What Is a Slip & Fall Case? Understanding Premises Liability in Beaufort, South Carolina
At McDougall LawFirm, we know that a sudden fall can cause more than just embarrassment—it can lead to serious, life-altering injuries. A Beaufort slip and fall case falls under the broader area of premises liability law, which holds property owners responsible when unsafe conditions on their property cause harm to lawful visitors.
A slip and fall refers to any situation where an individual loses their footing and falls due to hazardous conditions on someone else’s property—whether commercial, public, or private. Common causes include wet or uneven floors, loose carpeting, poor lighting, broken handrails, unmarked hazards, or icy walkways. In Beaufort, slip and fall accidents frequently occur in retail stores, restaurants, apartment complexes, and government buildings.
If you were injured on property you had a legal right to be on, and that injury was due to the property owner’s failure to maintain a safe environment or warn of known dangers, you may be entitled to compensation under South Carolina law. A skilled Beaufort slip and fall lawyer from McDougall LawFirm can investigate your case, determine liability, and pursue the financial recovery you need to move forward.
Whether you suffered a back injury at a Port Royal business, a fractured wrist in a Shell Point grocery store, or a hip injury on the wet floors of a downtown Beaufort building, a slip and fall attorney at our firm is prepared to fight for your rights. We understand how to prove negligence, identify all liable parties, and document your injuries to build a strong case from day one.
Don’t assume your accident was your fault—hazards are often preventable. With an experienced Beaufort slip and fall attorney at your side, you can hold negligent property owners accountable and protect your future. McDougall LawFirm proudly represents injury victims throughout Beaufort, Lady’s Island, Burton, and the surrounding Lowcountry communities with integrity, compassion, and results-driven legal support.
Common Hazards That Cause Slip & Falls in Beaufort, South Carolina
At McDougall LawFirm, we’ve seen firsthand how seemingly minor hazards can lead to devastating injuries. A Beaufort slip and fall accident can occur anywhere—grocery stores, restaurants, stairwells, sidewalks, or public buildings—often caused by dangerous property conditions that should have been prevented. Our experienced slip and fall lawyers are here to help you identify the root cause of your fall and hold negligent parties accountable.
One of the most common causes of Beaufort slip and fall injuries is wet or slippery flooring. Spilled drinks in a café on Bay Street, freshly mopped supermarket aisles without warning signs, or tracked-in rainwater at retail entrances in Beaufort Town Center can all create serious hazards if not addressed promptly.
Poor lighting is another frequent culprit. Dimly lit staircases in apartment complexes, dark hallways in office buildings, or shadowed parking lots behind shopping centers in Burton or Lady’s Island can prevent you from seeing hazards until it’s too late. Property owners have a duty to provide safe visibility for tenants, visitors, and customers alike.
Uneven walking surfaces are a major risk throughout Beaufort’s historic and modern areas. Cracked sidewalks in downtown Beaufort, loose bricks near waterfront paths, or potholes in parking lots near government facilities are all real examples of unsafe property maintenance. These conditions are not just inconvenient—they can cause traumatic injuries like fractures, spinal damage, or head trauma.
Torn or loose carpeting, particularly in older buildings or rental properties, can catch your shoe and send you to the ground before you know it. Whether it’s in a hotel room on Ribaut Road or a business lobby near the hospital corridor, torn flooring is a hazard that owners are responsible for repairing.
Another preventable cause is clutter or obstacles left in walkways. Boxes left in store aisles, tools on construction sites, or personal items blocking common areas in residential complexes across Shell Point and Port Royal are all violations of basic safety protocols. When these hazards result in injury, a Beaufort slip and fall attorney can investigate whether negligence played a role.
If you’ve been injured due to any of these common hazards, a trusted Beaufort slip and fall lawyer at McDougall LawFirm is ready to help. We understand local property codes, building regulations, and liability laws—and we use that knowledge to secure fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and long-term recovery.
Who Is Responsible for a Beaufort Slip and Fall Accident?
Understanding who is legally responsible for a Beaufort slip and fall injury is a crucial part of securing the compensation you need. At McDougall LawFirm, our experienced slip and fall lawyers thoroughly investigate the details of your accident to determine exactly who is at fault. In South Carolina, multiple parties may bear legal liability depending on where and how the incident occurred—and we know how to hold them accountable.
