How Much Does a Car Accident Lawyer Cost in South Carolina? 2025

The aftermath of a car accident can bring unexpected expenses, from medical bills to vehicle repairs. If you are considering legal representation, you may wonder how much a car accident lawyer costs in South Carolina. Attorney fees often depend on many factors that are determined by the facts of your case and how long it takes for the case to settle.

Factors Influencing Attorney Fees in South Carolina Car Accident Cases

Car collisions remain a leading cause of personal injury and wrongful death claims. In 2021, 1,198 people were killed on South Carolina’s roads. Injured victims or surviving loved ones often wonder if they can afford a personal injury attorney following a collision.

Attorney fees vary based on case complexity, the lawyer’s experience, and whether the case goes to court. If liability is disputed under South Carolina’s modified comparative negligence rule, a lawyer may need to invest more time gathering evidence. The presence of serious injuries or violations of South Carolina Code § 56-5-2910, which covers reckless driving, can also impact the cost.

Cases handled in courts like the Horry County Government & Justice Center or Orangeburg County Courthouse may involve additional legal expenses. While costs fluctuate, a skilled attorney brings many benefits that can ultimately help injured plaintiffs secure the compensation they need to move forward.

Additional Expenses Beyond Attorney Fees

Car accident claims involve more than lawyer’s fees. There are court filing costs to consider, witness fees if an outside specialist is called in, and expenses related to reconstructing the accident. If your case involves a motorcycle collision, recreating the scene of the accident can be critical to building a compelling case. South Carolina saw 166 motorcyclist fatalities in 2021.

Properly documenting your injuries can require prompt medical attention and follow-up visits to ensure that there is a paper trail that supports your claim. Depending on the specifics of your case, you may need to pay for outside individuals to consult with your attorney, or you may need to pay certain administrative fees.

Understanding Contingency Fee Structures in South Carolina

If you are not familiar with personal injury cases, you may think that personal injury lawyers require up-front retainers as a condition of legal representation. Most reputable personal injury attorneys do not burden their clients with retainers and the stress of billable hours. Instead, they work on a contingency basis, meaning they are not paid until you are paid.

This model works for both the client and the attorney. The lawyer is paid a set percentage of the settlement or jury verdict while the client receives the remainder. The contingency fee model also motivates the attorney to maximize their client’s settlement because it benefits both the lawyer and the plaintiff.

Personal injury attorneys often offer free initial consultations. Injured plaintiffs can discuss their case under this consultation model, and there is no obligation for the prospective client to do anything afterward. If nothing else, a free consultation offers the chance for a car accident victim to learn what their options are.

Do the Benefits of an Attorney Outweigh the Costs?

Car collisions can lead to devastating consequences for injured victims or surviving loved ones. Drunk driving collisions resulted in 13,524 deaths across the state in 2022, and those loved ones who were left behind had to contend with funeral costs, outstanding medical bills, and the loss of future earnings.

During an incredibly difficult time in your life, securing legal representation can help you avoid financial hardships. Your attorney’s experience can greatly influence the outcome of your claim. Without legal representation, you may find yourself being falsely blamed for causing the accident, even if you are not to blame.

A personal injury attorney understands how to hold negligent drivers accountable for violating traffic laws. When dealing with the defendant at Orangeburg County Courthouse or elsewhere, your lawyer can be an invaluable ally in the pursuit of justice and compensation.

FAQs

What Are Most Lawyer Fees for a Car Accident?

Car accident lawyers typically work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if they win or settle your case. Fees usually range from a percentage of the settlement or court award. Additional costs may apply for witnesses or court filings. Always discuss fees upfront to understand the total cost of representation.

What Is the Average Settlement for a Car Accident in South Carolina?

Car accident settlements vary based on injury severity, medical costs, lost wages, and liability. Minor injuries may lead to settlements in the thousands, while severe cases involving long-term care can result in significant compensation. South Carolina’s comparative negligence rule also affects payouts, as fault can reduce or eliminate recovery.

Is It Worth It to Hire an Accident Attorney?

Hiring an attorney can improve your chances of receiving fair compensation, especially when dealing with insurance companies that may undervalue claims. Lawyers handle negotiations, gather evidence, and protect your rights, particularly in complex cases involving disputed liability or severe injuries. Without legal representation, you may receive far less than you deserve.

How Long Does It Take to Settle a Car Accident Claim in South Carolina?

Settlement timelines vary based on case complexity, injury severity, and insurance negotiations. Simple claims may settle in a few months, while disputes over liability or long-term medical costs can take over a year. Insurers often delay payouts, making legal representation crucial for securing timely compensation.

Schedule Your Car Accident Consultation Today

A car accident can leave you facing medical expenses, vehicle repairs, and lost income. Whether your crash resulted from a distracted driver, reckless behavior, or hazardous road conditions, you may have the right to seek compensation for your losses. Understanding your legal options is crucial to protecting your financial future.

At Axelrod & Associates, P.A., we are committed to guiding car accident victims through every step of the claims process. Our legal team can work to hold negligent parties accountable and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact our office today to schedule your initial no-cost consultation.