Best Car Accident Lawyers in Simpsonville

FAQs

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

  The Simpsonville Police Department can be reached at (864) 967-9536.

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

  To obtain a police accident report from the Simpsonville Police Department, call (864) 228-2595. Please be informed that accident reports cost $5.

• Should you move an injured victim in a car accident in Simpsonville?

  If a car accident victim in Simpsonville can move on their own, let them move to a safer place. If they are seriously injured, stay by their side but do not move them. You may inadvertently worsen their injuries by doing so. The only time that you should move an incapacitated victim is if their lives are in danger, such as if the car is on fire.

• Are punitive damages always awarded to car accident victims in Simpsonville?

  Not all of the time. As a matter of fact, this is only awarded rarely, as car accidents are almost, always caused by human error and not malicious intent. Punitive damages, as its name suggests, are imposed as punishment on the at-fault party to serve as a lesson and to deter similar behavior. If awarded, the Simpsonville claimant is entitled to receive 3 times the compensatory damage amount or $500,000, whichever is higher.

• Should car accident victims in Simpsonville seek medical help immediately?

  This would be the wise course of action to take as nothing is more important than someone's health and well-being. Apart from the fact that a visit to the doctor can help properly identify any injuries through scans and lab tests, this is also going to leave medical records that one can use in building a case to support their damage claims.

• Is there a problem with accepting an insurance company's settlement offer after a car accident in Simpsonville?

  This only becomes a big problem for car accident victims in Simpsonville who are suffering severe injuries. If they do end up accepting the offer, there is a high likelihood that it will not be enough to cover all of their expenses unless they've been otherwise advised by a lawyer. It also becomes greatly challenging to pursue more compensation after a claimant realizes that the previous amount they've accepted was not enough.

• What do you do if you get in a car accident in Simpsonville while driving someone else's car?

  The most important thing to do is assess your condition and immediately call emergency services if you think you need it. Then, let the owner know what happened so they can tell you where they keep their car's insurance documentation as you're going to need it in your call with their insurance company. If you have a non-owners insurance policy, then things will go much smoother for you.

• 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.