Myrtle Beach Car Accident Attorneys

Top-rated Myrtle Beach Car Crash Lawyers Representing Injury Victims in South Carolina

The Steinberg Law Firm stands at the forefront of representing individuals involved in car accidents throughout Myrtle Beach. As a South Carolina personal injury law firm, we are well-acquainted with the unique challenges accompanying traffic incidents in a popular beach destination. Increased seasonal traffic and diverse driving styles contribute to a higher risk of accidents, emphasizing the need for informed and assertive legal representation to navigate these complex situations.

With a proven track record of recovering over $500 million for our clients in the last ten years, Steinberg Law Firm is deeply committed to righting the wrongs experienced by those impacted by negligence. We approach each case with directness and compassion, ensuring that you are fully informed and comfortable throughout the legal process. Our team is here to offer a guiding hand for those seeking justice and compensation for their injuries. 

Most Dangerous Roadways Near Myrtle Beach 

Myrtle Beach, located in Horry County, is a hub of activity that, unfortunately, has a high rate of car accidents. In the most recent reporting year, the county witnessed approximately 9,459 collisions. Of these, 56 were fatal, leading to 63 deaths. Additionally, 150 crashes resulted in serious injuries, and a further 3,764 individuals sustained other types of injuries. The data underscores the significant risk present on the roadways in this region.

Key roadways with high accident rates include the following: 

• US 17—A major thoroughfare through Myrtle Beach, experiencing a high traffic volume and numerous collisions.
• US 501—As a primary route into the city, it is notorious for traffic jams and accidents.
• SC-9—A vital connection for many local and visiting drivers, frequently cited in accident reports.
• SC 544—This route links several residential and commercial areas, making it a familiar scene for vehicle collisions.
• SC 701—Known for its heavy local traffic and regular contribution to the county’s accident statistics.

Each road serves as a major artery in and around Myrtle Beach. It is heavily trafficked by locals and visitors, contributing to its high accident rates. The volume of vehicles, combined with the complex driving conditions these roads often present, highlights the need for vigilance and possibly legal intervention if you are involved in an accident.

Understanding these risks is crucial for anyone navigating Myrtle Beach roadways. If you or a loved one are involved in a car accident on any of these roads, reaching out for legal assistance can help ensure your rights are protected and you receive the support necessary for dealing with the aftermath of an injury accident.

Leading Cause of Car Accidents in and around Myrtle Beach 

In Myrtle Beach, the top five contributing factors identified in local accident reports are:

• Driving too fast for the conditions. This involves motorists traveling at speeds unsuitable for road, weather, or traffic conditions, significantly increasing the risk of losing control and causing a crash.
• Failure to yield the right of way. Accidents frequently occur when drivers do not adhere to the rules regarding who has the legal right to proceed first, leading to collisions at intersections and other traffic points.
• Improper lane usage. Includes drifting between lanes or making unsafe lane changes without proper signaling, which often results in sideswipe accidents or forces other drivers to swerve dangerously.
• Distracted driving. Engaging in activities that divert a driver’s attention from the road—such as texting, using a phone, or adjusting the radio—remains a leading cause of accidents. This lapse in focus can lead to severe and sometimes fatal collisions.
• Following too closely. Tailgating or following another vehicle too closely leaves insufficient stopping distance and can lead to rear-end collisions.

For individuals injured in car accidents, pinpointing the specific behavior that led to the collision is essential for building a strong claim. These driving behaviors can demonstrate a breach of a legal duty of care owed to others on the road.

Understanding and proving the cause of an accident enhances your ability to receive adequate compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you’ve been involved in a collision where these factors played a role, seeking skilled legal help is crucial. Engaging with an attorney who can navigate these complex scenarios will ensure your rights are protected and you are justly compensated.

Car Accident Victims in Myrtle Beach 

In Myrtle Beach, many individuals find themselves the victims of car accidents, each facing unique risks on the road. A significant portion of these victims are classified as “vulnerable road users,” a term that includes motorcyclists, moped operators, bicyclists, and pedestrians—individuals who are more exposed to injury in the event of a collision due to their lack of protective barriers compared to traditional vehicle occupants.

Recent data highlights the extent of these risks. In the latest reporting period, Myrtle Beach saw 258 motorcyclists, 81 moped operators, 52 bicyclists, and 97 pedestrians involved in traffic incidents. These figures reflect the high vulnerability these individuals face daily on the city’s busy streets. Moreover, hundreds of drivers and passengers also find themselves involved in collisions annually, emphasizing the broad spectrum of individuals impacted by road traffic accidents.

Whether navigating negotiations with insurance companies or representing victims in court, the role of a knowledgeable attorney is indispensable in advocating for the rights and well-being of all affected by traffic accidents in Myrtle Beach.

