Rear-End Car Accidents in Mount Pleasant

Rear-end car crashes, also called fender-benders, often occur because of distracted driving or some other form of driver negligence. These collisions usually happen when drivers look away from the road, even for a second or two. Although rear-end car accidents in Mount Pleasant are often considered minor incidents, these wrecks can lead to painful and long-lasting harm.

When a careless motorist causes a crash that leads to injuries and property damage, you have the right to pursue compensation from the at-fault driver. Call a seasoned lawyer at our firm to discuss your legal rights and options.

South Carolina is an At-Fault Auto Insurance State

The at-fault driver is always responsible for paying for damages after car crashes in South Carolina. This includes covering the cost of bodily harm and property damages.

In most cases, the at-fault driver’s insurance policy will cover most of the medical care and property damage costs. However, if the driver does not carry enough coverage or is driving without auto insurance, you also have the legal right to file a claim in civil court. A Mount Pleasant attorney at our firm could help establish that the negligent driver is liable for your damages after a rear-end collision.

Damages in Rear-End Car Crash Cases in Mount Pleasant

Some of the potential damages in rear-end car crash cases include the following:

• The current and future cost of medical care
• Lost pay, benefits, and earning potential if you cannot return to work because of permanent disabilities
• Home renovations, medical devices, and prescriptions
• Physical pain and suffering for bodily harm
• Losing the enjoyment of life and inconvenience
• Mental anguish and other psychological damages

After reviewing your rear-end car accident case, a Mount Pleasant lawyer at Geel & Gentry, LLC could answer specific questions about the process and potential damages.

Comparative Negligence in Vehicle Collision Lawsuits

The civil courts follow a modified comparative negligence rule in South Carolina, which means they will reduce the amount of compensation you can receive based on your percentage of liability for the crash. The statute allows you to collect an award for damages even if you are partly responsible. However, if the court finds you more at fault than the defendant, it will bar you from recovery. To avoid this outcome, working with an attorney experienced in rear-end car crash cases is essential.

The Statute of Limitations for Rear-End Accident Claims

The statute of limitation limits the time you have to seek damages from the at-fault driver in civil court or through their insurance company. Under the South Carolina Code § 15-3-530, the statute allows for a maximum of two years to pursue compensation for injuries and property damages.

Some scenarios could shorten or extend the cutoff date. However, the time starts the day of the rear-end car crash and expires on the second anniversary in most cases.

Call an Attorney Experienced With Mount Pleasant Rear-End Car Accidents

A rear-end car wreck can happen out of the blue and leave you with painful injuries. Fender-benders almost always occur because of driver negligence, meaning you have legal options for holding the careless party accountable. You could be eligible for compensation if a reckless motorist rear-ended you.

Call today to schedule a consultation with a lawyer experienced in handling rear-end car accidents in Mount Pleasant. At Geel & Gentry, LLC, we are ready to fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact our firm today.