A rear-end collision can cause long-lasting problems. For example, you can suffer an injury in a rear-end collision and be forced to pay for your medical treatments out of your own pocket. Perhaps worst of all, you may be required to cover the costs of these treatments, even if someone else caused your car accident.
The Shelly Leeke Law Firm offers legal help to people involved in rear-end collisions in Columbia. Connect with a Columbia car accident attorney from our firm. Our skilled Columbia personal injury lawyers can review your motor vehicle accident case and advise you on the next steps.
What to Do After a Rear-End Collision in Columbia
If you are involved in a rear-end collision in Columbia, try to remain calm, cool, and collected. Here are things you can do to protect yourself after an accident.
Make Sure Everyone Involved in Your Accident Is OK
Take a look around the accident scene and find out who was involved. Make sure all parties involved in your accident are in a safe spot, away from traffic. Resist the urge to assign blame to anyone involved in your accident, and instead, try to help those in need.
Call 911
Give the 911 operator your full name, phone number, and other contact information. In addition, share as much information as you can about your rear-end collision. The 911 operator will then send police and medical personnel to your accident scene.
Report the Accident
Give the police information about your rear-end collision. Police officers will collect information from you and others involved in the accident. They will use this information to put together an accident report.
Gather Evidence
Capture photos of any injuries you suffered and property damage. These photos can be difference-makers if you file a personal injury lawsuit. They can serve as evidence you can present as part of your case.
Get Medical Care
If you are not treated at the scene, go to an emergency room or doctor’s office so you can get your accident injuries evaluated and treated. Keep copies of any medical records that illustrate the severity of your injuries. Your medical records can be used as evidence in your personal injury case.
Consult with a Columbia Rear-End Collisions Lawyer
Hire a rear-end collisions lawyer in Columbia that has a wealth of experience. This attorney learns about your rear-end collision and determines what can be done to hold any at-fault parties accountable. Plus, the lawyer can help you file a lawsuit against those responsible for your injuries within South Carolina’s statute of limitations.
There is a three-year window for you to sue any at-fault parties in your rear-end collision lawsuit. A rear-end collisions attorney in Columbia makes sure the paperwork for your lawsuit is submitted before this window lapses. Then, you and your attorney can work together to resolve your case.
What It Takes to Settle a Rear-End Collision Lawsuit in Columbia
Your attorney collects and reviews evidence with you and uses it to build your case. As you and your attorney prepare for your trial, you may have an abundance of evidence. If you put together a strong case in which the defendant feels overwhelmed by your evidence, you are well-positioned to reach a settlement before your trial.
A defendant can propose a settlement well before your trial date. They may choose to do so to avoid a lengthy legal process. Also, the defendant can offer a settlement in the hopes that you will accept less money than what you originally requested.
When you receive a settlement offer, you are not required to accept it. By reviewing the offer with your attorney, you can decide if the settlement lines up with your expectations. If the answer is no, you can decline the proposal and move forward with your litigation.
Navigating the Steps of a Rear-End Collision Trial in Columbia
The trial process for a rear-end collision lawsuit can seem complicated at first. Yet, the process can be seamless, particularly for those who partner with an experienced Columbia rear-end collisions lawyer at their side. Here are the steps involved in a rear-end collision trial and what happens during each one.
Discovery
You and the defendant have a set amount of time to gather evidence and witness testimony to support your case. In the discovery stage, your attorney helps you look for evidence and witnesses that can testify on your behalf. The quality of evidence and testimony you have can have a significant impact on your ability to secure the most damages possible.
Mediation
There can be instances in which a mediator gets involved in your case. A mediator works with a plaintiff and a defendant to find common ground between the two. If no settlement is reached during mediation, the case moves to trial.
Personal Injury Trial
Your lawyer represents you before a judge or jury and presents your case. Meanwhile, the defendant’s attorney does the same for their client. A judge or jury reviews all of the information provided by all parties and renders its decision.
Appeal
If you are awarded full damages, the defendant may appeal the court’s decision. Comparatively, if you are awarded partial or no damages, you may file an appeal. Depending on the situation, your attorney can help you defend against an appeal or pursue one.
Your attorney can teach you about the trial process and any challenges that can come up along the way. If you have questions about this process, your lawyer can respond to them. This allows you to position yourself to achieve the most beneficial trial results.
How to Select a Columbia Rear-End Collisions Attorney
You may find many attorneys that can represent you in your Columbia rear-end collision lawsuit. However, not every lawyer can provide the same level of support. When you search for a rear-end collisions lawyer, you should:
- Learn about the lawyer’s experience in rear-end collision cases
- Ask the lawyer how they communicate and collaborate with clients
- Resist the urge to make a rash decision regarding your legal representation
At The Shelly Leeke Law Firm, we can provide you with a Columbia rear-end collisions attorney who does everything they can to help you succeed. To learn more, please contact us today.