In most Beaufort slip and fall cases, property owners are the primary responsible parties. Whether the accident happened at a private residence in Shell Point, a retail store near Boundary Street, or a downtown Beaufort restaurant, owners have a legal obligation to keep their premises reasonably safe for visitors. If they failed to fix a known hazard—like a leaking pipe, broken step, or poorly lit walkway—they may be held liable.
Property managers and landlords also frequently share responsibility. For example, if a tenant reports an unsafe staircase in a Lady’s Island apartment complex and the management company ignores the issue, they could be liable when someone is injured. A qualified Beaufort slip and fall attorney from McDougall LawFirm will examine maintenance logs, security footage, and complaint histories to prove negligence.
In commercial properties, tenants or business operators may be responsible instead of the property owner. If a business leases space on Ribaut Road and fails to clean up a spill or remove clutter in customer areas, they could be liable for any resulting injuries. A knowledgeable Beaufort slip and fall lawyer will evaluate the lease agreement to determine who had control over the dangerous condition.
In public areas like sidewalks, parks, or government buildings, local or state government entities may be at fault. However, suing a government agency for a Beaufort slip and fall injury involves specific notice requirements and shorter filing deadlines. Our slip and fall attorneys are experienced in navigating these additional legal complexities on behalf of injured residents across Beaufort County.
Visitor status also plays a major role in determining liability. South Carolina premises liability law places different duties of care on property owners depending on whether you are an invitee, licensee, or trespasser:
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Invitees (such as customers or business clients) are owed the highest duty of care, meaning property owners must inspect for and fix hazards.
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Licensees (like social guests) must be warned of known dangers that may not be obvious.
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Trespassers are typically owed a lower duty of care, although exceptions exist for children and known frequent trespassers.
At McDougall LawFirm, your Beaufort slip and fall attorney will assess your visitor classification, identify all potentially liable parties, and build a strong case supported by evidence. Whether your fall happened in a municipal building, private home, or retail space, our slip and fall lawyers are here to help you pursue the compensation you deserve.
Steps to Take After a Beaufort Slip and Fall Injury
If you’ve experienced a Beaufort slip and fall accident—whether it happened at a local grocery store in Port Royal, a historic inn on Bay Street, or a parking lot near Lady’s Island—the steps you take immediately afterward can greatly affect your safety and your legal claim. At McDougall LawFirm, our experienced slip and fall lawyers are here to help injured residents across Beaufort County protect their rights and pursue the compensation they deserve.
Follow these critical steps to safeguard your health and strengthen your case:
1. Seek Medical Attention Right Away
Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s essential to get checked by a medical professional as soon as possible. Many Beaufort slip and fall injuries—like concussions, fractures, or soft tissue damage—may not be immediately apparent. Prompt medical documentation connects your injuries directly to the fall, which is crucial when working with a slip and fall attorney on your claim.
Visit a local Beaufort urgent care, hospital, or your primary care provider. Keep copies of all medical records, prescriptions, discharge summaries, and receipts for treatment.
2. Report the Incident to the Property Owner or Manager
As soon as possible, notify the property owner, store manager, landlord, or other responsible party that the Beaufort slip and fall incident occurred. Ask for a written report and request a copy. If the fall happened on government property or in a public area, note the agency or department overseeing that space.
Be factual, avoid speculation, and refrain from admitting fault. A Beaufort slip and fall lawyer can later help clarify liability and handle communications on your behalf.
3. Document the Hazard and Your Injuries
Preserving visual and written evidence is one of the most effective ways to support your case. Take clear photos or videos of the hazardous condition that caused your Beaufort slip and fall—whether it’s a puddle, broken sidewalk, loose tile, or dim lighting. Also photograph your injuries, your clothing, and any visible bruising or swelling.
Write down what happened while it’s still fresh in your mind. Include the date, time, exact location, weather conditions, and any conversations you had immediately after the fall.
