A car crash happens fast. It can leave you hurt and confused. You may face doctor bills and car repairs. South Carolina law allows you to seek compensation for these losses. This process has many steps. Knowing what to do protects your rights. This guide explains the path to recovery. It uses clear and simple terms.
The legal system has specific rules. The information below details the entire process. You will learn how to build a strong claim. Talking to a South Carolina car accident attorney is a smart step. They know the system well.
Your First Actions After the Crash
First, make sure you’re not hurt. If someone is hurt, immediately dial 911. A report must be made by the police. If it’s safe, move vehicles out of traffic. Turn on the hazard lights. Get the name and insurance information of the other driver. Take a lot of pictures of the road and the cars. Take pictures of any debris or skid marks as well. Ask for their names and phone numbers. Just share basic facts with the police.
Getting Medical Care Right Away
See a doctor even if you’re feeling well. The symptoms of some injuries are concealed. A physician can detect issues such as internal bleeding or whiplash. Visit an urgent care facility or the emergency room. Observe your doctor’s prescribed course of treatment. Save all medical records and invoices. These documents connect the accident to your injuries. This proof is necessary for insurance companies. Full medical records help your claim for money.
South Carolina’s Insurance System
- South Carolina uses a fault system. The driver who caused the wreck pays for the damages. First, you can file with your own insurance company.
- Second, you can file with the other driver’s insurer.
- Third, you can file a lawsuit in court. The state also uses a “modified comparative negligence” rule.
This rule can change how much money you get.
Handling Talks with Insurance Adjusters
An adjuster will call you soon. They work for the insurance company. Their job is to save the company money. Be polite but be careful. Do not give a detailed recorded statement. Do not sign any papers they send quickly. The first offer is usually too low. It does not cover all your bills. You have the right to say no. You can ask for more money. A lawyer can do this tough talking for you.
What Your Injury Claim is Worth
You need money for all your losses. These losses are called damages. Some damages have a clear price. They include hospital bills and lost pay from work. Keep every single receipt. Other damages are for pain and suffering. That is money for your physical pain and stress. It also covers life activities you can no longer do. Severe injuries are worth more than minor ones. A full calculation must include future costs.
Gathering Strong Proof for Your Case
Good evidence wins your case. Start collecting it immediately. Take photos of vehicle damage from all angles. Take pictures of your bruises or cuts. Keep a daily pain journal. Write about your aches and your recovery struggles. Save the police crash report. Get your car repair estimate. All this proof shows what happened. Without proof, your claim is weak.
How a Lawyer Helps Your Case
A South Carolina car accident attorney knows the law. They protect you from insurance tricks. They investigate the crash scene. They get the police report and witness statements. They talk to doctors about your injuries. They add up all your current and future costs. They write demand letters to the insurance company. They fight for a full settlement. If needed, they file a lawsuit and go to court.
Money You Can Recover After a Crash
You can ask for several types of compensation. Payment for all medical treatment is the first type. This includes ambulance rides, surgery, and medicine. Payment for lost wages is the second type. This covers the pay you lost while healing. Payment for property damage is the third type. This pays to fix or replace your car. Payment for pain and suffering is the fourth type.
Serious Injuries With Lasting Effects
Some crashes cause permanent harm. You might have a bad back for life. You may not walk the same again. You could lose the ability to do your job. A fair settlement must pay for this future. It must include money for future medical care. It must replace your lost future income. Proving these future costs needs experts. Your lawyer will work with doctors and job experts.
Conclusion
Getting better takes time. It involves healing your body and fixing your finances. Take this process one step at a time. First, focus on medical treatment. Second, report the claim to the insurance companies. Third, gather all your evidence. Fourth, learn your legal rights. Fifth, talk to a lawyer for advice. This careful approach leads to the best result. It helps you recover the money you need. It lets you move forward after a difficult event.
