accidents and situations that could lead to an injury claim include, but are not limited to:
- Automobile accidents
- Motorcycle crashes
- Pedestrian and bicycle accidents
- Commercial vehicle accidents
- Slip and fall accidents
- Defective product injuries
- Premises liability claims
- Workplace accidents
- Nursing home abuse and neglect
If a person intentionally causes an injury or causes an injury because of negligence, that person can be held liable for damages. Proving negligence is crucial to recover compensation. Our Myrtle Beach personal injury lawyer investigates accidents to gather evidence to proving negligence so you can receive the compensation you deserve.
2. What Damages Can I Receive for a Personal Injury Claim?
Damages in a personal injury case include financial losses, such as property damage, income loss, and medical bills. They also include non-economic or “pain and suffering” damages. Non-economic damages include the physical pain and emotional suffering caused by the accident and your injuries. It also includes compensation for permanent disabilities, disfigurement, and loss of quality of life.
In a few personal injury cases, punitive damages may be awarded. Punitive damages do not compensate the accident victim for losses. They “punish” the defendant for specific actions. Punitive damages are rare and only awarded in a few cases.
3. Is There a Deadline for Filing Injury Claims?
The South Carolina statute of limitations restricts the time a person has to file a personal injury lawsuit. If you do not file the lawsuit before the deadline expires, you lose the right to pursue the claim in court.
There could be cases where the deadline to file a claim is shorter, as in cases involving government entities. It is always best to talk with a lawyer as soon as possible to avoid problems with the statute of limitations for your case.
4. Are Insurance Companies Required to Pay Claims?
If the claim is valid and covered by the police, insurance companies have contractual liability to pay the claim. However, insurance companies are in business to make a profit. They will try to find a way to deny your claim or undervalue your claim to save money.
Before you accept a settlement, sign documents, talk to an insurance adjuster, it is in your best interest to talk to a lawyer about your case. Our injury attorneys provide free case reviews and give honest assessments about your legal rights. Our top priority is to protect your best interest and help you recover maximum compensation for a personal injury in Myrtle Beach, SC.
5. Can I Recover Money If I Am Partially at Fault for the Accident?
Yes, you could recover compensation for damages caused by an accident even if you were partially at fault for the cause of the accident. Under South Carolina’s comparative fault laws, you can be up to 50 percent at fault and still recover compensation for damages.
However, your compensation is reduced by the percentage of fault you have for causing the accident. Beware! Insurance companies use comparative fault to undervalue claims. If you know you are not at fault and the insurance company tries to shift some of the blame for the accident to you, call an attorney immediately.
Call Our Myrtle Beach Personal Injury Lawyers for a Free Consultation
At Morris Law Accident Injury Lawyers, we assist clients in Horry County and throughout South Carolina when they need help seeking the compensation they deserve after an auto accident injury.
Call our office now to schedule your free consultation with a Myrtle Beach personal injury attorney.
