You take precautions by driving carefully and defensively, hoping other drivers do the same. Unfortunately, you cannot always avoid hazardous motorists on the road, who can cause accidents resulting in severe physical, financial, and emotional harm.
The person at fault for your injuries should also bear financial responsibility. A Myrtle Beach car accident lawyer could investigate the incident and determine who is liable. Call the skilled personal injury attorneys at Whetstone Perkins & Fulda today for legal assistance with your case.
Common Causes of Car Collisions
Several factors can result in a car crash, including negligence and external circumstances, including the following:
- Distracted driving (texting, eating, talking to passengers, etc.)
- Speeding or aggressive driving
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Fatigued driving
- Not adhering to traffic signals and signs
- Poor weather conditions
- Defective or broken auto parts
Regardless of the cause of a crash, a seasoned lawyer could review their client’s case and help identify the at-fault parties.
Auto Insurance and Car Accident Claims
Starting a car accident claim often means filing a claim against the other driver’s insurance company. Unfortunately, South Carolina’s minimum liability coverage may not fully cover extensive bodily injuries, property damage, or financial and emotional losses. Offering low settlement amounts is typical, with insurers hoping to pressure people into accepting less due to immediate financial needs for medical bills and lost income.
A Myrtle Beach car accident attorney could negotiate fair settlements with insurance companies and ensure that the claim meets all legal requirements, including ensuring a claim is filed within South Carolina’s statute of limitations for personal injury and property damage claims, if a fair settlement cannot be reached.
Proving Fault in a Car Accident
Establishing fault is essential in a car accident case. In South Carolina, the modified comparative negligence rule allows a person to recover compensation if they are no more than 50 percent responsible for the accident.
To prove fault, attorneys gather evidence demonstrating the other party’s negligence, review police reports, examine photos of the accident scene and vehicles, and interview witnesses. They may also hire experts to download engine modules that preserve data such as speed and braking.
Demonstrating Damages in a Car Accident
After establishing fault, the next step is proving damages. In a car wreck, damages generally fall into economic and non-economic categories. Economic damages compensate for financial losses, such as:
- Medical expenses (past, present, and future)
- Lost wages
- Loss of future earning capacity
- Property damage
A monetary value can also be assigned for losses arising from the inability to perform household tasks.
Non-economic damages compensate for non-financial losses, like:
- Pain and suffering
- Permanent disability
- Emotional trauma
- Loss of enjoyment of life
To prove damages after a car accident, a Myrtle Beach lawyer may rely on medical records and expert testimony to establish the extent of injuries. While some injuries are visible and easily documented, their monetary value is still disputed.
Consult a Car Accident Attorney in Myrtle Beach
In addition to recovering from physical injuries after a crash, you might be unable to work and may still be dealing with substantial pain. Trying to handle your injury claim on your own can be challenging, especially if you lack the time or legal knowledge to secure the settlement you deserve.
During a free, no-obligation consultation, a Myrtle Beach car accident lawyer could evaluate the strength of your car accident claim. Our legal team works on a contingency basis. You will not pay attorney fees unless they obtain a settlement or win your case. Call today to learn more about your options for pursuing justice.
