When Your Back Is Against The Wall

Columbia Car Accident Lawyer

A car accident can change your life in the blink of an eye.

From serious injuries to mounting medical bills and lost wages, the aftermath of a crash can be overwhelming. Many accident victims also face aggressive insurance companies that try to minimize payouts, making it even harder to recover the compensation they need.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident in Columbia, South Carolina, you do not have to go through this process alone. Lanier Law Group is here to fight for you. Our Columbia car accident lawyers understand the tactics insurance companies use to reduce settlements, and we are ready to take them on. We build strong cases, negotiate aggressively, and, if necessary, take cases to trial to pursue the full compensation our clients deserve.

Common Causes of Car Accidents in Columbia

Car accidents happen every day in Columbia, but many are entirely preventable. Most crashes are caused by driver negligence, reckless behavior, or dangerous road conditions. Identifying the cause of an accident is crucial in determining who is responsible and what legal options are available.

Distracted Driving

One of the most common causes of accidents is distracted driving. When drivers use their phones, adjust GPS systems, eat, or engage in other distractions, their reaction times slow. Even a few seconds of inattention can lead to devastating crashes, particularly at high speeds or in congested areas.

To get started, call 919-342-1368 today.

Speeding and Reckless Driving

Speeding reduces a driver’s ability to react to sudden changes in traffic and increases the severity of collisions. Reckless driving, such as tailgating, weaving through lanes, or running red lights, also contributes to serious accidents. When drivers ignore traffic laws and endanger others, they can and should be held accountable.

Driving Under the Influence

Drunk or drug-impaired driving is a leading cause of fatal car accidents in South Carolina. Alcohol and drugs impair judgment, coordination, and reaction time, making it difficult for drivers to operate their vehicles safely. Those injured by intoxicated drivers may be entitled to seek compensation, and in some cases, punitive damages may be available to punish reckless behavior.

Failure to Yield

Intersections are common sites for crashes, particularly when drivers fail to yield the right-of-way. Whether turning left in front of oncoming traffic, running stop signs, or failing to yield to pedestrians, negligent drivers put others at serious risk.

Poor Road Conditions

Not all accidents are caused by drivers. Potholes, missing traffic signs, malfunctioning traffic lights, and poorly maintained roads can contribute to crashes. In cases where road defects play a role, government agencies responsible for road maintenance may be held liable.

Who Can Be Held Liable for a Car Accident?

Determining liability is one of the most important steps in pursuing compensation after a crash. While many accidents are caused by negligent drivers, there may be other responsible parties.

Negligent Drivers

If a driver was speeding, distracted, intoxicated, or otherwise reckless, they can be held accountable for the damages they caused. In most cases, their auto insurance will be responsible for covering medical expenses, lost wages, and other losses suffered by the victim.

Employers of Commercial Drivers

If a crash involves a commercial vehicle, such as a delivery truck or rideshare car, the company that employs the driver may be held liable. Businesses must ensure their employees are properly trained and follow safety regulations. If they fail to do so, they can be held responsible for accidents caused by their drivers.

Vehicle Manufacturers

Some accidents occur due to mechanical failures, such as defective brakes, steering malfunctions, or tire blowouts. When a defective car part contributes to a crash, the manufacturer or distributor of the faulty product may be held liable through a product liability claim.

Government Entities

If an accident occurs due to unsafe road conditions, the city, county, or state agency responsible for road maintenance may be at fault. These cases can be complex and require prompt legal action, as claims against government entities often have strict filing deadlines.

Common Injuries in Car Accidents

Car accident injuries can range from minor bruises to life-threatening conditions. Some victims recover within weeks, while others suffer permanent disabilities that require long-term care.

Traumatic Brain Injuries

Head injuries are among the most severe consequences of car accidents. A traumatic brain injury can lead to cognitive impairments, memory loss, personality changes, and permanent disabilities. Even a concussion can have lasting effects that impact a victim’s quality of life.

Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis

Damage to the spinal cord can cause partial or complete paralysis, drastically altering a victim’s independence and ability to work. Spinal injuries often require lifelong medical care, physical therapy, and assistive devices.

Broken Bones and Fractures

The impact of a crash can cause broken ribs, arms, legs, and other fractures. Some require surgery and extensive rehabilitation, while others may lead to chronic pain and mobility limitations.

Soft Tissue Injuries

Whiplash, muscle strains, and ligament damage are common in car accidents, particularly in rear-end collisions. These injuries may not be immediately noticeable but can cause significant pain and limited movement over time.

Internal Injuries

Blunt force trauma can damage internal organs, leading to life-threatening conditions such as internal bleeding. Prompt medical treatment is critical to prevent complications from injuries that may not be immediately visible.

Is Hiring a Car Accident Attorney Worth It?

After a car accident, many victims wonder whether hiring an attorney is necessary or if they can handle the insurance claim on their own. While minor accidents with no injuries may not require legal representation, serious crashes involving injuries, disputed liability, or uncooperative insurance companies often demand the expertise of a skilled car accident lawyer.

