Experienced Columbia Car Accident Lawyers Fight for the Rights of Injured Victims
It is crucial to have a legal advocate on your side if you or a loved one are seriously injured in a car accident. At Hart Law, our experienced car accident lawyers fight passionately to ensure you are compensated for your accident and have the means to move forward with your life.
If you’ve been injured in an accident, call us for a free case review at 803-771-7701
Car accidents are among the most frightening, disorienting, and stressful experiences a person can go through. When you’re recovering from a catastrophic car accident, it can be difficult to determine the best course of action, especially when you’re suffering from the pain of your injuries. After an accident, what you do at the scene and in the following days and weeks will greatly impact whether you are able to recover compensation for your injuries.
Common Injuries from Car Accidents in Columbia, South Carolina
In the event of an injury, you should seek medical care as soon as possible. Car accidents can result in the following injuries:
- Neck injuries and whiplash
- Broken bones
- Concussions
- Internal bleeding
- Burns
- Back Injuries
- Brain and spinal cord injuries
- Paralysis
Common Causes of Columbia, SC Car Accidents
Car accidents are often caused by the following factors:
- Ignoring traffic laws
- Exceeding speed limits
- Distracted driving
- Driving while impaired by medications, drugs, or alcohol
- Poor road conditions
- Road rage
6 Steps to Take Immediately Following a Car Accident
In the moments after a car accident, you may feel scared and disoriented. If you are in an accident, follow these steps.
1. Park in a Safe Location and Check on the Safety of Yourself and Passengers
It is important to remain calm after a car accident and slowly take note of any injuries you may have sustained. Check on all passengers in your vehicle and move your car to a safe place if you are able. To alert oncoming traffic if your car is damaged or not functioning, turn on the hazard lights. If you or anyone else requires medical attention, call an ambulance. Report the incident to the police immediately.
2. Don’t Leave the Scene of the Accident
Stay at the scene of the accident until police arrive. You could be accused of hit-and-run if you leave the scene too soon after the accident. There are serious consequences for this offense.
3. Obtain Driver Information and Registration
Remember to write down the make, model, and license plate of any car involved. Identify all the people involved in the incident and write down their contact information and insurance policies.
4. Get Witness Statements and Take Pictures
The cars, accident scene, injuries, and anything else that may support your insurance claim should be photographed. Gather written or video-recorded statements from eyewitnesses for future reference.
In order for an insurance company to pay a settlement, an accident must be properly documented. If you are physically incapable of obtaining information, a passenger in your vehicle or a police officer can assist you. However, it is important to know that a police report may not contain all the information you need to support your claim, so do not rely solely on it.
5. Seek Medication Attention
When you are able to leave the accident scene, seek medical attention as soon as possible. It is common for people to delay seeking medical attention because they believe their injuries are not serious. Often, the adrenaline and stress that accompany a collision can blind you from seeing potential injuries, and symptoms may not appear for hours or days after the accident. A record of any medical treatment you received for an injury is critical when filing an insurance claim. To maximize your recovery, follow your doctor’s instructions diligently.
6. Get in Touch with a Car Accident Lawyer
Having a dedicated lawyer on your side can help you obtain maximum compensation following a car accident. At Hart Law, we can help you build a strong case and negotiate with the insurance company. Throughout the claim process, our car accident attorneys will be able to provide guidance that can significantly increase your settlement offer.
Be Careful What You Say to Insurance Companies
Insurance companies may lull you into a false sense of security or urge you to settle before you know your options. You should be aware that insurance companies do not care about the well-being of accident victims. Their primary concern is their own bottom line.
When you notify the insurance company of an accident, they will try to take advantage of you by pushing you to settle the case as soon as possible. Here are some steps you can take to protect your rights and ensure you get the compensation you deserve:
- Document the exact location, weather, time of day, and witnesses of the incident
- Obtain a copy of the police report
- Record any medical treatment you receive
- Before signing anything from an insurance company, consult an attorney
- Avoid signing blanket medical releases
- Take your time considering an offer
How Much is My Car Accident Case Worth?
Having an attorney on your side can ensure that you receive enough money to cover medical expenses for months, years, or even a lifetime after an accident. You should be able to collect a settlement payout that covers the cost of expenses incurred due to the accident with the help of an experienced car accident attorney.
How Long Will it Take to Settle My Car Accident Case?
Many insurance claims for car accidents without injuries are resolved within 30 days in simple cases. Complex cases, especially those that require a trial, can take anywhere from a few months to a few years to settle. Our goal when working with you is to maximize your recovery while expediting the process as much as possible.
Our Experienced Columbia Car Accident Lawyers Are Here to Help
At the Hart Law, we are here to help you receive legal justice and fair compensation for your car accident.
We can obtain compensation for:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Property damages
- Pain and suffering
We recommend not speaking with the at-fault’s insurance company. They will try to pressure you into a quick settlement. After you settle with them, you will be prohibited from suing them for the accident or your injuries ever again.
We will meet with you to discuss your injury and damages and guide you through the legal process of recovering from a car accident. To schedule a free consultation at the Columbia office of the Hart Law, Contact Us at (803) 771-7701.