Helping Personal Injury Victims In Florence, SC

You’re at the forefront at Hart Law. In Florence, accidents can throw life off balance, but we’re here to handle the legal side. As a dedicated personal injury attorney, our team’s deep knowledge of the Florence area enhances our legal services, allowing us to provide tailored strategies rooted in local expertise and community ties. Our mission is straightforward: secure rightful compensation for Florence, South Carolina residents facing unexpected injuries. We delve into the details, collecting evidence to fortify your case. From negotiation to trial, we stand with you, ensuring accountability for those responsible. Let us manage the legal aspects; your focus belongs on recovering. Call us now at (803) 771-7701 for your free case consultation.

Accidents in Florence

Criss-crossed by multiple highways, Florence is a hub of activity. With so much traffic pouring in, car accidents are a common sight, and many more people are hurt when heading into work or going shopping.

As the tenth most populous city in the state, Florence has enjoyed strong population growth, jumping from only 25,000 people in 1970 to more than 40,000 today. This growth comes with a cost: more people who end up causing more accidents and injuries.

Hart Law opened its doors because we believed Florence residents deserve high quality legal representation after an accident. Our legal practice serves Florence and the surrounding areas, and we also have extensive experience handling cases in Columbia, giving us valuable regional knowledge and familiarity with local courts and legal environments. A local attorney understands the legal landscape and how to communicate with insurance companies and judges. After an injury, you owe it to yourself to hire a seasoned lawyer to negotiate or litigate on your behalf. Contact us.

Hart Law Firm comprehends the nuances of personal injury in Florence. From car accidents to slip and falls, we handle it all, allowing you to concentrate on recovery. Our approach is comprehensive; we consider every aspect of a personal injury case, including evidence collection, negotiations, and legal strategy, to achieve the best possible outcome. We dive into the specifics of each case, whether it’s motor vehicle collisions or wrongful death. Our expertise covers the personal injury spectrum. Rely on us to navigate complexities and secure the compensation you rightfully deserve for the unique challenges you’re up against.

Common Causes of Injuries

Injuries can happen in an instant, often due to someone else’s negligence, reckless actions, or even intentional harm. At Hart Law, we have extensive experience handling cases that arise from car accidents, slip and falls, and other incidents that can disrupt your life. We believe that every injury victim deserves to be treated with respect and care, and we are dedicated to helping you get back on your feet after a serious event. No matter how your injury occurred, our team is here to help you understand your legal options and pursue the compensation you need to recover and move forward.

Personal Injury Damages You May Be Entitled To

Hart Law Firm, located in Florence, is dedicated to your restoration after a personal injury. We provide guidance on potential compensation, including medical expenses such as mounting medical bills and doctor visits, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and the impact on personal relationships. We also ensure clients receive important information about their rights and the claims process. In cases of extreme negligence, punitive damages may be sought. Attorney Chris Hart is unwavering in exploring all avenues for your complete and fair compensation, with a primary focus on your recovery.

How Much is Your Claim Worth?

This is a common question. Many accident victims search online for the “average” settlement for their injuries, but it’s important to understand that the value of any personal injury case depends on several unique factors.

Unfortunately, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. Instead, Hart Law will look at your expenses, including:

• Medical care to stabilize your condition
• Rehabilitation and other ongoing care to improve your health
• At-home help if you need assistance with daily living
• Lost wages or income if you cannot work as you heal
• Property damage (such as car damage)
• Pain and suffering and other non-economic damages

This last category is the most subjective and where your choice of Florence personal injury lawyer makes the most difference. Our firm can argue the accident has reduced your quality of life, so the defendant should pay for your suffering. In similar personal injury cases, we have recovered significant compensation for our clients. Let us review how your injuries have changed your life.

What Does The Personal Injury Claims Process Look Like For My Case?

The claims process involves fully documenting the accident and your injuries. It is essential to gather and organize all relevant documents, such as medical records, legal paperwork, and any other evidence necessary for your case. The goal is to convince the defendant or their insurance company to pay compensation to our client.

