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What Happens if I Was in a Car Accident Caused by a Distracted Driver in Mt. Pleasant?

Distracted driving is a major cause of car accidents in Mt. Pleasant, SC. Drivers who take their eyes off the road, hands off the wheel, or minds off driving can put everyone around them at risk. Even a brief distraction can lead to serious injuries or significant property damage. If you have been hurt by a driver who was careless or inattentive, you may be entitled to compensation.

Why Are Drivers Distracted in Mt. Pleasant?

Drivers can be distracted for a variety of reasons, both work-related and personal. Common distractions include:

  • Cell Phone Use: texting, calling, or using apps while driving
  • Navigation Devices: focusing on GPS directions instead of the road
  • Eating or Drinking: multitasking behind the wheel
  • Passengers or Children: attending to others in the vehicle
  • Fatigue or Inattention: being tired or daydreaming

Even short moments of inattention can have severe consequences on busy roads in Mt. Pleasant, especially during rush hour or in high-traffic areas.

The Dangers of Distracted Driving

Distracted driving increases the likelihood of:

  • Rear-End Collisions: failing to stop in time when traffic suddenly slows
  • Sideswipe Accidents: drifting into another lane while not paying attention
  • Intersection Crashes: running red lights or stop signs
  • Property Damage and Injuries: collisions with other vehicles, pedestrians, or stationary objects

A distracted driver’s actions can cause accidents that are not only physically dangerous but also financially and emotionally devastating.

Can I Pursue Compensation for My Injuries?

If you were injured by a distracted driver in Mt. Pleasant, you may be able to file a personal injury claim against the at-fault driver. This can help cover:

  • Medical Expenses: hospital bills, treatment, and therapy
  • Lost Wages: income lost due to recovery time
  • Vehicle Repair or Replacement: damage to your car or other property
  • Pain and Suffering: physical and emotional distress resulting from the accident

Insurance companies may try to minimize payouts, but a skilled car accident lawyer can help you receive full and fair compensation. Some cases settle out of court, while others may require a trial to achieve the best outcome.

Steps to Take After a Distracted Driving Accident

  • Call 911: report the accident if anyone is injured and ensure police documentation
  • Seek Medical Attention: get evaluated immediately, even for minor injuries
  • Document the Scene: take photos, gather witness contact info, and exchange insurance details
  • Avoid Discussing Fault: do not make statements to the other driver or insurance company without legal guidance
  • Contact a Car Accident Lawyer: review your case and determine the best path forward

Mt. Pleasant Car Accident Lawyers at Rogers, Patrick, Westbrook & Brickman LLC Can Help

If you have been injured in a car accident caused by a distracted driver, the Mt. Pleasant car accident lawyers at Rogers, Patrick, Westbrook & Brickman LLC can help. Call us at 843-727-6500 or message us online to schedule a free consultation. Our offices in Charleston, Mt. Pleasant, Aiken, and Columbia, South Carolina, serve clients throughout the state.

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Elderly Pedestrian Struck and Killed on King Street in Mount Pleasant

On Monday, an elderly Charleston woman died after being struck by a car on King Street near Mount Pleasant Street. According to police, a vehicle exiting the parking lot at 1200 King Street hit the woman as she was crossing from the sidewalk. She was pronounced dead at the scene. 

Currently, no charges are pending in this case. 

South Carolina law requires drivers to exercise due care to avoid colliding with pedestrians, particularly when entering or exiting driveways, alleys, or parking lots. Pedestrians generally have the right-of-way when lawfully crossing at intersections or sidewalks, and drivers must yield and remain alert in areas with foot traffic.

When a traffic collision results in the death of a pedestrian, South Carolina law allows for serious criminal charges, including felony offenses that may carry substantial fines, driver’s license suspension or revocation, and potential prison sentences, depending on the circumstances.

If you have been involved in an accident, the experienced South Carolina car accident lawyers at Rogers, Patrick, Westbrook & Brickman LLC can help you seek justice. To schedule a free consultation, call today at 843-727-6500 or contact us online. With office locations in Charleston, Mount Pleasant, Aiken, and Columbia, South Carolina, we gladly serve clients throughout the state.

