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After getting in an accident, why not resolve the claim yourself? You may be asking this question. The answer is – you may be able to deal with the aftermath yourself, but a lawyer is beneficial if you or a loved one was seriously injured. Under serious circumstances, you may not be able to obtain the full amount of compensation you are due without the representation of an experienced lawyer.

Below, we’ve listed some of the scenarios in which a car accident lawyer is beneficial. But be advised that each situation is unique. If you were recently involved in a car crash and you aren’t sure whether you need a lawyer, give us a call. There is no obligation involved with calling us to find out if you have a claim. If you do, our experienced lawyers can pursue maximum compensation on your behalf. For your free review with our South Carolina law firm, please call Whetstone Perkins & Fulda.

If the Accident Severely Injured You or a Loved One

In the most minor of fender benders, there may be no injuries and no vehicle damage. It is possible that the slightest of collisions cannot benefit from the representation of a lawyer; however, even a low-speed rear-end crash can cause serious whiplash. Even if you think you are unharmed, you should schedule an appointment with your doctor following a crash. Certain injuries do not display symptoms right away.

Severe physical injury can be a life-altering event. If you suffer a serious injury, you may have a difficult time obtaining the full compensation you need on your own.

If the Accident Involved a Fatality

When a crash kills a loved one, you should definitely call an attorney. Wrongful death cases of course cannot undo the irreparable harm caused by this loss, but if you successfully recover compensation, it can pay for the economic losses of your loved one’s passing: end-of-life medical bills, burial costs, funeral expenses, etc. It can also compensate you for the non-economic suffering and anguish caused by losing your loved one. The experienced lawyers at Whetstone Perkins & Fulda can pursue this compensation for you.

If the Accident Resulted in Significant Losses

Another factor to consider is what you have lost as a result of the crash and your resulting injuries. These losses and impacts are direct evidence of how the injury has affected you. These are the things for which compensation is awarded in a successful claim. Examples include:

• Medical bills
• Loss of wages
• Non-economic losses

What are non-economic losses you ask? It refers to the things that are difficult to assign a dollar value to, but are important aspects of your life nonetheless.

If Your Claim Involves Dram Shop Liability

If the crash that injured you or a loved one, or killed a family member, was caused by an intoxicated driver, then dram shop liability may be a factor in your claim. Dram shop liability refers to the liability of bartenders, liquor store owners and other businesses in causing an accident. If the establishment over-served someone – that is, if they served someone liquor who they should have known was too intoxicated – then they may be held responsible if that person causes an accident. The attorneys at our firm have extensive experience with these claims. We know the relevant state and municipal laws, and we can determine if they affect your case.

What To Do Next

If you were injured in a crash in Columbia, Myrtle Beach or Kingstree, or any of the surrounding areas, and if you want to find out if you have an accident claim, please call Whetstone Perkins & Fulda, for a free consultation.

You can rely on us to provide clear, straightforward answers about your situation. We know that the aftermath of a crash can be isolating and frustrating. You need reliable and clear information so that you can make an informed decision about what to do next. Please call us now to get the answers you need.