What Happens If the At-Fault Driver Was Driving a Commercial Truck?
Accidents involving commercial semi-trucks are entirely different legal beasts. They involve federal regulations (FMCSA) regarding driver logs, rest periods, and load weights. If your attorney treats a truck accident like a standard car accident, they will miss avenues for liability, such as negligent hiring by the trucking company.
Does South Carolina’s Hands-Free Law Apply to GPS Use?
The law generally prohibits holding the device or supporting it with your body. However, interacting with a phone that is mounted to the dash for GPS navigation is typically allowed, provided it requires only a single tap or swipe. The distinction between “holding” and “mounted use” is typically where liability arguments focus.
What If I Was a Passenger in the At-Fault Car?
This is a sensitive situation, especially if the driver is a friend or family member. Remember, you are generally filing a claim against their insurance company, not taking money out of their personal bank account. Your attorney is able to handle this diplomatically to ensure you get your medical bills paid without ruining the relationship.
Can I Fire My Current Attorney and Hire a New One?
Yes, you have the right to choose your counsel at any time. However, you should ask your new attorney how the fees will be handled. Typically, the first attorney is entitled to a portion of the fee for the work they did (quantum meruit), but this should be worked out between the lawyers so you […]
What If the Other Driver’s Insurance Company Offers to Pay My Medical Bills Immediately?
This is a common tactic. They may offer a quick check to cover your ER visit in exchange for signing a release. Do not sign it. Once you sign a full and final release, your claim is closed forever. If you wake up next week with neck pain that requires surgery, you cannot go back […]