Best Car Accident Lawyers in Rock Hill

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Rock Hill, South Carolina?

  The non-emergency phone number of the Rock Hill South Carolina Police Department is 803-329-7211.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Rock Hill, South Carolina?

  To obtain an accident report in Rock Hill, you may contact the Records Division at (803) 329-7200, press #4, and provide the records officer with the relevant information you have pertaining to your accident. You may also visit the Rock Hill Police Department in person or mail in your request to obtain a physical copy of your report: Rock Hill Police Department is located at 120 E. Black Street, Rock Hill, SC 29730, open Monday through Friday, from 8 AM to 5 PM.

• Can you hold a pedestrian partly responsible for an accident in Rock Hill if they were careless and inattentive while you were driving?

  Yes, a pedestrian can be held partly responsible for an accident in Rock Hill. For pedestrian accident cases, you may scrutinize a pedestrian’s behavior if he/she exhibited actions that contributed to the crash. Actions that can be assessed as “careless” may include failing to follow traffic control devices, not looking before crossing the street, and using their cell phone while crossing the road. If the careless actions of the pedestrian were proven, he/she may get a reduction in compensation award.

• Should you speak to the other party’s insurance carrier after a car accident in Rock Hill?

  No. If you were injured in a car accident in Rock Hill, it is advisable that you do not speak to the other party’s insurance carrier until you have sought assistance from an experienced personal injury lawyer. Insurance companies may take advantage of your stressful situation to offer lowball settlements to relieve your panic over initial expenses when you may be entitled to a higher amount of compensation.

• How do punitive damages work in Rock Hill?

  Punitive damages are awarded in Rock Hill under specific circumstances to deter future misconduct by the wrongdoer and the other at-fault parties. Punitive damages may be granted if the crash involves drunk drivers or those who are under the influence of drugs. When a defendant exhibits actions of malice and reckless disregard for the safety of others, punitive damages may also be awarded to punish the at-fault party.

• How much would hiring a car accident lawyer cost you in Rock Hill?

  There is no fixed price when hiring a car accident lawyer in Rock Hill. Most lawyers and law firms provide representation on a contingency fee basis, which means you do not have to pay for their legal services unless they manage to obtain compensation for you. Their fees will be deducted from the total settlement amount that they secured for you.

• Is there a deadline for filing a car accident lawsuit in Rock Hill?

  Yes, there is a deadline for filing a car accident suit in Rock Hill, otherwise known as the statute of limitations. Generally, victims of car accidents in the city have three years from the date of the accident to file their lawsuit for compensation. If the victim attempts to file a lawsuit after the deadline, their case may be dismissed, and they lose the opportunity to recover damages from the accident.

• How do I choose a car accident lawyer?

  To select a car accident lawyer, consider the lawyer's experience, focus, and reputation. While nearly any attorney can negotiate with insurers for a settlement, not all attorneys have amassed experience litigating a claim in a court of law. Choose an attorney with a background that includes car accident claimants; it's helpful if the attorney is focused on personal injury law. Lastly, read reviews from previous clients to get a feel for the attorney's helpfulness and responsiveness to clients. The best lawyer for your case is one that you feel comfortable and confident working with.

• What steps should I take after a car accident?

  Immediately following a car accident, get out of traffic as soon as possible and dial 9-1-1. Exchange car insurance information with any other involved drivers and get a police report as soon as possible. Be truthful about what happened, even if you are at fault, but stick to reporting the facts of the accident without offering an opinion on who is to blame. If possible, take photos of your car, other cars at the scene, and the scene itself.

• (When) Do I need a lawyer after a car accident?

  Start working with a car accident lawyer as soon as possible following your car accident (some attorneys even make hospital visits). By reaching out for legal help early on, you avoid some of the pitfalls of trying to handle your claim on your own. Your attorney can also get the ball rolling on reimbursement for your medical bills and lost wages while awaiting the outcome of your claim.

• How long after a car accident can you claim an injury?

  The length of time you can file a claim for an injury following a car accident is governed by the statute of limitations in your state. Although it varies, most states set the statute of limitations for injured parties to seek compensatory damages at three years following the accident or three years after you discover your injuries. In cases where children are injured, the statute of limitations may be longer.

• What do I do after a car accident that I'm not responsible for?

  After an accident that's not your fault, seek immediate medical help if you are injured. Once it's safe to do so, obtain the other driver's contact and insurance information, any statements from witnesses, and photos of the scene. Obtain a police report and contact your insurer and the at-fault party's insurer. If you are injured, schedule a consultation with a car accident attorney to discuss your legal options.

• What happens if someone sues you after a car accident?

  If you have car insurance in force at the time of the accident, your insurance is contractually bound to represent you on any claims that arise, indemnifying you against loss up to the limits of your policy. You can help your insurance company by cooperating fully. If the plaintiff in any lawsuit obtains a judgment above your policy limits, then you can be held personally responsible for any damages awarded.

• What/how much can I expect from a car accident settlement?

  According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average bodily injury claim in 2018 was $15,785. The amount of any particular car accident settlement hinges primarily on the severity of the injuries sustained as a result and whether or not any partial or total permanent disability was caused by the accident. Claims that involve broken bones or nerve damage likely settle for more than claims where soft tissue injuries are present.

• How do I arrange a rental car after an accident?

  To arrange a rental car after an accident, first consider whether your insurance or the other party's insurance will be paying for the rental. If another driver is found to be at-fault for the accident, that driver's insurance may pay the costs. If you are responsible, your insurance may pay if your policy covers such expenses. Speak with your insurance adjuster to determine if you have benefits available.

• How long does it take for car insurance to go back down after an accident?

  Post-accident rate spikes can last anywhere from three to five years, depending on your insurer. However, if damages incurred during the accident are less than $2,000, your rate may not go up at all. Three years is typical for collision and property damage claims. Five years is not uncommon in accidents involving bodily injury claims, DUI or DWI, reckless driving, or serious violations at the time of the accident.

• How to settle a car accident claim without a lawyer?

  To negotiate a car accident settlement without a lawyer, you'll have to prove that the other party was to blame for your damages. Gather evidence at the scene to support your claim, including witness statements and photos. Seek medical treatment for your injuries immediately. Notify the other driver's insurer of your intent to file a claim. If you reside in a no-fault state, you will need to use your personal injury protection (PIP) benefits first before filing a claim against the other party for medical expenses and bodily injury. Be prepared with medical records, police reports, receipts for out-of-pocket accident-related costs, and proof of lost income due to the accident before beginning negotiations.