Get help from motorcycle accident lawyers in Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach’s vast coastline and twice-yearly biker week make the city a popular destination for motorcyclists. However, riders face various challenges here, including distracted drivers and heavy traffic. If you were hurt in a crash, a seasoned motorcycle accident lawyer in Myrtle Beach can help you recover the compensation you need to put your life back together.

ConsumerShield connects you with seasoned attorneys who will assess your case and clarify your rights. Read on to discover how to hire an attorney and what filing a lawsuit entails.

How Much Does a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Cost in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina?

The cost of hiring a motorcycle accident lawyer in Myrtle Beach can be a significant worry when you’re injured in a crash. Fortunately, most injury lawyers work on a contingency fee agreement, meaning they only get paid if you win compensation.

The attorney’s fee is usually a percentage of the settlement or court award and typically ranges from 33%- 40%. Percentages can vary between law firms and may also depend on the complexity of your case and whether it goes to trial.

However, you’ll also incur additional expenses when filing a lawsuit, including court filing fees, investigation expenses and expert witness fees. These costs may or may not be included in an attorney’s contingency fee, and some attorneys may expect you to pay them as the case progresses. Discussing fees with your motorcycle accident lawyer can prevent you from receiving surprise bills.

How to Hire a Myrtle Beach, South Carolina Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

When motorcycle accident injuries throw your life off track, you need an effective lawyer who can protect you and fight for the compensation you need and deserve. Here’s what to look for when hiring a lawyer:

• Motorcycle accident specialization. Motorcycle crashes differ from other accident cases and involve a special skill set. You’ll want to work with an attorney with a strong track record of securing favorable verdicts and settlements in cases like yours.

• Local presence. An attorney practicing in Myrtle Beach will be familiar with local courts, judges and insurance companies in the area, which can significantly smooth out the legal process.

• Referrals and recommendations. Ask family, friends and coworkers whether they have worked with an outstanding motorcycle accident lawyer. Word of mouth can be a fast and effortless way to find a reputable lawyer with a proven record of success.

• Free case review. Credentials and past successes aren’t everything. Before hiring an attorney, schedule a free consultation where you can ask questions and evaluate the attorney’s personality to determine whether you’re a good match.

Average Motorcycle Accident Settlement in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

The value of your motorcycle accident settlement in Myrtle Beach depends on factors like the scope of your injuries and the extent of damages. Severe or life-changing injuries generally result in higher compensation due to the impact of such injuries on victims’ lives and the resulting medical costs.

Many personal injury cases settle through negotiations with the at-fault party’s insurer. While insurance companies may initially offer low amounts, a skilled motorcycle accident lawyer in Myrtle Beach can help you secure maximum compensation.

Since each injury case is unique, there’s no average amount, and settlements can range from tens of thousands of dollars to millions of dollars in cases involving disabling injuries or wrongful death. Law firms nationwide have reported most motorcycle accident settlements falling between $66,000 to $100,000.

Filing a Motorcycle Accident Lawsuit in South Carolina

Filing a motorcycle accident lawsuit can be crucial to getting what you deserve, especially when an insurance company is dragging its heels and refusing a fair settlement. Here are some vital considerations when filing a lawsuit in South Carolina:

• Comparative negligence. South Carolina’s motorcycle accident laws follow the modified comparative negligence rule, meaning victims can only recover compensation if they are less than 51% at fault for the crash.

• Statute of limitations. The South Carolina Statute of Limitations gives you three years from the accident date to file a personal injury lawsuit and seek compensation. Missing this deadline may result in losing the right to sue.

• Recoverable damages. Depending on the specifics of your claim, you could qualify for various damages. You may receive economic damages, such as medical bills and lost wages, and non-economic damages, like pain and suffering.

• Potential lawsuit defendants. While another driver may be responsible for your crash, there can be third-party defendants, including the vehicle owner, a government agency or a vehicle manufacturer.

A motorcycle accident lawyer in Myrtle Beach can walk you through the legal process, observe the necessary filing deadlines and fight for maximum compensation.

How Does a Motorcycle Accident Lawsuit Work in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina?

A motorcycle accident lawsuit usually begins with filing a complaint in civil court. The complaint document explains what happened in the accident, details your injuries and lays out the damages you seek. After filing the complaint, the defendant is notified and given the opportunity to respond. Your case will then move to the discovery phase.

During discovery, evidence like medical records, witness statements and police reports are exchanged. Your motorcycle accident lawyer in Myrtle Beach can use the evidence to build your case and prove the other party’s fault.

If the parties can’t agree on a settlement, your case may proceed to trial. At trial, a judge or jury will decide the outcome of the lawsuit based on the evidence and arguments presented.

Types of Motorcycle Accident Cases in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) says motorcycle riders are overrepresented in fatal traffic accidents. The agency mentions some common reasons for motorcycle accidents, including speeding, driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs and inclement weather.

If another driver’s recklessness or carelessness caused your crash, a motorcycle accident lawyer in Myrtle Beach can help you get justice and compensation.