Car Accident Lawyer in Charleston, SC
When another driver causes a car accident, you may have the right to recover damages for your injuries and losses. However, securing full compensation is often more difficult than expected, especially when dealing with insurance companies and disputed claims.
At Query Sautter & Uricchio, LLC, our team has decades of combined experience handling personal injury cases in Charleston, SC. Below, we explain common causes of car accidents and what you should know after a crash.
Causes of Car Accidents in Charleston
Car accidents in Charleston are often caused by driver error or traffic violations. Common causes include:
- Distracted driving: Taking attention off the road, such as texting or using a phone.
- Speeding: Driving above the speed limit or too fast for traffic, weather, or road conditions.
- Impaired driving: Operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Reckless or aggressive driving: Tailgating, weaving through traffic, or ignoring signals.
- Failure to yield or obey traffic signals: Including running red lights or stop signs.
- Fatigue: Driving while tired, which can affect reaction time.
South Carolina Laws: What to Expect
A few key rules can shape your claim:
- At-Fault System: South Carolina follows an at-fault system, meaning the driver responsible for the accident is liable for the resulting damages.
- Modified Comparative Negligence: You can recover damages as long as you are 50% or less at fault. However, if you are found even 1% responsible, your total payout is reduced by that amount. If your fault reaches 51%, you are legally barred from receiving any compensation at all.
- Statute of Limitations: You generally have three years from the accident date to file a lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, the court will likely dismiss your case regardless of how serious your injuries are. This window is often even shorter if a government vehicle was involved.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do after a car accident in Charleston, SC?
After a car accident, it’s important to seek medical attention and document what happened. Gathering information at the scene and keeping records can help support your claim. Speaking carefully with insurance companies is also important, as their evaluation may affect your recovery.
What causes most car accidents in Charleston?
Many car accidents in Charleston are caused by driver error or traffic violations. Common factors include distracted driving, speeding, impaired driving, reckless behavior, failure to follow traffic signals, and fatigue.
How do I prove another driver was at fault?
Proving fault typically requires showing that another driver’s actions caused the accident. This may involve evidence such as accident reports and other documentation related to the crash.
How can a car accident lawyer help with my case?
A car accident lawyer can gather evidence and handle communication with insurance companies. They can also represent you in court if needed and work to recover compensation for your injuries and related losses.
How Our Car Accident Lawyers Can Help
A car accident can disrupt your life quickly, especially when injuries and insurance issues follow. What you do early can affect the strength of your claim and the compensation available.
At Query Sautter & Uricchio, we help clients in Charleston, SC, build strong claims and pursue fair recovery after serious crashes. Contact our team to discuss your case and learn about your options by calling 843-795-9500.