Best Car Accident Lawyers in North Charleston

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the North Charleston Police Department is 843-743-7200.

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

  Drop by the North Charleston Police Department at 2500 City Hall Lane, North Charleston, SC 29418, to secure a copy of your crash report. You will be required to pay a fee of $5. Accident reports can also be acquired by visiting the website https://www.northcharleston.org/?s=Police. Another option is through the mail. You can send a letter of request to the address above, along with a business check or money order for $5.

• How will your car accident attorney in North Charleston demonstrate negligence?

  Your car accident claim in North Charleston must be supported by evidence of negligence. Your attorney will assist you in proving the following to ensure that you get maximum compensation from the responsible party:

  • The other person was behaving in a way that demonstrated a lack of regard for other people's safety.
  • Your accident was caused by this person's careless behavior.
  • Your injuries were a direct result of the collision.

• How can you tell if your North Charleston car accident claim is valid?

  Every case has unique circumstances that have an effect on its validity. Some of the primary elements that attorneys use to assess car accident claims in North Charleston are:

  • Liability: You must demonstrate that another driver or party caused the crash and that their negligence resulted in injuries.
  • Evidence: You need to gather medical records, police reports, and eyewitness statements to prove that the opposing party is responsible for your crash.
  • Case value: Your case must be sufficiently valuable due to your losses and damages, like medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering.

• If you file a car accident claim in North Charleston, will the case go to trial?

  It depends. In North Charleston, most car accident victims choose to settle out of court to save time and money. You can receive the full compensation you deserve without going to court with the help of an experienced car accident lawyer. However, if the at-fault party's insurance company refuses to accept a fair settlement, your case may proceed to trial.

• Should you talk to the insurance company following a car accident in North Charleston?

  No. It is advisable to speak with a qualified North Charleston car accident attorney first and request him or her to communicate with the insurance company on your behalf. Insurance adjusters typically want to give you as little money as possible or avoid paying for your claim. Please do not give them any information, and avoid signing any documents. If you do, you may forfeit your chance at receiving just compensation.

• How long do you have in North Charleston to file a car accident claim?

  According to South Carolina Law, individuals who have sustained injuries in car accidents caused by others usually have three years to file a claim. In most North Charleston personal injury cases, the statute of limitations is generally calculated from the date of the injury. You can forfeit your opportunity to receive compensation for your losses if you miss the deadline.

• 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.