Understanding the Why Behind Your Crash—and What Comes Next
We understand how unexpected accidents can turn your life upside down. One moment you're headed to work or picking up your kids, and the next you're dealing with wrecked vehicles, doctor visits, and bills you didn’t ask for. Knowing the cause is the first step toward recovery.
At Christmas Injury Lawyers, we know you didn’t ask to get hurt—and it wasn’t your fault. You deserve answers, and more importantly, a team that’s ready to fight for you.
Leading Causes of Car Accidents in South Carolina
South Carolina’s roads are no stranger to danger. In fact, according to recent reports, our state consistently ranks among the highest in the country for traffic fatalities per capita. While the circumstances may vary, most car crashes trace back to a few common causes.
Distracted Driving
Texting. Eating. Reaching for something in the back seat. Distractions—especially from smartphones—are one of the biggest contributors to accidents in South Carolina. Taking your eyes off the road for even a few seconds can lead to devastating results.
Reckless Driving
Reckless driving—like speeding, weaving through traffic, or ignoring traffic laws—shows a clear disregard for others’ safety. These dangerous choices often cause high-impact crashes. If you were hurt by a reckless driver, you have the right to take action. We’re here to help.
Drunk Driving
Drunk driving puts lives at risk every day in South Carolina. It leads to serious crashes with lasting injuries. If a drunk driver hurt you, we’re here to hold them accountable while you focus on healing.
Failing to Yield, Running Red Lights or Using the Improper Lane
South Carolina intersections can be hotspots for T-bone and head-on collisions when drivers ignore traffic signals or misjudge right-of-way rules. These crashes often cause serious injuries like traumatic brain injuries or spinal damage.
Fatigued Driving
Drowsy driving can be just as dangerous as drunk driving. Many wrecks, especially those involving long-haul truckers or shift workers, are caused by drivers nodding off behind the wheel.
How Fault Is Determined After a Car Accident
Understanding who was at fault is critical—it’s what determines whether you’re owed damages and how much you can recover.
What Is “Fault” in South Carolina?
South Carolina follows a modified comparative negligence rule. That means you can recover damages if you’re found to be less than 51% at fault for the accident. If you're partially at fault, your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault.
For example, if you’re awarded $100,000 but found to be 20% at fault, you’d receive $80,000.
How Fault Gets Proven When Car Accidents Happen
When you’re hurt in a car accident in South Carolina, proving who was at fault is one of the most important steps in your legal journey. Fault determines if you can recover damages—and how much. But insurance companies don’t just hand over money. They demand proof. That’s where our team comes in.
We work quickly and thoroughly to build your case using every available piece of evidence. Here’s how we do it:
Police Reports
The initial crash report filed by law enforcement can provide crucial details:
- Officer observations
- Traffic citations issued
- Statements from involved drivers
- Preliminary fault assessments
While this report isn’t the final word on liability, it often carries significant weight when dealing with insurance companies or preparing for court.
Witness Statements
People who saw the crash happen can offer powerful, unbiased accounts of what took place. We gather and preserve these statements early on, while memories are still fresh. A credible eyewitness can back up your version of events and challenge the other driver’s story.
Traffic Camera or Dash Cam Footage
Video footage is one of the strongest tools we have to prove fault. Whether it comes from:
- A traffic light camera
- A nearby business
- A bystander’s smartphone
- Your own dash cam
This evidence can show exactly what happened—frame by frame. It removes guesswork and can prove behaviors like speeding, texting while driving, or running a red light.
Expert Reconstruction of the Crash Scene
In complex cases, we bring in accident reconstruction experts. These professionals analyze:
- Skid marks
- Debris patterns
- Vehicle resting positions
- Black box data from the vehicles involved
They use physics and engineering to recreate how the crash happened—and who was responsible.
Vehicle Damage Assessments
The condition of your vehicle and the other driver’s can tell us a lot:
- The point of impact can show who struck whom.
- The severity of the damage can indicate speed and force.
- Airbag deployment, crush zones, and seatbelt evidence can all be factors.
We work with auto damage experts and mechanics to document this clearly.
Insurance companies use their own teams to look for ways to shift blame onto you. That’s why it’s critical to have an attorney who knows how to investigate and present solid evidence. At Christmas Injury Lawyers, we take the heavy lifting off your shoulders, so you can focus on healing while we build the strongest case possible for you.
Let us deal with the insurance company. Let us prove the truth.
Our trial-tested attorneys know the tactics insurers use to minimize payouts. We build strong cases based on evidence, and we’re not afraid to go to court when the other side won’t play fair.
The Real Cost of a Car Accident
When you're injured in a car accident, it's not just about vehicle repairs or an ER visit. The impact touches every part of your life.
Common Damages You May Be Entitled to in a Car Accident Case
- Medical Expenses: From emergency care to long-term physical therapy.
- Lost Wages: When your injuries prevent you from working.
- Pain and Suffering: Physical pain, emotional distress, and the loss of enjoyment in life.
- Property Damage: Repair or replacement of your vehicle and personal items inside.
- Future Medical Needs: For ongoing treatment or permanent injuries.
You shouldn’t have to bear this burden alone—and with Christmas Injury Lawyers, you don’t have to.
Why Choose Christmas Injury Lawyers?
- Injury law is all we do—and we’ve done it for nearly 30 years.
- We’re not afraid of courtrooms. In fact, we thrive in them.
- You don’t pay us unless we win. No hourly fees. No surprises.
- You’ll have a dedicated attorney, paralegal, and client manager at your side.
- We treat you like family—because that’s what you become when you trust us with your case.
FAQs: South Carolina Car Accidents
What should I do immediately after a car accident in South Carolina?
First, make sure you and anyone else involved are safe and call 911. Then, document the scene with photos, exchange info with the other driver, and get medical attention—even if you feel okay. Finally, reach out to a car accident attorney before speaking to any insurance adjusters.
How long do I have to file a claim after a car accident?
In South Carolina, the statute of limitations is generally three years from the date of the accident. But the sooner you begin your claim, the stronger your case will likely be.
What if the other driver didn’t have insurance?
If you have uninsured motorist coverage, you can still recover damages. Our attorneys can help you navigate this type of claim to ensure you’re protected.
Can I still recover damages if I was partially at fault?
Yes. As long as you are less than 51% at fault, you can still recover damages under South Carolina’s comparative negligence rule. However, your recovery will be reduced based on your share of fault.
Why is it important to hire a legal team who goes to court?
Many firms settle early to avoid trial. At Christmas Injury Lawyers, we go to court. We build every case for trial, because that’s how we ensure the insurance company takes your claim seriously.
Your Next Step Toward Recovery Starts Now
You didn’t choose this path—but you can choose who walks it with you. At Christmas Injury Lawyers, we take your story seriously. We take your case personally. And we fight like it’s our own.
If you or a loved one has been injured, don’t face this alone. Call Christmas Injury Lawyers today at (843) 380-4112 or click on ‘Contact Us’ on this page to get started.