There are many steps involved. Injured victims need to carefully document their care, as well as the pain they experience. We recommend keeping a journal to write down whether you can sleep and where you feel pain.

Evidence is central to these cases. For example, a car accident case often involves two drivers pointing the finger at each other. We need proof the other driver is at fault. Some of the most important evidence includes witnesses, police reports, and any security or dashcam footage that recorded the accident. Additionally, sharing your story and personal experience can help strengthen your case and build empathy with the court or jury.

After a few months, we will have a better idea of the value of your claim. Then we can open negotiations with the defendant and their insurer. We demand top compensation for our clients, even though the defense is likely to reject our first demand.

Negotiation is a back-and-forth process which can take several months. Sticking points include comparative negligence and the value of your injuries. An inexperienced lawyer might give up after a few weeks, but we trust our research and our strategy.

At Hart Law, we keep our clients in the loop on what is happening. You are more than just a number to us.

Why Liability Matters

The goal is to receive compensation from the defendant. But a person isn’t obligated to pay you a dime unless they are in some way responsible for the accident which led to your injuries. This is liability, also called “fault.” Many personal injury cases arise from someone else’s negligence, where your injuries are the result of another person’s careless or wrongful actions.

• Hart Law knows what evidence can prove fault for an accident. The evidence depends on the accident:
• Motor vehicle collision. Often, the driver was careless, distracted, or made a dangerous or possibly illegal maneuver.
• Slip and falls. The property owner is liable when they created a hazard or knew about one and failed to warn visitors. They must use reasonable measures to keep the property safe.
• Negligent security. The property owner failed to use reasonable care when installing security measures to protect visitors.
• Wrongful death. The defendant committed a wrongful act which led to death. Typically, this act could be negligent in nature, but intentional violent acts also qualify.

Call our office. Finding useful evidence is key and time sensitive. Many victims are too injured to visit the scene or talk with witnesses, so we can help.

Is It Too Late to File a Lawsuit?

Injured victims need to move quickly to protect their legal rights. Surprisingly, South Carolina does not give accident victims an unlimited amount of time to file a lawsuit against the defendant. Instead, Section 15-3-530 of the South Carolina Code gives you three years in most cases.

There are some exceptions. If the victim is a minor, they get more time. But for most clients, three years is the deadline, and you cannot go over it by even a day.

Call Hart Law. We have seen too many people wait too long, losing their ability to sue in the process. By filing a lawsuit, you strengthen your hand in negotiations and bring the full pressure to bear on a defendant.

The Trial Process

More than 90% of personal injury cases settle amicably outside of the courthouse. Still, some small percentage of cases must go to trial for various reasons:

• The defendant is being unreasonable.
• You are blamed for causing the accident.
• The defense questions the seriousness of your injuries or economic losses.

In these cases, litigation might be your only choice to obtain justice and real compensation. That means a trial at the end of the process, where your attorney will lead your case through the trial process and advocate for you in court.

Civil trials are different from criminal trials. The standard of proof is lower, and the defendant doesn’t go to jail. However, you can still request a jury trial for a personal injury claim, and the jury will decide who is liable and how much your claim is worth.

About Our Law Firm

At Hart Law, our commitment to justice and strong advocacy sets us apart as a leading personal injury law firm throughout South Carolina. We believe that every injury victim deserves caring support and a dedicated team ready to fight for their rights. Our experienced personal injury lawyer has helped clients recover substantial settlements in cases involving negligence, including complex tractor trailer accidents and other serious incidents. With a focus on helping injury victims navigate the legal process, we are here to support you every step of the way. If you or a loved one has been harmed by someone else’s negligence, our law firm is ready to help you recover the compensation you deserve and move forward with confidence.

Types of Cases We Handle

Our law firm is equipped to handle a wide variety of personal injury cases, ensuring that clients receive the representation they need no matter the circumstances. We regularly assist those injured in car accidents, motorcycle accidents, truck accidents, and tractor trailer accidents. Beyond vehicle-related incidents, our personal injury lawyers also represent clients in workplace injury cases, social security disability claims, and matters involving catastrophic injuries such as traumatic brain injuries. Every case is unique, and we take the time to learn about your specific situation so we can develop a strategy tailored to your needs. Our commitment to justice and securing fair compensation drives us to provide the best possible representation for every client we serve.

