Charleston Pedestrian Accident Lawyer – Legal Help for Injured Pedestrians
If you’ve been struck by a motor vehicle while walking in Charleston, South Carolina, the aftermath can be life-altering. From traumatic brain injuries and spinal cord injuries to broken bones and internal injuries, the consequences of pedestrian accidents in Charleston are often severe. At McDougall Law Firm, our experienced pedestrian accident lawyer in Charleston is here to help you fight for your legal rights and pursue the financial compensation you deserve.
We specialize in pedestrian accident cases involving serious injuries, wrongful death, and personal injury lawsuits. Whether you were hit on King Street, near the Battery, or while crossing Savannah Highway, our Charleston pedestrian accident lawyers understand how to navigate the unique challenges posed by South Carolina law and will advocate for maximum recovery.
Why You Need a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer in Charleston, SC
Hiring a skilled pedestrian accident lawyer in Charleston is crucial for those who have suffered common pedestrian accident injuries, including neck injuries, fractures, and soft tissue trauma. Injured pedestrians often face overwhelming medical bills, extended physical therapy, and long-term rehabilitation costs.
Our Charleston law firm works to prove liability by gathering police reports, witness statements, accident details, and medical records. We collaborate with accident reconstruction experts and use expert testimony to establish the at-fault party, whether it’s a distracted driver, drunk driver, or a motorist who ignored pedestrian safety and South Carolina traffic laws.
Legal Challenges in Pedestrian Accident Cases in Charleston
Pedestrian accident injuries are often far more severe than those in regular Charleston car accidents. Due to the lack of protection, injured pedestrians frequently suffer extremely traumatic outcomes, including permanent disabilities. Filing a pedestrian accident lawsuit in Charleston means taking on powerful insurance companies and their adjusters, who are focused on minimizing payouts or denying your personal injury claim.
Our Charleston pedestrian accident lawyer will build a strong case for fair compensation, factoring in lost wages, future medical treatment, emotional distress, and even punitive damages when necessary. We handle negotiations, legal filings, and courtroom representation so you can focus on your recovery.
Pedestrian Accidents and Wrongful Death in Charleston
In tragic cases involving pedestrian fatalities, our legal team helps families file wrongful death claims in accordance with South Carolina law. These lawsuits can recover funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and other damages caused by someone else’s negligence. We’re committed to seeking justice for Charleston families who have lost loved ones to reckless drivers or violations of pedestrian right-of-way laws.
Free Case Evaluation with a Charleston Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
At McDougall Law Firm, our pedestrian accident lawyers offer a free initial consultation to help you understand your legal options after a pedestrian accident in Charleston. We proudly serve clients throughout the Charleston area, including West Ashley, James Island, and surrounding neighborhoods.
Whether your case involves distracted driving, insurance disputes, or violations of pedestrian right-of-way laws, a dedicated Charleston pedestrian accident lawyer will stand by your side to pursue a fair settlement or, if necessary, take your case to trial for maximum compensation.
📞 Call 843-438-4386 today to schedule your free case evaluation with a trusted pedestrian accident lawyer in Charleston, SC. Let us fight for your recovery and hold the responsible parties accountable.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Charleston, SC
While modern vehicles continue to become safer, pedestrians remain extremely vulnerable on Charleston’s roadways. From bustling downtown intersections to suburban neighborhoods, pedestrian accidents happen far too often. At McDougall Law Firm, we’ve seen firsthand how devastating these accidents can be for local residents. Below are some of the most common causes of pedestrian accidents in Charleston, South Carolina:
Distracted Driving in Charleston
Distracted driving is a leading cause of pedestrian accidents throughout Charleston. Whether a driver is texting on King Street, adjusting the radio while crossing the Ravenel Bridge, or simply not paying attention in residential areas like West Ashley or Mount Pleasant, the consequences can be serious. Even a few seconds of distraction can lead to life-changing injuries for pedestrians.
Left-Hand Turns at Busy Charleston Intersections
Left-hand turns are particularly dangerous in high-traffic areas such as Meeting Street or Savannah Highway. Drivers often focus on oncoming traffic and neglect to check for pedestrians crossing the street—leading to preventable accidents.
Unmarked or Poorly Marked Crosswalks
Charleston has many historic and older roads, some of which lack clearly marked crosswalks. Areas near The Battery or smaller side streets in North Charleston can be especially hazardous for pedestrians when drivers are unaware of where people may be crossing.
Distracted Pedestrians
It’s not just drivers—pedestrians in Charleston can also be distracted. Walking while texting or wearing headphones can cause someone to overlook vehicles turning or running red lights, especially around the College of Charleston or in tourist-heavy areas like the Historic District.
Speeding on Charleston Roads
Speeding is a frequent problem on major roads like I-26, Highway 17, and even within neighborhood streets. At high speeds, drivers have less time to react to a pedestrian entering the roadway, leading to more severe collisions.
Driving Under the Influence
Charleston’s vibrant nightlife in areas like Upper King Street unfortunately also means a higher risk of DUIs. Intoxicated drivers have impaired reaction times and are more likely to swerve or fail to see pedestrians until it’s too late.
