After an accident in South Carolina, you are probably staring down medical bills and insurance adjusters, along with some stress. You just want someone to take the burden off your shoulders. When should you hire a personal injury lawyer?
Not every accident requires legal help, but there are plenty of situations where hiring an attorney in South Carolina is needed. Here are a few tips to help you know when you may need assistance.
The Insurance Company Pushes Back
Unfortunately, South Carolina insurance companies will try to save money wherever they can. You will want to call a lawyer when an adjuster starts telling you things like:
- “We don’t think your injuries are that serious.”
- “You were partially at fault.”
- “We’re still reviewing your documentation.”
- “This is the best we can offer you.”
Adjusters are trained to minimize payouts. They know the law, the loopholes, and how to make you second-guess your claim.
A personal injury law firm can handle the back-and-forth for you. They will push for the compensation you deserve and stop the insurance company from taking advantage of you.
Your Injuries Are Serious or Long-Lasting
If you have minor bumps and bruises, you probably do not need a lawyer. However, you might need legal help if your injuries involve:
- Broken or fractured bones
- Head injuries or concussions
- Back, neck, or spinal damage
- Surgery
- Permanent scarring
- Loss of mobility
- Chronic pain
- Long-term medical treatment
South Carolina law allows injury victims to pursue damages for future costs, not just immediate ones. Serious injuries usually come with long-term medical needs, lost income, and a heavier emotional toll. Insurance companies do not offer fair compensation for these cases unless an attorney is involved.
When Fault Is Disputed
South Carolina follows a modified comparative negligence system. This means you can recover compensation as long as you are less than 51% at fault. Remember that your percentage of fault reduces your compensation.
So, if the insurance company argues you were 30% responsible, your settlement is cut by 30%. If they push you to 51%, you will get nothing. Attorneys can help when fault is unclear or contested. Even a small shift in fault percentage can dramatically change your settlement.
Multiple Parties Are Involved
Accidents involving more than one driver, a company vehicle, a commercial truck, or a business in South Carolina can get complicated. Every insurance company involved will point fingers at someone else, and you can easily get caught in the middle. An attorney can untangle the mess by:
- Sorting out which parties share liability
- Collecting needed evidence
- Understanding each insurer’s responsibility
- Protecting you from being unfairly blamed
The Insurance Company Wants You to Settle Quickly
A fast settlement may sound like a blessing until you realize it is almost always a trap. Insurance companies in South Carolina often push quick, lowball offers because they want to close your case before you get a lawyer.
Along with that, they know your injuries may worsen over the next weeks or months. In many cases, you sign away your rights before you understand the claim’s full value. Once you accept a settlement, the case is over, no matter what complications show up later.
You Want the Best Possible Outcome
People with attorneys almost always recover more money than people who handle injury claims by themselves. South Carolina personal injury lawyers understand:
- How damages are calculated
- What your injuries are worth
- How to counter insurance tactics
- When to negotiate and when to file a lawsuit within the statute of limitations
- How to present evidence that actually moves the needle
If the goal is getting your life back on track, a lawyer gives you your best shot.
Get the Help You Need for Your Personal Injury Case
Not every accident requires a personal injury attorney, but many do. So, when should you hire a personal injury lawyer?
If the injuries are serious, fault is disputed, or the insurance company is being difficult, you may need legal help. Having the right attorney can protect your rights at every turn. At Truslow & Truslow PA, we can help you with your personal injury claims. Schedule a consultation today.