North Charleston, SC Pickup Truck Accident Attorneys

Car Accident Injury Lawyers for Pickup Truck Crashes in South Carolina

Collisions involving pickup trucks often result in devastating injuries, extensive property damage, and long-term financial consequences. Given their size and weight, pickup trucks can cause catastrophic harm in an accident, especially when speeding, impaired driving, or distracted driving is involved. In 2022 alone, there were 294 fatal collisions, 543 serious injury accidents, and over 9,298 pickup truck crashes resulting in injuries across South Carolina.

If you or a loved one suffered injuries in a North Charleston pickup truck accident, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and other damages. At Steinberg Law Firm, we have represented injured individuals in Charleston, Goose Creek, Summerville, and South Carolina for over 95 years. We understand the unique challenges pickup truck accidents present and are prepared to fight for maximum compensation on your behalf.

The Dangers of Pickup Truck Collisions in South Carolina

Pickup trucks are standard on North Charleston’s highways and residential roads, often used for personal, construction, and commercial purposes. While they are practical for hauling heavy loads and navigating rough terrain, they pose significant risks in a crash.

Higher Risk of Rollover Accidents

Unlike smaller passenger vehicles, pickup trucks have a higher center of gravity, making them more prone to rollover accidents. This risk increases when a driver travels at excessive speeds, carries an unbalanced load, or makes sudden lane changes. Rollovers often result in life-threatening injuries or fatalities, particularly for passengers not wearing seat belts.

Increased Impact Force in a Collision

When a 4,000 to 7,500-pound pickup truck crashes into a smaller vehicle, the force of impact can be devastating. Occupants in smaller vehicles often suffer severe injuries, including traumatic brain injuries (TBI), spinal cord damage, and internal organ trauma. In multi-vehicle crashes, pickup trucks may also push cars into oncoming traffic or off the roadway, increasing the severity of injuries. Pickup trucks are significantly larger and heavier than passenger vehicles, directly affecting a collision’s severity. When a pickup truck collides with a smaller car, the force of impact can cause extensive damage and lead to more severe injuries for those in the smaller vehicle. In North Charleston, where major highways like I-26 and U.S. Highway 78 see heavy commuter and commercial traffic, size disparities between vehicles create a heightened risk of serious crashes.

The weight of a pickup truck also increases stopping distances, meaning drivers must react more quickly to avoid collisions. A fully loaded pickup truck can take up to 40% longer to stop than a standard passenger car, especially in wet or congested conditions. South Carolina’s high rate of speed-related crashes, as reported in the state’s Triennial Highway Safety Plan, only worsens this problem. When a pickup truck driver fails to brake in time, the force of impact often results in catastrophic injuries.

5 Causes of Pickup Truck Accidents in North Charleston

North Charleston’s congested roadways and high-speed traffic contribute to frequent pickup truck accidents. Certain driving behaviors and environmental conditions increase the likelihood of these crashes.

1. Speeding and Aggressive Driving

South Carolina consistently ranks among the deadliest states for traffic fatalities, and speeding contributes to 44% of all fatal accidents statewide. Charleston County is one of the most high-risk regions for speed-related collisions, with pickup trucks frequently involved in high-speed wrecks.

2. Distracted Driving

Texting, adjusting the GPS, eating, or other distractions significantly increase the risk of an accident. Pickup trucks require longer stopping distances than smaller vehicles, making it dangerous for a distracted driver to react quickly to sudden traffic changes.

3. Drunk and Impaired Driving

Alcohol-impaired driving accounts for 30% of all traffic fatalities in South Carolina. Despite the all-offender Ignition Interlock Device (IID) law, DUI drivers remain a serious threat on North Charleston’s roadways. Pickup truck accidents caused by drunk or drug-impaired drivers often lead to severe injuries or fatalities.

4. Unsafe Merging and Lane Changes

Because pickup trucks have larger blind spots, merging or changing lanes without adequately checking can lead to T-bone or side-impact collisions. Highways like I-26, U.S. Highway 78, and Ashley Phosphate Road see frequent lane-change accidents involving pickup trucks.

5. Road Hazards and Poor Vehicle Maintenance

Potholes, uneven pavement, and poor road design increase the risk of pickup truck crashes. Defective brakes, worn tires, or improper maintenance can also contribute to mechanical failures, making collisions more likely.

The Role of Improper Cargo Loading in Pickup Truck Accidents

In 2022, 90% of pickup truck collisions involved personal-use vehicles, while 6.4% were related to construction and 1.5% to transport, highlighting how improperly loaded cargo plays a role in crashes across different industries.

Overloaded trucks also put excessive strain on braking systems, making it harder for drivers to stop in time. A pickup truck carrying more weight than legally allowed may experience brake failure, increasing the likelihood of a severe accident. North Charleston roads like Rivers Avenue and Ashley Phosphate Road frequently see commercial pickup trucks transporting tools, equipment, and materials, creating additional hazards for other drivers and pedestrians.

In some cases, cargo may come loose from the truck bed, striking other vehicles or creating obstacles in the roadway. Debris-related accidents can be just as devastating as direct collisions, causing drivers to swerve or lose control in an attempt to avoid hitting objects in their path. When cargo spills lead to injuries, the driver and potentially their employer may be liable for failing to secure the load properly.

