Personal injury lawyer North Charleston

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What to know about South Carolina injury claims

The basics, the timeline, and why it matters

Most South Carolina personal injury lawsuits must be filed within three years, and the state uses a modified comparative negligence rule. If you are more than 50 percent at fault, you generally cannot recover. These rules make early action important for preserving evidence and building a claim. 

How negligence and damages work

Duty, breach, causation, and proof

Your case involves showing how someone’s carelessness caused your injuries and losses. Damages may include medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering. Evidence can include photos, medical records, witness statements, and expert opinions.

Cases Doughty Law Firm handles

Common personal injury matters in North Charleston

Car accidents on I-26 and I-526, motorcycle crashes near Rivers Ave, slip and fall incidents at shopping areas like Northwoods Mall or Tanger Outlets, and serious injuries that may involve wrongful death or medical negligence.

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Our approach to maximizing recovery

Investigation, communication, and strategic action

What to do after an injury

Steps that protect your health and your claim

Questions we hear most

Quick answers to help you decide what to do next

  • How long do I have to file a personal injury claim in South Carolina?

    Most injury lawsuits must be filed within three years from the date of injury or from when you reasonably discovered it. Some claims have shorter deadlines, especially those involving government entities. It is smart to act early so evidence, witnesses, and records are preserved.

  • How does fault affect compensation in South Carolina?

    South Carolina uses a modified comparative negligence rule with a 51 percent bar. If you are 50 percent or less at fault, your recovery can be reduced by your share of responsibility. If you are 51 percent or more at fault, you generally cannot recover.

  • What should I do right after a crash or fall?

    Get medical care and follow your doctor’s instructions, even if you feel okay at first. Photograph the scene, your injuries, vehicles or hazards, and gather names and contact details for witnesses. Keep bills and records, avoid detailed statements, and contact a lawyer to protect your rights.

  • Should I talk to the other driver’s insurance company?

    You can provide basic information like your name, contact details, and the date and location of the incident. Avoid recorded statements and avoid describing injuries or fault before you have legal advice. An attorney can handle communications so your words are not used against you later.

  • How much does a personal injury lawyer cost, and how are fees handled?

    Most injury cases are handled on a contingency fee, which means you pay attorney fees only if there is a recovery. Costs such as records, filings, and experts are explained up front and addressed in your fee agreement. We review the terms with you in plain English so there are no surprises.

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Speak with a North Charleston injury lawyer

Tell us what happened. Doughty Law Firm will review your situation and outline next steps today.