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Holiday Driving Safety Tips for Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston’s mild climate may limit winter weather concerns, but the holiday season still presents serious driving risks for local residents and visitors alike. Increased tourism, heavier traffic, rain, fog, and congested bridges all contribute to a higher risk of car accidents during peak travel times. Whether navigating downtown Charleston or traveling along major highways, drivers should take extra precautions during the holidays.

Drive Defensively on Charleston’s Busy Roads

Holiday travel significantly increases traffic throughout the Charleston area, particularly on major corridors such as I-26, U.S. Highway 17, and Savannah Highway. Downtown streets, beach routes, and residential areas also experience heavier congestion from out-of-town drivers unfamiliar with local traffic patterns. Defensive driving during the holidays includes:

  • Driving at or below posted speed limits.
  • Allowing extra following distance in stop-and-go traffic.
  • Avoiding sudden lane changes and aggressive driving.
  • Using headlights during rain, fog, or reduced visibility.

Use Extra Caution on Charleston Bridges

Charleston’s bridge network is a common accident hotspot, especially during high-traffic holiday periods. Bridges such as the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, James Island Connector, and Don Holt Bridge can become slick during rain or cooler early-morning conditions. Drivers should:

  • Reduce speed when crossing bridges.
  • Increase following distance.
  • Avoid sudden braking or acceleration.
  • Stay alert for traffic slowdowns and stalled vehicles.

Watch for Weather-Related Hazards in the Lowcountry

Rain, fog, and humidity are more common holiday driving hazards in Charleston than snow or ice. Fog can reduce visibility along coastal routes and near marsh areas, while rain can create slick road surfaces quickly. Drivers should slow down, maintain safe distances, and avoid distractions when conditions deteriorate.

Prepare Your Vehicle for Holiday Travel

Before traveling during the holidays, Charleston drivers should ensure their vehicles are properly maintained, especially if traveling long distances. Important preparation steps include:

  • Checking tire tread and inflation.
  • Inspecting brakes and battery performance.
  • Ensuring headlights, brake lights, and turn signals are working.
  • Confirming windshield wipers and fluid levels are sufficient.

Preventive maintenance can help reduce breakdowns and accident risks during busy travel periods.

Allow Extra Time on High-Traffic Routes

Holiday traffic often causes delays on I-26, U.S. 17, and roadways leading to Mount Pleasant, West Ashley, and James Island. Rushing through congested areas significantly increases the risk of collisions. Planning ahead and allowing extra travel time can help drivers stay calm and focused.

Protect Your Legal Rights After a Charleston Car Accident

Driving cautiously during the holidays not only helps prevent accidents—it also protects your right to seek compensation if another driver causes a crash. Under South Carolina’s comparative negligence laws, an injured person’s recovery may be reduced if they are found partially at fault. Insurance companies frequently attempt to assign blame during high-traffic holiday periods. Defensive driving and responsible behavior can help preserve your claim.

Contact Our Charleston Car Accident Lawyers at Rogers, Patrick, Westbrook & Brickman LLC

Our Charleston car accident lawyers at Rogers, Patrick, Westbrook & Brickman LLC represent individuals injured in motor vehicle accidents throughout Charleston and the surrounding Lowcountry. To schedule a free initial consultation, contact us online or call 843-727-6500. With offices in Charleston, Mt. Pleasant, Aiken, and Columbia, we serve clients across South Carolina.

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What Happens With Uber and Lyft Accidents Involving Multiple Vehicles?

Accidents involving Uber or Lyft drivers can be complicated enough when only two vehicles are involved. The complexity increases significantly when three or more cars are part of the crash. Multiple insurance companies may become involved, each attempting to limit its liability. If you are injured in a rideshare accident, it is essential to work with an experienced rideshare accident attorney who understands the unique legal and insurance challenges of these cases.

Why There Are Many Potential Legal Outcomes in a Rideshare Accident

Liability in rideshare accidents can vary depending on the circumstances. Common scenarios include:

  • An Uber or Lyft passenger was injured and is filing a claim against the rideshare driver.
  • The passenger is pursuing compensation from another driver who caused the crash.
  • A rideshare driver was injured due to another driver’s negligence.

