
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.
Local Roads, Local Representation
Greenville’s roads are busier than ever , and with traffic comes risk. Whether your accident happened on I-85, I-385, Woodruff Road, or Wade Hampton Boulevard, our attorneys know the intersections, highways, and congestion points that cause frequent crashes.
According to the South Carolina Department of Public Safety (SCDPS), Greenville County reported more than 16,000 crashes in 2022, the highest number of car accidents in the state.
We’ve helped victims injured in:
- Rear-end collisions on Laurens Road or Haywood Road
- Intersection crashes in Downtown Greenville
- Head-on collisions on Augusta Road
- Highway pileups along I-85 and I-385
If someone’s negligence caused your accident, we’ll hold them accountable ,and fight for the compensation you’re owed.
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.
Common Types of Car Accidents in Greenville
- Rear-End Collisions – Often caused by distracted or tailgating drivers in traffic.
- Intersection Accidents – Drivers running red lights or failing to yield.
- Head-On Collisions – Dangerous rural roads and fatigue lead to devastating impacts.
- T-Bone / Side-Impact Crashes – Common at busy intersections like Woodruff Road and Laurens Road.
- Hit-and-Run Accidents – Drivers fleeing scenes near downtown and suburban areas.
- Drunk Driving Accidents – Greenville’s nightlife increases DUI-related crashes.
- Distracted Driving Collisions – Texting, GPS, and cell phone use remain major factors.
No matter the cause, our attorneys investigate every angle police reports, witness statements, vehicle data, and surveillance footage to prove who’s at fault.
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.
Understanding Fault in South Carolina
South Carolina follows a modified comparative negligence rule, also called the 51% rule.
- You can still recover damages even if you were partly at fault, as long as you were less than 51% responsible.
- Your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault.
What To Do After a Car Accident in Greenville
- Call 911 and report the crash to the Greenville Police Department or South Carolina Highway Patrol.
- Get medical care immediately even if you feel fine. Visit Prisma Health Greenville Memorial Hospital or Bon Secours St. Francis Downtown.
- Take photos of the accident scene, vehicles, and injuries.
- Exchange information with the other driver and witnesses.
- Don’t talk to insurance adjusters before calling a lawyer.
- Contact Ted Law Firm we’ll handle your claim from start to finish.
Uninsured and Underinsured Drivers in South Carolina
South Carolina requires all drivers to carry uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, but that doesn’t mean every accident is simple. Many at-fault drivers carry minimum coverage that won’t come close to covering your damages.
We help clients recover through:
- Their own UM/UIM insurance policies
- Stacked coverage from multiple vehicles or policies
- Third-party claims when commercial vehicles or employers are involved
Even if the other driver had no insurance, you still have options, and we’ll make sure every one is explored.
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 Car Accident Injuries
Car accidents in Greenville often cause serious, long-term injuries, including:
- Whiplash and soft tissue damage
- Concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Back and spinal cord injuries
- Internal bleeding and organ damage
- Emotional trauma and post-accident anxiety
- Wrongful death in fatal crashes
We work with local doctors, specialists, and rehabilitation centers to ensure your injuries are properly diagnosed, documented, and valued.
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.
Five Star Service
We pride ourselves on creating “wow” moments for our clients. That’s why Ted Law Firm has 5 star ratings, a client choice award from Avvo and and clients hire us again and again.
Free Rental Car Help
Many people who have been involved in a car accident don’t know how to navigate their insurance coverage. Our attorneys will review your insurance policy for free* and ensure you’re getting any rental car benefits you’re entitled to.
Next Generation Law Firm
Our firm uses 21st century technology and the latest law to maximize claim value, push your case forward quickly, and keep you informed every step of the way.
Pay Nothing Until We Get You $$$
FREE* Case Review. Immediate work. We even front the cost for ordering medical records, getting police reports, and conducting an investigation while we work up your claim.
