10 Questions to Ask a Sumter, SC Car Accident Attorney

Axelrod & Associates, P.A.

Jul 18, 2024

Being in a car accident can be a stressful experience. However, when you suffer injuries, this can make an already stressful time worse. With medical bills and other financial burdens accruing as a result of the accident, you may wonder if you need a lawyer. Simply put, you will likely benefit from having one, but it is equally important to be prepared with questions for your lawyer. Here are 10 Questions to ask a Sumter, SC, car accident attorney.

Table of Contents

What Can You Do for Me?

This is your case, and you have the most to gain or lose in the end. When you talk to a car accident lawyer, don’t be afraid to ask what they can do for you and how they plan to defend you. This will give the lawyer a chance to talk about how they will handle your case and why they are the right lawyer for you and your claim.

What Kinds of Fees Do You Charge?

Most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t have to pay them anything until your case is successful, giving them a share of the money you receive if you win your claim for damages. A few others may charge by the hour, regardless of whether you win or lose.

What Will Happen If We Lose?

In addition to the contingency fee, some personal injury lawyers charge for any case-related costs they incur. These costs are also called out-of-pocket costs. Talk to your lawyer about who will pay the costs if your injury case fails. If it’s you, find out when you need to pay them in full.

What Are the Possible Results for My Case in Terms of Compensation?

There isn’t a single rule you can easily use to guess how the settlement process will go in your case. Each case is unique, and the amount of money you receive can depend on several factors, such as how bad your injuries are and how willing the defendant is to fight the case to the very end. Still, your lawyer should be able to provide you with possibilities regarding your case.

How Long Do You Think It Will Take to Finish The Car Accident Case?

Finding out how long your case will last is an important part of handling it well. The schedule can change for a number of reasons, such as if the defendant is ready to negotiate or if there are changes in the evidence or the law.

How Much Experience Do You Have With Cases Like This?

During your first meeting with an attorney, you should make sure to ask about their experience with situations like yours. Lawyers who have dealt with similar personal injury or car accident cases before are probably better at handling the unique issues of your case.

What Do You Need From Me?

Lawyers can only work with what is true. You should make sure that your lawyer has all the paperwork and proof they need as the case goes on so that they have the greatest chance of winning. This is very important because your lawyer might not know all the facts. Make sure you tell them everything they need to know so they know what paperwork and proof to ask you about.

Is My Case Going to Court?

A majority of disputes are settled out of court, and many plaintiffs never go to court. Most lawyers will tell you this right away, but you should also make sure that your lawyer is ready for the possibility of going to court. They should show that they are sure of their ability to deal with issues outside of court and are ready to go to trial if necessary.

What Should I Do If the Insurance Company Makes Me an Offer?

Don’t accept an offer from an insurance company without first talking to a lawyer. The insurance company may try to pay as little as possible. They may not offer a fair settlement at first because they want to protect the insurance company’s bottom line. Make sure you have someone on your side who wants to fight for you.

What Are My Deadlines?

If you were hurt and want to file a claim against the driver, a statute of limitations applies. Once that date has passed, you cannot pursue compensation from the other driver anymore. During your claim, your lawyer will also have their own due dates.

FAQs

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

A: In South Carolina, the average settlement for a car accident varies considerably depending on things such as how bad the injuries were, who was at fault, and the limits of the insurance policy. If someone is clearly at fault or there are serious injuries, the settlement may be higher. If the accident isn’t particularly bad, the settlement may be lower.

What Questions Should a Car Accident Lawyer Ask?

When you meet with a lawyer after a car accident, you can expect them to ask several questions to get important details about what happened. They will want to know what happened, if there were any witnesses, what kind of injuries you have and how bad they are, if you talked to any insurance adjusters, if there are photos or videos of the accident scene, and if there are any details from the police report.

What Should You Do in Case of an Accident in South Carolina?

In the event of a car accident in South Carolina, prioritize safety and look for injuries first. Report the accident to 911 and seek medical attention if necessary. Exchange information with the other driver(s). Collect contact information and evidence from any witnesses. Then, notify your insurance company of the accident as soon as possible and seek medical attention, even if injuries are not immediately apparent. Speak with a car accident attorney regarding any next steps.

What Are the Compensation Laws for Car Accidents in South Carolina?

South Carolina’s compensation laws for car accidents operate under a “fault” system, meaning the at-fault driver’s insurance is responsible for covering damages. Medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, and pain and suffering are all potential sources of compensation. The state employs a comparative negligence rule, which allows you to recover damages even if you are partially to blame as long as your liability does not exceed 50%.