Interstate Highway Accidents

Some of the deadliest accidents take place on interstate highways, where cars travel at high speeds. In South Carolina, and particularly in the areas around Spartanburg and Greenville, there are many congested interstates that are clogged with large trucks and other vehicles all too often. The high volume of traffic that these interstates handle creates a serious risk of dangerous situations and high-speed crashes. Greenville and Spartanburg interstate highway accident attorney Patrick E. Knie understands the legal issues that may arise in these situations. He can assist South Carolina residents who need a car accident lawyer to help them pursue compensation.

On an interstate, each driver has a duty to operate his or her motor vehicle with the same care and skill that a prudent and reasonable person would use. This takes into account any distinctive conditions that may have been present at the time of the crash, including severe weather, dense traffic, or roadway obstructions. Even though the speed limit may allow drivers to travel at a certain speed, heavy rain, icy roads, construction, or erratic traffic flow may lead a prudent driver to reduce his or her speed to ensure that he or she navigates through the condition safely without placing other drivers at risk.

There are a number of South Carolina traffic regulations that also impose a duty on drivers, including a prohibition on using cell phones for texting while driving. If a driver violated one of these statutes at the time of the crash, the plaintiff likely will have a strong argument that the defendant breached the applicable standard of care.

Next, the plaintiff will need to prove that there was a connection between the injuries that he or she sustained and the defendant’s lack of care. This is known as causation, and it consists of showing both that the accident would not have happened if not for the defendant’s breach, and also that it was an event that could have been expected to result from the breach.

Since interstate highway accidents typically happen at high speeds and may involve large, heavy vehicles, the injuries and property damage that result unfortunately are often substantial. It is important to seek compensation for all of the past and future costs arising from the crash that can be reasonably quantified. Testimony from doctors and vocational experts may be important in establishing damages like medical expenses, lost income and earning capacity, and therapy and rehabilitation costs. Non-economic damages like pain and suffering also usually are available.

If you have been involved in an interstate highway accident, you may be entitled to compensation. The legal process can be daunting, particularly if you are suffering from debilitating and painful injuries and worrying about supporting your family. Spartanburg and Greenville interstate highway accident lawyer Patrick E. Knie understands the stress that you may be facing and is ready to aggressively advocate for you in settlement negotiations or at trial. He serves individuals and families throughout Laurens, Greenville, Union, Cherokee, and Spartanburg Counties. Call us at (864) 582-5118 or contact us online to set up a free consultation with a motor vehicle collision attorney.