Car accidents can happen to anyone, and they’re an unfortunate reality of life on the road. In South Carolina alone, there are over 3.9 million licensed drivers, contributing to the state’s high traffic volume. Many of these drivers navigate through Greenville’s busy streets every day, but not everyone operates their vehicle responsibly. If you find yourself in such a situation, consulting a Greenville Car Accident Lawyer can help. Negligent or reckless drivers can cause serious accidents, leading to life-altering injuries and costly medical expenses.
If you’ve been involved in a serious car accident in Greenville, a knowledgeable Greenville car accident lawyer can be your best advocate for obtaining the compensation you deserve. Navigating the insurance process and securing a fair settlement can be challenging, especially when dealing with physical and emotional recovery. An experienced car accident attorney in Greenville can help gather evidence, negotiate with insurers, and, if necessary, represent you in court to ensure you receive the full and fair compensation you need to cover medical bills, lost wages, and other accident-related expenses.
When dealing with the aftermath of a car accident, having a dedicated Greenville car accident lawyer by your side can make all the difference. Don’t let insurance companies minimize your claim—seek professional legal support to protect your rights and secure your future.
Don’t just be a statistic:
Greenville County Accidents (source):
| Year | Fatal Collisions | Injury Collisions | Total Collisions | Persons Killed |
| 2018 | 69 | 3,952 | 17,255 | 77 |
| 2019 | 68 | 3,949 | 17,111 | 73 |
| 2020 | 72 | 3,150 | 13,740 | 82 |
| 2021 | 88 | 3,604 | 16,345 | 93 |
| 2022 | 98 | 3,406 | 15,682 | 101 |
| Total | 395 | 18,061 | 80,133 | 426 |
In Greenville, SC, the roads see a wide array of car accident types, each with its own set of risks and complications. Whether it’s a bustling downtown intersection, a residential neighborhood, or a highway, car accidents happen daily in Greenville. If you’ve been injured in a collision, working with a Greenville car accident lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and pursue fair compensation for your injuries. Understanding the types of car accidents that commonly occur in Greenville can highlight the complexities and potential legal challenges associated with each.
Who is Liable in a Car Accident in South Carolina?
In the State of South Carolina, the driver at fault is responsible for paying for the damages. This includes repairing or replacing the other driver’s car, as well as any medical expenses that may have arisen as a result of the accident. If the driver at fault does not have insurance, they may be sued by the other driver in order to recover damages. If both drivers are at fault, they will both be responsible for paying for the damages. This can often lead to a fight, and it is important to contact a Greenville lawyer as soon as possible.
Additionally, South Carolina operates on a fault system for determining liability in car accidents. In such cases, the driver at fault or their insurance company is typically responsible for covering the costs of the damages. Victims of accidents caused by others have various options to seek compensation, including filing a claim with their own insurance company, pursuing a third-party claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance, or initiating a personal injury lawsuit against the negligent driver. It is crucial for individuals involved in car accidents in South Carolina to be aware of these options and seek legal assistance promptly to navigate the complexities of the legal process.
Common Types of Car Accidents in Greenville, SC
- Rear-End and T-Bone Collisions
- Rear-end collisions often occur in high-traffic areas where sudden stops are frequent, such as stoplights and intersections. These accidents can lead to serious injuries, including whiplash, spinal damage, and head trauma. T-bone collisions, where one car strikes the side of another, are particularly dangerous and often happen when a driver fails to yield at an intersection. A skilled Greenville car accident lawyer can help identify fault in these accidents and seek compensation from negligent drivers.
- Sideswipe and Intersection Accidents
- Sideswipe collisions often occur when drivers change lanes without checking blind spots, and they can escalate into multi-car pileups. Intersection accidents are common in Greenville, where drivers may run red lights or ignore stop signs. These accidents can lead to severe injuries due to the high speeds often involved. A Greenville car accident lawyer can assess the circumstances of these accidents, determine liability, and work to hold responsible parties accountable.
- Head-On Crashes
- Head-on collisions are among the most deadly types of car accidents, often resulting in catastrophic injuries. These crashes typically occur on highways or two-lane roads when one driver crosses the centerline, whether due to distraction, intoxication, or falling asleep at the wheel. If you or a loved one were involved in a head-on collision, a Greenville car accident lawyer can be instrumental in seeking substantial compensation for the severe injuries often involved.