When multiple vehicles are involved, determining who is at fault can be complicated. Knowing which party is responsible is critical to understanding where to seek compensation.

Could Multiple Insurance Companies Be Involved?

If you are injured in a rideshare accident with multiple vehicles, you may need to deal with several insurance companies:

  • Rideshare company insurance: Uber and Lyft provide a per-accident policy for their drivers.
  • Driver’s personal or supplemental insurance: If the rideshare driver is at fault, their personal policy may also apply.
  • Other drivers’ insurance: If other drivers share responsibility, their insurers may also be involved.
  • Underinsured motorist coverage: If total available coverage does not fully compensate for your injuries, you may need to rely on your own policy.

Dealing with even one insurance company can be challenging; coordinating claims across multiple insurers increases the complexity significantly.

What Are the Coverage Limits in a Rideshare Crash?

Uber and Lyft provide $1 million in liability coverage per accident when drivers are logged into the app and transporting passengers. However, if multiple parties are seeking compensation from the same policy, the available coverage may not fully satisfy all claims. This may require injured parties to access underinsured motorist coverage to cover any shortfall.

How Stacked Coverage Can Help in a Mt. Pleasant Rideshare Accident

South Carolina allows for stacked insurance coverage, meaning you may be able to combine multiple policies to cover your damages fully. Stacked coverage can be especially useful in multi-vehicle rideshare accidents where multiple claimants are involved. Navigating these policies and coordinating claims requires the guidance of a knowledgeable rideshare accident attorney.

Mt. Pleasant Car Accident Lawyers at Rogers, Patrick, Westbrook & Brickman LLC Help You Navigate Rideshare Accidents

If you are injured in an accident involving an Uber or Lyft vehicle, the Mt. Pleasant car accident lawyers at Rogers, Patrick, Westbrook & Brickman LLC can advocate for your rights and help you navigate a complex claims process. We investigate the accident, identify all liable parties, and work to maximize your compensation. Schedule a free consultation today by calling 843-727-6500 or filling out our online form. With offices in Charleston, Mt. Pleasant, Aiken, and Columbia, South Carolina, we serve clients throughout the state.

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Car Accidents Involving Government Vehicles: Who Is Liable?

The rules governing a car accident with a government vehicle do not work the same way as they would if you had been hit by another private driver. Government entities enjoy special protection, and you need to understand these distinctions if you want to protect your rights and receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses.

What Makes Government Vehicle Accidents Different in South Carolina?

The fundamental difference between government vehicle accidents and typical collisions lies in a legal doctrine known as “sovereign immunity,” which historically prevented injured parties from suing government entities and their employees.

However, South Carolina has partially waived this immunity through the South Carolina Tort Claims Act (SCTCA), which allows individuals to pursue claims under specific circumstances, though it comes with restrictions. Under the SCTCA, you are limited in the amount you can recover to $500,000 per person per occurrence, with a maximum limit of $1,000,000 per occurrence, regardless of how many people were injured in the same accident. 

Which Vehicles Are Considered Government Vehicles?

The term “government vehicle” refers to any vehicle operated by a government employee while they are performing official duties, which means the category encompasses far more than just police cars and fire trucks. Other common examples include the following :

  • City buses 
  • School buses
  • Police cars
  • Fire department vehicles
  • Department of Transportation trucks and maintenance vehicles
  • Mail trucks operated by postal workers
  • Garbage trucks and sanitation vehicles
  • Snowplows and other weather-related equipment

When Can I Hold the Government Liable?

To hold a government entity liable for a car accident in South Carolina, you must satisfy multiple legal requirements simultaneously: 

  1. That the government employee driving the vehicle was negligent
  2. That they were acting within the scope of their official duties at the time of the collision
  3. That their negligence directly caused your injuries and damages

Negligence can take many forms, whether it is speeding or failing to maintain a safe following distance, distracted driving or texting behind the wheel, failure to obey traffic signals and traffic laws, reckless operation of the vehicle, or driving an improperly maintained government vehicle with known mechanical defects. 

