Personal Injury Lawyers in Columbia, SC

• 1440 Broad River Rd, Columbia SC 29210 | 803-999-2993
• Map & Directions

Fighting for the Justice of Personal Injury Victims in Columbia, SC

If you suffered an injury or illness following an accident, our Columbia personal injury lawyers can help you pursue damages from the responsible party. It is unjust for you or your loved ones to bear the financial and emotional burden alone when someone else’s negligent actions caused you harm.

Our dedicated personal injury attorneys in Columbia, SC, are here to represent your personal injury case and will strive to secure the compensation you deserve. We begin by offering a free initial consultation where we thoroughly analyze the specifics of your situation and devise a legal strategy tailored to your case. Call us at (803) 999-2993 today for a free, no-obligation case review today.

Find Out More About Your Columbia Personal Injury Case

Why Hire an Attorney for Your Injury Case?

When faced with the aftermath of an injury, hiring our Columbia personal injury attorneys can help improve the outcome of your case. Having the representation you need is critical to ensure that you receive a fair and just settlement that accurately reflects the extent of your losses and damages. Unfortunately, dealing with insurance companies can be a daunting task. They often try to devalue claims and offer lowball initial settlements, taking advantage of your overwhelmed state and pain. 

Instead of adding to your already long list of responsibilities, our personal injury lawyers in Columbia, SC, can handle the entire process for you. From negotiating with insurers to filing paperwork and managing communications, we take on the inevitable stress while you focus on healing, returning to work, and managing the overall fallout. When you hire us, you can save yourself time, relieve yourself of overbearing burdens, and significantly increase your chances of winning the compensation you deserve.

Why Hire A Personal Injury Lawyer

When Should You Contact an Injury Lawyer in Columbia?

After being involved in a personal injury accident, many victims hesitate to seek legal assistance. However, if you have sustained serious injuries, or the other party’s insurance company is disputing your personal injury claim, it’s crucial to consult with a knowledgeable attorney as soon as possible. Failing to seek legal guidance after a serious accident can lead to significant costs in terms of time and money. The sooner you have an experienced attorney investigating your case, the sooner you can focus on your recovery.

When Should You Talk to a Personal Injury Lawyer? 

Do You Have a Personal Injury Case?

There are various types of accidents that can form the basis of a personal injury case. Essentially, if another person’s reckless or careless actions resulted in your injury, they may be held accountable. Legally, we will need to establish negligence on the part of the responsible party in order to seek compensation for you. In order to file a claim, there must be evidence of the following: 

• The party who caused your injuries had a responsibility to ensure your safety.
• The party in question acted negligently or recklessly.
• Their careless or reckless actions exposed you to danger and resulted in harm.
• As a result, you experienced various losses.

Sustaining an injury does not automatically establish the validity of a personal injury case. Our attorney will attentively listen to your account, carefully assess the specific circumstances, and see whether it is advisable for you to pursue a claim against the party at fault.

Do You Have a Personal Injury Case?

Can You Afford a Personal Injury Lawyer?

We understand that you may be facing financial difficulties after suffering a personal injury. Our aim is to make our services affordable so that you can hire a lawyer to handle your case while focusing on your health.

One key benefit of hiring our Columbia personal injury lawyers is that they typically get paid only after securing compensation for you. Instead of charging you upfront, they receive a percentage of your settlement award as their payment. Here’s how the payment process works:

• Your lawyer wins your settlement or verdict.
• They receive the payment on your behalf.
• They take a predetermined percentage as their fee.
• The firm pays for the bills then the remainder is given to the client.

Can You Afford a Personal Injury Lawyer? 

Who Is Liable in Your Injury Case?

In personal injury cases in Columbia, SC, liability is determined based on the rule of comparative negligence. According to this rule, even if the plaintiff bears some responsibility for the accident, they can still recover damages if their negligence is not greater than that of the other parties involved. However, the recovery will be reduced in proportion to the plaintiff’s own negligence. 

For instance, if the plaintiff is found to be 30% at fault and one defendant is 70% at fault, and the damages awarded by the jury amount to $100,000, the plaintiff would receive a verdict of $70,000 from that defendant.

Liability is usually determined by investigating the facts and working with the insurance company. If the case goes to court, the determination of the percentages of fault is made by the jury after considering arguments and evidence presented by both the plaintiff and the defense. In some cases, when there are multiple parties involved, the plaintiff’s negligence must not exceed the combined negligence of all defendants for their claim to remain valid. 

It’s important to note that in South Carolina, the burden of proving negligence rests on the plaintiff, who must demonstrate the defendant’s negligence by a preponderance of the evidence. The defendant can present evidence to challenge both their own negligence and the plaintiff’s negligence in the case. This is why hiring a Columbia personal injury attorney can help you gather evidence and build the strongest possible case.

