If you are dealing with a personal injury, it is normal to feel uncertain about what comes next. This experience can be overwhelming, leaving you with questions about your rights, the role of insurance companies, and the best steps to take to protect your future. We understand the emotional weight of these concerns and want you to know that you are not alone. At Christian & Christian Law, we are committed to helping you navigate this process with care and determination, focusing on achieving a successful resolution for your case.
Understanding the Role of Insurance Companies
Insurance companies play a central role in personal injury cases in South Carolina. When you are injured due to someone else’s negligence, their insurance company is typically responsible for compensating you for your injuries and losses. However, while these companies advertise themselves as being there to help, it is important to remember that their primary goal is to protect their own financial interests.
Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts. They may try to settle claims quickly, often offering compensation that does not fully cover the medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages you may have incurred. This is why it is crucial to approach any communication with an insurance company cautiously and consider having legal representation to ensure your rights are protected.
The Tactics Insurance Companies Use
Insurance companies often employ various strategies to reduce the amount they pay in personal injury claims. One common tactic is disputing liability, where the insurer argues that their policyholder was not at fault or only partially responsible for the accident. This can significantly affect the amount of compensation you receive.
Another strategy involves downplaying the severity of your injuries. Insurance adjusters may request extensive medical records or suggest that your injuries existed before the accident. They might also pressure you to accept a settlement before you fully understand the long-term implications of your injuries. These tactics can be intimidating, especially when you are trying to recover from a traumatic experience.
Founded in 1975, Christian & Christian has deep roots in the community. 
Only Serving People, Never Companies
Why Acting Quickly Matters in Personal Injury Cases
Time is a critical factor in personal injury cases. South Carolina has a statute of limitations that gives you a limited period to file a lawsuit after an accident. Waiting too long can jeopardize your ability to recover compensation. Moreover, as time passes, evidence can be lost, and witness memories can fade, making it harder to build a strong case.
Insurance companies are aware of these limitations and may attempt to delay negotiations in the hope that you will give up or accept a lower offer. Acting promptly and seeking legal advice as soon as possible can prevent this from happening and give you a better chance of a favorable outcome.
The Importance of Legal Representation
Having a personal injury attorney on your side can make a significant difference in how your case is handled. Insurance companies have teams of lawyers and adjusters working to protect their interests. Without proper representation, you may find it challenging to stand up to these professionals and secure fair compensation.
An attorney can level the playing field by negotiating with the insurance company on your behalf, gathering evidence to support your claim, and advocating for your best interests. They can help you understand the true value of your case, taking into account not only current expenses but also future costs such as ongoing medical treatment and loss of earning capacity.
Everyone there was very professional, knowledgeable, and friendly. My car was totaled, and I was a little intimidated talking with a couple of other lawyers in Greenville. But with Christian and Christian, not only did they answer my questions, but they did so in a way that made what could have been a hectic situation, easy. Overall, an excellent experience with high quality lawyers who truly go above and beyond and really try to get you the results or answers you need. I met Josh like 4 years ago when my Son was injured at Daycare. He was very concerned about the well being of my Child and Me. Very Understanding Professional and Just a great Staff. If You need a Lawyer that’s all about YOU this is the Place. I just closed a Case on 6/23/2021 from a injury on a Property. They handled everything because no one else would help Me. I’m forever grateful for Your hard Work and Time. Once again Thank You Josh and Sally. My husband was referred to this law firm from another lawyer after his mother passed away while residing in a nursing home. Matt took on his case and we are pleased with how everything turned out. It took a long, long time to finally settle, but it was worth the wait. The staff here is friendly and I’d be happy to recommend them to anyone needing legal assistance. I was referred to Harold by a family friend, and I couldn’t be happier. He took the time to listen to my case, answered all my questions and truly treated me like a friend not a client. His knowledge of medical malpractice is priceless he actually successfully won, one of the first medical malpractice cases in Greenville County.
—Rob Young
—Rezillai Henderson
— Jen
— Lindsey
How Damages Are Calculated in South Carolina
When pursuing a personal injury claim, it is essential to understand how damages are calculated in South Carolina. The state follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which means your compensation can be reduced if you are found to be partially at fault for the accident. For example, if you are deemed 20 percent responsible, your compensation will be reduced by that percentage.
Damages in personal injury cases typically fall into two categories: economic and non-economic. Economic damages include tangible costs such as medical bills, lost wages, and property damage. Non-economic damages cover more subjective losses, such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. In some cases, punitive damages may also be awarded to punish the at-fault party for particularly reckless behavior.
How We Can Help You Overcome Challenges
Navigating the complexities of a personal injury case can be daunting, especially when dealing with insurance companies that prioritize their profits over your well-being. By working with our firm, you gain an ally who is dedicated to ensuring that your voice is heard and your needs are met.
Value of a Personal Injury Case Choosing a Personal Injury AttorneyRelated Videos
Our team will handle all communication with the insurance company, allowing you to focus on your recovery. We will thoroughly investigate your case, gathering evidence to establish liability and demonstrate the full extent of your damages. Whether through negotiation or litigation, we will strive to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.
Understanding the Settlement Process
The settlement process is often one of the most significant steps in a personal injury case, and insurance companies play a crucial role in this phase. After you have provided the necessary medical records, proof of lost wages, and any other relevant documentation, the insurance company will typically make an offer. However, this initial offer is often much lower than what you are entitled to. Insurance adjusters may present a quick settlement to avoid the cost and time involved in a lengthy trial. It can be tempting to accept a fast offer, but it is vital to understand the full extent of your injuries and future needs before making any decisions. With an attorney by your side, you can review the offer, assess its fairness, and determine whether it truly covers all of your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If the offer is inadequate, your attorney can help you negotiate for a more appropriate settlement or prepare to take the case to court.
Verdicts & Settlements
Dealing with Denied or Delayed Claims
In some cases, insurance companies may deny or delay claims altogether, leaving you in a state of uncertainty and frustration. A denied claim can happen for many reasons, including disputes over liability, insufficient evidence, or technicalities in your policy. Delayed claims are often a tactic used by insurance companies to wear you down and get you to accept a lower offer. These delays can be particularly difficult if you are already struggling with medical bills and other financial burdens caused by the accident. If your claim is denied or delayed, having an experienced personal injury lawyer can help you understand why this is happening and what your next steps should be. A lawyer will work on your behalf to gather additional evidence, appeal the decision, or pursue further legal action if necessary to ensure that your claim is not unfairly handled.
Seeking Justice and Fair Compensation
Personal injury cases are not just about compensation. They are about holding the responsible party accountable and ensuring that you have the resources to move forward with your life. Insurance companies may try to make the process as difficult as possible, but with the right legal support, you can overcome these obstacles and secure the justice you deserve.
If you or a loved one has suffered a personal injury in South Carolina, do not let the insurance company take advantage of your situation. Contact Christian & Christian Law today to schedule a consultation. We are here to stand by your side and help you achieve a successful resolution to your case.