4. Gather Witness Information
If anyone saw your Beaufort slip and fall, ask for their name, phone number, and a brief statement. Independent witnesses can provide powerful, unbiased support in your claim. A slip and fall attorney will follow up with them and secure sworn statements if needed during the investigation process.
Don’t rely on businesses or property owners to document witness details—take the initiative to protect your own interests.
5. Contact a Beaufort Slip and Fall Attorney Immediately
The sooner you speak with a qualified Beaufort slip and fall lawyer, the better your chances of securing fair compensation for your injuries. At McDougall LawFirm, we offer free consultations to evaluate your case and explain your rights. From gathering evidence and filing claims to negotiating with insurance companies and preparing for trial if necessary, your dedicated slip and fall attorney will manage every legal step.
How a Beaufort Slip and Fall Lawyer Can Help You Win Your Case
When you’ve been injured in a Beaufort slip and fall accident, it can feel like your world has been turned upside down—physically, emotionally, and financially. Whether the fall occurred at a local Beaufort restaurant, grocery store, apartment complex, or public park, the guidance of an experienced slip and fall lawyer can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. At McDougall LawFirm, our skilled Beaufort slip and fall attorneys provide strategic, client-focused legal support from start to finish.
Comprehensive Investigation of the Incident
Slip and fall cases hinge on timely, thorough investigations. Your Beaufort slip and fall lawyer will begin by examining every aspect of your accident. This includes inspecting the location where the fall occurred, determining what hazards existed, and reviewing whether property owners followed their duty of care under South Carolina premises liability law.
We conduct on-site investigations in communities across Beaufort—from Shell Point and Lady’s Island to downtown and Broad River Boulevard—to uncover facts that support your claim.
Evidence Collection to Build a Strong Case
The success of any Beaufort slip and fall case depends on quality evidence. At McDougall LawFirm, your slip and fall attorney will gather the essential proof needed to demonstrate liability, such as:
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Surveillance footage showing the fall
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Photos of the hazard (wet floor, uneven pavement, poor lighting, etc.)
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Maintenance records, cleaning logs, and inspection schedules
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Incident reports filed with property owners or managers
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Eyewitness statements
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Medical records documenting injuries and treatment
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Testimony from safety experts or building code specialists
This robust documentation helps establish how the unsafe condition caused your injuries and whether negligence was involved.
Negotiating with Insurance Companies on Your Behalf
Insurance adjusters often try to minimize payouts in Beaufort slip and fall claims. They may attempt to shift blame onto you, undervalue your injuries, or offer a lowball settlement early in the process. That’s where having an experienced slip and fall attorney becomes invaluable.
Our Beaufort slip and fall lawyers negotiate directly with insurers to fight for full compensation—covering your medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and long-term rehabilitation needs. We manage all communications so you don’t have to deal with high-pressure tactics or confusing paperwork.
Litigation and Trial Representation When Needed
While many Beaufort slip and fall claims settle outside of court, some require formal litigation. If the insurance company refuses to make a fair offer, your slip and fall lawyer will be ready to take the case to trial. McDougall LawFirm prepares every case as if it’s going to court—ensuring that your story is clearly presented, your evidence is organized, and your legal arguments are backed by facts and law.
From pre-trial motions to courtroom presentation, our Beaufort slip and fall attorneys stand with you every step of the way—fighting for the verdict and compensation you deserve.
Types of Compensation Available in a Beaufort Slip and Fall Case
If you’ve suffered injuries from a Beaufort slip and fall accident—whether in a grocery store, on a broken sidewalk downtown, or inside a residential property—knowing what types of compensation you may be entitled to is crucial for your recovery. A qualified slip and fall lawyer at McDougall LawFirm will help ensure you receive every dollar you’re owed under South Carolina premises liability law.
Our experienced Beaufort slip and fall attorneys fight to secure maximum compensation for the damages that result from a property owner’s negligence.
Medical expenses are often the most immediate and overwhelming concern after a slip and fall accident. Your Beaufort slip and fall attorney will work to recover all accident-related healthcare costs, which may include emergency room treatment, diagnostic imaging like X-rays or MRIs, surgical procedures, hospital stays, physical therapy, chiropractic care, pain management, in-home nursing, and mobility assistance. If your injuries require long-term care, we collaborate with medical experts to project future treatment costs and ensure they are fully accounted for in your claim.
