When to Hire a Lawyer for a Minor Accident in South Carolina
Minor car accidents are an everyday occurrence on South Carolina roads. From a small fender-bender in downtown Charleston to a low-speed collision on I-26, it can be tempting to simply exchange information and move on. However, even seemingly minor accidents can have lasting consequences. Understanding when to hire a lawyer can make all the difference in protecting your rights and ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.
The Reality of “Minor” Accidents in South Carolina
According to the South Carolina Department of Public Safety, there were over 145,000 traffic collisions in 2022. Many of these accidents involved minimal property damage or no immediate visible injuries. However, what seems minor at first can escalate over time. Injuries like whiplash or mild concussions often manifest days or even weeks after the accident.
Even low-speed impacts can lead to unforeseen complications, such as disputes over liability, repair costs, or medical expenses. It is essential to assess the situation carefully and determine whether legal representation is necessary to protect your interests.
When Should You Hire a Lawyer for a Minor Accident?
Here are specific situations where consulting an attorney, like those at CFJ Injury Lawyers in North Charleston, can be beneficial:
1. When Injuries Appear Later
Whiplash, back pain, and soft tissue injuries may not be immediately apparent. If you begin experiencing symptoms after the accident, medical bills and treatment costs can pile up quickly. Having a lawyer ensures that you pursue the compensation you need for these delayed injuries.
2. Disputed Liability
Insurance companies in South Carolina often try to minimize payouts, and disputes over fault are common. An experienced attorney, such as Catherine F. Juhas or Eric Saleme, can help you navigate these disputes and ensure a fair resolution.
3. Involvement of Insurance Companies
Insurance adjusters may pressure you into settling quickly for an amount that doesn’t cover all your expenses. With over 40 years of combined experience, the attorneys at CFJ Injury Lawyers know how to handle these negotiations and secure the compensation you deserve.
4. Property Damage Issues
Even minor accidents can lead to significant repair costs. If the other party’s insurance refuses to cover the full extent of your damages, an attorney can advocate for you.
5. Navigating the Legal Process in South Carolina
South Carolina operates under a modified comparative negligence system, meaning you can recover damages even if you were partially at fault, as long as your fault doesn’t exceed 50%. A lawyer can help you understand how this law applies to your case and build a strategy tailored to your circumstances.
How CFJ Injury Lawyers Can Help You Navigate the Personal Injury Process
At CFJ Injury Lawyers, we pride ourselves on being more than just legal representatives—we are advocates for our clients’ recovery and well-being. With over 40 years of experience serving clients across South Carolina, we bring a personalized approach to every case.
Step 1: Free Consultation
When you contact CFJ Injury Lawyers, the process begins with a free consultation. During this initial meeting, we will listen to your story, evaluate the details of your case, and provide an honest assessment of your legal options.
Step 2: Investigation and Evidence Collection
Our team, led by Catherine F. Juhas, who is licensed in multiple states and has a strong academic background in law, will thoroughly investigate the accident. We gather evidence, including police reports, medical records, and witness statements, to build a solid case on your behalf.
Step 3: Dealing with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies often try to settle claims quickly and for the lowest amount possible. Eric Saleme’s experience in personal injury law and his ability to communicate effectively with clients and adjusters—even in Spanish—ensures that you have a dedicated advocate to negotiate for maximum compensation.
Step 4: Calculating Damages
Our attorneys will carefully calculate the true cost of your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property repairs. This ensures that no aspect of your recovery is overlooked.
Step 5: Litigation, If Necessary
While many personal injury cases settle out of court, we are prepared to take your case to trial if necessary. Catherine F. Juhas’s extensive legal experience and attention to detail mean you have a strong advocate in the courtroom.
Client testimonials highlight our commitment to making the legal process as stress-free as possible:
“CFJ Injury Lawyers was excellent in their representation of my case. The entire staff was patient, polite, and understanding of my circumstances. I couldn’t have asked for a better experience.”
FAQs About Hiring a Lawyer for a Minor Accident in South Carolina
Q: How much does it cost to hire a lawyer for a minor accident?
A: Most personal injury lawyers, including CFJ Injury Lawyers, work on a contingency fee basis. This means you don’t pay any upfront costs, and we only get paid if we win your case.
Q: What if the accident was partially my fault?
A: South Carolina’s modified comparative negligence system allows you to recover damages even if you are partially at fault, as long as your fault is less than 51%. An attorney can help calculate your degree of fault and negotiate with insurance companies.
Q: What if my injuries don’t appear until weeks later?
A: You should seek medical attention as soon as symptoms arise. A lawyer can help you gather medical records and other evidence to support your claim for delayed injuries.
Q: How long do I have to file a claim in South Carolina?
A: The statute of limitations for personal injury cases in South Carolina is three years from the date of the accident. However, starting the process early is critical to preserving evidence and building a strong case.
Conclusion
Even a minor accident can lead to significant stress, unexpected expenses, and complicated legal issues. By hiring an experienced attorney, you can protect your rights and focus on recovery. At CFJ Injury Lawyers, our team is dedicated to providing personalized and effective representation for accident victims across South Carolina.
If you’ve been in a minor accident and are unsure whether you need legal representation, contact us for a free consultation. With decades of experience and a commitment to client care, CFJ Injury Lawyers is here to help you navigate the complexities of your case and secure the best possible outcome.