Motor vehicle accidents — often called car accidents or vehicular accidents — can change your life in an instant. In South Carolina, crashes involving cars, trucks, motorcycles and commercial vehicles happen every single day. They can leave victims with medical bills, lost wages, long-term injuries and the stress of trying to put the pieces back together.
When you’re injured in a crash, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. That’s where a car accident attorney can help. At Atkins Law, we guide you through every step of the process, handle the insurance companies and fight to secure the compensation you need to move forward.
What is a motor vehicle accident case?
A motor vehicle accident case arises when someone is injured in a crash involving a car, truck, commercial or other motor vehicle. In a perfect world, insurance would step in quickly and fairly to cover the medical bills, lost wages and property damage caused by an accident. But too often, victims find themselves facing delays, denials and lowball settlement offers. That’s when a motor vehicle accident lawyer can step in to protect your rights.
What causes most accidents?
Most crashes are not “accidents” in the truest sense — they are caused by careless or negligent behavior. Common factors we see include drunk or impaired driving, distracted driving such as texting behind the wheel, speeding, reckless lane changes, failure to yield and construction zones with shifting traffic patterns.
These behaviors can turn everyday trips into devastating events, leaving victims with injuries, bills and uncertainty about the future. Whether it’s a highway wreck, a neighborhood fender bender or a construction-zone car accident, the effects are serious.
What types of injuries are common?
Injuries after a motor vehicle accident vary widely, but some of the most common include whiplash, broken bones, neck and back injuries, and traumatic brain injuries, like concussions. Even in “minor” crashes, injuries can appear later and worsen over time.
Emotional trauma is also common — anxiety, stress and post-traumatic symptoms can linger long after the physical wounds heal. Medical bills, missed time from work and rehabilitation costs add another layer of hardship. A vehicle accident lawyer can help ensure you seek compensation not only for your immediate expenses but also for the long-term effects on your health and livelihood.
What challenges do accident victims face with insurance?
Insurance adjusters often contact victims right away, sometimes within hours of a crash. They may sound helpful, but their goal is to limit what the insurance company pays. Many people make mistakes during this stressful time, such as:
- Failing to seek medical treatment right away.
- Talking to the insurance adjuster without legal advice.
- Accepting a settlement before understanding the full impact of their injuries.
- Waiting too late to seek legal advice, which makes it hard for the attorney to obtain necessary evidence.
That’s why it is so important to speak with an attorney for car accidents and motor vehicle accidents before making any decisions.
What should I do after an accident?
Here are the steps that can protect your health and your legal rights:
- Call the police and request an official accident report.
- Seek medical treatment as soon as possible — even if you don’t feel hurt at first.
- Take photos of the scene, the vehicles and your injuries.
- Collect names and contact information for witnesses.
- Contact a motor vehicle accident lawyer before speaking to insurers.
The choices you make right after a crash can have a big impact on your case.
How does Atkins Law handle these cases?
Atkins Law takes a thorough, step-by-step approach to every accident case. We review police reports, gather photographs and accident records, interview witnesses and work with experts when needed.
Our strategy is to prepare for litigation from day one. We involve our clients and prepare a customized approach centered around our clients’ needs, whether it be to pursue a fast and fair settlement or build a case out for maximum recovery.
What compensation is available?
A car accident settlement or motor vehicle accident settlement may cover:
- Medical expenses, including future care.
- Lost wages and reduced earning potential.
- Pain and suffering.
- Property damage.
- Punitive damages.
Every case is unique, but our goal is always the same — to ensure your recovery reflects the full scope of what you’ve lost, not just the immediate bills.
Why choose Atkins Law?
Atkins Law stands apart because of our personal approach. We are committed to being responsive, compassionate and transparent throughout your case.
We also offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we recover compensation for you. As a motor vehicle accident attorney in Columbia, SC, we understand South Carolina’s unique laws, including the ability to “stack” insurance policies to maximize coverage. Our relationships with local courts, judges and adjusters give us additional insight into how to move cases forward effectively.
FAQ
Yes. Even small crashes can lead to injuries that appear later. Insurance companies may also try to minimize your recovery. An attorney ensures your rights are protected. If you don’t need an attorney, we will tell you. It’s always best to seek legal advice.
South Carolina follows a modified comparative negligence rule. You may still recover damages if you were less than 51% at fault, though your recovery may be reduced.
It depends on the severity of your injuries and whether the insurance company is willing to negotiate fairly. Some cases resolve in a few months, while others take longer. Catastrophic cases may take years to resolve depending on the circumstances. Your attorney can give you more guidance based on your unique situation.
We offer free consultations and handle most cases on a contingency fee basis. You don’t pay unless we win compensation for you.
Do not provide a statement before consulting with a lawyer. Adjusters are trained to protect the insurance company’s interests, not yours.
