After a crash, many people wonder what a Rock Hill car accident lawyer actually does for their clients. Elrod Pope Accident & Injury Attorneys in Rock Hill, SC, does much more than file papers. Our car accident lawyers guide victims through each step while standing up to insurance companies.
If you need help, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team at (803) 324 7574 for a free consultation.
How Elrod Pope Accident & Injury Attorneys Can Help With Your Car Accident Case
Elrod Pope Accident & Injury Attorneys can help you recover compensation for your injuries and suffering after a car accident in Rock Hill, SC. A Rock Hill car accident attorney from our team can do the following and more:
- Investigate your case
- Gather evidence
- Communicate with opposing parties on your behalf
- Fight for a substantial settlement
- Take your case to trial if a settlement can’t be reached
With over 150 years of combined experience and more than $100 million recovered for clients, our team brings experience to every case. Reach out today for your free consultation.
How a Car Accident Attorney Helps Victims
A car accident lawyer does many key jobs that most people don’t know about until they need help. Your attorney works as your representative from start to finish. They gather proof, negotiate with insurance companies, work with experts, and speak for you in court if needed. Their goal is to get you fair money for your injuries and losses.
A good accident attorney helps balance the scales between you and big insurance companies that want to pay as little as possible. Their services include:
The Initial Investigation and Evidence Collection
One of the first things your lawyer will do is look into your crash. This is key to building a strong case. Your attorney will collect police reports, witness statements, and photos of the crash scene and damaged cars. They might also get traffic camera footage or other evidence that shows who was at fault.
For more complex cases, your lawyer may work with crash experts who can explain how the crash happened and who caused it.
Determining All Potential Sources of Compensation
A major plus of hiring an experienced lawyer is that they can find all possible ways to get you paid. After an accident, there may be multiple insurance policies that apply. Your attorney will check if the at-fault driver has enough coverage, if your own insurance offers extra protection, and if others share blame for the crash.
In South Carolina, the modified comparative negligence system means you can still get paid even if you were partly at fault, as long as you weren’t more than 50% to blame. Your lawyer will work to reduce any fault assigned to you to maximize your recovery.
Calculating the True Value of Your Claim
Insurance companies often offer quick, low payments that don’t cover all your losses. A good car accident lawyer will find what your claim is really worth by looking at:
- All medical bills, now and in the future
- Lost pay and reduced earning ability
- Car damage and replacement costs
- Pain and suffering
Your attorney will talk to medical experts and care planners when needed to properly value your injuries. This careful approach makes sure you don’t settle for less than you deserve.
Negotiating With Insurance Companies
One of the best services your lawyer provides is handling all talks with insurance companies. This keeps you from saying things that might hurt your case. Insurance adjusters try to pay out as little as possible. Your attorney knows their tricks and will fight for you during talks.
With a lawyer on your side, insurance offers usually increase. Your attorney’s skills and willingness to go to court often lead to better results.
Litigation and Trial Representation if Necessary
Most car accident cases settle, but sometimes a trial is necessary to get fair payment. If an acceptable settlement can’t be reached, your attorney will prepare your case for court. This means filing court papers, planning a strategy, preparing evidence, and finding expert witnesses.
During this time, your lawyer will continue negotiating with the other side since many cases settle after a lawsuit is filed but before trial. If your case goes to court, having a good trial lawyer makes a big difference. Your attorney will present evidence, question witnesses, and fight for your right to full payment.
Managing Medical Bills and Liens
Your lawyer also helps with medical bills and claims against your settlement. After a crash, doctors and health insurers may have rights. Your attorney will work to lower these claims when possible. This will help you keep more of your settlement.
Your lawyer can also help set up payment plans while your case is ongoing, keeping bill collectors away during your recovery.
Meeting Critical Deadlines and Requirements
Car accident claims in South Carolina have strict deadlines. Missing these can mean losing your right to get paid. The statute of limitations in South Carolina is three years from the accident date. Your attorney makes sure all papers are filed on time and comply with court procedural rules.
Providing Objective Guidance During a Difficult Time
Beyond legal work, your lawyer gives you something just as valuable: clear advice during a tough time. With injuries to heal from and money concerns, having a level-headed advisor makes a big difference.
Your attorney can explain the strengths and weaknesses of your case and help you make smart choices about settlement offers. This keeps you from making emotional decisions that might hurt you. Your lawyer also supports you through what can be a long process. They keep you informed and help you know what to expect.
Contact a Rock Hill Car Accident Lawyer for Help With Your Claim
If you’ve been hurt in a car crash, now you see what a Rock Hill car accident lawyer does and why legal help matters. Elrod Pope Accident & Injury Attorneys has the experience and skills needed to get you full payment for your injuries.
Our car accident lawyers in Rock Hill, South Carolina, provide complete legal help from start to finish, all while treating you with care. Contact our firm today for a free meeting to discuss your case and see how we can help you recover.