What Are the Filing Requirements and Deadlines?

You have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit against a government entity, but you must also submit a verified notice of claim within one year from the date of the accident. 

The notice must include your name and complete contact information, a detailed description of exactly how the accident occurred and what happened, supporting facts and evidence that back up your version of events, and the amount of compensation you are seeking based on your damages.

How Does Federal vs. State Government Liability Differ in Charleston?

If you are hit by a federal government vehicle—such as a U.S. Postal Service truck or a vehicle operated by a federal employee performing their official duties—the Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA) governs your claim rather than the SCTCA. 

One significant advantage of FTCA claims is that the FTCA does not impose the same damage caps that South Carolina state law does, which means you potentially could recover the full amount of your damages without state-imposed limitations.

However, FTCA claims require you to file a claim using Standard Form 95 with the appropriate federal agency before you can file a lawsuit, which means you cannot simply proceed directly to court like you might with a state claim. 

Charleston Car Accident Lawyers at Rogers, Patrick, Westbrook & Brickman LLC Can Help With Your Government Vehicle Accident Claim

If you have been injured in an accident involving a government vehicle, time is of the essence. Reach out to the experienced Charleston car accident lawyers at Rogers, Patrick, Westbrook & Brickman LLC to advocate for you and defend your rights. Call us at 843-727-6500 or fill out our online form for a free consultation to discuss what happened and how the firm can help you move forward. We have offices in Charleston, Mt. Pleasant, Aiken, and Columbia, South Carolina, and we serve clients throughout the state.

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How Do I Stay Safe While Driving on South Carolina Roads?

Driving defensively is not just something that sounds good in a public safety awareness campaign. It is an absolute must for you to stay safe while driving on South Carolina roads. You only have control of your own actions behind the wheel, yet you need to be prepared for others to be both reckless and careless. If you have been injured in a car accident that was caused by another driver who is doing something wrong, you may be entitled to financial compensation. First, you must be prepared to deal with any allegations that you played a part in the circumstances surrounding the accident. 

The Importance of Driving Defensively at All Times

Driving defensively can encompass a number of actions that you need to take to stay safe. Defensive driving has been shown to reduce the overall risk of a car accident by as much as 21%. You cannot control what others do on the road, so you need to prepare yourself as much as possible to react when necessary.

Your overall mindset needs to be one of risk reduction, as opposed to getting where you need to go as quickly as possible. First, it means not driving aggressively or recklessly and following traffic laws at all times. Second, defensive driving also involves maintaining a safe following distance between your car and other vehicles. When you drive defensively, you have a better ability to anticipate the actions of other motorists, and you are better able to react to them. 

You Must Pay Full Attention Behind the Wheel

Performing certain secondary activities behind the wheel at the same time as driving raises the risk of a car accident by nearly four times. Distracted driving can include things such as cell phone usage or even daydreaming. No matter where you are on the road in South Carolina, or what time it is, you must have your full attention on the road. First, being attentive is the key to practicing defensive driving. Second, being inattentive can cause you to lose control of your car or not be able to stop in time to avoid an accident.

Be Extra Cautious at Night and in Rural Areas

Although there are more accidents by number during the day, the ones that happen at night are typically more serious. Nighttime car accidents have a greater chance of resulting in personal injury and fatalities. The reason is that drivers tend to travel faster at night, and there is a greater chance that they can lose control of their vehicle. Because a driver is unable to see at night, there is also a higher chance that they can end up in the wrong lane, causing a serious head-on crash. Some extra caution and driving defensively can assist you in reaching your destination safely at night. Further, make sure that you are well rested and not fatigued when you get behind the wheel at night.

Not only does furthering your own safety reduce the chances that you are involved in a car accident, but it can also preserve your right to full financial compensation if you are injured in a crash. South Carolina uses the law of modified comparative negligence. If you are partially blamed for the car accident, your recovery would be reduced by the percentage of blame that you bear. If you were more than 50% to blame, you would not be able to receive anything at all. Being able to point to your own safe and defensive driving can frustrate the insurance company’s attempt to blame you for the accident. 