- Accidents Involving Speeding, Lane Changes, and Traffic Signal Violations
- Many Greenville car accidents result from reckless driving behaviors such as excessive speeding, unsafe lane changes, and ignoring traffic signals. These actions endanger everyone on the road, often leading to high-speed impacts with serious consequences. An experienced Greenville car accident attorney can help victims prove that speeding or reckless driving caused the accident and fight for compensation for injuries, property damage, and other losses.
- Incidents in Adverse Weather Conditions or Due to Road Disrepair
- Greenville is no stranger to unpredictable weather, and accidents often occur due to slick roads, poor visibility, and other adverse conditions. Additionally, potholes and poorly maintained roads can contribute to dangerous accidents. A Greenville car accident lawyer can help prove that external conditions, like poor road maintenance or weather, were significant contributing factors, which may open up avenues for additional claims.
- Drunk Driving and DUI Crashes
- Driving under the influence remains one of the leading causes of fatal car accidents nationwide. Greenville is no exception, with DUI-related accidents leading to serious injuries and fatalities. A Greenville car accident attorney can help victims pursue maximum compensation in these cases, as well as punitive damages, to hold drunk drivers fully accountable.
- Distracted Driving Incidents, Such as Texting While Driving
- Distracted driving is a growing problem, especially with the increased use of smartphones. Texting, using GPS, or even talking on the phone can lead to devastating accidents. Greenville car accident lawyers are well-versed in the complexities of proving distracted driving and can help gather evidence, such as cell phone records, to strengthen your claim.
Common Causes of Car Accidents in Greenville, SC
Car accidents in Greenville, SC, are unfortunately all too common due to a variety of factors, from congested roadways to driver negligence. Greenville’s mix of busy highways like I-385 and I-85, along with high-traffic areas downtown, can increase the likelihood of collisions, especially in areas known for high traffic flow and frequent congestion. If you or someone you know has been in a car accident in Greenville, understanding the common causes can help clarify liability and the steps to take next. A knowledgeable Greenville car accident lawyer can offer valuable support in seeking compensation for injuries and damages resulting from an accident.
Accidents at intersections, particularly busy ones like the intersections along Laurens Road and Haywood Road, are common when drivers ignore traffic signals. Running red lights and stop signs often lead to severe T-bone and side-impact collisions. Greenville car accident attorneys can help victims pursue compensation in these cases by gathering witness statements, camera footage, and police reports to demonstrate traffic violations.
Distracted Driving
Greenville, like many cities, struggles with distracted driving incidents, especially in high-traffic zones like Woodruff Road and Haywood Road, where drivers often get distracted by their phones, navigation systems, or other in-car activities. Texting and using smartphones are major contributors, diverting attention from traffic patterns and nearby pedestrians. Greenville car accident lawyers frequently handle cases where distracted driving is a central factor, gathering cell phone records or camera footage to demonstrate negligence.
Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
Greenville has a significant number of DUI-related accidents, particularly during late nights and weekends around entertainment hubs like downtown Greenville and along major routes. Alcohol and drug-related impairments drastically reduce a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely, leading to high-impact collisions. If you’re injured by a drunk driver in Greenville, a car accident lawyer can help you seek punitive damages and compensation for injuries, holding the negligent driver accountable under South Carolina law.
Speeding
Speeding is another common cause of accidents, especially on Greenville’s highways, such as I-85, I-385, and SC-291, where high-speed limits combined with aggressive driving lead to frequent collisions. Excessive speed makes it difficult for drivers to stop in time to avoid hazards, often resulting in severe injuries. Greenville car accident lawyers are adept at handling cases involving speeding, using data from crash reconstruction and witness statements to establish liability.
Aggressive Driving and Road Rage
Aggressive driving is frequently seen on Greenville’s busy roads, where impatient drivers may engage in tailgating, abrupt lane changes, and other risky behaviors. Road rage incidents, particularly during rush hour or around congested roads like Laurens Road, can escalate quickly, leading to severe collisions. In these cases, a Greenville car accident lawyer can compile evidence from dashcams, traffic cameras, and witness accounts to prove that aggressive driving led to the accident.
Drowsy or Fatigued Driving
Greenville’s mix of long-haul truck drivers passing through and local shift workers, especially those commuting early in the morning or late at night, increases the risk of fatigue-related accidents. Drowsy driving is particularly dangerous because it impairs reaction time and can cause drivers to “microsleep” while at the wheel. In cases where fatigue contributed to a crash, a Greenville car accident lawyer can work to gather driver logs, GPS data, and other evidence to support claims of negligence.
