When you or a loved one in your family is injured in a car accident caused by a drunk driver, South Carolina law allows you to claim compensation from the at-fault driver. Driving under the influence is a serious crime since drunk drivers are not only a threat to everyone on the road but themselves as well. Most DUI cases are highly technical in nature and require professional legal assistance to claim maximum damages from the responsible party.
There are many Saluda drunk driving accident lawyers. But all of these attorneys are not created alike. Your extensive research is crucial to selecting the best lawyer to build a solid case on your behalf. Ayers, Smithdeal & Bettis P.C. is a trusted name in Saluda SC when it comes to handling personal injury lawsuits including drunk driving accident cases.
Our car accident lawyers are highly skilled and experienced in building solid cases on behalf of their clients. They have won millions of dollars in compensation for their clients. The personal injury lawyers at Ayers, Smithdeal & Bettis P.C. have extensive experience in negotiating with insurance companies to get the rightful compensation deserved by their clients.
We are prepared to take your case to trial if the insurance company denies your rightful claim for whatever reason. Call Ayers, Smithdeal & Bettis P.C. in Saluda SC today at 855-213-4405 to handle your drunk driving accident lawsuit and obtain the maximum compensation for your injuries.
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Drunk Driving Statistics in South Carolina
The South Carolina Department of Public Safety (SCDPS) estimates that there were more than 5,200 alcohol-related accidents on South Carolina roads during 2017. Over 3,500 victims were injured and 214 people succumbed to their injuries as a result of DUI crashes in 2017.
Alcohol-related crashes accounted for approximately 32% of SC’s total traffic crashes in 2017. But there had been a slight decrease in alcohol-related fatalities in SC over the past few years. For example, alcohol-related accidents were responsible for 44% of total traffic fatalities in South Carolina in 2013.
What Are the BAC Limits in South Carolina?
In South Carolina, it is illegal to operate a motor vehicle with a BAC of 0.08% or higher. On the other hand, persons under 21 years of age are not allowed to legally purchase or consume alcoholic beverages. The legal limit for drivers under 21 years of age is 0.02%.
What to Do After an Accident With a Drunk Driver?
Most people become confused after a car crash and forget what they need to do. When you are involved in a car accident caused by a drunk driver in Saluda, SC, there are many important things to take care of. Here are some of the most important things you need to do after an accident with a drunk driver.
Call the Police
Call law enforcement to investigate the accident scene. They will conduct a preliminary investigation after gathering the necessary information. Don’t forget to collect a copy of the police report from the department when it is available for collection. The police report plays an important role when proving the negligence of the other party.
Seek Medical Attention
Seek medical assistance even if you think your injuries are minor. Many victims may not feel an immediate impact soon after the incident. Get medical help and see if others are injured and try to help them. You will need the medical reports to prove that you were actually injured as a result of the accident.
Exchange Information & Talk to Witnesses
While you are at the accident scene, exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver. If there are any witnesses to the accident, don’t forget to collect their names, addresses, and telephone numbers.
Take Photos
Taking photos of the accident scene is a good practice. You can do it with your mobile device if you are in a position to do so. Take photos or video the actual scene and any visible injuries.
Call a Personal Injury Lawyer
Another important step is to call a reliable personal injury lawyer to handle your case. Don’t accept fault for the accident without consulting with an experienced Saluda drunk driving accident lawyer.
What Damages Can You Recover After a Drunk Driving Accident in Saluda, South Carolina?
Your lawyer is the best person to evaluate your case and advise what type of damages you could claim. Generally, there are three types of damages to claim after a drunk driving accident in Saluda SC.
Economic Damages
Economic damages are easy to calculate and may include loss of income as a result of your injuries, past & future medical bills, and loss of quality of life.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages are difficult to calculate and include mental & emotional distress, pain, and suffering.
Punitive Damages
On the other hand, the court can decide to award punitive damages depending on the severity of your injuries. Punitive damages are designed to punish the defendant for his/her reckless behavior and prevent other drivers from behaving similarly.
How Long Do I Have to File a Claim in South Carolina?
The statute of limitations will come into effect three years from the date of the accident. You should file your case before this time frame to avoid any problems in filing the lawsuit.
How Much Will a Saluda Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer Cost?
The personal injury lawyers at Ayers, Smithdeal & Bettis P.C. don’t charge you anything unless we win the case for you. We work on a contingency fee basis where you need to pay us after we win your compensation. Our fee is based on a percentage of the compensation award you receive.
Schedule a Free Consultation Today
If you or someone in your family is injured in an accident in Saluda, SC caused by a drunk driver, you are entitled to claim compensation from the at-fault driver. DUI cases are complex and require professional legal assistance. You need to hire the best drunk driving accident lawyer to handle your case. Call Ayers, Smithdeal & Bettis P.C. today at 855-213-4405 to handle your drunk driving accident lawsuit and obtain the maximum benefits for your injuries.
