Car and truck accidents are all too common in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, and they can have devastating consequences. Whether you're dealing with minor injuries or significant damage, the aftermath of an accident can be overwhelming. In such situations, having an experienced lawyer by your side can make all the difference.

If you've been involved in a car or truck accident in Myrtle Beach, it's crucial to understand how a lawyer can assist you in securing compensation, handling insurance claims, and navigating the complexities of South Carolina's legal system. Here's how an experienced Myrtle Beach car accident lawyer or truck accident lawyer can help you after a crash.

1. Investigating the Accident

One of the first steps a lawyer will take after your Myrtle Beach accident is to thoroughly investigate the incident. This includes gathering evidence, speaking with witnesses, and reviewing police reports. In cases involving truck accidents, lawyers may also consult with experts who specialize in commercial trucking regulations and accident reconstruction.

The goal is to establish who was at fault for the accident and ensure that all factors, such as poor road conditions, defective vehicle parts, or driver negligence, are considered. A detailed investigation can often uncover crucial evidence that supports your case and strengthens your claim.

2. Dealing with Insurance Companies

Insurance companies are notorious for trying to minimize payouts to accident victims. After a car accident or truck accident, the responsible party's insurance company will likely reach out to you. While their goal is to settle quickly, it's important to remember that they are not working in your best interest.

An experienced Myrtle Beach car accident lawyer will handle all communication with insurance companies on your behalf. They'll make sure that you are not pressured into accepting an inadequate settlement. If the insurance company is uncooperative, your lawyer will be prepared to take legal action to ensure you receive fair compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.

3. Filing a Personal Injury Claim

If the accident resulted in serious injuries, filing a personal injury claim may be necessary to recover compensation. In South Carolina, you have a limited time to file a personal injury lawsuit after a car or truck accident. An attorney will ensure that all deadlines are met and that your case is filed properly.

A lawyer will help you determine what damages you may be entitled to, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and emotional distress. They will also assist in calculating the full extent of your losses, ensuring you don't settle for less than you're entitled to.

4. Negotiating a Fair Settlement

Most personal injury claims, including those for car and truck accidents, are resolved through settlement negotiations rather than going to trial. An attorney will represent your best interests during these negotiations and work hard to secure a fair settlement that covers all of your expenses and losses.

Your lawyer will evaluate any settlement offers you receive, ensuring that the terms are fair and sufficient to cover your long-term medical needs and other costs related to the accident. If the insurance company's offer is insufficient, your lawyer can take your case to court and fight for a higher settlement.

5. Providing Legal Advice and Support

The aftermath of a car or truck accident can be physically, emotionally, and financially draining. Having an attorney by your side gives you peace of mind, knowing that an experienced professional is handling the legal aspects of your case. Your lawyer will explain your rights, answer any questions you have, and guide you through the complex legal process.

6. Representing You in Court (If Necessary)

While most car and truck accident cases are settled outside of court, some may require litigation. If your case does go to trial, having an experienced Myrtle Beach accident lawyer is essential. Your lawyer will prepare your case, represent you in court, and argue on your behalf to secure the compensation you deserve.

Truck accident cases, in particular, can be more complex due to the involvement of commercial insurance policies and trucking companies. An experienced lawyer will have the resources and knowledge to handle the intricacies of these cases and ensure that you are fairly compensated.

7. Helping You Understand Your Legal Rights

After a car or truck accident, you may be confused about your legal rights and responsibilities. A lawyer will clarify these for you, ensuring that you understand what you are entitled to and how to protect your interests throughout the process. This can include helping you navigate South Carolina's comparative negligence laws, which determine how damages are awarded when both parties share fault.

Myrtle Beach Car and Truck Accident Statistics: Understanding the Risks

Myrtle Beach sees a significant number of car and truck accidents each year due to its high volume of tourism and local traffic. According to the South Carolina Department of Public Safety, Horry County, which includes Myrtle Beach, ranks among the top counties for motor vehicle accidents in the state. In 2022 alone, there were thousands of accidents, many of which involved serious injuries or fatalities.

Some key statistics to keep in mind:

• Over 5,000 accidents occurred in Horry County in 2022, leading to hundreds of injuries and dozens of fatalities.
• Truck accidents in Myrtle Beach, particularly involving large commercial vehicles, often result in severe injuries due to the size and weight of the vehicles involved.
• The average settlement for accident victims in South Carolina varies widely, but many cases result in settlements in the range of $10,000 to $100,000 or more, depending on the severity of injuries and other factors.

These statistics highlight the importance of understanding your legal rights and the critical need for expert legal representation following an accident in Myrtle Beach.

How a Lawyer Can Help with Rental Cars and Medical Bills

One of the significant challenges for accident victims is dealing with rental cars and medical bills during the recovery process.

Rental Cars

If your car is damaged in an accident and needs repairs, a lawyer can help ensure that you have access to a rental car while your vehicle is being repaired. Many insurance policies include coverage for rental cars, but navigating this process can be complicated. Your lawyer will work with your insurance company to ensure that your rental car expenses are covered under the policy and that you don't face out-of-pocket costs for transportation during the repair process.

Medical Bills

Medical treatment following a car or truck accident can be expensive. Even if you have health insurance, you may still face substantial medical bills, including emergency room visits, surgeries, physical therapy, and follow-up care. An attorney can help you navigate the billing process, negotiate with healthcare providers, and ensure that your medical bills are paid either through your insurance or as part of your settlement.

If the responsible party's insurance coverage or your own insurance doesn't cover all your medical costs, your lawyer will pursue additional claims, including personal injury protection (PIP) or uninsured motorist coverage, to help cover your expenses.

Contact Our Myrtle Beach Car and Truck Accident Lawyers Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car or truck accident in Myrtle Beach, don't wait to get the help you need. Contact our experienced legal team for a free consultation. We'll review the details of your case, explain your options, and fight for your right to fair compensation.

Call (843) 314-4202 or fill out our online contact form to schedule your consultation today.