Car accidents can be traumatic, life-changing experiences, often leaving victims with serious injuries, property damage, and lasting emotional distress.
The South Carolina Traffic Collision Fact Book for 2022 reported that more than 50,000 people were injured in vehicle-related accidents, and nearly 1,100 people were killed.
Aiken, like any city, sees its share of car crashes. From minor fender-benders to serious collisions, these accidents can cause significant physical, emotional, and financial consequences for those involved.
Whether you’re a South Carolina resident or visitor to our state, knowing what to do after you’ve been in an accident is important, and an Aiken car accident lawyer can help.
Understanding your rights and legal options following a crash is crucial. Below, we’ll discuss some facts about car accidents in South Carolina, some common experiences, and some tips for finding and working with a qualified car accident attorney to protect your rights and get you fair compensation. If you need help after a car wreck in Aiken, be sure to reach out to us for a free consultation.
Common Injuries Caused by South Carolina Motor Vehicle Collisions
Car accidents can cause a wide range of injuries. The severity of these injuries and their impact on the body can vary, depending on multiple factors like the type of collision, the speed at which the vehicles were traveling, and whether those involved were wearing seat belts.
Some of the most common car accident injuries include:
- Whiplash and Neck Injuries: Whiplash is one of the most frequent injuries resulting from car accidents, especially rear-end collisions, and occurs when the head and neck are suddenly jerked backward and forward, causing severe strain or injury to the muscles, tendons, and ligaments in the neck. Chronic pain and stiffness are common symptoms if not properly treated.
- Back Injuries: These frequently result from car accidents. The force of the crash can cause strains, disc damage, and even spine fractures. These can cause long-term pain and mobility problems that often require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Head injuries, like concussions and TBIs, can happen when the head strikes an object or is shaken violently during a crash. Even a mild TBI can have long-term effects. More serious brain injuries can lead to cognitive impairments, memory loss, and other debilitating complications.
- Broken Bones: Bone fractures are another common consequence of car accidents, especially when involved in a high-impact collision. Arms, legs, ribs, and skulls are most commonly fractured. Depending on the severity of these broken bones, they may require surgery, immobilization, and extensive recovery and therapy.
- Internal Injuries: These types of injuries can include damage to organs, resulting in internal bleeding or punctured lungs. While these are less visible, they are often even more life-threatening than external injuries. Also, they may not show signs or symptoms right away, making it crucial to get immediate medical attention after any serious car accident in Aiken.
- Soft Tissue Injuries: These injuries often involve muscles, ligaments, and tendons. These can range anywhere from minor sprains and strains to severe tearing. Soft tissue injuries can be extremely painful and often require physical therapy or other treatments, including surgery, for recovery.
- Psychological Injuries: Car accidents, like other traumatic events, can also result in psychological injuries, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or depression. The emotional and psychological impact of a serious Aiken car crash can result in long-lasting trauma and may necessitate you receiving ongoing therapy or counseling to manage it.
All of the above injuries can have significant financial and emotional impacts on accident victims and their families.
Understanding the common types of injuries can help you seek the right medical treatment and legal help to get fair compensation for these damages.
When To Seek the Assistance of a Car Crash Attorney
According to reports by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 3,308 individuals died in vehicle accidents just related to distracted driving in 2022.
After a car accident, seeking legal help as soon as possible can make all the difference in your case’s outcome. Aiken car accident attorneys specialize in navigating the complexities of personal injury laws specific to vehicle crashes.
They can assess the details of your accident, provide you with legal advice, and represent you in negotiations or court proceedings necessary to maximize your potential compensation.
3 Qualities To Look for in an Aiken Car Accident Lawyer
When evaluating car wreck lawyers in our area, you’ll want to take into account their:
- Experience Handling Car Crash Cases: Look for a lawyer or law firm that has a proven track record of handling car accident cases in Aiken County. Experience in navigating our local court system and knowledge of state-specific laws is key.
- Reputation and Client Reviews: Check online reviews and testimonials from past clients to help determine their reputation and level of client satisfaction.
- Communication Skills: Effective, personalized communication is vital to have a successful case. Your Aiken car wreck lawyer should explain legal concepts clearly, prepare you for what to expect, and keep you informed in a timely manner about the progress of your case.
The Legal Process After Your SC Car Wreck
The first step in working with an Aiken car accident lawyer is an initial consultation. During this meeting, you’ll discuss the specific details of your accident, as well as ask any questions you may have about the legal process and possible outcome. This is your chance to evaluate whether the lawyer is the right fit for you and your case.
Investigation and Evidence Gathering
After being hired, your lawyer will conduct a thorough investigation into your accident. This can involve gathering and studying police reports, witness statements, related medical records, and any other evidence that supports your claim.
Negotiation or Litigation
Depending on the specific details of your case, your attorney may negotiate with insurance companies or pursue litigation. This typically occurs when a fair settlement can’t be reached through negotiation. Litigation involves taking your case to trial to seek compensation for damages.
Settlement or Judgment
If these negotiations are successful (or a judgment is awarded in court), you’ll receive compensation for damages, typically including your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any necessary vehicle repairs or replacement.
The Importance of Acting Quickly If a Car Accident in Aiken Injured You
The South Carolina statute of limitations limits the amount of time you have for filing personal injury claims, including those pertaining to car accidents. You must take prompt action and consult with a lawyer as soon as possible after the accident to ensure your rights are protected, evidence is preserved, and you don’t miss your window to receive compensation.
Wading through the aftermath of a car accident requires knowledge of local laws and a strategic approach to negotiations and legal procedures. Working with an experienced Aiken car accident lawyer, you can get help in seeking the maximum compensation you deserve while still focusing on your recovery.
By working with the experienced legal professionals at The Solomon Law Group, LLC, you can navigate the complexities of your personal injury claim and work towards a favorable resolution.
Contact us today to get started, and let’s make sure your rights are being protected.
Don’t hesitate to reach out if you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident—your future well-being may depend on it.