Victims of pickup truck accidents caused by overloaded or improperly secured cargo deserve strong legal representation to pursue claims against negligent drivers, trucking companies, or other responsible parties. Understanding how cargo-related negligence contributes to these crashes can help victims build a case for full compensation.

Types of Injuries After A North Charleston Pickup Truck Crash

The types of injuries sustained from a pickup truck-car collision can range from moderate to catastrophic, depending on the force of impact and other factors. Many victims require extensive medical treatment, long-term rehabilitation, or lifelong care. Common injuries include the following:

Traumatic Brain Injuries 

The force of impact in a pickup truck crash can cause concussions, skull fractures, and severe traumatic brain injuries (TBI). Victims may suffer memory loss, cognitive impairments, mood changes, and chronic headaches, often requiring years of medical treatment.

Spinal Cord and Neck Injuries

Pickup truck crashes frequently lead to herniated discs, fractured vertebrae, and nerve damage. Severe spinal cord injuries may result in permanent paralysis, requiring long-term medical care and significant lifestyle adjustments.

Internal Organ Damage and Internal Bleeding

Blunt force trauma can lead to punctured lungs, ruptured spleens, or other internal injuries. Seeking medical help as soon as possible is the best step to take. These conditions can be life-threatening if not treated immediately after a crash.

Broken Bones and Joint Injuries

The immense force of a pickup truck collision often results in fractured ribs, arms, legs, or collarbones. Some victims may require surgery, extensive rehabilitation, or even amputation in extreme cases.

The physical toll of a pickup truck accident can be overwhelming, often requiring months or even years of medical care. Victims may struggle with mobility issues, chronic pain, and an inability to return to work, significantly impacting their financial stability. 

Seeking legal representation can help ensure those affected receive the compensation they need to cover medical costs, lost income, and other damages caused by the crash.

Who Can Be Held Liable After a North Charleston Pickup Truck Accident?

Establishing liability in a pickup truck accident is critical to pursuing compensation. Determining fault requires a detailed investigation, as multiple parties may be responsible for the crash.

• The Pickup Truck Driver. If reckless driving, speeding, or impairment caused the accident, the driver can be held accountable for damages.
• The Truck Owner or Employer. In commercial pickup truck cases, the employer may be liable if the driver was unqualified, fatigued, or improperly supervised.
• Vehicle or Parts Manufacturers. The manufacturer could be responsible for damages if faulty brakes, defective tires, or other mechanical issues caused the crash.
• Government Entities. If poor road conditions, missing traffic signs, or unsafe intersections played a role in the crash, a municipal agency may be liable.

Holding the responsible party accountable is essential for recovering compensation. A North Charleston pickup truck accident attorney can investigate the crash, gather evidence, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Types of Compensation Available After A North Charleston Pickup Truck Accident 

Victims of pickup truck crashes may be eligible for financial compensation to cover their losses, including:

• Medical expenses – costs for hospitalization, surgery, rehabilitation, and future medical treatment; 
• Lost wages and loss of earning capacity – compensation for time away from work and permanent disability;
• Pain and suffering – damages for physical pain, emotional trauma, and reduced quality of life;
• Property damage – costs for vehicle repair or replacement;
• Wrongful death damages – families who have lost a loved one may recover funeral costs and loss of financial support.

Recovering fair compensation after a pickup truck accident requires proving liability, documenting damages, and negotiating with insurance companies. A skilled attorney can help ensure you receive the full amount you are owed instead of settling for less than your claim is worth.

Frequently Asked Questions 

What If an Uninsured Driver Caused a Pickup Truck Accident?

South Carolina requires drivers to carry uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, which may help cover medical expenses, lost wages, and vehicle damage if the at-fault driver lacks insurance. However, insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, making it critical to have a lawyer negotiate to ensure you receive full and fair compensation.

Are Pickup Truck Accidents More Likely to Involve Rollover Crashes?

Yes, pickup trucks have a higher center of gravity, making them more prone to rollovers, especially in high-speed or single-vehicle crashes. Sharp turns, uneven road surfaces, or overloaded cargo can increase the risk of losing control and rolling over. When a rollover occurs, victims may be trapped inside the vehicle or ejected, leading to severe or fatal injuries. Holding negligent drivers or manufacturers accountable is essential for recovering compensation.

Can I File a Claim If a Defective Vehicle Part Caused a Pickup Truck Accident?

Yes, if a mechanical failure or defective part contributed to the accident, you may have a claim against the manufacturer, distributor, or repair shop responsible for the defect. Common issues include brake failures, faulty steering components, and tire blowouts. A thorough investigation, often including expert analysis and accident reconstruction, can determine if a mechanical issue played a role in the crash and establish liability.

Were You Injured In An Accident Caused by a Pickup Truck Driver in North Charleston?

A pickup truck accident can leave you facing devastating injuries, medical expenses, and lost income. If you or a loved one was injured in a North Charleston pickup truck crash, you have the right to seek full and fair compensation. At Steinberg Law Firm, we have been fighting for injury victims in South Carolina for nearly a century, holding negligent drivers, employers, and manufacturers accountable. Don’t let insurance companies pressure you into an unfair settlement. Our experienced attorneys will build a strong case, negotiate aggressively, and fight for the financial recovery you need to move forward. Call Steinberg Law Firm today at 843-720-2800 for a free consultation and let us help you secure the justice you deserve.