In 2017, there were more than 144,000 collisions on South Carolina's highways, and these car crashes can be devastating. When it comes to interstate accidents and highway accidents, our South Carolina car accident attorney advises there are at least three things everyone needs to know.
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1. South Carolina’s courts have jurisdiction over all car accidents that happen in our state.
1. South Carolina’s courts have jurisdiction over all car accidents that happen in our state.Out-of-state drivers are governed by and receive the protection of South Carolina law when they are on our roadways. In other words, truck drivers, tourists, and other visitors may be called into court for any harm they cause in our state. Additionally, if an out-of-state resident is hurt on one of South Carolina’s highways, he will have the same rights and remedies as anyone else. The out-of-state resident could therefore file a claim or bring suit against an unsafe driver the same way a resident could. Our personal injury laws do not discriminate against non-residents. We all receive the same protection. We are all entitled to recover compensation for the harms and losses an unsafe driver causes.
2. The at-fault driver might not be the only party responsible for your injury. Many highway accidents are caused by company drivers.
When a crash happens, the company as well as the driver may be liable for your harm. Companies have a duty to properly investigate drivers before hiring them. They also have a duty to make sure the driver is properly trained and supervised. When these duties are violated, innocent people get hurt.
In addition, South Carolina’s Department of Transportation (SCDOT) has a responsibility to ensure SC interstates are in safe condition. If a defect or hazard in the road contributed to the wreck, SCDOT could be partly liable.
3. High-speed interstate collisions often result in head injuries.
While this may seem like common sense, many head injuries go undiagnosed. If you struck your head on the steering wheel, headrest, or window, pay close attention to whether you are experiencing any of the following symptoms: headaches, dizziness, loss of balance, fatigue, memory loss, mood swings, or pressure behind the eyes. In the event any of those symptoms are present, inform your doctor. Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) – even concussions – can produce long-term effects if not properly treated.
Should you have any questions about South Carolina auto accident law or interstate wrecks, call our team of car accident lawyers today for free copies of my books as well as a free consultation. Our offices are conveniently located in Columbia and Myrtle Beach, and we proudly serve the Sumter and Florence areas, as well as the entire state of South Carolina. Call us today at 803-790-2800 (Columbia, SC) / 843-427-2800 (Myrtle Beach, SC), or start a live chat 24/7 with a real, live person to arrange a free and confidential consultation.