Beyond medical bills, many slip and fall victims in Beaufort face significant financial strain due to time away from work. You may be entitled to compensation for lost wages during recovery, reduced earning capacity if you’re unable to return to your previous role, and missed opportunities such as promotions or bonuses. Your attorney will calculate these losses based on your salary history, job responsibilities, and the lasting impact of your injuries.
Slip and fall injuries also take a serious emotional and psychological toll. Compensation may include damages for chronic pain, emotional distress, anxiety, depression, sleep disruption, PTSD, and loss of enjoyment in everyday life and personal relationships. Our legal team recognizes the invisible cost of injury and ensures that your suffering is fully represented in your claim.
In more severe cases, Beaufort slip and fall accidents result in permanent disability, disfigurement, or a diminished quality of life. Scarring, limited mobility, or the need for home modifications like ramps or stairlifts may all be part of your long-term reality. Our attorneys work with life care planners and medical professionals to pursue damages that reflect the true scope of your condition, including future therapy or mental health treatment as needed.
Finally, slip and fall injuries often create unexpected daily expenses. You may face costs such as transportation to medical appointments, childcare during rehab, home health aides, or lodging if specialized care requires travel. At McDougall LawFirm, we ensure that every financial impact—no matter how small—is documented and included in your claim to secure a settlement that supports both your short- and long-term recovery.
Common Defenses & Counter Strategies in Beaufort Slip and Fall Cases
Not every Beaufort slip and fall case is straightforward. Property owners, their insurance carriers, and defense attorneys often rely on a range of legal strategies to avoid paying full compensation. At McDougall LawFirm, our experienced Beaufort slip and fall lawyers are well-versed in the defenses typically raised in premises liability claims—and we build strong, proactive countermeasures to protect your rights.
One of the most commonly used defenses is assumption of risk. This argument suggests that the injured person knew about the dangerous condition and willingly accepted the risk of walking through it. For example, if there were visible warning signs or barriers around a spill, the defense may try to shift blame to the victim. Our skilled Beaufort slip and fall attorneys counter this by demonstrating that any warnings were unclear, improperly placed, or insufficient under the circumstances—especially in fast-moving environments like downtown Beaufort retail stores, waterfront restaurants, or local government offices.
Another frequent tactic is claiming the hazard was open and obvious, and therefore should have been avoided by a “reasonably careful” person. However, in the real world, distractions are everywhere—especially in high-traffic areas like Bay Street shops, Bluffton Road plazas, or busy medical corridors near Beaufort Memorial. Our slip and fall lawyers in Beaufort gather photo evidence, security footage, and eyewitness statements to illustrate how the condition may not have been visible from a normal angle, was obscured by poor lighting, or wasn’t noticed in time to prevent injury.
Comparative negligence is also widely used. This defense argues that you were partially to blame for your fall—for example, by looking at your phone, wearing improper footwear, or failing to notice the hazard. South Carolina follows a modified comparative fault rule, which means your compensation could be reduced if you’re found partially responsible. But our Beaufort slip and fall lawyers know how to shift the focus back to the true source of negligence: the property owner’s failure to maintain safe conditions. We present maintenance records, inspection logs, and expert analysis to prove the hazard should have been addressed well before the incident occurred.
No matter which legal strategies are used against your claim, McDougall LawFirm is prepared to fight back with targeted, evidence-based responses. Every Beaufort slip and fall attorney on our team understands the local court dynamics, insurance company tactics, and how to frame your case for maximum impact. Whether the accident occurred in a school, hotel, apartment complex, or grocery store, we tailor our defense to the setting and facts of your unique situation.
Statute of Limitations & Jurisdiction Rules for Beaufort Slip and Fall Claims
If you or someone you love has suffered a Beaufort slip and fall injury, understanding the legal deadlines that apply to your claim is essential. At McDougall LawFirm, our experienced Beaufort slip and fall lawyers are committed to ensuring that no critical deadline jeopardizes your right to recover compensation. Timing matters—and so does jurisdiction, especially when your injury occurs on government-owned property in Beaufort, South Carolina.
