Experienced Columbia Car Accident Lawyer

If you have been injured in a crash, you are likely dealing with pain, stress, and mounting expenses. You do not have to face the insurance companies alone. At The Super Lawyer, our Columbia car accident lawyers are dedicated to helping you get your life back on track.

We understand that a car wreck changes everything in an instant. From scheduling doctor appointments to worrying about lost wages, the aftermath is overwhelming. Our goal is to handle the legal heavy lifting so you can focus on healing. We fight to recover the maximum compensation for your injuries, medical bills, and suffering.

What to Do After a Car Accident in Columbia

The moments immediately following a crash are chaotic, but the steps you take can significantly impact your ability to file a claim later. Here is a simple guide on what to do:

• Call 911: Ensure police and medical personnel are on the way. A police report is a vital piece of evidence for your personal injury attorney.
• Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, adrenaline can mask injuries. Go to a hospital or urgent care in Columbia, SC right away.
• Gather Evidence: If it is safe, take photos of the vehicles, the road conditions, and any visible injuries.
• Exchange Information: Get the other driver’s name, insurance details, and license plate number.
• Do Not Admit Fault: Be polite, but do not say “I’m sorry” or admit guilt to the other driver or police. Let the investigation determine fault.

Common Causes of Car Accidents in Columbia

Columbia is a busy city with heavy traffic on I-20, I-26, and I-77. We see many different types of crashes, but some causes are more common than others:

• Distracted Driving: Texting, eating, or adjusting the radio takes eyes off the road.
• Speeding: Driving too fast reduces reaction time and increases the severity of crashes.
• Drunk Driving: Impaired drivers are a major danger on South Carolina roads.
• Reckless Driving: Tailgating, weaving through traffic, and ignoring traffic signals.

Injuries from Car Crashes and Long-Term Effects

Car accidents can result in minor bruises or life-altering conditions. We help clients who are suffering from:

• Whiplash and neck injuries
• Broken bones and fractures
• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• Spinal cord damage
• Internal organ damage

Some injuries require years of physical therapy or future surgeries. When we calculate your claim, we look at both your current medical needs and your future long-term care.

South Carolina Car Accident Laws You Should Know

Understanding local laws is critical for your case. Here are the key legal concepts that apply in South Carolina:

Statute of Limitations

In South Carolina, you generally have three years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. This is known as the statute of limitations. If you wait too long, you may lose your right to seek compensation entirely.

Comparative Negligence

South Carolina follows a “modified comparative negligence” rule. This means you can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault, as long as you were not more than 50% responsible. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

Fault vs. No-Fault Insurance

South Carolina is an “at-fault” state, not a no-fault insurance state. This means the driver who caused the accident is responsible for paying the damages. You will typically file a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance company.

Determining Fault and Liability

Proving who caused the accident is the most important part of your case. Insurance companies often try to shift the blame to you to save money. Our team investigates by:

• Reviewing police reports and traffic camera footage.
• Interviewing witnesses.
• Analyzing medical records.
• Working with accident reconstruction experts when necessary.

Compensation You May Recover

When you hire a Columbia car accident lawyer, we aim to get you full compensation for all your losses. This includes:

• Medical Bills: Ambulance rides, hospital stays, surgeries, and medication.
• Lost Wages: Income you lost because you could not go to work.
• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress.
• Property Damage: The cost to repair or replace your vehicle.
• Loss of Earning Capacity: If you cannot return to your old job due to disability.

Insurance Claims Process and Negotiation

Dealing with insurance adjusters can be frustrating. They are trained to settle claims for as little as possible. They may use insurance bad faith tactics, such as delaying your claim or denying valid coverage.

We handle all communication with the insurance company. We know their tricks and how to negotiate a fair settlement that covers all your needs.

Hit-and-Run and Uninsured Driver Cases

What happens if the driver who hit you flees the scene or doesn’t have insurance? This is a scary situation, but you still have options. You may be able to file a claim under your own Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage. We can review your policy to find every available source of compensation.

Why Choose Our Columbia Firm?

At The Super Lawyer, we are passionate about protecting the rights of injury victims. We operate on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay nothing upfront. We only get paid if we win your case or secure a settlement for you.

We know the local courts in Columbia and how to build a strong case against aggressive insurance companies. When you choose us, you get a partner who is committed to your recovery.