Car Accident Lawyer Columbia, SC

If you were recently in a vehicle collision, you may want to speak with a Columbia, SC car accident attorney. You may be entitled to compensation. A lawyer can help you file a timely claim against the negligent party and protect your rights.

Common Myths About Car Accidents Claims

If you were hurt in a car accident caused by another driver, you have the right to pursue a car accident claim. However, you might have heard misinformation about these cases that are making you reluctant to take legal action. Here are a few common myths that you should not believe.

• If the fault is clear, the insurance company will be fair to me. While it would be nice if this were true, it is not usually the case. Even if it is clear that the other driver is to blame for the accident, do not expect the person’s insurance company to be on your side. They care about the bottom line first and may try to get out of paying you what you deserve. That’s why you should say as little as possible if the insurance company contacts you.

• If my injuries are minor, it’s not worth it to file a claim. Just because your injuries are not life-threatening, does not mean that you should not file a car accident claim. Minor injuries can still result in expensive medical bills and you should not have to pay for them out-of-pocket. We pay car insurance premiums for a reason and this is it.

• I can’t afford to hire a lawyer. Unfortunately, some car accident victims don’t hire a Columbia car accident attorney because they don’t think they can afford one. However, most car accident lawyers charge a contingency fee, so they are only paid if their clients receive a settlement.

• Any injury lawyer can handle a car accident claim. This isn’t necessarily true either. Even if a lawyer specializes in injury cases, he or she might not have the right experience to handle your case. For example, a lawyer who focuses primarily on medical malpractice cases may not be the right lawyer to take your case.

• I can file a claim at any time. This is one of the most harmful myths about car accident claims. The truth is that there is a deadline to file a car accident claim. In South Carolina, the statute of limitations to file a claim is three years. After that deadline has passed, you are no longer eligible for compensation.

• The rear driver is always to blame for rear-end accidents. At first, it might seem like the driver is automatically at fault for rear-end car accidents. However, it isn’t always that simple. For example, if the front driver had broken brake lights, he or she may be considered at least partially at fault in the collision. 

If you were hurt in a car accident, you should schedule a consultation with a Columbia car accident attorney from Woron and Dhillon, LLC to talk about your case in detail.

Mistakes to Avoid in Car Accident Cases

A Columbia, SC car accident lawyer understands that the experience of being injured in a car accident can be an overwhelming one. Not only is there the experience of the crash itself, which can be a very frightening experience, but then there is the aftermath the victim is forced to deal with because of their injuries. Those physical, emotional, and financial losses victims sustain from their injuries are recoverable under South Carolina law.

The following are some of the issues that can come up that could cause harm to your case. For more details, contact Woron and Dhillon, LLC.

Not Realizing the Extent of Your Injuries

Anyone who is involved in a car accident should immediately consult with a doctor to determine what – if any – injuries they have sustained. There are some injuries that can have delayed or silent symptoms and by the time the victim realizes something is wrong, they may be facing serious health issues, such as a brain injury or internal bleeding.

Not Documenting the Scene of the Crash

Regardless of what the other driver says, always call the 911from the scene of the accident. This is critical if any victims are injured, but it is also important to have the police show up at the scene in order to have the accident documented via the police report the responding officer will be required to file. This report will give the basic details of the accident, as well as if there were any traffic violation citations issued or arrests made.

But that is not the only evidence used to document the accident. It is also important to your case to obtain photographs/videos of the accident site, including damage to both vehicles, damage to any property, skid marks, road conditions, etc. Make sure to also obtain the contact information of any witnesses to the accident.

Not Filing an Accident Claim in a Timely Manner

Accident victims only have a certain amount of time to file accident claims. This is referred to as the statute of limitations. If you wait too long, you lose your opportunity to pursue damages against the at-fault party.

When you do file a claim, however, it is also crucial to not speak to the insurance adjuster until you speak to a Columbia car accident lawyer. Adjusters are trained to manipulate conversations to get people to say things in a way that they can ultimately use against you to deny your claim. For example, saying you are sorry about the accident could be used as evidence that you are admitting you are the one who is at fault for the crash, even if that is not what you meant at all.

Not Consulting with a Lawyer

Speaking to insurance company adjusters and trying to negotiate a settlement on your own can often have a detrimental impact on your case and you could end up with much less than what you deserve. Personal injury law can be complex, which is why it is important to consult with a Columbia car accident lawyer from Woron and Dhillon, LLC.

Top Five Injuries in an Accident

Car accidents can result in devastating injuries, ranging from minor bruises to life-altering trauma, and you may need to work with a Columbia, SC car accident lawyer. Learn about five of the most common injuries that can result from a car accident, and then contact Woron and Dhillon, LLC for help.

1. Whiplash

Whiplash is a soft tissue injury that occurs when the head is forcefully jerked back and forth in a rapid motion, commonly seen in rear-end collisions. It can result in neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and even cognitive issues. Whiplash injuries may not manifest immediately after the accident and can take hours or even days to become apparent. You should always seek medical attention and document your visit. A skilled attorney can help you navigate the legal process and obtain the compensation you deserve for your whiplash injury.

