Frequently asked questions

In South Carolina, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is three years from the date of the injury. Failing to file within this timeframe may result in losing your right to seek compensation.

After an injury, you file a claim with the insurance company, provide evidence, negotiate a settlement, and if no agreement is reached, the case may go to mediation or court for resolution.

South Carolina is a fault-based state, meaning the driver responsible for the accident is liable for damages. No-fault insurance laws do not apply here, so victims seek compensation from the at-fault party.

Yes, you can sue for loss of enjoyment of life, which is a non-economic damage. It compensates for reduced ability to enjoy hobbies, social activities, or daily life due to injury caused by another party.

Pain and suffering includes physical pain, emotional distress, mental anguish, loss of enjoyment, and reduced quality of life caused by the injury, which can be compensated in personal injury claims.

Settlement timing varies; it may take weeks to months after a demand letter, depending on insurance review, negotiations, and case complexity before reaching an agreement or proceeding to litigation.

A settlement check is payment from the insurance company or defendant to the claimant, representing agreed compensation. Once received, it usually requires signing a release to close the claim officially.

You can cash your personal injury settlement check at your bank or credit union, the issuing insurance company’s local office, or a check-cashing service. Always verify funds are cleared before spending to avoid any issues.

Personal injury settlements for physical injuries or sickness are generally not taxable. However, compensation for punitive damages, lost wages, or interest may be taxable. Always consult a tax professional for advice based on your specific settlement details.

You can file a claim under your uninsured motorist coverage or sue the uninsured driver if possible. Without coverage, you may need to cover your own damages.

Most insurers require reporting within 24 to 48 hours after the accident to protect your claim and ensure timely processing. Check your policy for exact deadlines.

Symptoms like pain, stiffness, headaches, or dizziness may appear days later. Seek medical evaluation immediately to diagnose and start proper treatment before conditions worsen.

Insurance premiums can increase between 20% and 50% depending on fault, claim history, and insurer policies. Rates vary widely by individual circumstances and state regulations.

Common accidents include rear-end collisions, side-impact crashes, head-on collisions, and rollovers. These cause the majority of car crash injuries and claims.

Ensure everyone’s safety, call emergency services if needed, exchange information with the other driver, document the scene with photos, and notify your insurance company promptly.

Exchange names, phone numbers, insurance details, driver’s license numbers, vehicle registration info, and take photos of damages and the accident scene for documentation.

Photograph all vehicle damages, license plates, skid marks, traffic signs, road conditions, injuries, and the overall accident scene to provide strong evidence for your claim.

Record details like time, date, location, weather, driver information, witness contacts, vehicle damage, and your own injury symptoms for a thorough and accurate injury claim.

Yes, calling the police ensures an official report is created, which is crucial for insurance claims and legal processes, even if the accident seems minor.

The most common car accident injuries include whiplash, fractures, cuts and bruises, concussions, spinal cord injuries, and soft tissue damage. These injuries vary in severity and often require medical treatment and rehabilitation

Emotional trauma and psychological effects like anxiety or PTSD are valid and can be compensated. Seek professional help and document your symptoms.

You may experience pain, stiffness, bruising, swelling, headaches, or fatigue. Symptoms can appear immediately or develop over days.

Seek medical attention promptly, document your symptoms, and notify your insurance or attorney to protect your legal rights and ensure proper treatment.

It’s best to see a doctor immediately, but legally, delayed treatment can still support claims if symptoms arise within the statute of limitations. Don’t wait too long to protect your health and claim.

You should contact a lawyer as soon as possible, but you generally have up to three years (South Carolina’s statute of limitations) to file a claim. Earlier is better for evidence and case strength.

Yes, a lawyer can help protect your rights, handle insurance negotiations, and maximize your compensation, especially when fault is disputed or damages are significant.

You may face penalties, fines, and difficulty recovering damages. You might rely on uninsured motorist coverage if available, but legal and financial risks are high without insurance.

Settlements can be delayed due to complex negotiations, insurance investigations, medical treatment timelines, or disputed liability. Patience and legal guidance are crucial.

Generally, you are not liable if your car was stolen and misused, but liability may depend on negligence in securing the vehicle or local laws. Consult an attorney for specifics.

No, both lane splitting and lane filtering are illegal in South Carolina. According to S.C. Code § 56-5-3640, motorcyclists are prohibited from operating between lanes of traffic or adjacent rows of vehicles. Violating this law can result in citations

Collect photos of damage and injuries, witness contacts, police reports, medical records, and insurance information to support your claim.

Seek professional mental health support, consider therapy or counseling, and communicate openly with loved ones to aid recovery. Document symptoms for legal and medical purposes.

Lawsuits vary but typically last from several months to a few years, depending on case complexity, negotiations, and court schedules.

Yes, you must report a bus accident to Greenville authorities if it involves injury, death, or over $1,000 in property damage. Contact the Greenville Police or County Sheriff within 15 days to file a report for legal and insurance purposes.

File a claim against the bus company or driver, gather evidence, seek medical care, and consult a personal injury attorney to pursue maximum compensation.