Memorial Day weekend should be a time for fun, relaxation, and making memories with family and friends. But for too many people in South Carolina, it turns into something far more serious. Every year, emergency rooms see an increase in injuries from car crashes, boating accidents, and other dangerous situations caused by someone else’s reckless or negligent behavior. What was supposed to be a carefree holiday weekend can quickly spiral into a life-altering event.
If you’re hurt this holiday weekend, you might be entitled to compensation for your injuries. However, getting what you deserve is not automatic. It requires swift action, strong evidence, and a clear understanding of your legal rights. That’s where hiring a personal injury attorney can make all the difference.
The Most Common Memorial Day Injuries
Holiday weekends are busy across South Carolina, and that increased activity often leads to accidents. Some of the most common types of injuries reported during Memorial Day include:
- Car accidents involving drunk, distracted, or speeding drivers. The combination of holiday traffic and impaired driving leads to more wrecks, especially at night or near tourist destinations.
- Boating accidents involving operators who are under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Boating Under the Influence (BUI) is aggressively enforced in South Carolina, but that does not always stop dangerous behavior.
- Pedestrian and motorcycle injuries, particularly in beach towns or crowded areas where visibility is limited.
- Slip-and-falls at vacation rentals, public events, or local businesses that failed to maintain safe conditions.
Why Legal Help Is Crucial
After an accident, insurance companies often act quickly. They may reach out with a settlement offer before you have a full picture of your injuries or the costs of your recovery. Their goal is to close your claim for as little money as possible. If you accept their offer without legal advice, you may give up your right to seek additional compensation later.
That is why contacting a personal injury attorney as soon as possible is critical. A lawyer can help by:
- Investigating the cause of your accident and gathering evidence while it is still fresh.
- Communicating directly with the insurance company so you do not have to handle the stress yourself.
- Calculating the full value of your claim, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and long-term care needs.
- Negotiating for the maximum possible compensation and preparing your case for court if needed.
What If the Person Who Hurt You Was Arrested?
If the person responsible for your injuries was charged with DUI or BUI, that fact may strengthen your civil case. A criminal charge can support your claim that the other person acted negligently. However, it is important to understand that a criminal case does not result in compensation for victims. To receive money for your injuries, medical bills, and lost income, you must file a separate civil claim.
At Truslow and Truslow, we have decades of experience representing injury victims in South Carolina. We know how to act fast, preserve your rights, and fight for the compensation you deserve. Before you talk to an insurance company, contact us. Let us help you take the next step toward recovery.