South Carolina Drivers Injured in Winter Car Accidents Should Know Their Rights

Charleston, SC (Law Firm Newswire) January 9, 2018 – South Carolina recently saw historic snowfall following a rare winter storm on January 3 that blanketed the coastal region with more than 5 inches of snow.

It marked the third-largest snowfall ever recorded in the Charleston area. The icy conditions have made the roads hazardous for much of Charleston and coastal parts of the state, which are unaccustomed to such harsh winter weather.

The South Carolina Department of Transportation and other state agencies urged people to stay home and avoid unnecessary travel due to the storm. Ice accumulation is likely to remain a serious problem for drivers in the coming days as the snow melts on roads and bridges.

“The risk of car accidents increases when roads are covered with ice and snow,” commented attorney David Pearlman of the Steinberg Law Firm. “Some drivers tend to overestimate their ability to drive in such hazardous conditions. Driving behaviors like texting while behind the wheel or speeding become even more dangerous in winter weather. It is best to exercise extreme caution when traveling on icy roads to avoid crashes.”

Aggressive, reckless or distracted driving becomes even more dangerous in such severe winter weather conditions. Drivers have an enhanced responsibility for keeping others safe when the roads are slick due to ice and melting snow. They should take extra care to use their turn signals, observe road signage, leave ample room between vehicles, follow speed limits and be more vigilant than usual. Motorists who fail to drive cautiously can cause car accidents that can lead to serious injuries, or even death.

The City of North Charleston reported that a 17-year-old man was charged for driving too fast for the snowy conditions following a fatal car accident that killed a pedestrian. Law enforcement also responded to dozens of minor wrecks and spin outs, while Mount Pleasant police dealt with at least 60 crashes in the storm’s aftermath.

Individuals who have been injured in a car accident should seek immediate medical attention, even if there is no apparent injury or the impact was minor. It is also important to keep records of all accident-related information including medical expenses, police reports and contact details of witnesses.

Additionally, be sure not to speak to insurance companies before consulting an experienced car accident lawyer. For those that have been injured in a winter car accident, set up a free consultation with the Steinberg Law Firm to discuss legal rights and options.

  Steinberg Law Firm 61 Broad St Charleston, SC 29401 Phone: (843) 720-2800 118 S Goose Creek Blvd Goose Creek, SC 29445 Phone: (843) 572-0700 103 Grandview Drive Summerville, SC 29483 Phone: (843) 871-6522