Why Choose Us

Choosing Hart Law means choosing a law firm that truly cares about your recovery and your future. Our personal injury lawyers are committed to providing exceptional care and representation, helping you navigate the legal process and recover the compensation you deserve. We offer free consultations and are always available to answer your questions and provide guidance. Our dedication extends beyond the courtroom—we are actively involved in charitable initiatives throughout South Carolina, reflecting our commitment to giving back to the communities we serve. Whether you need help with a car accident claim, a social security disability case, or any other personal injury matter, we are here to help you move forward, get back on your feet, and achieve the justice you deserve.

FAQs by Florence Clients

Q. How long does it take to settle a personal injury claim in Florence?

The timeline for settling a personal injury claim in Florence can vary widely depending on the specific facts of your case. Simple cases involving minor injuries and clear liability may settle in a few months. More complex cases, especially those involving serious injuries, disputed liability, or extensive negotiations, can take a year or longer. Delays may also occur if you haven’t reached maximum medical improvement, as this affects the valuation of your damages. A Florence personal injury attorney can give you a more accurate estimate based on your case and will work to keep the process moving while protecting your right to full compensation.

Q. Can I file a personal injury claim against a government entity in Florence?

Yes, you can file a personal injury claim against a government entity in Florence, but doing so involves special rules and deadlines. In South Carolina, the South Carolina Tort Claims Act outlines the process for suing a government agency or employee. Claims must be filed within strict time limits—often shorter than those in other personal injury cases. There are also caps on how much compensation you can receive. A Florence personal injury attorney with experience handling claims against public entities can guide you through the process, ensure proper notice is given, and build a strong case to pursue damages for your injuries.

Q. What if the at-fault party in Florence is a minor?

If the person who caused your injury is a minor, the legal situation becomes more complex. Minors generally can’t be sued in the same way as adults, but in many cases, their parents or legal guardians may be held financially responsible for the actions of their child. The court may also evaluate whether the minor was capable of understanding the consequences of their actions. A Florence personal injury attorney can help you determine the best course of action and whether the parents’ insurance coverage or personal assets can be used to cover your losses. Every situation is unique and should be evaluated carefully.

Q. Is mediation helpful?

Yes, mediation can be a very effective way to resolve a personal injury claim without going to trial. In mediation, both sides meet with a neutral third party—the mediator—who helps them communicate and explore possible settlement options. The mediator doesn’t make any binding decisions but works to bridge gaps in understanding and facilitate compromise. Many personal injury cases in Florence are resolved through mediation, saving time, money, and emotional stress. A Florence personal injury attorney can represent you during mediation, help you prepare, and make sure that any settlement offered truly reflects the damages you’ve suffered and the strength of your case.

Q. What do I do if I can’t afford an attorney?

If you can’t afford an attorney after suffering a serious injury, don’t give up hope. At Hart Law, we understand how overwhelming legal costs can feel after an accident. That’s why our Florence personal injury attorney team works on a contingency fee basis. You won’t pay anything upfront. In fact, you don’t owe us anything unless we win your case. This means we take on all the risk and do everything we can to secure compensation for you. We believe every injured person deserves access to justice—no matter their financial situation. It really is that simple: no recovery, no fee.

Get Assistance From A Florence Personal Injury Lawyer Today​

If you or a loved one got injured in Florence at no fault of your own, reach out to us. Our experienced personal injury attorney is dedicated to protecting your interests and guiding you through every step of your South Carolina personal injury case. We can help after any type of accident or thing that causes injury, ensuring you receive the support you need.

Don’t forget your rights—contact us promptly so we can advocate for you. For your convenience, we offer the option to meet virtually if needed. In addition to personal injury, we also assist with wills and estate planning to help secure your family’s future.

Have questions about your situation, or not sure if you need a car accident attorney for your case? No problem. We provide a free, no-obligation consultation, so you have nothing to lose. Send our law firm a message online or give us a call.