A Guide to South Carolina Car Accident Laws

Car accidents can happen when you least expect them and navigating the aftermath can be overwhelming. In South Carolina, understanding the specific laws governing car accidents is crucial for both residents and visitors alike. This guide aims to shed light on South Carolina’s car accident laws, providing valuable insights into key aspects such as liability, insurance requirements, and potential legal actions.

Explaining South Carolina Car Accident Laws

South Carolina car accident laws are designed to ensure fair and just outcomes for all parties involved. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, being aware of your rights, responsibilities, and legal  processes can make a significant difference in the aftermath of a car accident.

I. Fault and Liability in South Carolina

South Carolina follows the doctrine of “comparative negligence” when determining fault in a car accident. This means that multiple parties can share responsibility for the accident, and the degree of fault assigned to each party impacts their ability to seek compensation. In a comparative negligence state like South Carolina, an injured party can still pursue a claim even if they were partially at fault, but their compensation will be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to them. For example, if a court determines that a plaintiff was 20% at fault for the accident, their damages will be reduced by 20%.

II. Minimum Insurance Requirements

South Carolina law mandates that all drivers carry a minimum amount of liability insurance to cover bodily injury and property damage. The minimum coverage requirements are:

• $25,000 for bodily injury or death per person
• $50,000 for total bodily injury or death per accident
• $25,000 for property damage per accident

Compliance with these insurance requirements is essential for legal driving in the state. Failure to maintain the mandated insurance coverage can result in fines, license suspension, or other penalties.

III. Reporting Requirements

After a car accident in South Carolina, there are specific reporting requirements that drivers must adhere to. If the accident resulted in injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000, the involved parties must report the incident to the local police or the South Carolina Highway Patrol. Failing to report an accident that meets these criteria could lead to legal consequences.

IV. Statute of Limitations

It’s crucial to be aware of the statute of limitations for filing a car accident lawsuit in South Carolina. The statute of limitations sets a deadline for initiating legal action, and if this deadline passes, the injured party may lose the right to seek compensation. In South Carolina, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including those arising from car accidents, is generally three years from the date of the accident.

V. Uninsured Motorist Coverage

Uninsured motorist coverage is an essential aspect of auto insurance in South Carolina. Despite the legal requirement for drivers to carry insurance, some individuals may still operate vehicles without coverage. Uninsured motorist coverage protects you if you’re involved in an accident with a driver who doesn’t have insurance. In addition to uninsured motorist coverage, underinsured motorist coverage is also available, protecting if the at-fault driver’s insurance coverage is insufficient to cover your damages.

VI. Comparative Negligence in Action

Understanding how the comparative negligence principle works in South Carolina can help individuals involved in accidents anticipate potential outcomes. Courts consider various factors when determining the percentage of fault assigned to each party, such as traffic violations, eyewitness accounts, and available evidence. In cases of shared fault, the court calculates the damages and reduces the final award based on the percentage of fault assigned to the plaintiff. This system aims to achieve a fair and equitable distribution of responsibility for the accident.

VII. Seeking Legal Representation

Navigating the complexities of car accident laws in South Carolina can be challenging, especially when dealing with injuries, property damage, and insurance claims. In many cases, consulting with an experienced South Carolina car accident lawyer is advisable. An attorney can assess the specific circumstances of the accident, guide you through the legal process, and help maximize your chances of receiving fair compensation.

Schedule a Free Consultation with Cummings & Lewis, LLC

If you find yourself grappling with the aftermath of a car accident in South Carolina, don’t face the complexities alone. Our experienced team of Spartanburg attorneys at Cummings & Lewis, LLC is here to guide you through every step of the legal process. We understand the challenges you may be facing, and we’re committed to ensuring that your rights are protected. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation today.