2. Bone Fractures

Bone fractures are common in car accidents due to the impact and force involved. Fractures can occur in any part of the body, including arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis. Fractures may require surgeries, immobilization, and extensive rehabilitation. These medical needs can result in medical expenses and lost wages. Insurance companies may try to minimize the severity of fractures or dispute the need for certain medical treatments. An experienced Columbia car accident lawyer can advocate on your behalf, gather evidence, and negotiate with the insurance company to ensure you receive fair compensation for your fractures.

3. Head and Brain Injuries

Head and brain injuries can range from concussions and contusions to traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) with long-term consequences. These injuries can occur when the head strikes an object or experiences a sudden jolt during a car accident. Symptoms may include:

• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Memory loss
• Mood swings
• Cognitive impairment.

Head and brain injuries can have a significant impact on a victim’s daily life, and it’s crucial to seek proper medical attention and legal representation from a knowledgeable attorney to pursue fair compensation for these complex injuries.

4. Soft Tissue Injuries

Soft tissue injuries, such as sprains, strains, and bruises, are common in car accidents due to sudden impacts, abrupt movements, and seatbelt injuries. Soft tissue injuries may not be apparent immediately after the accident. However, they can cause significant pain and discomfort in the days following the crash. Insurance companies may try to downplay the severity of soft tissue injuries or dispute the need for ongoing medical treatments. Your attorney can help by gathering evidence, documenting your injuries, and negotiating with the insurance company to ensure you receive the necessary compensation.

5. Psychological Injuries

Car accidents can also result in psychological injuries, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. Witnessing or experiencing a traumatic event like a car accident can have long-lasting emotional and mental impacts on a victim’s well-being.

However, psychological injuries may be overlooked or disputed by insurance companies as they are not visible physical injuries. You are still entitled to compensation for your psychological injuries, but you may need to receive compensation for them under non-economic damages, covering areas like emotional distress and pain and suffering.

Columbia Car Accident Infographic

Car accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, some of which may not be apparent immediately after the accident. If you have been involved in a car accident, it’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly and consult with a qualified Columbia car accident lawyer from Woron and Dhillon, LLC.

Frequently Asked Car Accident Questions – Answered

As our Columbia, SC car accident lawyer has seen firsthand, car accidents can be chaotic, frightening, and complex. Every step in managing a car accident case requires careful attention, from the immediate aftermath to the long-term ramifications. It’s crucial to navigate these turbulent waters efficiently and effectively, as decisions made in the heat of the moment can significantly impact the case’s final resolution. Our Woron and Dhillon, LLC can provide guidance during a challenging time and have taken the opportunity to answer five fundamental questions about managing a car accident case, giving you a solid foundation to handle such an unfortunate event.

What should I do immediately after a car accident?

The immediate aftermath of a car accident is a crucial time. First, ensure everyone is safe, and call for medical assistance if needed. Please do not leave the scene until it’s appropriate to do so. You should also report the accident to law enforcement to generate an official accident report. This report can be instrumental in determining liability and supporting insurance claims later.

How should I collect and preserve evidence at the scene?

Gathering and preserving evidence at the scene can significantly support your case. This includes taking photographs of vehicle damages, the overall accident scene, any visible injuries, and relevant road or weather conditions. Also, document essential details like the time and place of the accident, the other driver’s contact and insurance information, and statements from any witnesses. This evidence can help construct a clear and factual narrative of the accident.

When should I contact my insurance company?

Ideally, you should contact your insurance company as soon as possible after the accident. Provide them with accurate information about the incident and any evidence you’ve collected. However, our Columbia car accident lawyer will advise that it’s essential to be cautious about making definitive statements about fault or liability; those determinations should be left to legal and insurance professionals. Keeping your insurer informed helps them handle your claim effectively and lets you take advantage of any benefits available under your policy. Keep in mind that in some cases, it will be beneficial to work with a lawyer who can assist in managing these conversations with the insurance company. 

Should I hire a lawyer?

Hiring a lawyer might be optional for some car accidents, especially minor ones. However, if there are significant damages, serious injuries, disputes about liability, or involvement of multiple parties, it’s advisable to consult with a lawyer. An experienced car accident lawyer can guide you through the legal process, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent your best interests.

What are the critical considerations for managing a car accident claim?

There are several key considerations when managing a car accident claim. Firstly, understand your insurance policy’s coverage limits and conditions. Also, keep track of all medical bills, repair costs, and any lost wages due to the accident for reimbursement claims. Always be mindful of the statute of limitations, limiting the time you can file a lawsuit. Lastly, please take your time accepting the first settlement offer from an insurance company before assessing its fairness. It may be beneficial to negotiate or consult with a lawyer before accepting a settlement.

Managing a car accident case involves:

• Immediate response
• Careful evidence collection
• Timely communication with your insurer
• Possibly engaging with legal professionals
• Handling a claim with strategic patience and diligence

Navigating these stages can significantly impact the eventual outcome of the case. Although car accidents are distressing, understanding these aspects can help you approach such a situation with a clear mind and preparedness, aiming for the most favorable resolution. If you have experienced a car accident, take the time to schedule a consultation with our Columbia car accident lawyer from Woron and Dhillon, LLC.