What Damages Can You Collect in a Personal Injury Case in Columbia?

Before pursuing compensation from the responsible party, it is essential to evaluate your damages in order to determine the appropriate value for your case. The specific circumstances of each case will determine the extent of the financial recovery that can be sought by the victim. 

Factors such as the nature of your injuries and the duration of your recovery period will influence the amount you request in compensation. Generally, damages can be categorized into two main types: economic and non-economic damages. 

Economic damages encompass expenses directly related to the accident, which can be supported with records, receipts, and other relevant documents. Examples of economic damages include:

• Medical bills (past, current, and future)
• Lost wages
• Diminished earning capacity
• Property damage or replacement costs

On the other hand, non-economic damages do not have a specific monetary value but reflect the impact of your injuries or losses. These damages may include:

• Pain and suffering
• Mental and emotional distress
• Disability and disfigurement
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Loss of companionship

Types Of Damages In Personal Injury Cases 

How Is the Value of Damages Determined for Your Claim?

Unfortunately, there is no precise method or formula that can determine the exact value of your case. Each claim is unique, and the court considers various factors when reaching a decision. When determining a ruling, the court typically considers your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. The weight given to each of these factors varies depending on the nature and severity of your injury. So, they are assessed and prioritized differently in each case. However, an experienced law firm may be able to provide you with a general range of potential compensation based on their experience handling similar cases.

Determining The Value Of Your Claim

What Evidence Is Needed for a Personal Injury Claim?

In a personal injury claim, gathering the right evidence is crucial to building a strong case. Photographs and videos can be some of the most impactful evidence in a personal injury case. Visual evidence, such as photographs of your injuries and videos showing your rehabilitation process, can have a profound impact on settlement negotiations or jurors. Visual depictions can evoke emotion and effectively convey the facts that warrant a fair personal injury award. Physical evidence, such as the unwashed clothes or shoes worn when the incident occurred, can help (especially in a slip and fall case).

Documentary evidence also plays a key role in a personal injury claim. This includes reports filed by law enforcement, pre-hospital reports documenting emergency treatments, medical reports and bills, and documentation of lost wages through paystubs and tax returns. Documentary evidence establishes causation, linking the negligent act to the injuries suffered, and also helps determine the value of your claim and pursue appropriate compensation.

Witness testimony is another important form of evidence. Eyewitnesses to the injury can provide valuable testimony that helps determine liability. Medical testimony from your doctors and care providers can clarify the extent of your injuries and the impact they have on your life. Additionally, the testimony of loved ones and family members can humanize your case and help jurors understand the true impact of the accident on your life.

Our experienced personal injury attorneys in Columbia, SC, are skilled in identifying and gathering the necessary evidence to strengthen your case. By leveraging this evidence, we can present a compelling argument on your behalf, increasing the likelihood of a favorable outcome and securing the compensation you deserve.

What Is the Process for Starting Your Personal Injury Case?

Personal injury cases generally follow a consistent timeline, although each case may have its own unique complexities. Here is a general overview of how a personal injury claim is typically handled:

1. Initial Consultation:

The first step is to schedule a meeting with a personal injury attorney at George Sink, P.A. Injury Lawyers. It is important to speak with an attorney before speaking to any insurance representatives. Our attorneys offer free initial consultations, where you can discuss the details of your case, the injuries you have suffered, and what treatments you have recieved so far. This consultation will help you understand the strength of your case and explore your legal options.

2. Hiring a Personal Injury Attorney:

After the consultation, you can choose the attorney who best suits your needs. Factors such as experience, track record, and personal comfort should be considered. Our personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay attorney fees unless you receive a monetary award. The fee will be a percentage of the award, and any expenses related to the case will be covered by our firm.

3. Discovery and Fact-Finding:

Once you have hired an attorney, they will begin an independent investigation into your accident. This investigation aims to determine the cause of the accident and gather evidence regarding the incident and your injuries. Medical records may also be accessed during this process.

4. Negotiations and Mediation:

After obtaining the necessary evidence, your attorney will file a claim with the negligent party’s insurance company. Typically, a demand for a specific amount to cover all damages will be made. Negotiations with the insurance company are common as they seek a settlement. Settling a case is often preferred by insurance companies to avoid the costs associated with a trial. If a lawsuit is filed, we move to the mediation stage to resolve it before it goes to trial.

5. Filing a Lawsuit:

If a settlement cannot be reached, your attorney may file a lawsuit. The deadline for filing the lawsuit is limited by the statute of limitations, but the suit does not need to be completed by then. This can extend the timeframe allowed for you to seek compensation. Sometimes, the act of filing a lawsuit prompts the insurance company to become more willing to settle. In other instances, the insurer may choose to vigorously defend the case.