Mt. Pleasant Car Accident Lawyers at Rogers, Patrick, Westbrook & Brickman LLC Help Injured Drivers

When you have been injured on the roads by the actions of another driver, speak to the Mt. Pleasant car accident lawyers at Rogers, Patrick, Westbrook & Brickman LLC.  We can guide you through the claims process in an effort to get you the highest amount of compensation for your injuries. You can schedule a free initial consultation by sending us a message online or by calling us today at 843-727-6500. We have offices in Charleston, Mt. Pleasant, Aiken, and Columbia, South Carolina, and we serve clients throughout the state.

 

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Road Debris Caused My Car Accident: What Do I Do?

In most cases, your legal claim for compensation after you have been hurt in a car accident would be against the other driver who was involved in the crash. However, there may be certain rare instances in which there could be other or additional parties in your case. There may be times when your car accident was caused by road debris. Then, you may need to seek additional sources of compensation, either as an alternative to suing the driver or in addition to it. Here is what you need to do to seek a settlement if road debris has caused your accident.

How Does Road Debris Result in a Car Accident?

Drivers are not prepared to encounter debris on the road. Even when they are fully focused, they may not expect to either run over debris or have to evade it. A driver may run over the debris, and it can either damage their vehicle or cause them to lose control of their car. They could experience tire failure or damage to the underside of their vehicle due to the debris. Alternatively, a driver may suddenly change lanes to avoid a piece of road debris and be struck by another car.

Who Is Responsible for a Road Debris Accident in Mt. Pleasant?

One of the main challenges in a road debris accident is determining who was responsible. It is essential that you act quickly from a legal perspective because you must conduct a full investigation before you file a claim. There are several potential defendants in a road debris accident lawsuit, including the following:

  • The other driver involved in the crash, if they were negligent.
  • A trucking company, if the road debris resulted from cargo that flew off the back of a truck when it was not properly loaded.
  • A contractor who was working on the roadway left debris in your path or was careless about managing it.
  • The local government was responsible for maintaining the roadway and removing debris within a reasonable amount of time.

What Should I Do When I Have Been Injured by Road Debris?

The first step that you must take when you have been injured by road debris is the same thing that you would do in any car accident case. You must take care of yourself medically, seeking immediate help from a physician. You would do this both to preserve your health and your potential legal case for compensation.

Legally, the most crucial thing that you can do is to contact a car accident lawyer immediately after the crash. Especially when you are dealing with something as fleeting as road debris, it is crucial that a lawyer undertakes a prompt investigation of what happened. It can be difficult or impossible for a car accident lawyer to begin work on your case and have the ability to be effective if you wait until long after the evidence that can prove your case disappears. 

Can I Sue the Government for Road Debris?

If the South Carolina Department of Transportation, or another local governmental entity, was the one who was to blame for your road debris accident, you must be aware that there are special rules that govern your case. You must file a claim within one year after the accident, which is a shorter period than the standard statute of limitations in the state. You can file a lawsuit in court against the government if you are unable to resolve your claim, but you must do it within two years of filing the claim itself. Further, there are some damage caps that apply, limiting your potential financial recovery to $300,000 as an individual, or $600,000 on a per-accident basis. 

Mt. Pleasant Car Accident Lawyers at Rogers, Patrick, Westbrook & Brickman LLC Are Here to Help You if Road Debris Caused Your Car Accident

If you have been injured in a crash caused by road debris, you can seek financial compensation with the help of the Mt. Pleasant car accident lawyers at Rogers, Patrick, Westbrook & Brickman LLC. To schedule a free consultation, contact us online or call today at 843-727-6500. With offices located in Charleston, Mt. Pleasant, Aiken, and Columbia, South Carolina, we serve clients throughout the state.

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Richland County Hit-and-Run Claims Life of 11-Year-Old Child

An 11-year-old from Gadsden was killed early Wednesday morning after being struck by a vehicle in a hit-and-run incident. Authorities report that the collision took place around 6:30 a.m. on Bluff Road near BlackBerry Road.

