Pedestrian accidents are among the most severe types of traffic incidents. With no protection against the force of a vehicle, pedestrians are highly vulnerable to life-changing injuries or even death. If you or someone you love was hit by a vehicle while walking in Greenville, South Carolina, it’s essential to understand your legal rights.
Hiring a pedestrian accident lawyer in Greenville can make the difference between a denied claim and receiving the full compensation you deserve. This article explains why legal representation is crucial, how claims work in South Carolina, and what to expect throughout the legal process.
Pedestrian Accidents in Greenville: A Growing Concern
Greenville, a vibrant city known for its walkable downtown and growing suburban neighborhoods, sees its share of pedestrian traffic. With more people walking to work, school, or shops, pedestrian-related accidents have become more frequent.
Common accident locations include:
Main Street and busy downtown intersections
Highways and rural roads lacking sidewalks
School zones and residential areas
Crosswalks near shopping centers or hospitals
Distracted or reckless driving, poor visibility, and infrastructure issues are common contributors.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
Many pedestrian accidents are caused by driver negligence. Here are some of the most common causes in Greenville and surrounding areas:
Distracted driving (e.g., texting, using GPS)
Speeding
Failure to yield at crosswalks
Driving under the influence
Ignoring traffic signals
Poor road or weather conditions
Improper lane changes near pedestrians
Even if you were partially at fault—for example, crossing outside a crosswalk—you might still be eligible for compensation under South Carolina’s comparative negligence law.
South Carolina Laws That Protect Pedestrians
Under South Carolina law, pedestrians have the right of way in crosswalks and intersections. Drivers are legally obligated to:
Stop or yield for pedestrians in marked crosswalks.
Exercise due care to avoid colliding with any pedestrian.
Be especially cautious in school zones or areas with children.
If a driver fails to uphold these duties and causes injury, they can be held legally liable for damages.
How a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer in Greenville Can Help
A skilled Greenville pedestrian accident attorney provides more than legal advice—they become your advocate during a difficult time. Here’s what they do:
1. Case Evaluation
Your attorney will review police reports, medical records, and witness statements to determine liability and estimate the value of your case.
2. Negotiating with Insurance Companies
Insurers often attempt to reduce or deny pedestrian claims. An experienced lawyer knows how to counter these tactics and push for a fair settlement.
3. Filing a Personal Injury Lawsuit
If negotiations fail, your lawyer will file a lawsuit and represent you in court to seek maximum compensation.
4. Handling All Legal Paperwork and Deadlines
South Carolina has a three-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims. A lawyer ensures your claim is filed correctly and on time.
What Compensation Can You Receive?
Victims of pedestrian accidents in Greenville may be entitled to compensation for:
Medical expenses
Emergency care, surgery, rehab, and long-term care
Lost wages
Income lost during recovery or inability to return to work
Pain and suffering
Physical pain, mental trauma, and reduced quality of life
Disability or permanent injury
Property damage
Damaged personal items (phone, clothes, etc.)
Wrongful death damages
For families who have lost a loved one
The exact amount depends on the severity of injuries and the circumstances of the accident.
What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident in Greenville
Call 911 Immediately
Get medical help and have the police document the scene.
Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine, get checked—some injuries appear later.
Gather Evidence
Take photos, note weather and road conditions, and get contact info from witnesses.
Avoid Discussing Fault
Don’t admit blame to the driver or insurer.
Contact a Greenville Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
The sooner you have legal help, the stronger your case will be.
How Much Does a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Cost?
Most personal injury lawyers in Greenville work on a contingency fee basis. This means you don’t pay anything unless your lawyer wins your case. Typically, the attorney receives a percentage of the final settlement—usually 33% to 40%.
This arrangement ensures that everyone, regardless of financial situation, can access legal representation.
Choosing the Right Lawyer in Greenville
When searching for a pedestrian accident lawyer, look for:
Experience with pedestrian and traffic injury cases
Strong reviews or testimonials
Clear communication and compassion
Willingness to go to trial, if necessary
Many law firms in Greenville offer free consultations, so take advantage of this to find someone you trust.
Conclusion
Being struck by a vehicle while walking can turn your life upside down. The physical, emotional, and financial toll can be overwhelming—but you don’t have to face it alone. A pedestrian accident lawyer in Greenville will fight for your rights and help you pursue the full compensation you’re entitled to under South Carolina law.
If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident in Greenville, don’t delay. Reach out to a local personal injury attorney today and take the first step toward recovery and justice.