Best Car Accident Lawyers in Aiken

FAQs

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

  The Aiken City Department of Public Safety provides police protection and can be reached at 803-642-7620.

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

  Accident reports are available through the City of Aiken Department of Public Safety, at 834 Beaufort St NE. The Records Bureau can be reached via phone at 803-642-7695 or 803-642-7677.

• What are the most common reasons behind car accidents in Aiken?

  The most common causes of car accidents in Aiken and the whole county include driving beyond the speed limit, refusing to yield the right-of-way, driving while distracted, poor directional control, and tailgating. Being drunk behind the wheel is also a frequent risk factor, as is not wearing a seatbelt on the victim’s side.

• How can you deflect blame for a car accident in Aiken?

  If you are accused of causing a car accident in Aiken, you can deflect blame by never admitting to any fault and only sharing the details with your lawyer. Call the police because the resulting report could be used as favorable evidence. Take pictures of the site and capture details, like skid marks on the road or dents on the cars, that could show who was at fault.

• Why should you get a car accident lawyer in Aiken even if funds are low?

  You should always consider getting a car accident lawyer in Aiken because an attorney knows the rules of evidence and how to sift through the documents and testimonies in a case to convince the courts of your claim. You will also be too busy recovering to deal with insurers. Personal injury professionals often accept fees on a contingency basis—meaning, they are only paid if you win and then they get a fraction of the award.

• When are car accident victims in Aiken required to report to the authorities?

  Car accident victims in Aiken are required to report to the authorities if a car accident involves at least $1,000 worth of property damage, or if any person is harmed or dies. If the cops cannot notified immediately, the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles must be notified instead. Failing to make required calls can give rise to hit-and-run charges.

• What are the damages recoverable from a car crash in Aiken?

  If you are the victim in a car crash in Aiken, you can recover economic damages covering the medical treatments and lost wages sustained following the accident. If you were hurt while on the job, there may be workers' compensation payments in store. Non-economic losses are also recoverable and include the intangible pain and suffering caused by disfigurement, loss of consortium, and depression.

• 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.