How Long Does It Take to Settle a Truck Accident Claim in South Carolina?

A truck accident is something no one wants to experience, and the settlement process can take time. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer for the settlement time frame. Yet, you might be wondering just how long does it take to settle a truck accident claim in South Carolina?

South Carolina Trucking Accidents

Accidents involving commercial trucks are typically particularly catastrophic. Because of their size and weight, they’re especially dangerous if they crash into a passenger vehicle.

As a result, commercial truck drivers are required to get focused training. However, truck drivers or the company that employs them can still operate a truck negligently and cause an accident. Any driver and/or their trucking company that is responsible for causing an accident is liable for the property damage and injuries sustained.

Factors That Influence Settling a Truck Accident Claim

The time it could take to settle your specific case varies, depending upon:

• The complexity of the laws involved
• The injury severity
• Whether liability is clear or disputed by any party
• If federal trucking regulations were violated
• Whether the case settles out-of-court or moves toward trial

More severe injuries can take longer to assess, which can delay settlement. Also, if liability is disputed, that can extend the process. Insurance companies may delay settlement by offering preliminary lowball offers. Also, a violation of federal trucking regulations can necessitate a longer investigation into the cause of the accident.

A General Timeline for South Carolina Cases

There are several steps that typically are part of a truck accident case. Right away, an attorney can help you investigate your case and get medical treatment, which can take a while. An attorney can gather relevant, compelling evidence to support your claim, such as police reports from local South Carolina law enforcement, eyewitness statements, truck black box data, and more.

Once you know the extent of your damages and have gathered evidence, your attorney can negotiate with the truck driver’s insurance company. If multiple parties are involved or liability is disputed, negotiations can take time. Negotiation can avoid going to court, as some cases are resolved at this stage.

Filing a Claim

If negotiations are unsuccessful, you may work with your attorney to file a legal claim. Under South Carolina law, you have three years from the date of your accident to file a personal injury claim for a trucking accident. Exchanging evidence once you’ve formally filed a claim can push case resolution out further, especially if your trucking accident case goes to a courthouse trial.

Once the parties reach a settlement through negotiations or a trial, an insurance company typically issues a check shortly after.

A simple case with less serious injuries can take less time to settle than a complex or highly litigated case. Of course, the faster you consult a trusted attorney, the quicker the evidence can be preserved, potentially speeding up case resolution and settlement.

FAQs

Q: How Much Are Most Truck Accident Settlements?

A: The settlement amount for a truck accident depends on the facts of a case. The amount you might expect to get in your case depends on the seriousness of the sustained injuries, the medical expenses paid and anticipated in the future, and other fact-specific factors. More serious injuries typically result in higher settlement amounts.

Again, each case is unique, but a well-informed South Carolina attorney can discuss what you might anticipate getting for your specific truck accident claim.

Q: What Happens After Settling a Truck Accident Claim?

A: After you’ve agreed upon an amount, you execute a release to end your accident claim. You are prevented from pursuing additional recovery, even if your injuries get worse. Thus, it’s important to understand your settlement options before signing a formal release. An attorney can discuss your settlement before you sign.

Once signed, a settlement check goes to your lawyer. They typically deduct your fees, as previously agreed upon, and send you the rest. An attorney can further discuss settlement procedures.

Q: How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Truck Accident Attorney in South Carolina?

A: South Carolina’s truck accident attorneys set their own attorney’s fees, and attorneys with more experience tend to cost more. More complex trucking cases tend to cost more to resolve. If you’re ready to hire a specific attorney, it’s important to discuss their expected case fees and written attorney fee agreement.

Deas Law Firm offers initial consultations to discuss trucking accidents. Contact us with questions about your truck accident or for legal advice.

Q: How Much Do Attorneys Take From Truck Accident Settlements?

A: In most cases, an attorney takes a percentage of the settlement amount as their attorney’s fee. This agreed-upon percentage depends on the case complexity, the injury severity, and the point at which the case is settled. Many attorneys handle cases under a contingency fee agreement, meaning they’re paid only if they win your case.

It’s important you understand the percentage your attorney may take before you sign an agreement. Discuss attorney’s fees and costs with any attorney you’re considering retaining.

Schedule Your Truck Accident Consultation Right Away – Call Deas Law Firm

If you or a loved one was the victim of a truck accident case, the experienced team at Deas Law Firm can discuss your case and how to maximize your recovery. We have helped injured clients for over 24 years. We know how overwhelming these cases can be, and we can help you get the full and fair compensation you need to address your emotional and physical distress.

Located near the heart of downtown Sumter, we are a proud part of the city’s historic and central business district. North Main Street is a key thoroughfare in Sumter, and we’re within walking distance of the beautiful Sumter Opera House, located just across the street from the nearby Hyatt Place Sumter/Downtown at 18 North Main. We’re part of the small-town atmosphere and culture you’ll find downtown.

We’re just a couple of miles from the Swan Lake Iris Gardens and less than a mile from the Sumter County Museum. Downtown Sumter is pedestrian-friendly, and our office is easily accessible by car. The Santee-Wateree Regional Transit Authority also provides low-cost local bus services and shuttles, including public transit connections to Shaw Air Force Base. Contact our office to schedule your initial consultation.