For most Beaufort slip and fall cases on private or commercial property, South Carolina law imposes a three-year statute of limitations. This means you generally have three years from the date of the incident to file a lawsuit. However, waiting too long to take action could result in lost evidence, untraceable witnesses, and a claim dismissed outright. Our Beaufort slip and fall attorneys recommend consulting with legal counsel as soon as possible after an injury—whether it occurred in a grocery store on Boundary Street, a restaurant on Bay Street, or an apartment complex near Lady’s Island.
Jurisdiction rules can become more complex if your Beaufort slip and fall occurred on government property, such as a municipal building, public park, or school facility. Claims against the City of Beaufort, Beaufort County, or other public entities often fall under the South Carolina Tort Claims Act, which imposes stricter procedural requirements and shorter notice deadlines. In these cases, you may be required to submit a formal notice of claim within one year—not the standard three years applied to private property claims. Missing this step can permanently bar you from recovering damages.
This is why it’s critical to work with a knowledgeable Beaufort slip and fall lawyer who understands the jurisdictional nuances of the Lowcountry court systems. A skilled slip and fall attorney in Beaufort can assess whether your case falls under municipal, county, or state jurisdiction and make sure your paperwork is filed on time and with the correct authority. We also work to preserve vital evidence—like incident reports, surveillance footage, and maintenance logs—so that your case is built on a strong foundation from day one.
Jurisdiction also determines where your claim must be filed, whether that’s in Beaufort County court or a state administrative process. At McDougall LawFirm, our Beaufort slip and fall attorneys are deeply familiar with the procedural rules that govern personal injury claims in both civil and government contexts. We ensure that your case complies with all legal standards so it can move forward without unnecessary delays.
Don’t let a missed deadline cost you the compensation you deserve. If you’ve been injured in a Beaufort slip and fall accident—on public or private property—speak to a trusted slip and fall lawyer at McDougall LawFirm today. We’ll evaluate your case for free, explain your timeline, and help you take decisive legal action while your rights remain intact.
Why Choose McDougall LawFirm for Your Beaufort Slip and Fall Case?
When you’ve been injured in a Beaufort slip and fall accident—whether in a historic district café, a retail store off Ribaut Road, or a public boardwalk near the Beaufort River—you need more than just legal representation. You need a local Beaufort slip and fall lawyer who understands how to win. At McDougall LawFirm, our team brings proven results, legal precision, and unwavering client commitment to every case we handle.
Our success in Beaufort slip and fall cases is rooted in decades of experience and a track record that includes favorable settlements, successful verdicts, and meaningful recoveries for clients across Beaufort County. Whether you suffered fractured bones on uneven pavement in downtown Beaufort, or a traumatic brain injury from a fall in a poorly lit parking lot, our Beaufort slip and fall attorneys know how to hold negligent property owners accountable and secure the compensation you deserve.
As a Beaufort-based firm, we bring deep familiarity with local ordinances, court procedures, and the patterns of property liability unique to the Lowcountry. This local insight allows our slip and fall lawyers in Beaufort to anticipate challenges and build strong, proactive cases from day one. We work closely with safety experts, medical professionals, and accident reconstructionists to support your claim with compelling evidence.
We also understand that recovering from a Beaufort slip and fall injury can be physically painful and emotionally draining. That’s why McDougall LawFirm offers 24/7 availability, same-day consultations, and responsive client communication. You’ll never be left in the dark about your case, and we’ll always be one call or message away—ready to answer questions, provide updates, and advocate fiercely on your behalf.
What truly sets our Beaufort slip and fall attorneys apart is our client-first philosophy. Every case we take is personal. We don’t just see an injury—we see the disruption to your family, finances, and future. That’s why we work on a contingency-fee basis: no fees unless we win. You focus on healing, and we’ll handle the rest.
From the waterfront neighborhoods of Port Royal to the quiet residential streets of Shell Point, McDougall LawFirm stands as a trusted legal ally for slip and fall victims in Beaufort, South Carolina. If you’re looking for a results-driven, compassionate, and locally committed Beaufort slip and fall lawyer, your search ends here.
