Legal Question in Personal Injury in South Carolina

Being sued due to an auto accident

My wife was involved in a car accident when were were on vacation in South Carolina. She did not receive a ticket, but we believe she was at fault in the accident. This was in April of last year and yesterday we received a letter from the Dept. of Motor Vehicles of SC that included a summons and complaint for actual and punative damages to the other party in the accident. Our insurance company told us to fax over the paperwork and they will take care of it, because we have full coverage. However, should I hire a lawer to consult with on on this issue? I am obviously unnerved about the whole situation and want to make sure I have all my bases covered. The insurance company told us that they made the other party a settlement offer which she refused. They also mentioned that she went to the hospital after the accident, but was almost immediately released without any serious injury.


Asked on 1/19/07, 10:00 am

2 Answers from Attorneys
James Grissom Law Office of James P. Grissom

Re: Being sued due to an auto accident

Your insurance company is handling this for you. You should be able to talk to the lawyer they are working with. Try not to worry further about this and follow the advice of the attorney.

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Answered on 1/19/07, 10:07 am
Ben Stevens The Stevens Firm, P.A. Family Law Center

Re: Being sued due to an auto accident

In a situation like this, it is important to understand that the insurance company will look out for ITS interest first and then those of your wife. The company will tell you differently, but I have seen insurance companies do it over and over again.

For that reason, I would suggest that your wife contact an attorney here in South Carolina to find out what liability your wife has if the insurance company does not act reasonably and/or adequately protect her interests.

Also, you should note that she only has 30 days to respond to the Complaint from the date that service was perfected.

If you need more information, you can visit my personal injury blog (www.SCPILaw.com) or our website (www.StevensFirm.com).

Good luck,

Ben Stevens

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Answered on 1/21/07, 9:39 pm


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