Pedestrian Negligence in Charleston
While drivers are often at fault, pedestrians can sometimes contribute to accidents by jaywalking, walking at night without reflective clothing, or ignoring traffic signals. This is especially dangerous in areas with limited visibility like James Island or Johns Island.
Disregarding Charleston’s Traffic Laws
Running red lights, ignoring school zone signs, or failing to yield at pedestrian crossings—these are all traffic violations that significantly raise the risk of a pedestrian accident in Charleston.
Poor Lighting in Charleston Streets
Certain parts of Charleston, especially in rural or underdeveloped areas, may have inadequate street lighting. Low visibility at night makes it difficult for drivers to see pedestrians, increasing the chance of a serious accident.
Why You Should Call a Charleston Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident in Charleston, SC, it’s natural to want to move on with your life as quickly as possible. Many accident victims try to settle their claims on their own, hoping for a fast resolution. Unfortunately, this often leads to being undercompensated — especially when dealing with aggressive insurance companies that are more concerned with protecting their bottom line than your recovery.
Insurance Companies Don’t Work for You — We Do
Whether your accident happened in Downtown Charleston, West Ashley, or Mount Pleasant, you can be sure the at-fault driver’s insurance company will bring in a team of experienced attorneys and adjusters. Their goal? To minimize the amount of money they pay you. If you try to handle the case alone, they may offer a lowball settlement — especially if they think you won’t fight back.
Once you hire a skilled Charleston pedestrian accident lawyer, everything changes. Insurance companies take your case much more seriously when they know you have professional legal representation. They understand they can’t take advantage of you when an experienced pedestrian accident attorney is protecting your rights and demanding full compensation.
Your Insurance May Also Be Involved
In some pedestrian accident cases in Charleston, your own insurance policy may play a role in covering medical bills, lost wages, or other damages — especially if the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured. At McDougall Law Firm, our experienced attorneys know how to identify every available source of compensation and ensure that insurance adjusters properly evaluate the full extent of your injuries and losses.
Local Knowledge Matters
Working with a local Charleston personal injury law firm means your attorney is familiar with Charleston County courts, local law enforcement agencies, and area roadways where pedestrian accidents frequently occur — including King Street, Ashley River Road, and Folly Road. This local insight can make a significant difference when building a strong case and negotiating a fair settlement.
No Upfront Fees – You Only Pay If Our Pedestrian Accident Attorneys Win
At McDougall Law Firm, we believe everyone deserves access to justice — regardless of their financial situation. That’s why we handle pedestrian accident cases in Charleston on a contingency fee basis. You pay nothing upfront, and we only get paid if we successfully recover compensation for you.
Speak With a Charleston Pedestrian Accident Attorney Today
Don’t let the insurance company dictate what your recovery is worth. If you’ve been hit by a vehicle in Charleston, North Charleston, James Island, or any part of the Lowcountry, contact McDougall Law Firm right away.
Our team of pedestrian accident lawyers is ready to fight for the compensation you deserve — including medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and more. Call 843-438-4386 now for a free, no-obligation consultation with a trusted Charleston pedestrian accident lawyer.
Why Choose McDougall Law’s Charleston Pedestrian Accident Attorneys?
Our Charleston-based legal team specializes in pedestrian accident cases, giving us deep insight into South Carolina’s personal injury laws and local regulations. Whether the accident occurred downtown near King Street, on the Ravenel Bridge, or in West Ashley, our knowledge of Charleston’s roadways helps us identify liable parties and build strong claims to recover the maximum compensation for your injuries.
Comprehensive Case Investigation in Charleston
Gathering solid evidence is critical to winning your case. Our pedestrian accident lawyers in Charleston have the resources to launch detailed investigations tailored to the local landscape. We know where to find surveillance cameras, how to locate eyewitnesses, and when to bring in accident reconstruction experts who are familiar with Charleston’s intersections and pedestrian crosswalks.
This may include:
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Obtaining statements from local witnesses
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Securing footage from nearby Charleston businesses or city cameras
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Analyzing police reports filed with the Charleston Police Department
Skilled Settlement Negotiations with Local Insight
Most Charleston pedestrian accident claims are resolved through settlement negotiations. Our attorneys know how Charleston-area insurance adjusters operate and are prepared to push back against any tactics designed to undervalue your claim. With decades of combined experience negotiating personal injury settlements in Charleston, our pedestrian accident attorneys will advocate for a fair and full recovery for:
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Medical expenses
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Lost wages
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Pain and suffering
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Long-term rehabilitation costs
How Our Pedestrian Accident Lawyers Can Help You Recover Damages
If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident in Charleston, SC, you need a legal team that understands the local laws, road conditions, and how these cases are handled in the Lowcountry. At McDougall Law Firm our Charleston pedestrian accident attorneys are committed to helping injured pedestrians recover full and fair compensation for their injuries.