Weather Conditions and Poor Road Maintenance
Greenville experiences variable weather, with sudden rainstorms and occasional icy conditions in the winter, which can lead to slippery roads. Major routes like SC-146 and rural backroads can become treacherous, especially if road maintenance is lacking. Additionally, potholes and uneven road surfaces are common issues on older streets around the city. Greenville car accident lawyers can help determine if poor road maintenance or adverse weather conditions were contributing factors in an accident, potentially allowing victims to pursue claims against responsible government entities or contractors.
Failure to Obey Traffic Signals and Signs
Accidents at intersections, particularly busy ones like the intersections along Laurens Road and Haywood Road, are common when drivers ignore traffic signals. Running red lights and stop signs often lead to severe T-bone and side-impact collisions. Greenville car accident attorneys can help victims pursue compensation in these cases by gathering witness statements, camera footage, and police reports to demonstrate traffic violations.
Key South Carolina Traffic Laws That Shape Car‑Accident Claims in Greenville
South Carolina’s legislature devotes an entire chapter—“Rules of the Road,” S.C. Code § 56‑5‑10 et seq.—to keeping motorists safe. When a driver breaks one of these rules and causes a crash, that violation is evidence of negligence per se: in other words, the law itself establishes the driver’s fault.
Below are the statutes our Greenville car‑accident team at Ted Law Firm relies on most often when proving liability and securing compensation for injured clients:
| Common Violation | Statute | What It Prohibits |
|---|---|---|
| Following too closely (rear‑end collisions) | § 56‑5‑1930 | Tailgating another vehicle without a safe stopping distance. |
| Failure to use due care | § 56‑5‑3230 | Endangering another person or vehicle through inattention or unsafe maneuvers. |
| Reckless driving | § 56‑5‑2920 | Operating a vehicle with willful or wanton disregard for others’ safety. |
| Crossing the center line / wrong‑way travel | § 56‑5‑1810 | Drifting or swerving into oncoming traffic. |
| Unsafe lane changes / failure to maintain lane | § 56‑5‑1900, ‑1930 | Moving into another lane before it is safe, sideswiping, or weaving. |
| Running a red light or stop sign | § 56‑5‑950 | Disobeying traffic signals or stop signs. |
| Failure to yield (left turns, intersections) | § 56‑5‑2320 | Turning left or entering an intersection without yielding to oncoming traffic. |
| Failing to yield to pedestrians | § 56‑5‑3130 | Not stopping for a pedestrian in a marked crosswalk. |
| Unsafe passing of cyclists | § 56‑5‑3435 | Overtaking a bicycle without leaving a “safe distance.” |
| Driving under the influence (DUI) | § 56‑5‑2930 | Operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol, drugs, or both. |
| Hit‑and‑run / leaving the scene | §§ 56‑5‑1220, ‑1230 | Failing to stop and exchange information or render aid after a collision. |
| Speeding / too fast for conditions | § 56‑5‑1520 | Exceeding posted limits or driving faster than is safe in rain, fog, or heavy traffic. |
Why These Codes Matter to Your Case
- Clear Fault: A proven violation gives juries (and insurers) a straightforward reason to hold the at‑fault driver accountable.
- Higher Damages: Evidence of reckless or DUI behavior can open the door to punitive damages.
- Insurance Negotiations: Showing an adjuster a precise code section often speeds up settlement talks.
At Ted Law Firm, we know these statutes inside and out, cross‑examine negligent drivers on them, and ensure the trial judge instructs the jury on every relevant rule. Hurt in a Greenville‑area crash?
Common Injuries in Car Accidents
Car accidents in Greenville, South Carolina, often result in a range of injuries, from minor to severe. Understanding these common injuries can help victims recognize symptoms and seek appropriate medical and legal assistance.
1. Head and Brain Injuries
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Collisions, especially at high speeds on highways like I-85 and I-385, can cause TBIs, leading to symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, mood swings, and memory loss. Immediate medical evaluation is crucial, as some symptoms may not appear right away.
2. Neck, Back, and Spinal Cord Injuries
- Whiplash: Common in rear-end collisions, whiplash occurs when the neck is forcefully jerked back and forth, leading to pain and stiffness.
- Herniated Discs: The impact from accidents can cause discs in the spine to rupture or slip, resulting in significant back pain and potential nerve damage.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Severe accidents may damage the spinal cord, leading to partial or complete paralysis, necessitating long-term medical care.
3. Internal Injuries
- Organ Damage: The force from a collision can injure internal organs like the liver, spleen, or kidneys, which may not show immediate symptoms but can be life-threatening.
- Internal Bleeding: This condition requires prompt medical attention to prevent serious complications.