Maximizing Your Compensation

Insurance companies are not on your side. Their goal is to settle claims for as little as possible, often offering quick, lowball settlements before victims fully understand the extent of their injuries. An experienced car accident attorney knows how to calculate the full value of your claim, including medical expenses, lost wages, future medical costs, and non-economic damages like pain and suffering. By negotiating aggressively, your attorney can help secure a settlement that truly reflects your losses.

Proving Liability and Gathering Evidence

Determining fault in a car accident is not always straightforward. Insurance companies may try to shift blame onto you to reduce their payout, even if the other driver was clearly at fault. A lawyer can conduct a thorough investigation, gather police reports, witness statements, accident scene photos, medical records, and expert testimony to build a strong case proving the other party’s negligence.

Handling Insurance Company Tactics

Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize settlements and may use tactics such as delaying claims, disputing medical treatment, or pressuring victims into accepting less than they deserve. Without legal representation, accident victims may unknowingly say something that the insurance company can use against them. A lawyer handles all communications with the insurance company, protecting your rights and ensuring that you do not fall victim to bad-faith tactics.

Taking Your Case to Court If Necessary

While most car accident claims settle out of court, some cases require litigation to obtain fair compensation. If the insurance company refuses to offer a reasonable settlement, an attorney can file a lawsuit, represent you in court, and fight for the compensation you are owed. Having legal representation signals to insurers that you are serious about pursuing full compensation, which can lead to better settlement offers.

Peace of Mind During Recovery

Dealing with a legal battle while recovering from injuries can be overwhelming. Hiring a car accident lawyer allows you to focus on your health while they handle the legal complexities of your case. From filing paperwork to negotiating with insurance companies and preparing for litigation, an attorney takes the burden off your shoulders so you can prioritize healing.

For accident victims facing injuries, lost income, and mounting medical bills, hiring a car accident attorney is often the difference between a low settlement and the full compensation needed to move forward. If you were injured in a crash in Columbia, consulting with a lawyer can help you understand your rights and legal options.

Compensation Available in a Car Accident Claim

Car accident victims may be eligible for financial compensation to address both the tangible and intangible losses resulting from their injuries. The compensation awarded in a claim generally falls into three categories: economic damages, non-economic damages, and, in some cases, punitive damages.

Economic Damages

Economic damages cover the financial losses directly caused by the accident. Medical expenses often make up a significant portion of these damages, as victims may require emergency room visits, surgeries, hospital stays, rehabilitation, and prescription medications. In addition to medical costs, lost wages can be recovered if the victim was unable to work while healing from their injuries.

For those who suffer long-term or permanent impairments, compensation may also include loss of earning capacity, particularly if the victim can no longer return to their previous job or must take a lower-paying position due to their condition. Property damage is another form of economic compensation, covering the cost of repairing or replacing a vehicle that was damaged in the crash.

Non-Economic Damages

While economic damages focus on financial losses, non-economic damages compensate victims for the emotional and physical toll of a car accident. Pain and suffering damages account for ongoing physical discomfort, chronic pain, and lasting medical complications. Emotional distress compensation is also available for victims who experience anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or other psychological effects caused by the accident.

Many victims also suffer a loss of enjoyment of life, as their injuries may prevent them from engaging in hobbies, social activities, or relationships as they once did. These damages acknowledge the profound impact that an accident can have on a victim’s overall well-being.

Punitive Damages

In cases where the at-fault driver displayed extreme negligence or reckless behavior, punitive damages may be awarded. Unlike economic and non-economic damages, which aim to compensate the victim, punitive damages serve as a form of punishment for the responsible party.

These damages are typically applied in situations involving egregious misconduct, such as drunk driving or excessive speeding, with the goal of deterring similar reckless behavior in the future.

How Long Do You Have to File a Car Accident Lawsuit in South Carolina?

In South Carolina, car accident victims generally have three years from the date of the crash to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, if the claim involves a government entity, the deadline may be shorter.

Delaying legal action can weaken your case, as evidence may disappear, and witness memories may fade. The sooner you consult an attorney, the stronger your case will be.

Why Choose Lanier Law Group?

At Lanier Law Group, we understand how devastating a car accident can be. That is why we fight aggressively for our clients, holding negligent drivers and insurance companies accountable.

Aggressive Legal Representation

Insurance companies often try to minimize settlements or deny claims altogether. We push back with strong legal arguments, thorough investigations, and expert testimony to maximize compensation.

Personalized Client Advocacy

We treat every case with the care and attention it deserves. From the initial consultation to the resolution of your case, our team is always available to answer your questions and provide updates.

No Fees Unless We Win

We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront. We only get paid if we recover compensation for you. This allows you to pursue your claim without financial risk, ensuring that quality legal representation is accessible to all injury victims.

