An unexpected accident can turn your life upside down, leaving you with medical bills, lost wages, and lasting pain. If someone else’s negligence caused your injuries, you have the right to seek compensation. At Mann, Blake & Jackson, our experienced personal injury lawyer in Anderson, South Carolina, is dedicated to fighting for the justice you deserve. We handle a wide range of cases, from car accidents to slip and falls, ensuring our clients receive the support they need. Call 864-777-4262 today for a free consultation and let us help you take the next step toward recovery.

What to Know About Filing a Personal Injury Claim

Accidents happen every day, but when someone else’s negligence causes harm, the injured party has the right to seek compensation. A personal injury claim can help cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. Understanding how these claims work in South Carolina can make the process easier and improve the chances of a successful outcome.

Common Types of Personal Injury Cases

Personal injury law covers a wide range of accidents and injuries. Some of the most common cases in South Carolina include:

• Car accidents – Negligent drivers cause thousands of crashes every year. Speeding, distracted driving, and drunk driving are leading factors.
• Slip and falls – Property owners must keep their premises safe. Hazards like wet floors, uneven pavement, and poor lighting can lead to serious injuries.
• Workplace accidents – Many employees are hurt on the job, especially in high-risk industries like construction and manufacturing.
• Medical malpractice – Healthcare providers can make dangerous mistakes, from misdiagnoses to surgical errors.
• Dog bites – In South Carolina, pet owners can be held responsible if their dog injures someone.

Each case is unique, and the legal approach may differ depending on the details.

Understanding South Carolina’s Fault System

South Carolina follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means that if an injured person is partially responsible for the accident, their compensation may be reduced. If they are more than 50% at fault, they cannot recover damages at all.

For example, if a driver is found to be 20% responsible for a crash, their total compensation will be reduced by that percentage. This rule makes it essential to gather strong evidence that proves who was at fault.

The Deadline for Filing a Claim

There is a time limit for filing a personal injury lawsuit. In South Carolina, the statute of limitations is three years from the date of the accident. If the claim is not filed before the deadline, the injured party may lose the right to seek compensation.

However, there are exceptions. If the case involves a government agency, the timeframe may be shorter. Speaking with an attorney as soon as possible can help ensure all deadlines are met.

Steps to Take After an Accident

What a person does after an accident can impact their claim. Taking the right steps can strengthen a case and improve the chances of a fair settlement.

1. Seek medical attention – Even if injuries seem minor, a doctor can document them and provide necessary treatment.
2. Report the accident – If it is a car crash, notify law enforcement. For slip and falls, inform the property owner or manager.
3. Gather evidence – Photos of the scene, witness statements, and medical records can be useful in proving liability.
4. Avoid admitting fault – Even a simple apology could be used against an injured person later.
5. Consult an attorney – A legal professional can help navigate the claims process and protect the injured person’s rights.

Compensation Available in Personal Injury Cases

The goal of a personal injury claim is to recover financial losses caused by an accident. Compensation, also known as damages, generally falls into two categories:

• Economic damages – These include medical expenses, lost income, rehabilitation costs, and property damage.
• Non-economic damages – Pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life fall under this category.

In rare cases, a court may award punitive damages if the at-fault party acted with extreme recklessness. These are meant to punish wrongdoers and prevent similar behavior in the future.

Challenges in Personal Injury Claims

Insurance companies often try to reduce payouts or deny claims. Adjusters may argue that an injury is not as severe as the victim claims or that the accident was partially their fault. This is why legal representation is so important.

An experienced personal injury lawyer can negotiate with insurers, gather evidence, and ensure that the injured person receives a fair settlement. If necessary, they can take the case to court.

Why Legal Guidance Matters

Filing a personal injury claim can be overwhelming, especially while recovering from an injury. The process involves legal deadlines, negotiations, and complex paperwork. A lawyer can handle these details while the injured person focuses on healing.

Having legal support can also increase the chances of receiving full and fair compensation. Attorneys understand how to build strong cases and push back against insurance tactics.

Moving Forward After an Injury

Recovering from an accident takes time, but financial compensation can ease the burden. Knowing the legal process and seeking help when needed can make a significant difference. Whether negotiating with insurance companies or presenting a case in court, an experienced attorney can be a valuable ally in the pursuit of justice.