Accidents can occur in an instant but leave a lasting impact on your physical, emotional, and financial well-being. Whether you’ve been involved in a car crash, suffered a slip and fall injury, or experienced the wrongful death of a loved one, the process of navigating personal injury law can be overwhelming. In South Carolina, especially in cities like Charleston and Hanahan, having a knowledgeable personal injury attorney by your side can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
In this article, we’ll explore the fundamentals of personal injury law in South Carolina, what steps to take after an accident, and how legal professionals like The Law Office of Hunter L. Windham can provide the advocacy and support you need during such a challenging time.
Understanding Personal Injury Law in South Carolina
Personal injury law allows an injured person to file a lawsuit to receive compensation when someone else’s negligence or intentional act causes harm. South Carolina follows a “modified comparative negligence” rule, which means that if you are found to be less than 51% at fault for the accident, you can still recover damages — although they will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
For example, if you were 20% responsible for a car accident and your damages total $100,000, you would still be eligible to receive $80,000 in compensation.
Common Types of Personal Injury Cases
There are several types of personal injury cases that occur frequently in Charleston, Hanahan, and throughout the state. These include:
Car Accidents
Car crashes are among the most common causes of personal injury claims. Whether it’s a rear-end collision, a T-bone accident at an intersection, or a distracted driving incident, the injuries and damages can be severe.
Truck Accidents
Accidents involving commercial trucks often lead to more severe injuries due to their size and weight. Legal claims involving trucking companies can be complex, requiring detailed investigation and legal expertise.
Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcyclists are more vulnerable on the road and often suffer catastrophic injuries in accidents. Even when wearing proper gear, the risk remains high.
Wrongful Death
If a loved one passes away due to another person’s negligence—such as in a drunk driving accident—family members may file a wrongful death lawsuit to seek justice and compensation.
Slip and Fall Injuries
Property owners have a duty to keep their premises safe. Wet floors, uneven surfaces, and poor lighting can lead to serious injuries, especially for the elderly.
Why You Need a Personal Injury Attorney
Personal injury law is complex, and insurance companies often try to minimize payouts or deny claims altogether. Working with an experienced personal injury attorney ensures that your case is thoroughly investigated and your rights are protected.
An attorney will:
- Collect and preserve evidence
- Interview witnesses
- Handle all communications with insurance companies
- Calculate full and fair compensation
- Represent you in court, if necessary
In cases involving serious injuries or wrongful death, the legal process can take months or even years. Having legal representation helps you stay focused on recovery while professionals handle the legal side.
Legal Help Available in Hanahan, SC
If you live in Hanahan or the greater Charleston area, one trusted legal option is The Law Office of Hunter L. Windham. This law firm focuses on personal injury cases such as car accidents, wrongful death, and slip and fall injuries. They provide compassionate yet aggressive legal representation to help clients get the compensation they deserve.
With in-depth knowledge of local laws and courts, their team builds strong legal strategies tailored to each client’s unique situation. From the initial consultation to the final verdict or settlement, they work diligently to pursue justice on your behalf.
What to Do Immediately After an Accident
Here’s what you should do right after an accident or injury in South Carolina:
- Call emergency services – Always contact 911 and seek medical attention.
- Document the scene – Take photos and videos of the accident scene, injuries, and property damage.
- Gather contact information – Collect details from witnesses and those involved.
- Avoid giving recorded statements – Do not talk to insurance companies without legal advice.
- Contact a personal injury attorney – The earlier you involve a lawyer, the better they can protect your rights.
Time Limits for Filing a Claim
South Carolina law has a statute of limitations for personal injury cases. In most cases, you have three years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to seek compensation altogether.
However, certain exceptions apply, such as when the victim is a minor or when the injury wasn’t discovered right away. Consulting a lawyer as soon as possible ensures your claim is filed correctly and on time.
Conclusion
Personal injury cases require careful handling, especially when the consequences of an accident are long-lasting. Whether you’re recovering from a car accident, grieving a loved one’s wrongful death, or healing from a slip and fall injury, legal support is crucial. Firms like The Law Office of Hunter L. Windham offer professional, compassionate guidance that helps victims regain control and pursue the compensation they rightfully deserve.
Don’t navigate the legal system alone. If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence in Hanahan or Charleston, take the first step toward justice and healing by consulting with a personal injury attorney today.
