Car accident lawsuits involve intricate legal procedures and negotiations with insurance companies, often requiring legal expertise to maximize compensation. Why do you need a lawyer after a car accident? By hiring a lawyer, you can benefit from professional guidance, ensuring that you can protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome in your case.
While there’s no capped compensation in these suits, the amount plaintiffs receive depends on various factors. Each case holds its own distinct value, potentially ranging anywhere from $10,000 to $15,000 to millions.
In South Carolina, the ‘fault’ system means the driver responsible for the accident must cover the victims’ injuries and losses. The state also employs a ‘modified comparative fault’ method, where compensation is determined by assessing the blame of all parties involved. It’s worth noting that South Carolina requires drivers to have a minimum liability insurance of $25,000 per injured person, $50,000 for total bodily harm, and $25,000 for property damage in each accident.
The severity of the injuries, the amount of property damage, and the at-fault driver’s insurance limits are just a few factors that affect the final compensation amount. If that driver doesn’t have sufficient insurance, the injured individual might need to rely on their uninsured motorist coverage for reimbursement.
Can you claim a car accident without a police report? Yes, you can. However, a police report serves as an objective record of the incident, often lending credibility to your claim. Without it, you might need additional evidence to substantiate your account, potentially complicating and lengthening the claim process.
To get a clear picture of your case’s worth, consider a complimentary case review from a reputable car accident attorney in South Carolina, such as those from Strom Law. Our team of auto accident lawyers has guided countless South Carolinans in understanding and strengthening their claims post-accident.
Can I Sue If The At-Fault Driver Is Uninsured?
If you’re involved in an accident with an at-fault driver who doesn’t have insurance, you’re not left without options. State law requires all drivers to include uninsured motorist coverage in their insurance policies, providing a safety net in such circumstances.
It’s essential to familiarize yourself with the details of your uninsured motorist coverage by reviewing your insurance policy. This will help you understand the scope of coverage and any limitations. Although your insurance can help cover some damages from an uninsured driver, there may be limits to what it will pay, especially in more severe incidents where the compensation might not fully address all damages or injuries.
Legal action against the uninsured driver is an option, but remember–if they didn’t have funds for insurance, they might not have the means to pay compensation, even if a court finds them liable. It’s crucial to explore and weigh all legal options to make informed and strategic decisions for your situation.
Common Types of Car Accident Damages
Medical Expenses
Injuries sustained from car accidents can result in substantial medical bills. These aren’t limited to immediate treatments like emergency room visits or surgeries; they also span longer-term needs such as follow-up appointments, rehabilitation, physical therapy, and any specialized equipment like crutches or wheelchairs.
Depending on the severity of the injuries, some victims may require ongoing treatment or therapy, leading to accumulated costs over time. Some injuries might not manifest immediately after the accident but could develop complications later, requiring further medical attention.
Loss of Income
Accidents can temporarily or permanently impair your capacity to work, leading to a direct financial hit. Victims can claim compensation not just for the immediate lost wages following the accident, but also for future income.
This becomes particularly significant in cases where injuries lead to disabilities and the victim is unable to return to their previous job or any job at all. In such cases, considerations like career trajectory, promotions, and potential salary increases are factored into the compensation calculation.
Pain and Suffering
Unlike medical expenses or lost wages, pain and suffering represent non-economic damages, making them harder to quantify. They address the emotional and psychological impact of the accident on the victim’s life.
This can encompass trauma, anxiety, depression, loss of enjoyment of life, or even strained relationships with loved ones. Proving these damages often requires testimonials from mental health professionals, detailed personal accounts, or evidence of therapy or counseling sessions.
Damage to Property
Beyond bodily injuries, car accidents often result in damage to tangible property. While vehicles are the most obvious, personal belongings inside the car or items being transported at the time can also suffer damage.
This could include electronics, clothing, or valuable items. It’s crucial to have a detailed assessment, preferably from professionals, of the extent and cost of the damage. For items with sentimental value, like heirlooms, the compensation might also factor in the emotional toll of their loss.
At Strom Law, our devoted attorneys passionately serve South Carolina’s individuals and families. Our mission is clear–to advocate for and assist those in need. Our team provides expert counsel and fierce representation. Let us be your advocates–reach out today!
