Charleston Stop Sign Accident Lawyer
Stop sign accidents are a common yet often overlooked type of traffic collision that occurs at intersections on city streets and residential neighborhoods. These accidents can lead to severe injuries and significant property damage. A Charleston stop sign accident lawyer can help you understand and protect your rights while building a case that delivers strong results. Our firm’s philosophy is based on helping people in need, and to that end we provide a high level of personal attention and tailor our approach to meet your needs.
Common Causes of Stop Sign Accidents in Charleston
Several factors can contribute to stop sign accidents, including:
- Failure to Stop: Drivers who run stop signs are a primary cause of these accidents. Whether due to distraction, recklessness, or poor visibility, failing to stop at a stop sign can result in dangerous collisions.
- Rolling Stops: Often, drivers may slow down but not come to a complete stop, leading to misjudgments about the right-of-way and causing accidents.
- Impaired Driving: Alcohol or drug impairment can significantly affect a driver’s ability to recognize and obey stop signs, increasing the risk of accidents.
- Distracted Driving: Activities such as texting, eating, checking social media or using the car’s infotainment system can divert a driver’s attention from the road, causing them to miss stop signs.
- Obstructed View: Overgrown foliage, parked vehicles, or other obstructions can prevent drivers from seeing stop signs, leading to unintended violations and accidents. The city of Charleston or private property owners could bear legal responsibility for the accident victims in these complex situations.
Types of Injuries in Stop Sign Accidents
Stop sign accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor to severe. Common injuries include whiplash and neck injuries where sudden stops and impacts cause severe strain on the neck and back. Stop sign collisions often result in head trauma, ranging from concussions to more severe brain injuries. In addition, the force of impact can lead to fractures in the arms, legs, ribs, and other parts of the body. Damage to internal organs can also occur, requiring immediate medical attention. Broken glass and other debris can additionally cause cuts and bruises, some of which may be serious, leading to severe medical complications or scarring and disfigurement.
Legal Implications and Liability for Charleston Stop Sign Accidents
Determining liability in stop sign accidents can be a complex matter. South Carolina follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which means that a victim’s compensation can be proportionately reduced if they are found partially at fault for the accident. Moreover, if the victim is found to be more than 50% at fault, they cannot recover any damages at all. Contacting an experienced car accident lawyer soon after the crash can help ensure that liability is properly established and that you are not unfairly blamed for causing or contributing to the accident.
At the Gus Anastopoulo Law Firm, our experienced lawyers conduct a thorough investigation to establish fault and build a strong case. We gather evidence such as police reports, witness statements and traffic camera footage. We further engage with accident reconstruction specialists when needed to provide an expert assessment of what happened and who was to blame.
Victims of stop sign accidents may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including medical expenses for hospital bills, ongoing treatment, rehabilitation, and any necessary medical equipment. Crash victims can also recover lost wages for time missed at work due to injury and recovery or if they are permanently disabled from working. Damages for physical pain and emotional distress (pain and suffering) caused by the accident are also recoverable and can be many times greater than the other damages. A comprehensive injury lawyer will also not neglect to include the property damage portion of your claim, ensuring reimbursement for repair or replacement of damaged vehicles and other property.
Contact the Gus Anastopoulo Law Firm After a Stop Sign Accident in Charleston
If you or a loved one has been injured in a stop sign accident in Charleston, the Gus Anastopoulo Law Firm is here to help. Our team of dedicated personal injury lawyers understands the nuances of South Carolina traffic laws and is committed to fighting for your rights. Call us today at 843-310-5555 for a free consultation. We will review your case, answer your questions, and provide the guidance you need to pursue justice and secure the compensation you deserve.
