Accidents happen in milliseconds, but their consequences can last a lifetime. If you have been involved in a car accident in Murrells Inlet, you know the devastating physical, emotional, and financial toll it can take. In these challenging times, you need a Murrells Inlet car accident lawyer who will fight for your rights and help you navigate the complex legal process. At Swilley Law Firm, LLC, we are here to stand by your side every step of the way.
The Impact of Car Accidents in Murrells Inlet
Murrells Inlet, a laid-back coastal town known for its fishing, golfing, and scenic beauty, is not immune to the devastating impact of car accidents. With heavy tourist traffic, especially during the summer months, and busy highways like US 17 and SC 707, accidents are an unfortunate reality.
According to the South Carolina Department of Public Safety, there were over 140,000 traffic collisions in the state in 2024, resulting in over 1,000 fatalities and 60,000 injuries. In Georgetown County, which includes Murrells Inlet, there were over 1,000 collisions, resulting in 15 fatalities and over 400 injuries. Behind these statistics are real people whose lives have been forever changed.
Common Causes of Car Accidents
Car accidents can happen for a variety of reasons, but some of the most common causes include:
- Impaired driving: Despite public awareness campaigns and strict laws, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs remains a leading cause of accidents. Impaired drivers have slower reaction times, and impaired judgment, and are more likely to engage in risky behaviors.
- Speeding: Exceeding the posted speed limit or driving too fast for conditions is a major contributing factor in many accidents. At higher speeds, drivers have less time to react to hazards, and the force of impact is greater.
- Fatigue: Drowsy driving can be just as dangerous as drunk driving. Commercial truck drivers are particularly susceptible to fatigue-related accidents due to long hours on the road.
- Poor road conditions: Potholes, debris, inadequate signage, and poor lighting can all contribute to accidents, especially if drivers are not cautious.
- Texting and driving: texting and driving causes the driver to divert their attention from the roadway often resulting in a collision because the driver veered into oncoming traffic.
No matter what the cause of your accident, if you have been injured due to another person’s carelessness, you have the right to seek compensation. A Murrells Inlet car accident attorney can help you determine who was at fault and build a strong case on your behalf.
The Aftermath of a Car Accident
In the chaos and confusion following a car crash, it can be difficult to know what to do. Your priority should always be your health and safety.
It is also important to gather as much information as you can at the scene of the accident, if possible. Get the names and contact information of any other drivers involved, as well as any witnesses. Take photos of the damage to the vehicles and any visible injuries.
Obtain a copy of the police report.
Be cautious when speaking to insurance adjusters. Remember, their goal is to minimize the amount they have to pay out on claims. Do not give a recorded statement or sign any documents without first consulting with a Murrells Inlet car accident lawyer.
Dealing with insurance companies and mounting medical bills can be overwhelming, especially when you are also coping with physical pain and emotional trauma. That is why it is so important to have an experienced Murrells Inlet car accident attorney on your side. They can handle the legal details and negotiations so you can focus on your recovery.
Why You Need a Murrells Inlet Car Accident Lawyer
If you have been in a car accident caused by another person’s carelessness, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and other damages. However, obtaining fair compensation is rarely a straightforward process. Insurance companies are notorious for offering lowball settlements or denying claims altogether.
A skilled Murrells Inlet car accident lawyer can level the playing field and fight for the full and fair compensation you deserve.
At Swilley Law Firm, LLC, we have extensive experience handling all types of car accident claims. We know the tactics insurance companies use to minimize payouts, and we are not afraid to stand up to them. We will work tirelessly to get you the compensation you need to move forward with your life.
What to Look for in a Murrells Inlet Car Accident Attorney
Not all car accident lawyers are created equal. When choosing an attorney to represent you, look for someone who:
- Has significant experience handling car accident cases in your area
- Has a track record of success in obtaining favorable settlements and verdicts
- Is responsive and accessible, keeping you informed throughout the process
- Has the resources to thoroughly investigate your case and consult with experts
- Works on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront, and they only get paid if you do
At Swilley Law Firm, LLC, we pride ourselves on our commitment to client service and our aggressive approach to litigation. We will take the time to listen to your story, answer your questions, and develop a tailored legal strategy to meet your unique needs.
Common Car Accident Injuries
Car accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, from minor cuts and bruises to life-altering disabilities. Some of the most common car accident injuries include:
- Whiplash and other neck injuries
- Back injuries, including herniated discs and spinal cord damage
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Broken bones
- Internal organ damage
- Soft tissue injuries like sprains and strains
- Psychological injuries like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
The severity of your injuries will impact the value of your claim and the type of damages you may be entitled to. A Murrells Inlet car accident lawyer can help you document your injuries and ensure that you receive proper medical treatment.
Damages in a Car Accident Claim
If you have been injured in a car accident triggered by another individual, you may be entitled to several types of damages, including:
- Medical expenses, including hospital bills, surgery, rehabilitation, and medication
- Lost wages for time missed from work due to your injuries
- Lost earning capacity if your injuries prevent you from returning to your previous job
- Property damage to your vehicle and other personal property
- Pain and suffering for the physical and emotional distress caused by the accident
- Loss of enjoyment of life if your injuries limit your ability to participate in activities you once enjoyed
- Punitive damages in cases of particularly egregious negligence or intentional misconduct
An experienced car accident attorney can help you calculate the full extent of your damages and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Steps to Take After a Car Accident
If you have been involved in a car accident in Murrells Inlet, there are several steps you should take to protect your health and your legal rights:
- Check for injuries and call 911 if necessary. Your health and safety should always be the top priority.
- Move to a safe location if possible, but do not leave the scene of the accident.
- Exchange information with the other driver, including name, contact information, insurance information, and license plate number.
- Take photos of the damage to the vehicles and any visible injuries.
- Gather contact information from any witnesses who saw the accident.
- Notify your insurance company of the accident, but do not give a recorded statement or accept any settlement offers without consulting with a Murrells Inlet car accident attorney first.
- After an accident, go for a health checkup as soon as possible since some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
- Keep detailed records of all medical treatment, expenses, and any time missed from work due to your injuries.
- Contact a Murrells Inlet car accident lawyer to discuss your legal options and protect your rights.
The sooner you involve an attorney, the better positioned you will be to obtain the compensation you deserve. Do not wait until you are overwhelmed by medical bills and insurance company demands to seek legal help.
Statute of Limitations for Car Accident Claims in South Carolina
It is important to note that there is a time limit for filing a car accident lawsuit in South Carolina. This is known as the statute of limitations.
In most cases, you have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. If you are only seeking compensation for property damage, you have three years from the date of the accident to file a claim.
There are some exceptions to this rule, such as if the at-fault driver was a government employee. It is always best to consult with a Murrells Inlet car accident lawyer as soon as possible to ensure that you do not miss any important deadlines.
Get In Touch With Us Today
If you have been injured in a car accident in Murrells Inlet, you need a legal expert by your side. At Swilley Law Firm, LLC, we are here to help you deal with the complicated legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact Swilley Law Firm, LLC, today for consultation, and let us put our experience to work for you. We will be your advocate and your ally every step of the way.