The 55-year-old driver of Gadsden initially left the scene but was quickly located by law enforcement. He faces charges for leaving the scene of a fatal accident and is currently held at the Richland County Jail pending a bond hearing.

Incidents involving pedestrians, especially children, can result in both criminal charges and civil liability. Determining responsibility often involves examining driver actions, adherence to traffic laws, and the circumstances surrounding the collision.

Rogers, Patrick, Westbrook & Brickman LLC assists families navigating legal matters after fatal vehicle accidents. Our attorneys provide guidance on potential claims, including negligence or wrongful death, and work to ensure clients’ legal rights are protected throughout legal proceedings. Call 843-727-6500 or contact us online for a free consultation. Located in Charleston, Mt. Pleasant, Aiken, and Columbia, South Carolina, we serve clients throughout the state.

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What Are the Different Types of Distracted Driving?

Distracted driving has turned into one of the leading causes of motor vehicle accidents in Charleston and throughout South Carolina. This dangerous behavior involves any activity that diverts a driver’s attention from the primary task of operating a vehicle safely. 

What Are the Three Main Categories of Distracted Driving?

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) classifies distracted driving into three primary categories: visual, manual, and cognitive distractions. 

  1. Visual distractions occur when drivers take their eyes off the road, such as looking at a GPS device or checking a text message. 
  2. Manual distractions involve removing hands from the steering wheel, like reaching for an object or adjusting radio controls.
  3. Cognitive distractions happen when a driver diverts their mental attention from the act of driving, such as when they get lost in thought or engage in an intense conversation. 

Many activities—such as texting—combine all three types of distraction, making them particularly hazardous.

What Are the Most Common Visual Distractions While Driving?

Visual distractions are among the most dangerous forms of distracted driving because they require drivers to take their eyes off the road. Common visual distractions include reading or sending text messages, checking social media notifications, looking at navigation systems, and observing accidents or roadside events. 

Even brief glances away from the road can have devastating consequences: A vehicle traveling at 55 mph covers approximately 80 feet in just one second.

What Manual Distractions Do Drivers Commonly Engage In?

Manual distractions require drivers to remove one or both hands from the steering wheel, which compromises their ability to maintain control of their vehicle. Common manual distractions include eating and drinking while driving, adjusting climate controls or radio settings, reaching for objects in the vehicle, applying makeup, using handheld devices, smoking, and adjusting seat positions.

How Do Cognitive Distractions Affect Driver Performance?

Cognitive distractions occur when a driver’s mind is not fully focused on the driving task, even if their eyes remain on the road and their hands stay on the wheel. These distractions can be just as dangerous as visual or manual ones because they impair decision-making abilities and reaction times. Common cognitive distractions include engaging in emotional conversations with passengers, thinking about work problems or personal issues, and listening to intense radio programs or podcasts.

What Role Does Technology Play in Distracted Driving?

Modern technology has helped people stay connected while traveling: Smartphones enable texting, calling, email checking, and social media browsing. Unfortunately, they also introduce dangerous distractions behind the wheel. 

GPS navigation systems, while helpful for directions, can also cause drivers to focus too much on the screen rather than on the road. In-vehicle entertainment systems, Bluetooth connections, and voice-activated controls—even hands-free devices—can create cognitive distractions that impair driving performance.

What Are the Legal Consequences of Distracted Driving in Charleston?

South Carolina has specific laws addressing distracted driving, particularly regarding cell phone use while operating a vehicle. The state’s hands-free driving law took effect on September 1, 2025: Drivers who cause accidents due to distracted driving may face criminal charges, traffic violations, and civil liability for damages and injuries. The legal consequences can also include fines, license suspension, and responsibility for medical expenses, property damage, and other losses resulting from the accident.

Contact Our Charleston Distracted Driving Accident Lawyers at Rogers, Patrick, Westbrook & Brickman LLC

If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident caused by a distracted driver, trust the experienced Charleston distracted driving accident lawyers at Rogers, Patrick, Westbrook & Brickman LLC to represent you with professionalism and compassion. We have a reputation for skilled and tenacious representation; our legal team has achieved significant settlements and verdicts in complex cases throughout South Carolina. For a free consultation, call today at 843-727-6500 or contact us online. With office locations in Charleston, Mt. Pleasant, Aiken, and Columbia, South Carolina, we serve clients throughout South Carolina.

