South Carolina uses a fault-based system to deal with car accidents. To hold another party responsible for your injuries, you must be able to prove that their negligence—meaning their reckless or careless conduct—contributed to your collision. A successful car accident injury claim is always supported by compelling, well-documented evidence. Relevant evidence can come in many different forms—from photographs to eyewitness statements to police reports.

Notably, South Carolina uses a modified comparative negligence standard. Under the South Carolina Contribution Among Tortfeasors Act, parties will be held liable in direct proportion to their share of the blame for an accident. For example, if two drivers were found to be equally at fault for a crash, they would each be liable for 50 percent of the resulting damages.

One of the consequences of this type of system is that insurance companies often try to pin part of the blame for a crash on injured victims. Remember, no insurer likes to pay claims — in fact, they make more money from collection of premiums when payouts are kept to a minimum. Insurance company adjusters are trained to point part of the blame for an accident to the victim. This helps them pay out less under the shared fault rules in South Carolina.

Beyond proving liability, car accident victims also need to prove the value of their damages. In South Carolina, plaintiffs can recover compensation for both out-of-pocket expenses and non-economic damages. Sadly, large insurance companies never make getting a fair settlement easy. They have developed a wide array of strategies focused on reducing payouts.

You do not have to fight the insurance company alone. In fact, it is always a good idea after a car accident to work with an attorney who has experience handling car accident injury cases. Once an insurer understands you have someone serving as your advocate, they are less likely to deny your legitimate claim.

At Powers Law, LLC, our South Carolina car accident lawyer knows how to hold defendants and insurance companies accountable. We will fight to help you maximize your financial recovery after an accident. Depending on the nature of your injuries, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Emergency medical treatment;
• Medical bills and related expenses;
• Physical therapy;
• Loss of wages;
• Reduced earning capacity;
• Pain and suffering;
• Scarring/disfigurement;
• Permanent impairments; and
• Wrongful death.

Michelle Powers is an experienced South Carolina car accident lawyer with the legal and medical knowledge needed to help you bring a successful claim. For eight years, Attorney Powers worked as a nurse serving in both the ER and in an intensive care unit. She brings unique experience—with a comprehensive understanding of both the law and medical treatment.

We know that one-size-fits-all legal representation is not the best way to approach a personal injury claim. You deserve an attorney who will take the time to listen to your story, understand your needs, and build the best strategy for your individual case. We limit our caseload to ensure that every client receives attentive, personalized legal support.

At Powers Law, LLC, our South Carolina auto accident attorney is a skilled and effective advocate for injured victims. If you or your loved one was hurt in a car crash, let us help you navigate the process and get you the compensation you deserve for your injuries.

To set up a free, no-obligation consultation, please contact our law firm right away. With an office in Greenwood, we represent motor vehicle accident victims throughout upper South Carolina including in Saluda, Edgefield, McCormick, Abbeville, Laurens, and Newberry.