Car accidents are an unfortunate reality that many of us will face. When a crash happens, it often results in physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial burdens.
The South Carolina Traffic Collision Fact Book for 2022 reported one traffic collision every 3.7 minutes, with more than 50,000 people being injured and nearly 1,100 people killed each year on our state’s roadways.
The aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming, with medical bills piling up, loss of income, insurance companies calling, and the uncertainty of when (or if) life will return to normal. In these challenging times, having a dedicated Greenville car accident lawyer on your side can make all the difference.
Keep reading to learn more about common causes of car accidents, why you need a car accident lawyer, what they can do for you, and how to choose the right one for your case. Be sure to reach out to our law firm, The Solomon Law Group, LLC for assistance if you suffered serious injuries in an auto collision in upstate South Carolina and are seeking to recover compensation. Our initial case evaluations are complimentary.
Common Causes of Car Crashes in Greenville
By understanding some of the common causes of car accidents in Greenville, you may be able to better pinpoint what contributed to causing the crash that hurt you or claimed the life of a close loved one. Some of the most frequent causes of car wrecks in the upstate region of SC include:
- Distracted Driving: This is one of the most common factors contributing to auto accidents in Greenville County. Whether it’s texting, talking on the phone, or eating, distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents. Even a momentary lapse in attention can lead to a collision.
- Speeding: Driving over the posted speed limit reduces reaction time to obstacles or other vehicles and can increase the severity of damages and injuries. Speeding is another significant factor in many serious accidents.
- Drunk Driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs impairs judgment and reaction time. Drunk driving is a reckless behavior that often leads to severe injuries or fatalities. The same fact book report mentioned above lists that one person was killed in South Carolina every 18.5 hours due to a motorist driving under the influence with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08+.
- Weather Conditions: South Carolina weather can be unpredictable and severe. Rain, fog, and icy roads can make driving dangerous. Failing to adjust speed or driving habits to account for weather conditions causes accidents.
- Reckless Driving: Aggressive driving behaviors like tailgating, weaving through traffic, and running red lights also increase the risk of car accidents in Greenville.
- Fatigue: Tired drivers often have slower reaction times, impaired judgment, and are less aware of their surroundings. Falling asleep at the wheel can lead to catastrophic car accidents.
Steps To Take After an Upstate SC Auto Collision
Knowing what to do immediately after a car accident in Greenville County may not only save lives but can also protect your rights and strengthen your case.
Here are the steps that you should take:
- Check for Injuries: Your health and safety, and that of others, are always the top priority. Check for injuries and call 911 immediately if medical assistance is needed.
- Call the Police: Even in minor accidents, it’s important to have a police report to document the accident and possibly include the officer’s assessment of fault, which may be clear based on how they write up how the crash occurred and visually depict the accident scene or whether they issued any citations.
- Exchange Information: Get the contact and insurance information of all drivers involved in the accident. Be sure to take down their names, addresses (physical and email), and phone numbers.
- Document the Scene: Take plenty of photos of the Greenville car accident scene, including vehicle damage, skid marks, any visible injuries, and relevant signage. This can be crucial evidence in supporting your case.
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel okay, it’s important that you see a doctor after a car crash. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent or may worsen over time, and having a medical record will be important in forwarding your crash claim.
- Contact a Lawyer: As soon as possible, contact a Greenville car accident lawyer to discuss your case. Any attorney you hire can guide you through the legal process, ensuring your and your family’s rights are protected along the way.
The Importance of Legal Representation if an Auto Collision Injured You
Following a car accident, you may be left wondering whether hiring an injury lawyer is necessary.
Some victims believe that dealing directly with insurance companies will be a straightforward process, but this is seldom the case. Quite the opposite, insurance companies often complicate matters as they aim to minimize payouts, and without legal representation, you may not receive the compensation you deserve.
An experienced car accident lawyer in Greenville understands the complexities of personal injury law and can help you navigate the South Carolina legal system on your behalf, protecting your rights and ensuring that all aspects of your case are thoroughly examined.
From gathering evidence to negotiating insurance settlements, a skilled lawyer will fight to maximize your compensation and handle all communications with insurance companies, allowing you to focus on your recovery. If you’re looking for this type of attentive service as you’re healing from your injuries or grieving the loss of a loved one, reach out for a free consultation with our legal team at The Solomon Law Group, LLC.
What a Greenville Car Accident Lawyer Can Do for You
When you hire a car accident lawyer, you also get an advocate who’ll fight for your rights. Here are just a few of the ways they can help you and your case:
- Investigating the Accident: A thorough investigation can help determine the cause of the accident and identify who was responsible. Your Greenville car crash lawyer gathers evidence like police reports, witness statements, and traffic camera footage. They may also work with accident reconstruction experts to strengthen your case.
- Calculating Damages: The ability to accurately calculate the value of damages is critical in car accident cases. Your lawyer will review medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any potential future medical needs. They’ll ensure that all aspects of your injury are accounted for so you and your family can receive the compensation you need.
- Negotiating With Insurance Companies: Insurance companies often try to settle claims quickly and for as little money as possible. Your lawyer will handle all negotiations, ensuring that any settlement offer reflects the true value of your case. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer will be prepared to take the case to trial.
- Representing You in Court: If your car wreck case does go to trial in Greenville County, having an experienced lawyer by your side is invaluable. Your lawyer will be responsible for presenting your case to the judge and jury and using evidence and expert testimony to argue for the compensation you deserve.
- Providing Legal Advice: Throughout your case, your lawyer will be there to answer your questions and provide targeted legal guidance. They’ll keep you informed and help you make decisions that are in your best interest.
How Long Do You Have to File a Car Wreck Claim in South Carolina?
In South Carolina, the statute of limitations for filing a car accident lawsuit is three years from the date of the accident. This limit applies to both property damage and personal injury claims. So, if you don’t file within the required period, you could lose your right to pursue any compensation. This is why it’s important to act as quickly as possible after an accident. Three years may seem like a long time, but gathering evidence and building a strong case may take longer than you think.
Also, witnesses’ memories can fade over time, and physical evidence can deteriorate.
By contacting one of our experienced Greenville car accident lawyers as soon as possible, you can do your part to ensure that your case is handled promptly and effectively.
Why You Need the Assistance of The Solomon Law Group, LLC After a Car Crash in Greenville, SC
A car accident can change your life in an instant.
The physical, emotional, and financial toll can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone.
By understanding South Carolina’s car accident laws, gathering evidence, and choosing the right Greenville car accident lawyer, you can protect your rights and move forward with confidence.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, don’t wait to seek legal help – the sooner you act, the better your chances are of achieving a successful outcome.
At The Solomon Law Group, LLC, we can provide the support and guidance you need to navigate the legal process and secure the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.