Frequently Asked Questions: Beaufort Slip and Fall Cases
At McDougall LawFirm, we know that navigating a Beaufort slip and fall injury can raise a lot of urgent questions—especially when your health, finances, and future are on the line. Below, we answer the most common long-tail questions our Beaufort slip and fall attorneys hear from injured residents in the Lowcountry.
What qualifies as a “hazard” in a Beaufort slip and fall case?
A “hazard” includes any dangerous or unsafe condition that increases the risk of injury. In Beaufort slip and fall cases, hazards can range from wet floors in seafood restaurants along Bay Street, to cracked sidewalks near historic homes, to poor lighting in parking lots at grocery stores or public buildings. Loose carpeting, leaking pipes, broken handrails, and even cluttered walkways are all examples of conditions that can lead to liability if not properly addressed by the property owner or manager. Our slip and fall lawyers in Beaufort know how to identify these risks and build strong legal arguments around them.
Can I sue my landlord for a slip and fall injury in Beaufort, South Carolina?
Yes, you may have a valid claim against your landlord if they failed to maintain safe premises or ignored a known safety issue that led to your injury. Our Beaufort slip and fall attorneys frequently represent tenants who’ve been hurt due to broken staircases, damaged flooring, or other unaddressed hazards in rental properties. Whether the fall happened in an apartment complex near downtown Beaufort or in rental housing in Shell Point, your landlord has a legal duty to keep the property reasonably safe. A slip and fall lawyer at McDougall LawFirm can assess the facts and hold negligent property owners accountable.
Do I really need a slip and fall lawyer for a simple fall?
Even what seems like a “minor” Beaufort slip and fall can result in significant injuries—like fractured hips, torn ligaments, or concussions—that lead to mounting medical bills and missed work. Insurance companies may try to minimize your claim or deny it altogether, especially if there’s no legal advocate protecting your interests. Having an experienced Beaufort slip and fall attorney means you have someone to investigate the incident, gather evidence, negotiate with adjusters, and fight for fair compensation. At McDougall LawFirm, we believe no injury is too small to deserve justice.
How much is my Beaufort slip and fall case worth?
Every case is unique, but compensation in Beaufort slip and fall claims may cover medical expenses (including future care), lost income, diminished earning capacity, pain and suffering, and even long-term disability or disfigurement. A seasoned slip and fall lawyer in Beaufort will examine your injuries, gather supporting documentation, consult with medical experts, and calculate a fair value based on the impact the fall has had on your life. At McDougall LawFirm, our slip and fall attorneys focus on maximizing compensation so you can focus on your recovery.
If you don’t see your question answered here, contact McDougall LawFirm today for a free consultation. Our Beaufort slip and fall lawyers are here 24/7 to provide personalized guidance and help you take the next step toward justice and healing.
Take the Next Step: Speak With a Beaufort Slip and Fall Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one has suffered a Beaufort slip and fall injury—whether in a historic downtown shop, a waterfront restaurant near Port Royal, or a public parking lot on Lady’s Island—don’t wait to secure the legal support you need. At McDougall LawFirm, we understand how a serious slip and fall accident can disrupt your life, and we’re ready to help you take action with compassion, clarity, and strength.
Schedule a 100% free consultation today with an experienced Beaufort slip and fall attorney who will evaluate your case, answer your questions, and explain your options with no pressure and no obligation. Our knowledgeable legal team will help you understand your rights under South Carolina premises liability laws and whether you have a viable claim for compensation.
To make your next steps even easier, we also offer a free downloadable slip and fall injury checklist—designed to help you gather the right documentation, protect your rights, and avoid common mistakes after an accident. This checklist is especially useful for Beaufort residents navigating local medical care, insurance filings, and employer reports following a fall-related injury.
Whether you prefer an in-person consultation or need the flexibility of a virtual meeting, McDougall LawFirm provides same-day and remote appointments to accommodate your schedule. We proudly serve injury victims across Beaufort, Lady’s Island, Burton, Shell Point, and the greater Lowcountry region.
Don’t face the aftermath of a slip and fall injury alone. Call 843-438-4386 today or fill out our secure online contact form to speak with a trusted Beaufort slip and fall lawyer. We’re available 24/7, and there’s no fee unless we win your case.
