Personal Injury Lawyers in South Carolina

Personal Injury in South Carolina

Personal injury law in South Carolina covers cases where an individual is harmed due to another's negligence or intentional actions. Common types of personal injury claims include car accidents, slip and fall incidents, medical malpractice, and product liability. In South Carolina, the injured party, or plaintiff, must prove that the defendant's actions directly caused their injury. The state follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning a plaintiff's compensation can be reduced if they are found partially at fault. South Carolina has a three-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims, meaning lawsuits must be filed within three years from the date of the injury. This time limit can vary for specific situations, such as injuries involving government entities.

South Carolina Laws & Regulations

South Carolina's comparative negligence rule allows plaintiffs to recover damages even if they are partially at fault, as long as their fault is less than 51%. This means if a plaintiff is 30% responsible for their injury, their compensation is reduced by that percentage. The state also has a cap on punitive damages, which are limited to three times the actual damages or $500,000, whichever is greater. This cap is intended to prevent excessively high punitive awards, though exceptions exist for cases involving intentional harm or where the defendant was under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Medical malpractice claims in South Carolina require an affidavit of an expert witness to be filed with the court, establishing that the medical professional deviated from the standard of care.

Typical Attorney Costs in South Carolina

South Carolina Bar

How to Find a Personal Injury Lawyer in South Carolina

Finding a personal injury lawyer in South Carolina involves researching their experience with cases similar to yours. Consider looking for lawyers who specialize in personal injury law and have a track record of successful settlements or verdicts. The South Carolina Bar's website provides a directory to search for licensed attorneys by location and practice area. It's beneficial to schedule consultations with potential lawyers to discuss your case, understand their approach, and determine if they are a good fit for your needs. During these meetings, inquire about their experience with the specific type of injury you have sustained and their familiarity with local courts and judges.

Personal Injury Attorneys in South Carolina

Lawyers listed in our directory

Frequently Asked Questions