Ultimate Guide to Car Accidents in Conway: What You Need to Know

Common Causes of Conway Car Crashes

Understanding why accidents happen is crucial for building a strong case if you've been injured. Here are some of the leading causes of car accidents:

• Distracted driving. Anything that takes a driver’s eyes off the road, hands off the steering wheel, or attention away from driving safely is a distraction. Distractions include texting, internet use, eating, adjusting music, and talking.
• Speeding. Exceeding the speed limit or driving too fast for conditions can cause a serious accident.
• Drunk driving. Despite strict South Carolina drunk driving laws, impaired driving continues to be a significant problem that can cause a catastrophic crash.
• Drowsy driving. This often-overlooked danger can be just as hazardous as drunk driving, impairing reaction time, decision-making, and awareness. Drivers who are fatigued due to lack of sleep, long work hours, or certain medications pose a significant risk on Conway's roads, especially during early morning or late-night hours.
• Reckless driving. Reckless driving includes tailgating, improper lane changes, and running red lights or stop signs.
• Vehicle defects. Sometimes, accidents are caused by faulty vehicle parts rather than driver error.

Any time a driver is negligent and fails to use reasonable care, an accident may occur. If you were hurt by a driver who is negligent in any way, our team is here to help you.

Car Accident Injuries

Car accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor bruises to life-altering trauma. Some common injuries include:

• Whiplash. Whiplash is a soft tissue injury to the neck that occurs when the head is suddenly jerked backward and then forward, like the cracking of a whip. It's common in rear-end collisions and can cause neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and sometimes long-lasting complications. 
• Broken bones. The force of a collision can easily fracture bones, particularly in the arms, legs, and ribs. These injuries can range from simple fractures that heal with immobilization to compound fractures requiring surgery. 
• Traumatic brain injuries. Even a seemingly minor bump to the head can result in a concussion or more severe brain injury. Symptoms can include headaches, confusion, memory problems, and changes in mood or behavior. Prompt medical attention is critical, as brain injuries can have long-lasting effects on cognitive function and quality of life.
• Spinal cord injuries. A spinal cord injury can lead to partial or complete paralysis and often requires lifelong care. The severity depends on the location and extent of the damage to the spinal cord. 
• Internal injuries. Damage to internal organs may not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening if left untreated. These injuries can include internal bleeding, punctured lungs, or damage to the liver or spleen. 
• Psychological trauma. Many accident victims experience anxiety, depression, or PTSD following a crash. These emotional injuries can be just as debilitating as physical ones, affecting a person's ability to work, drive, or enjoy daily activities. 

If you've been in an accident, seeking medical attention immediately is crucial, even if you feel fine. Some injuries may not show symptoms immediately but can worsen if left untreated. A thorough medical examination can detect injuries and provide documentation that may be important for your legal case. 

Potential Damages in a South Carolina Car Accident Case

You may be entitled to compensation if you've been injured in a car accident due to someone else's negligence. The types of damages you may recover include:

• Medical expenses. Your recovery may include all health care costs related to your accident injuries, from emergency room visits to ongoing rehabilitation. Additionally, you may be able to recover for estimated future medical expenses related to the crash. 
• Lost income. If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to recover your lost income, including lost wages, benefits, raises, and self-employment income. 
• Pain and suffering. This non-economic damage compensates you for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident and your injuries. It can include compensation for anxiety, depression, PTSD, and the overall impact on your quality of life. 
• Loss of enjoyment of life. If your injuries prevent you from engaging in activities you once enjoyed, such as hobbies, sports, or spending time with family, you may be compensated for this loss. 
• Property damage. The cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle and any other personal property damaged in the accident may be part of your recovery. 
• Punitive damages. In cases of extreme negligence or intentional harm, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the at-fault party and deter similar behavior in the future. Punitive damages are relatively rare and typically only awarded in cases involving drunk driving, reckless behavior, or other egregious conduct. 

Understanding the full extent of your damages can be crucial to ensure you receive fair compensation. A Conway car accident lawyer can help you accurately calculate your losses.

Steps to Take After a Conway Car Accident

Your actions immediately following a car accident can significantly impact your health and potential legal claim. If possible, it’s helpful to:

• Call the police. Report the accident and request medical assistance if needed.
• Document the scene. Take photos of the vehicles, the surrounding area, and any visible injuries.
• Exchange information. Get the contact and insurance details of all involved parties.
• Gather witness information. If there are witnesses, get their contact information.
• Seek medical attention. Even if you feel fine, get checked out by a medical professional, and be sure to get any recommended follow-up care.
• Contact a Conway car accident lawyer. Before speaking with insurance companies, we recommend you consult with an attorney to protect your rights.

Remember, your priority should be your health and safety. Once you're out of immediate danger, focus on preserving evidence and protecting your legal rights.

Understanding the Car Accident Claim Process in Conway

If you have been injured as a result of someone else's negligence, a lawyer may be able to guide you through the car accident claims process. While every case is different, here are some general steps you may expect from a lawyer:

• Investigation. A lawyer will conduct a thorough investigation, gathering evidence such as witness statements, surveillance footage, and accident reconstruction reports. Insurance companies will also investigate, often looking for ways to minimize their payout. 
• Demand letter. A lawyer will draft a detailed letter outlining your injuries, damages, and the compensation you're seeking. This letter sets the stage for negotiations and demonstrates the strength of your case. 
• Settlement negotiations. A car accident lawyer will skillfully negotiate with the insurance company, countering lowball offers and advocating for fair compensation. This process may involve multiple rounds of offers and counteroffers. 
• Lawsuit filing. If negotiations stall, a lawyer may recommend filing a lawsuit to protect your rights and pursue fair compensation. Filing a lawsuit doesn't necessarily mean your case will go to trial. 
• Discovery. During this phase, both sides exchange relevant information and evidence. This may include written questions (interrogatories), document requests, and depositions (sworn out-of-court testimony). 
• Trial. If the insurance company is unwilling to settle your case fairly, your case may go to trial. 

Don't wait too long to seek legal help. South Carolina has a statute of limitations for filing car accident claims, and evidence can disappear quickly.

How to Choose the Right Car Accident Lawyer in Conway

You are trusting someone else to protect your legal rights and financial compensation. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a Conway car accident lawyer:

• Experience. Look for a lawyer with specific experience handling car accident cases in Conway. Together, our lawyers have more than 250 years of combined experience. 
• Track record. While past results to do not guarantee future results, ask about the types of settlements or verdicts they've secured. We are proud of the difference we make for our clients, and we invite you to read our case results.  
• Resources. Ensure the lawyer has the resources to investigate and pursue your case thoroughly.
• Communication. Choose a lawyer who explains things clearly and keeps you informed throughout the process. 
• Reputation. You may find it helpful to reach out to friends and family for recommendations as well as reading prior reviews of law firms. While past results do not guarantee future results, and every case is different, please feel free to visit our client testimonials to learn more about how we’ve handled car accident cases in Conway and throughout South Carolina. After our client, K.J., was T-boned coming out of a Conway Walmart, K.J. said, “I love how helpful and how hard they work to help me with my cases.” Another client, A.S., was run off the road while heading home from work in Conway and said, "Steven and his team were nothing but wonderful! They made the whole process simple and easy for me. 100% recommend them." 
• Fee structure. Ask an attorney how they will get paid and what the costs will be.

Remember, you're not just hiring a lawyer; you're choosing an advocate who should fight for your rights and your future.