Injured in a Columbia Car Accident? Take the First Step Toward Justice

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident in Columbia, you should not have to fight for compensation alone. Lanier Law Group is ready to go the distance for you, taking on insurance companies and negligent drivers to secure the financial recovery you deserve.

We understand the challenges accident victims face — mounting medical bills, lost wages, and the emotional toll of serious injuries. Our team will stand by your side, aggressively negotiating with insurers and, if necessary, taking your case to court to pursue maximum compensation.

Call 919-342-1368 or contact us online for a free consultation. There are no upfront costs, and you only pay if we win your case. Let us handle the legal battle while you focus on healing and rebuilding your life.

Your road to recovery starts now. Call 919-342-1368 or contact us online for a free consultation. Let us take on the legal battle so you can focus on healing and moving forward.

We Won't Back Down

Lanier Law Group is Here When Results Matter Most

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Columbia

We Fight for Our Clients

*Featured Case Results, Settlements, & Trial Wins From Our Attorneys

$4.8 Million

Settlement

A case with multiple plaintiffs who were potentially exposed to a deadly disease while in the hospital.

$3.1 Million

Birth Injury/Hypoxic Brain Injury

The OB doctor’s negligence caused a delay in the baby’s birth which resulted in the baby suffering of a severe hypoxic brain injury.

$1.375 Million

Medication Overdose/Hospital Negligence

Our client died following an overdose of medication that occurred as a result of the negligence of the nursery staff while they were in the hospital.

$1.2 Million

Birth Injury/Developmental Delay

Our client suffers from a severe developmental delay following a birth injury when there were signs of fetal distress that were not responded to.

$500,000

Botched Gall Bladder Surgery

Our client suffered an injury to their common bile duct during a laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

$425,000

Surgical Error

A client had their bowel perforated during a ventral hernia repair.

We Never Back Down From a Fight

Featured Reviews, Testimonials & Results

"20 out of 10 stars."

There are times in your life you are so hurt and feel life has a grudge against you. Nothing in your life is going right. I lost the most important person in my life to death, of which I knew mistakes were made because I witnessed it with my own eyes. When you contact a law group you most of the time get all business and a matter of fact conversation. I want all to know that from the first phone call they listened to my lengthy story, sobbing most of the time with so much compassion. They never made any promises but offered assurances that no stone would be unturned. They fulfilled every word they said. They restored faith that I had lost. Until you are in a position like mine you can never know how invaluable Lanier Law Group is. They were wonderful while maintaining their professionalism. They treated me like a family member. They really do care about their clients. But most of all they are the best at what they do. I worked in the court system for years so I knew how attorneys and law firms basically operated. Understanding the law and it’s interpretation is the ultimate key to winning any case. Also know that if an attorney/attorneys study and review your case and know that you don’t have a chance in a court of law and are big enough to tell you that instead of giving you false hope, you then my friend have a group with valuable shared values. I have so much respect for everyone in this Law Group. I recommend Lanier Law Group, P.A. to anyone who needs representation, they are in your corner. 20 out of 10 stars.

- Diane W.

"Lanier Law Group will always be the choice for me and all my family members"

I started working with Lanier Law Group in 2020 on my Social Security Disability case. They from start to finish were awesome. My case manager Janet Hanks and attorney, Ashley Sappenfield were always available to answer all my questions. I did not have to do much but sit back and let them handle whatever was needed. My case took too long (2 years) and if I did not have Janet and Ashley My case would still not be approved. I would recommend Lanier to anyone to get the job done and approved. Do not go to another firm with your case, who promise the world and do not see it to completion and do not think another firms would have worked as hard as they did on my case. Lanier Law Group will always be the choice for me and all my family members to handle any cases of this type and other legal services they provide. They went above and beyond!

- Phillip J.

"So thankful for your expertise and professionalism"

Mrs. Gonzalez did an awesome job of explaining everything in detail and keeping me informed on the status of my case. Despite poor customer service with the insurance company, Mrs. Gonzalez was able to fix what they could not. Mrs. Gonzalez was very helpful with helping me understand things that I was not aware of when dealing with insurance claims. I am so thankful for her expertise and professionalism.

- Mario H.

"Always ready to answer any questions I may have"

The staff kept me well informed in a more than timely manner and was always ready to answer any questions I may have.

- Timothy M.

"The Lanier Law Group provided excellent customer service!"

The Lanier Law Group provided excellent customer service! My main contact was Denise.

- Malinda P.

Respect. Integrity. Passion.

Our Commitment to Our Clients

We Come Prepared

After an injury, every second counts. We are available to meet with you in person, virtually, or at your location to provide the highest quality legal counsel.

We're In Your Corner

Every case we take on has a team of dedicated professionals assigned to make sure that we're delivering the best possible service and results.

We're Here For You 24/7

Regardless of when you contact our firm, we're here to make sure that you get the answers you need. We also offer weekend appointments and consultations.

We Never Back Down

Our attorneys are confident taking cases to trial and will always seek to maximize your compensation.