4. Bone Fractures and Soft Tissue Injuries
- Fractures: Arms, legs, ribs, and facial bones are susceptible to fractures during accidents, often requiring surgical intervention and rehabilitation.
- Soft Tissue Injuries: Damage to muscles, ligaments, and tendons can cause pain and limit mobility, sometimes leading to chronic issues if not properly treated.
5. Fatalities and Wrongful Death Claims
- Tragically, some accidents result in fatalities. In such cases, surviving family members may pursue wrongful death claims to seek compensation for their loss.
If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Greenville, it’s essential to seek medical attention promptly, even if injuries aren’t immediately apparent. Consulting with a Greenville car accident lawyer can help you understand your rights and pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages resulting from the accident.
What Really Causes Most Car Wrecks in Greenville?
Nearly every crash we investigate boils down to one thing: preventable driver error. Below are the five trouble‑makers we see again and again at Ted Law Firm:
| # | Common Cause | What It Looks Like on the Road |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Distracted Driving | Glancing at a text, scrolling a playlist, punching an address into GPS, chatting with kids in the back seat—anything that steals a driver’s eyes, hands, or mind from the task of driving. |
| 2 | Driving Under the Influence | Alcohol, illegal drugs, or even prescription meds that dull reflexes and judgment. One impaired decision can change a life forever. |
| 3 | Speeding / Too Fast for Conditions | Pushing past the posted limit or failing to slow down for rain, fog, or traffic. Physics is unforgiving—the faster the car, the longer the stopping distance and the harder the impact. |
| 4 | Aggressive or Reckless Driving | Tailgating, rapid lane‑weaving, running red lights, refusing to yield. It’s a cocktail of bad habits that endangers everyone nearby. |
| 5 | Drowsy Driving | Late‑night shifts, long road trips, or untreated sleep disorders leave drivers with reaction times similar to those who are drunk—only they may not realize it until it’s too late. |
Why These Causes Matter to Your Claim
Knowing how the crash happened lets us prove who is at fault. When we can show a distracted text, a toxicology report, or black‑box speed data, insurance adjusters have little wiggle room, and juries respond quickly.
Navigating the Legal Process
What are some South Carolina laws related to car accidents?
South Carolina has a comprehensive set of laws aimed at preventing car accidents. The state’s Code of Laws dedicates a chapter specifically to ‘The Rules of the Road’, outlining various regulations that govern driving behavior and road safety. In cases where a driver is deemed at fault for an accident due to negligence and a violation of South Carolina’s driving regulations, they can be held liable under the ‘negligent per se’ legal principle.
Many car accidents in South Carolina stem from violations of these established driving laws. Legal professionals well-versed in these regulations, such as those at The Ted Law Firm, have the experience to examine at-fault drivers regarding these laws and can effectively communicate them to a jury during trial proceedings. When car accident cases proceed to trial, careful consideration is given to selecting jurors with a solid understanding of driving laws and the implications of non-compliance.
Some commonly infringed upon South Carolina driving laws in car accident scenarios include tailgating (following too closely), failure to exercise due care, reckless driving, crossing into oncoming traffic, unsafe lane changes, disregarding traffic signals, failure to yield during turns, not giving the right of way to pedestrians at crosswalks, passing bicycles at an unsafe distance, driving under the influence of substances, hit and run incidents, as well as speeding or driving too fast for prevailing conditions. These regulations are crucial for ensuring road safety and determining fault in car accident cases within South Carolina.
Importance of Legal Representation
At The Ted Law Firm, we’re not just another law firm; we’re dedicated advocates for our clients, focused on providing unmatched support through some of life’s most difficult challenges. Our mission is clear: to serve and support our clients with integrity, compassion, and unwavering commitment. Focusing in personal injury, car accidents, workers’ compensation, and wrongful death cases, we combine decades of experience with a results-driven approach that prioritizes our clients’ best interests.
We don’t just talk about results—we deliver them. Our team brings a powerful blend of experience and determination to each case, focusing on real outcomes that make a difference in our clients’ lives. While we’re known for achieving substantial settlements and verdicts, our true success lies in helping individuals and families rebuild, recover, and find justice. At The Ted Law Firm, every case is an opportunity to use our skills to advocate, empower, and support those we serve.
Essential Steps to Take Following a Car Accident in Greenville, SC
Car accidents can be disorienting and stressful, but taking the right steps afterward can protect your health, legal rights, and any future claims for compensation. Following these steps can make a significant difference in your recovery process and help build a strong case for any potential legal actions. Here’s what you need to do if you’re involved in a car accident in Greenville, SC:
1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately
- Prioritize Your Health: Even if you feel okay initially, certain injuries—such as whiplash, internal bleeding, or concussions—may not show symptoms right away. Seek immediate medical attention, either at the accident scene or by visiting a Greenville-area hospital, such as Prisma Health Greenville Memorial Hospital or Bon Secours St. Francis Health System.