30 Day Guarantee
We’ll help you for 30 days, through the roughest part of your wreck. We’re so confident in our client experience that we offer this: If you’re not completely satisfied, you won’t be charged a fee and you’ll be free to do as you please.
FREE Legal Resources
We have created a ton of free videos and guides to get you immediate help on your claim.
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.
What Compensation Can You Recover?
Depending on the circumstances of your crash, you may be entitled to:
- Medical expenses and rehabilitation costs
- Lost wages and loss of future earning potential
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage (vehicle and belongings)
- Emotional trauma and mental anguish
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
- Wrongful death damages (for families)
Our firm pursues full and fair compensation, not the lowball offer the insurer wants you to accept.
How Ted Law Firm Helps Greenville Car Accident Victims
When you hire Ted Law Firm, you get a dedicated legal team that handles everything:
- Investigate the crash – Gather police reports, scene evidence, and witness statements.
- Document your injuries – Work with medical experts to prove the extent of your damages.
- Handle all insurance communication – We deal with adjusters so you don’t have to.
- Negotiate aggressively – Push for the highest possible settlement.
- Litigate if necessary – If the insurer won’t pay fairly, we’ll take your case to court.
We handle every step start to finish while you focus on recovery.
Five Star Service
We pride ourselves on creating “wow” moments for our clients. That’s why Ted Law Firm has 5 star ratings, a client choice award from Avvo and and clients hire us again and again.
Free Rental Car Help
Many people who have been involved in a car accident don’t know how to navigate their insurance coverage. Our attorneys will review your insurance policy for free* and ensure you’re getting any rental car benefits you’re entitled to.
Next Generation Law Firm
Our firm uses 21st century technology and the latest law to maximize claim value, push your case forward quickly, and keep you informed every step of the way.
Pay Nothing Until We Get You $$$
FREE* Case Review. Immediate work. We even front the cost for ordering medical records, getting police reports, and conducting an investigation while we work up your claim.
30 Day Guarantee
We’ll help you for 30 days, through the roughest part of your wreck. We’re so confident in our client experience that we offer this: If you’re not completely satisfied, you won’t be charged a fee and you’ll be free to do as you please.
FREE Legal Resources
We have created a ton of free videos and guides to get you immediate help on your claim.
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 Our Greenville Car Accident Lawyers
- Local Experience – Decades of combined experience serving Upstate clients
- Deep Knowledge – Familiarity with Greenville County courts and judges
- Proven Results – Millions recovered for South Carolina accident victims
- No Fees Unless We Win – You pay nothing upfront
- Personal Attention – You’ll always speak directly with your attorney
At Ted Law Firm, we combine compassion with aggressive representation to deliver results that truly make a difference.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How long do I have to file a car accident claim in South Carolina?
You have three years from the date of the accident under S.C. Code § 15-3-530.
2. What if I was partly at fault?
You can still recover compensation as long as you were less than 51% responsible.
3. Do I need a lawyer for a minor car accident?
Yes. Even minor crashes can cause injuries that appear later. A lawyer ensures your claim is fully evaluated before settlement.
4. How much does it cost to hire Ted Law Firm?
We work on a contingency fee basis — no fees unless we win.
5. What if the at-fault driver doesn’t have insurance?
We’ll help you recover under your UM/UIM coverage and explore every available source of compensation.
6. Can I recover for emotional trauma or PTSD?
Yes. Non-economic damages include emotional distress and psychological effects from the crash.
7. How long does a car accident case take?
Most settle within 3–6 months, but serious injury cases or disputed liability may take longer.
Talk to a Greenville Car Accident Lawyer Today
If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Greenville or anywhere in the Upstate, don’t let insurance companies pressure you into settling for less. Let Ted Law Firm protect your rights and your recovery.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.
FOCUS ON GETTING BETTER, WE’LL HANDLE THE REST
We handle everything from investigation and evidence gathering to dealing with police reports, setting up your claim, and managing medical bill payments. We work with health insurance, Medicare, Medicaid, or providers to ensure you receive proper care. Rest, heal, and let us take care of the rest.
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