Common Challenges After a Myrtle Beach Accident

Car accident cases in Myrtle Beach often present more complexities than those in other areas. The unique challenges stem from factors like the high number of visitors, the prevalent use of rental vehicles, the party atmosphere leading to driving while intoxicated, and insurance issues. Each of these elements can complicate the process of seeking compensation.

Challenges Posed by Visitors

Myrtle Beach is a prominent tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors annually. Many accidents involve non-residents unfamiliar with local roads and traffic patterns. This unfamiliarity can lead to an increase in accidents, particularly during tourist season when the roads are busiest. Managing legal proceedings across different jurisdictions becomes complex when visitors are involved in accidents. An experienced attorney can navigate these complexities, ensuring adherence to legal processes and effective communication, regardless of the involved parties’ home states.

Vehicle Rental Issues

The frequent use of rental cars in Myrtle Beach adds another complexity to accident claims. Accidents involving rental vehicles often lead to disputes over liability and insurance coverage between the rental company and the renter. Additionally, renters may not be familiar with the vehicle’s operation, contributing to the risk of accidents. Legal representation is essential in these cases to dissect rental agreements and insurance policies and to effectively manage claims involving multiple parties.

Insurance Challenges

Insurance issues are particularly pronounced in Myrtle Beach due to the diverse mix of drivers from various states and countries, each with different insurance laws and coverage limits. Navigating these differences requires a deep understanding of various insurance regulations and the ability to negotiate with multiple insurers to ensure that clients receive fair compensation. An attorney actively handles these negotiations, challenging insurance adjusters and securing adequate settlements.

Driving While Intoxicated

According to the 2021 South Carolina Traffic Collision Fact Book, Horry County outranks Charleston County in the number of fatalities involving alcohol. The top 5 counties for the number of fatalities involving a BAC of 0.08+ include the following: Greenville County with 33, Horry County with 30, Richland County with 27, Charleston County with 26, and Spartanburg County with 21. The fact book also reveals how the majority of these accidents occurred on the weekend, Friday through Sunday, and between 6:00 PM and 3:00 AM. Also, Horry County had 2,181 total collisions on US-17 and 1,697 total collisions on US-501.

Types of Compensation After Myrtle Beach Car Accident 

After a car accident in Myrtle Beach, victims have the right to seek various types of compensation. This financial support aims to cover the costs and losses incurred due to the accident. The objective is straightforward: to make victims whole again by covering their expenses and compensating for losses. Here are the key types of compensation available:

• Medical expenses. Covers all medical treatments, including emergency care, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, and any ongoing medical needs resulting from the accident.
• Lost wages. These damages compensate for the income lost from time away from work while recovering. This also includes loss of earning capacity if the victim cannot return to work at the same level as before the accident.
• Pain and suffering. This type of compensation addresses the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident. It is particularly important as it acknowledges the non-financial impact of the accident.
• Property damage. Accident victims may be reimbursed for repairing or replacing their vehicle and any other personal property damaged in the accident.
• Punitive damages. Although less common, punitive damages may be awarded in cases of egregious negligence to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct in the future.

Securing these types of compensation requires a clear and assertive legal strategy. Engaging with an attorney who understands the full scope of what you are entitled to can make a significant difference in the outcome of your claim. They will advocate vigorously on your behalf, ensuring that all relevant damages are considered and you receive the maximum compensation for your losses.

How Does Comparative Negligence Apply in a SC Car Accident Case?

In South Carolina, the principle of comparative negligence plays a crucial role in car accident cases. This rule adjusts the compensation you can receive based on your share of fault in the accident. Here’s how it works:

If you are involved in a car accident, your actions and those of the other driver are examined to determine responsibility. If both parties contributed to the accident, a percentage of fault is assigned to each. For example, if you were speeding and the other driver failed to yield, you might be found 30% at fault while the other driver is 70% at fault.

Under South Carolina law, you can still recover damages if you are not more at fault than the other involved parties. However, your recoverable compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. If your total damages amount to $100,000 and you are 30% at fault, you would receive $70,000.

It is essential to have strong legal representation in these cases. An attorney can actively work to minimize your percentage of fault and maximize the compensation you recover. They gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and, if necessary, argue your case in court to protect your interests.

Schedule a Free, No-Obligation Consultation with an Experienced Myrtle Beach Car Accident Lawyer

If you were recently hurt in an automobile accident, it is important to take a few minutes to ensure you fully understand your rights, including the right to pursue a claim for compensation against the at-fault party. At the Steinberg Law Firm, our Myrtle Beach car accident lawyers have provided accident victims with compassionate and effective representation for over 95 years. We understand the challenges you and your family face in the wake of a serious accident and are prepared to do everything we can to ensure you are fairly compensated for what you’ve been through. To learn more and to schedule a free consultation today, call the Steinberg Law Firm at 843-720-2800. You can also connect with us through our secure online contact form.