- Create a Medical Record: Medical documentation is essential for both your recovery and your case. Follow up on all treatments and save any related records or bills. A Greenville car accident lawyer can use this documentation to strengthen your claim for compensation.
2. Collect Evidence from the Accident Scene
- Take Photos and Videos: Use your phone to capture images of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. Include photos of relevant details like skid marks, road conditions, traffic signals, and weather conditions.
- Get Witness Information: Collect contact details from any witnesses who saw the accident. Witnesses may provide valuable statements that support your case, especially if the other driver denies fault.
- Exchange Information with Other Drivers: Record the name, contact information, insurance details, and license plate number of all involved drivers. Be cautious with your words; avoid admitting fault, as this could impact your claim later.
3. Report the Accident to Law Enforcement
- File an Official Report: In Greenville, any accident resulting in injuries or significant property damage must be reported to law enforcement. Call 911 to ensure police arrive at the scene to document the incident. This official report is a crucial piece of evidence in any insurance claim or legal case.
- Request a Copy of the Report: The police report will include essential details, such as officers’ observations, witness statements, and possible fault assessments. You can obtain a copy of this report from the Greenville Police Department or the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV), which your attorney can use as part of your case.
4. Notify Your Insurance Company
- Report the Accident Promptly: Contact your insurance provider as soon as possible to report the accident. Provide them with accurate information but be cautious with any recorded statements. Avoid discussing fault or making assumptions about the incident, as insurance companies may use your words against you.
- Document All Correspondence: Keep a record of all interactions with your insurance company, including phone calls, emails, and letters. A car accident lawyer can help you handle these communications, protecting your rights and ensuring fair treatment from the insurer.
5. Contact The Ted Law Firm for Legal Guidance
- Seek Experienced Representation: Navigating the aftermath of an accident can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with insurance companies, medical bills, and recovery. Contact The Ted Law Firm to speak with experienced Greenville car accident lawyers who can guide you through the process.
- Get a Free Case Evaluation: The Ted Law Firm offers a free initial consultation, where they’ll review the details of your case, explain your options, and outline how they can assist in maximizing your compensation.
- Protect Your Rights: A knowledgeable Greenville car accident lawyer will handle all aspects of your case, from evidence collection and negotiations to representing you in court if necessary, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Why Acting Quickly Matters
In South Carolina, there is a statute of limitations on car accident claims, which means you have a limited time to file a lawsuit. Acting quickly also ensures that critical evidence remains intact and witness memories stay fresh. By following these steps and securing the support of The Ted Law Firm, you’re taking crucial steps toward recovery and financial stability after an accident in Greenville, SC
Pursuing Compensation for Damages
Identifying and Claiming Damages
Our attorneys are adept at identifying all possible damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, vehicle repair costs, and emotional distress.
Dealing with Insurance Companies
Navigating insurance claims can be complex. Our attorneys have the experience to communicate and negotiate with insurance companies, ensuring a fair settlement.
Why Choose Ted Law Firm?
Prompt Communication
You’ll talk to your attorney or case manager the same day you call.
Regular Updates
We keep you informed about your case regularly.
Respect and Professionalism
Every team member will treat you with the utmost respect.
Skilled Service
You’ll receive assistance from well-trained and competent professionals.
Clarity in Answers
All your questions will be answered clearly and promptly.
Focused Attention
We give our full attention to your case.
Fair Fee Agreement
Expect a just and written fee agreement.
Client Decision Power
You have the final say in your case decisions.
Customized Representation
Every car accident case is different. The Ted Law Firm tailors its approach based on the specific circumstances and needs of each client. Whether your case involves a single vehicle or a multi-vehicle collision, our team is prepared to offer the personalized legal support you need.
Scheduling Your Consultation
Contact Ted Law for a free case evaluation. During the consultation, we’ll discuss your case, explain the legal process, and outline how we can assist you.
Take Action Today
At the Ted Law Firm, we proudly serve clients across all of South Carolina and Georgia including Charleston, Greenville, Columbia, Myrtle Beach, and Atlanta. No matter where you are in either state, we’re here to help. And remember: you don’t pay a dime unless we win your case. There’s no risk, just experienced support from a team you can trust. You’re in good hands with Ted Law Firm.
