Texting and driving is a dangerous and illegal behavior that can have devastating consequences. In Myrtle Beach, SC, where there is a high volume of tourists and distracted drivers, the risk of a texting-while-driving accident is unfortunately high.
If you were hurt in such a collision, we strongly advise you to seek legal representation to protect your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve. Hiring a Myrtle Beach texting-while-driving accident lawyer from Miller Dawson Sigal & Ward Injury Attorneys can make all the difference in your case.
Contact our car accident lawyers today for a free consultation.
South Carolina Law Regarding Texting and Driving
South Carolina’s law against texting and driving is outlined in S.C. Code § 56-5-3890. With a few notable exceptions, the law prohibits motorists from using a handheld device to read, compose, or send a text message while operating a motor vehicle on a public roadway.
The key points to know about South Carolina’s law regarding texting and driving are:
- Prohibition: Sending, receiving, or reading text messages while driving is illegal. This includes all forms of written communication, such as texting, emailing, or instant messaging.
- Hands-Free Requirement: The law allows hands-free devices to send or receive voice-based communication as long as it does not require manual input or typing.
- Penalties: Violating the texting and driving law is considered a misdemeanor offense. The penalties for a first offense include a fine of $25. Subsequent offenses carry higher fines, and violators may also face points on their driving records.
- Exceptions: The law provides exceptions for emergencies, such as reporting a crime or calling for medical assistance. Additionally, it does not prohibit using GPS navigation systems or voice-operated technology.
If a driver who was texting caused your injuries, an attorney can help you get compensation through an insurance claim or civil lawsuit.
Available Compensation After a Myrtle Beach Texting and Driving Accident
The consequences of someone texting and driving can be devastating, leaving you with physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial burdens. Seeking compensation is essential to helping you recover physically, emotionally, and financially.
Every personal injury case is unique, but the following damages may be available after a Myrtle Beach collision:
- Medical expenses: You may be entitled to reimbursement for all expenses related to your injuries, including hospital bills, medications, and ongoing treatment.
- Lost wages: If your condition has caused you to miss work, you may be able to recover compensation for loss of income. This includes the wages you have missed and any future loss of earning potential.
- Property damage: If your vehicle was damaged in the accident, you may be able to recover the costs of repairing or replacing it.
- Pain and suffering: Compensation may be available for the physical and emotional pain, suffering, and trauma you have experienced due to the crash.
- Emotional distress: If the accident has caused significant emotional distress, such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), you may be entitled to damages for the psychological impact of the accident.
- Rehabilitation and therapy: If your injuries require ongoing rehabilitation, physical therapy, or counseling, you can claim the costs associated with these treatments.
- Punitive damages: In cases where an at-fault driver’s conduct was particularly reckless, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the at-fault party and serve as a deterrent.
Navigating the legal process and advocating for fair compensation can be challenging. The Thumbs Up Guys can assist you in building a strong case for financial compensation.
What an Attorney Can Do for Your Case
When you’ve been involved in a car accident caused by a texting driver in Myrtle Beach, seeking the assistance of an experienced attorney can greatly benefit your case. A Myrtle Beach, texting-while-driving accident lawyer can provide comprehensive legal support, strengthen your case, and pursue fair compensation on your behalf.
Here are some key ways an attorney from our team can help with your texting and driving accident case:
- Case evaluation: An experienced attorney will evaluate the specific details of your case, including the evidence, injuries, and financial losses. They will provide an honest assessment and guide you on the best legal strategies moving forward.
- Investigation: Your attorney will conduct a thorough investigation to gather all necessary evidence of the accident. This typically includes obtaining the police report, collecting witness statements, analyzing phone records, and obtaining any available surveillance or traffic camera footage that may support your case.
- Negotiations: Your attorney will negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf. They will present a strong case supported by evidence, medical records, and other documentation to demonstrate the extent of your injuries and their impact on your life.
- Litigation: If a favorable settlement cannot be reached through negotiations, your attorney will be prepared to take your case to court. They can help you file a legal claim, present your case before a judge and jury, and fight for fair compensation.
By enlisting the help of a Myrtle Beach texting-while-driving accident attorney, you can level the playing field against insurance companies and increase the chances of a favorable outcome in your case.
Contact the Thumbs Up Guys for a Free Case Evaluation
If you’ve been injured in a collision caused by a motorist who was texting, you shouldn’t have to pay for the resulting medical bills and other damages. The Thumbs Up Guys at Miller Dawson Sigal & Ward Injury Attorneys can review your accident and determine whether you have a case for compensation.
Our initial consultation is free, and we accept cases on contingency so you won’t pay anything out of pocket. Time is of the essence in building a strong case and protecting your rights, so don’t wait to take action. Contact our texting-while-driving accident lawyer in Myrtle Beach today for a free, no-obligation case evaluation.