Best Car Accident Lawyers in Goose Creek

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the local police station is (843) 863-5200.

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

  You can get a copy of the police report for the accident directly from the Goose Creek Police Department Records Bureau if your accident occurred within the past 14 days. If your accident occurred past this 14-day period, you must submit a written request to the bureau to allow it time to find your records.

• How common are vehicle collisions in the Goose Creek area?

  The Goose Creek Police Department recorded an average of roughly 100 vehicle collisions per month for 2022. Other traffic-violation statistics include over 50 DUI incidents, over 4,000 citations, and over 3,000 traffic stops in the last three months of 2022. They also recorded 49 unsecured vehicle break-ins for the last quarter of 2022.

• How long does it take to get compensation for a Goose Creek car accident?

  Goose Creek and state laws require motorists to carry insurance covering car accidents, meaning that it generally depends on the insurance company as to how long it would take to receive compensation. This may take days or weeks, with some insurance providers looking to work directly with your medical care providers or opting to provide you with a set amount of compensation.

• Can you recover damages if you were injured in a Goose Creek car accident while in a rideshare vehicle or taxi?

  Generally, yes you can recover damages if you were injured in a Goose Creek car accident while in rideshare vehicles or taxis. Rideshare vehicles under companies such as Uber and Lyft generally have insurance policies through their contracting company covering accidents. Individual rideshare vehicle drivers also have personal insurance, but those may include provisions excluding accidents while the vehicle is used for business. Taxi companies also carry relevant insurance policies and can be litigated against for compensation.

• What can an attorney do for your Goose Creek car accident case?

  Generally, attorneys handle negotiation and litigation proceedings for your Goose Creek car accident case. Some firms have the resources to send private investigators to gather evidence for your case, such as medical and police reports or photographs of the scene of the accident. Additionally, some attorneys and their firms provide support beyond the legal aspect of your case, helping you find and acquire medical care after your accident.

• Can you recover compensation for injuries your pet sustained in a Goose Creek car accident?

  Yes, you can recover compensation for pet injuries in a Goose Creek car accident because pets are considered your property, according to South Carolina laws. Pet injuries or fatalities can be argued as being property damage in an insurance claim or personal injury case. Compensation is based on the value of what was lost, with the value being calculated using metrics such as breed and specialized training.

• 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.