Our experienced personal injury attorneys in Columbia, SC, guide you through each step of the process, ensuring your rights are protected and working to secure the compensation you deserve.

Why Sink Law Might Not Take Your Case in Columbia

Here are a few reasons why George Sink, P.A. Injury Lawyers may not take a case:

1. Issues with proving fault: Proving fault is a crucial aspect of a personal injury case. To pursue a successful claim, it is necessary to establish that the accident resulted from the negligence of the other party involved. If you are found to be entirely at fault for the accident, it may not be possible to recover damages. Depending on the specific circumstances, our personal injury lawyers may assess the situation and determine that the chances of recovery are unlikely due to the allocation of fault.
2. Statute of limitations has expired: The statute of limitations sets a deadline for filing a case. Different types of legal cases have varying time limits for filing. If you reach out to our personal injury lawyers and we cannot take your case, it could be because the statute of limitations has already expired. This highlights the importance of contacting an attorney promptly after an injury or accident. To ensure you have the opportunity to file a claim, it is crucial to avoid unnecessary delays and seek legal advice as soon as possible.
3. Case falls outside the lawyer’s jurisdiction: Personal injury cases are subject to jurisdictional requirements, which determine where a case can be filed. Lawyers are typically licensed to practice in specific states and jurisdictions. Depending on the unique circumstances of your case, you may need to file the claim in a jurisdiction where the attorney you wish to hire is not licensed to practice. In some instances, the attorney may attempt to seek special permission to practice in that jurisdiction, but such permission is granted at the discretion of a judge and is not guaranteed. If the attorney cannot obtain permission, they may be unable to take your case due to jurisdictional limitations.

What Can You Do To Protect the Value of Your Injury Case?

Here are some steps you can take to protect the value of your personal injury case:

• Seek immediate medical attention: It is crucial to promptly seek medical attention after an accident to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment of your injuries. Besides prioritizing your well-being, early evaluation by a doctor will result in a comprehensive documentation of your injuries in your medical records. These records serve as vital evidence in calculating the compensation you deserve.
• Preserve evidence: Take pictures or videos of the scene of your injury, and write down anything you can remember about the incident. Also, document your injuries during the healing process, so there is evidence of how your injuries are progressing over time.
• Adhere to your treatment plan: It is important to follow your doctor’s prescribed treatment plan diligently. Delaying treatment or disregarding the recovery plan may provide the at-fault party’s insurance company with ammunition to argue that your injuries are less severe than you claim. By adhering to the recommended course of treatment, you strengthen your case and demonstrate the seriousness of your injuries.
• Maintain records of expenses: Keep meticulous records of all expenses related to your accident. This includes retaining copies of medical bills, invoices, and receipts associated with your medical treatment, rehabilitation, property damage, and other relevant costs. Additionally, if your injuries prevent you from working, you should gather pay stubs, bank records, and other documentation substantiating your lost income.

What Should You Expect From Sink Law During Your Case?

We strive to provide the best representation possible for our personal injury clients. Here’s what to expect work you hire us: 

• We will thoroughly investigate your case.
• We will ask you to provide essential information only you can provide, such as contact information for witnesses or any police reports documenting the incident.
• We will require your medical bills and receipts related to the injury.
• We will request emails, letters, and other documentation for any correspondence with insurance companies.
• We will ask for car repair bills, receipts, or estimates, as well as pictures of any property damage or injuries.
• We will provide information to you about the potential realistic outcomes of your case.
• We have great communication skills with insurance companies, other attorneys, and the court system.
• We have significant courtroom experience and a track record of success.
• We will be honest about the potential timeframe for the settlement of the case.
• We will inform you upfront about fees and litigation costs.
• We will communicate promptly with you.
• We will be available to answer any questions you may have.
• We will behave in a professional and ethical manner.
• We will fight for the best possible compensation for you.
• We are very organized and well-prepared.
• We will be punctual and respectful of you and your time.

What To Expect From Your Attorney

Get Started with Our Personal Injury Lawyers in Columbia, SC, Today.

Personal injuries can take a toll on you and your family, financially, physically, and mentally. If you have been injured in Columbia, South Carolina, due to someone’s negligence, George Sink P.A. Injury Lawyers is ready to assist you. With our experience in helping over 40,000 injury victims throughout the state, we are well-equipped to help you file a robust claim for compensation. Call us at (803) 999-2993 today for a free, no-obligation case review today.

Types of Personal Injury Cases We Handle in Columbia

Our personal injury lawyers in Columbia, SC, specialize in all types of personal injury cases, including: 

Bicycle Accidents Boat Accidents Bus Accidents Car Accidents Construction Accidents Dog Bites Mass Torts Moped Accidents

Motorcycle Accidents Nursing Home Abuse Slip and Fall Accidents Social Security Disability Truck Accidents Workers’ Compensation Wrongful Death