A car crash can completely turn your life upside down. Within an instance, you may be hit by a reckless driver, leaving you with lifelong injuries. If you or your loved one has sustained injuries after a car crash in Newberry, you may be entitled to compensation.
Ayers, Smithdeal & Bettis, P.C. is ready to fight for your rights after a car wreck. Our Newberry car accident lawyers will conduct thorough investigations into your crash to determine liability. We will push for maximum compensation for your damages.
Call 855-213-4405 now to schedule your free case review. Our personal injury lawyers are ready to advise you regarding all legal aspects of your case. Get started now to find out if you have a car accident case.
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South Carolina Car Accident Statistics
According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), 351 car occupants lost their lives in South Carolina in 2019. In the county of Newberry, there were 5 passenger car occupant fatalities in 2015, 3 in 2016, 1 in 2017, and 3 in 2019. This is according to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
How Much Does a Newberry Car Accident Lawyer Cost?
At Ayers, Smithdeal & Bettis, P.C, we operate on a contingency fee basis. You don’t have to pay any upfront fees for our legal services. This payment method ensures you get the best legal services in Newberry without spending a dime. We will front any expenses associated with your case. We only get paid once we win your case.
What Should I Do After a Car Accident?
What you do after a car wreck in Newberry can either strengthen or ruin your claim. There are several steps that you should take after a car accident, including:
Contact the Police
If you’ve been involved in a car wreck, the first thing you should do is to call the police. Never allow anyone to talk you out of this process.
Help Others if You Can
Find out if everyone else is okay. Offer reasonable assistance where possible. Never leave an accident scene before the police arrive.
Exchange Information & Get Contact Details
Exchange information with other involved parties, including witnesses. Note down their names, addresses, phone numbers, and other drivers’ license plates and insurance information.
Document the Scene
Take pictures and videos of the scene from various angles. This may include vehicle damage, skid marks, road signs, and weather conditions.
Never Admit Fault
Never say anything that can be construed as an admission of fault. You risk losing your compensation if you admit fault after a car accident in Newberry.
Get Medical Treatment
It’s essential to get medical help after an accident. Do not assume you are okay. Let a trained medical professional give you a clean bill of health.
Call a Car Accident Lawyer
Contact Ayers, Smithdeal & Bettis, P.C if you’ve been involved in a crash. Our legal team will handle all talks with the other driver’s claims adjusters and lawyers. Call us now to maximize your chances of getting a fair settlement.
What Is the Average Settlement for a Car Accident?
Every accident in Newberry, SC, is different. Various factors need to be factored in when determining the settlement amount for a car crash, including the extent of your injuries.
The Insurance Information Institute estimates that the average settlement for bodily injury claims was $18,417 in 2019. For property damage claims, the average settlement was $ 4,525. Our skilled Newbeery car accident lawyers will aggressively negotiate with the insurance company to ensure you get the compensation you deserve for your damages.
When Should I Get a Lawyer for My Auto Accident?
Never delay seeking the services of a reliable car accident lawyer in Newberry. The sooner you get in touch with a lawyer, the better. Remember, other parties in your crash may also be building a case against you.
Why Do I Need a Lawyer?
A knowledgeable car wreck lawyer can walk you through your legal options. At Ayers, Smithdeal & Bettis, P.C, our legal team is adequately trained and experienced in handling car accident claims. Here are some of the benefits of reaching out to our reputable law firm for help with your accident in Newberry, SC:
Case Preparation / Filing a Lawsuit
Our attorneys will thoroughly investigate your case to build a strong claim against the defendant. We will determine liability and file your claim before it’s too late.
Settlement Negotiation
Our lawyers will draft and send a demand letter to the insurer. We won’t rest until we secure a fair settlement for your case.
Trial Preparation & Representation
Not all out-of-court negotiations work out. Our legal team is prepared to go to court if out-of-court talks hit a dead end.
How Much Can I Expect to Receive for My Damages?
The amount of compensation you receive for your car accident claim in South Carolina depends on three main factors:
- The severity of your injuries
- Liability
- Policy limit
At Ayers, Smithdeal & Bettis, P.C, we will look into all pieces of evidence to prove the defendant is liable for your injuries. We will also use your medical records and expert testimonies to prove how severe your injuries are.
What Type of Damages Can I Recover?
After a car crash, you may be entitled to various damages. A competent Newberry car wreck lawyer can help you secure the following damages:
Economic Damages
This type of compensation covers actual losses after the accident, including medical bills, lost income, and property damage.
Non-Economic Damages
These are intangible losses that don’t come with any receipts. They include pain and suffering, mental anguish, loss of a fetus, humiliation, and disfigurement.
Punitive Damages
These damages are awarded to punish defendants for their reckless or negligent actions. They are meant to deter the defendant from repeating similar actions in the future.
How Is Fault Determined?
South Carolina follows the modified comparative fault rule when determining fault. South Carolina courts will bar you from receiving compensation if your fault for an accident is 51% or more. At Ayers, Smithdeal & Bettis, P.C, our legal team will prove the defendant breached their duty of care, resulting in the accident and your injury.
How Long Do I Have to File a Claim?
In South Carolina, you have three years from the date of your accident to file a claim. If you aren’t sure about the time limit, reach out to an experienced car accident lawyer near Newberry immediately.
How Can a Lawyer Help Me File My Insurance Claim?
An insurance company will take your claim more seriously if a Newberry car accident lawyer represents you. At Ayers, Smithdeal & Bettis, P.C, we can help you maximize your settlement by conducting an in-depth investigation to prove fault.
We will file all necessary paperwork on time, following the insurer’s terms and conditions. Our legal team will also handle your settlement talks as you rest and recuperate. We won’t accept any lowball offer for your claim.
What Can I Do if Insurance Denied My Claim?
If your insurance claim has been denied, reach out to a reliable Newberry car accident lawyer. Our team of attorneys will look into the insurer’s response to determine if they acted in bad faith. We will prepare a response to appeal the denial and attach concrete evidence to bolster your claim. Our legal team may also decide to file a lawsuit after a denied claim.
Do I Have a Case?
At Ayers, Smithdeal & Bettis, P.C, our legal team will look into all pieces of evidence to determine if you have a case. Our lawyers will be honest with you throughout this process. We won’t sugarcoat anything or give you false hope. Our law firm will look into the facts of your case and advise you accordingly.
You might have a case if the other driver’s negligence led to your accident and injuries. Our car wreck lawyers in Newberry will thoroughly investigate your claim to determine if you have a case.
What if the Other Driver Doesn’t Have Insurance?
If an uninsured driver hits you, you may be able to recover compensation from your insurance company. You can file for uninsured coverage benefits if you have an uninsured policy. Your insurer will investigate the incident and hopefully cover your damages. If you have any problems with your insurer, Ayers, Smithdeal & Bettis, P.C is here to help.
How Can I Obtain an Accident Report in Newberry, South Carolina?
You can obtain your collision report by visiting the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles website. You’ll have to pay $6 to get this report. Alternatively, you can request a copy from the law enforcement agency that prepared your incident report.
Call Ayers, Smithdeal & Bettis, P.C Today
If you or someone you care about has been hurt in a car wreck, consider reaching out to a seasoned Newberry car accident lawyer. At Ayers, Smithdeal & Bettis, P.C, we can help you recover damages after an accident. We will handle all aspects of your case while you rest and recover.
To speak to an experienced and compassionate car accident lawyer in Newberry, call 855-213-4405 now. Let us handle the insurance adjusters and the defendant’s attorneys on your behalf. Contact us today to get started!