Local Knowledge, Statewide Experience
Our team of Charleston-based personal injury lawyers specializes in pedestrian accident claims. We have a deep understanding of South Carolina pedestrian laws, as well as the specific traffic regulations and safety ordinances that apply in Charleston. Whether your accident happened downtown near King Street, on the Charleston Peninsula, or in surrounding areas like Mount Pleasant or James Island, our familiarity with the local streets and legal landscape gives us a distinct advantage.
We use this local knowledge to identify all liable parties—drivers, property owners, or even government entities—and build strong cases that aim to recover the maximum compensation you’re entitled to under South Carolina law.
Thorough Case Investigation in Charleston
Every successful pedestrian accident claim starts with a solid investigation. Our Charleston legal team has the tools and resources to collect key evidence from the scene and build a compelling case on your behalf.
Our process includes:
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Collecting witness statements from Charleston locals
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Securing surveillance footage from nearby businesses or city-owned cameras
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Reviewing reports from the Charleston Police Department
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Working with accident reconstruction experts who understand Charleston’s traffic patterns
Whether the incident happened at a busy crosswalk near Marion Square or along the Ashley River Road corridor, we know where to look and how to find the facts.
Strategic Settlement Negotiations with Charleston Insurers
Most pedestrian accident cases in Charleston settle outside of court. Our attorneys have extensive experience negotiating with local and regional insurance companies. We know the strategies insurers use to delay or deny claims, and we fight back with clear evidence and strong legal arguments.
Our pedestrian accident attorneys work to recover damages for:
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Medical bills and emergency treatment
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Lost income or reduced earning ability
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Pain and suffering
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Long-term therapy or rehabilitation costs
Our goal is to make sure you’re not just compensated, but that your settlement truly reflects the impact this accident has had on your life.
What Compensation Can McDougall Law Firm Help You Recover?
At McDougall Law Firm, we understand that a pedestrian accident can turn your life upside down in an instant. Our Charleston pedestrian accident attorneys are committed to helping you recover every dollar you’re entitled to under South Carolina law. We take a comprehensive approach to your case, seeking full compensation for both economic and non-economic damages.
Here’s what we may pursue on your behalf:
Medical Expenses
We’ll fight to recover all costs related to your medical treatment, including:
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Emergency room visits
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Hospital stays
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Surgeries
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Prescription medications
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Physical therapy
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Follow-up care with specialists
Lost Wages & Future Earnings
If your injuries forced you to miss work or impacted your ability to earn a living in the future, our team of dedicated pedestrian accident attorneys will seek compensation for:
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Lost wages
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Loss of future earning potential
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Job retraining or vocational rehabilitation
Pain and Suffering
Beyond financial losses, we know how deeply an accident can affect your quality of life. We’ll pursue compensation for:
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Physical pain and discomfort
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Emotional distress
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Loss of enjoyment of life
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Anxiety, depression, or PTSD
Permanent Disability or Disfigurement
If your injuries result in permanent damage or scarring, we’ll fight for a settlement or verdict that reflects the long-term impact of your condition on your life and livelihood.
Out-of-Pocket Expenses
This may include travel to medical appointments, modifications to your home or vehicle, medical equipment, or other costs directly tied to your recovery.
At McDougall Law Firm, we don’t believe in lowball settlements. We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial—so when it’s time to negotiate, the other side knows we’re serious. Our mission is to make sure you get the full compensation you need to heal, rebuild, and move forward.
Charleston Pedestrian Accident FAQs
What should I do if I was hit by a car while walking in Charleston, SC?
If you were hit by a car in Charleston, seek medical attention immediately, call the police to report the accident, and try to gather any evidence from the scene if you are able. It’s also crucial to contact a Charleston pedestrian accident lawyer as soon as possible to protect your rights and begin the claims process.
Can I file a claim if I was partially at fault for a pedestrian accident in Charleston?
Yes, South Carolina follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means you can still recover compensation as long as you were less than 51% at fault. Your total compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault, which your Charleston injury attorney can help you assess.
How long do I have to file a pedestrian accident lawsuit in South Carolina?
In South Carolina, you typically have three years from the date of the pedestrian accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, if your claim involves a government entity, such as the City of Charleston, the deadline may be shorter. It’s best to consult with a Charleston pedestrian accident attorney right away to avoid missing any critical deadlines.
What types of compensation can I recover in a pedestrian accident case in Charleston?
You may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and future medical care. If the accident caused permanent injuries or disability, your Charleston pedestrian accident lawyer can also pursue damages for long-term impact on your quality of life.
Do I need a lawyer to handle my pedestrian accident claim in Charleston, SC?
While it’s not legally required, having a Charleston personal injury attorney significantly improves your chances of recovering fair compensation. Our skilled pedestrian accident lawyers will handle negotiations with insurance companies, gather evidence, and advocate on your behalf to ensure your claim is taken seriously.
Injured in a Pedestrian Accident in Charleston? Let McDougall Law Firm Fight for You.
If you or a loved one was struck by a vehicle while walking in Charleston, don’t wait to get the legal help you deserve. At McDougall Law Firm, our experienced Charleston pedestrian accident attorneys are ready to stand by your side, protect your rights, and fight for maximum compensation.
Call us at 843-438-4386 today for a free, no-obligation consultation and let us start building your case.