How Soon Should I Contact an Attorney After an Accident?
Given the fast-paced world we live in, car accidents are steadily increasing, with over 6 million collisions taking place each year. Do not think that living in the Palmetto State makes your commute safer, with the state experiencing over 145,000 collisions in a recent year. Given the frequency of accidents, you may find yourself seeking a car accident lawyer at one time or another.
Car accident lawyers are a far cry from how they are portrayed on television shows or in movies. These “ambulance chasers” are seen soliciting accident victims at their most vulnerable to earn a quick buck. This image could not be further from the truth, with car accident lawyers only being compensated if their client prevails. While some people contend they will never hire an attorney, seeking legal advice immediately following a collision can allow you to recoup adequate compensation.
At The Law Office of Oxner & Stacy, LLC, our Georgetown car accident attorneys are dedicated to helping injured persons recover the entirety of their damages. If you or a loved one has recently fallen victim to a wreck, our legal team is prepared to answer any of your questions or concerns.
Preserving Your Claim
In the aftermath of a car wreck, you may believe that you are perfectly fine. You may even feel no pain at all. Be aware that even if you show no outward signs of injury, you may have internal injuries. Other ailments, including soft tissue injuries or whiplash, may take up to several days for symptoms to appear.
Whereas your health and general well-being always come first, seeking medical attention will also preserve your legal right to file a claim. If you have no symptoms, you may consider scheduling an appointment with your primary care doctor (as long as you can be seen in the next day or two following the accident). By seeking medical treatment immediately, you prevent the insurance company from claiming that your injuries are related to an unrelated event.
Seeking Legal Guidance Often Means a Greater Award
After you have been medically evaluated, your next call should be to an experienced car accident lawyer. A car accident lawyer can walk you through filing your claim, helping you gather the necessary evidence, and track expenses to receive just compensation. Unfortunately, many individuals insist that it is not in their best interest to obtain representation. The reality? On average, individuals who hire an attorney receive awards that are 3.5 times greater than those who don’t.
Statute of Limitations
Each state gives injured parties a certain amount of time to bring their case to court. In South Carolina, you only have three years to take legal action following an accident or any type of personal injury. The three-year time limit applies regardless of how long you pursued an insurance claim. If you decide to begin legal proceedings after three years have passed, you will be barred from recovering anything. Although there are some situations that may extend the limitation period, speaking with an attorney as soon as possible will preserve your legal rights.
Reach Out to Our Georgetown Car Accident Lawyers Immediately
With roughly two million people experiencing permanent disability annually due to car accident injuries, there is no ignoring the perils of getting behind the wheel. At Oxner & Stacy Law Firm, LLC, our Georgetown car accident attorneys are devoted to helping injured persons recoup the fullest extent of damages. To arrange your free consultation with a member of our legal team, contact our Georgetown office today online or by calling (843) 983-2352.