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Most Common Car Accident Claims in Charleston

Car accidents are one of the most common causes of personal injury claims in Charleston and across South Carolina. With busy intersections downtown, heavy traffic on I-26 and Highway 17, and an influx of tourists unfamiliar with local roads, crashes can happen anywhere and at any time. Unfortunately, these accidents often leave victims with serious injuries, mounting medical bills, and ongoing financial stress.

Understanding the most common types of car accident claims in Charleston can help you recognize when another driver may be legally responsible for your injuries—and when you should seek legal help to protect your rights.

Rear-End Collisions

Rear-end crashes are among the most frequent accidents in Charleston, particularly in congested areas such as Meeting Street, King Street, or during rush hour on I-526. These accidents usually occur when a driver follows too closely, is distracted, or fails to stop in time at a red light or stop sign.

While some rear-end collisions may seem “minor,” they can cause serious and lasting injuries such as whiplash, herniated discs, and concussions. In South Carolina, the rear driver is often presumed to be at fault, but insurance companies may still attempt to dispute liability or minimize your claim.

T-Bone Accidents

Also known as side-impact collisions, T-bone accidents typically happen at intersections when one driver runs a red light, ignores a stop sign, or fails to yield the right of way. In Charleston, intersections along Savannah Highway and Rivers Avenue see a high volume of these crashes.

T-bone accidents are particularly dangerous because the sides of vehicles offer little protection compared to the front or rear. Victims may suffer broken bones, spinal injuries, or traumatic brain injuries that require long-term treatment.

Head-On Collisions

Though less common, head-on collisions are among the most devastating types of car accidents. These crashes often happen on two-lane rural roads outside Charleston when a driver drifts into oncoming traffic or attempts to pass unsafely.

Head-on collisions are frequently caused by drunk driving, fatigue, or distracted driving. The force of impact in these crashes often leads to catastrophic injuries or fatalities, making them some of the most serious claims we handle.

Distracted Driving Accidents

Charleston’s mix of heavy local traffic, tourist drivers, and busy downtown streets makes distracted driving a growing concern. Drivers who text, check their GPS, eat, or even admire the scenery can cause serious crashes in just seconds.

Distracted driving accidents are entirely preventable, yet they remain a leading cause of collisions in South Carolina. Victims injured by a distracted driver have the right to seek compensation for their medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Drunk and Impaired Driving Accidents

Despite strict DUI laws, drunk driving remains a serious issue in Charleston, particularly on weekends and near entertainment districts. Impaired drivers put everyone on the road at risk, and the injuries they cause are often severe.

Victims of drunk driving accidents may be entitled not only to compensatory damages but also to punitive damages, which are designed to punish reckless conduct and deter future behavior.

Rideshare and Commercial Vehicle Accidents

With Charleston’s growing population and tourism industry, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft, as well as delivery and commercial vehicles, are common on the road. When these vehicles are involved in crashes, the claims process can be more complex. Multiple insurance policies may apply, and corporate defendants often fight aggressively to limit their liability.

Why Legal Help Matters in Charleston Car Accident Claims

Even when fault seems clear, insurance companies often try to deny or reduce payouts. They may argue that your injuries were pre-existing, that you were partially at fault, or that your damages are worth far less than you claim.

An experienced Charleston car accident lawyer can level the playing field by:

  • Investigating the accident and gathering evidence such as traffic camera footage, police reports, and witness statements.
  • Identifying all responsible parties and insurance policies that may provide coverage.
  • Handling all communication and negotiation with insurers.
  • Fighting for full compensation in court if necessary.

Contact a Charleston Car Accident Lawyer at Rogers, Patrick, Westbrook & Brickman LLC Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, our Charleston car accident lawyers at Rogers, Patrick, Westbrook & Brickman LLC are here to help. Call us today at 843-727-6500 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation. With offices in Charleston, Mt. Pleasant, Aiken, and Columbia, we proudly represent clients across South Carolina.

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