South Carolina consistently ranks among the states with the highest traffic fatality rates in the nation. In 2022, SCDPS Traffic Collision Fact Book reported 1,093 traffic fatalities and 143,426 total traffic collisions, underscoring the significant impact of motor vehicle accidents on its residents.
If you were injured in a car accident in South Carolina, you may be wondering how long it will take to receive a settlement. While no two cases are the same, this guide explains the general timeline and key factors that affect your case.
What Is a Car Accident Settlement?
A car accident settlement is an agreement between you and the insurance company of the at-fault driver. Instead of going to trial, you accept a negotiated amount of money to cover:
- Medical expenses
- Lost income
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
Once a settlement is signed, the case is considered closed, and no further legal action can be taken.
What Affects the Timeline of a Car Accident Settlement in South Carolina?
Several important factors influence how long it will take to settle your claim:
- The Severity of Your Injuries
If you recover quickly, your case might settle faster. But for serious injuries, it’s important to wait until you reach maximum medical improvement (MMI) so we can accurately calculate the long-term cost of your care.
- Clarity of Fault
When it’s clear who caused the accident, insurance companies tend to settle quicker. But if the facts are disputed, it takes longer to gather police reports, eyewitness statements, and expert opinions.
- Cooperation from the Insurance Company
Some insurance companies respond quickly. Others drag their feet and delay negotiations. At Spartan Law, we push back hard to get our clients treated fairly.
- Whether You Need to File a Lawsuit
Most cases settle before trial. But if the insurer refuses to offer fair compensation, we may need to file a lawsuit. This adds time but can lead to a better outcome.
General Timeline of a Car Accident Settlement
While every case is different, here’s what a typical car accident settlement process looks like in South Carolina:
Step 1: Medical Treatment and Recovery (Weeks to Months)
We wait until you reach MMI before calculating your total damages.
Step 2: Investigation and Document Collection (1 to 2 Months)
We gather medical records, police reports, wage loss info, and photos from the scene.
Step 3: Demand Letter and Negotiation (1 to 3 Months)
We submit a demand letter to the insurance company with evidence and a settlement request.
Step 4: Settlement or Lawsuit
- If a fair offer is made, we finalize the settlement.
- If not, we may file a lawsuit, which can take 6 months to 2 years depending on complexity and court schedules.
When Should You Contact a Lawyer After a Car Accident?
As soon as possible.
In South Carolina, the deadline to file a personal injury claim is generally three years from the date of the crash. But the sooner you get legal help, the stronger your case will be.
Contacting a lawyer early helps:
- Preserve evidence
- Avoid mistakes in dealing with the insurance company
- Maximize your compensation
Why Choose Spartan Law for Your Car Accident Claim?
Attorney Thomas Conits from Spartan Law team have helped car accident victims across South Carolina get the justice they deserve. We proudly serve clients in Greenville, Columbia, Charleston, and throughout the state.
Here’s what you can expect:
- Personal attention from your attorney
- Prompt communication and updates
- A team that’s ready to fight for maximum compensation
You never pay upfront. We only get paid if we win your case.
Talk to Spartan Law Today
Call Spartan Law at 864-777-1000 now for a free, no-obligation consultation with a South Carolina car accident lawyer. We’re here to help you understand your rights and move forward with confidence.
