PA Category: Personal Injury

A serious accident can change your life in an instant. Along with the physical pain, you may face mounting medical bills, lost income, and emotional distress. At Patrick, Lewis & Watts, we understand how quickly an ordinary day in Spartanburg can turn into a life-altering event. Our law firm helps individuals and families pursue the compensation they need to rebuild and recover.

If you or a loved one has suffered a catastrophic injury, acting quickly is essential. South Carolina law sets firm deadlines for filing personal injury claims, and critical evidence can be lost if not preserved right away. Our legal team is ready to help you protect your rights and move forward. Contact our Spartanburg personal injury attorneys today for a free consultation.

Why You Need an Experienced Spartanburg Personal Injury Attorney

Navigating a personal injury claim takes more than filling out forms or speaking with an insurance adjuster. It requires understanding how South Carolina law, local court procedures, and evidence rules work together to affect your case.

At Patrick, Lewis & Watts, our attorneys draw on decades of legal experience to investigate the cause of an accident, determine fault, and pursue compensation through skilled negotiation or litigation. We focus on protecting your rights while handling the paperwork, deadlines, and communications that can otherwise overwhelm accident victims.

Our knowledge of Spartanburg’s local courts and neighboring judicial circuits allows us to manage cases efficiently from start to finish. Because our attorneys are licensed in both South Carolina state and federal courts, we can file your claim in the forum best suited to your circumstances.

A personal injury attorney also plays an important role in gathering critical evidence such as medical records, employment documentation, and professional evaluations. These records help establish the full extent of your losses and can make the difference in how an insurer values your claim.

Why Choose Patrick, Lewis & Watts as Your Personal Injury Lawyer in Spartanburg

At Patrick, Lewis & Watts, we believe every client deserves direct access to the attorney handling their case. From your first meeting through resolution, you’ll work with a lawyer who knows your story, understands your challenges, and keeps you informed at every stage.

Our law office is prepared to take cases to trial when necessary, but we also value strategic negotiation that spares clients unnecessary stress. As part of the Spartanburg community, we approach every case with the same care and integrity we would want for our own families. Clear communication and genuine advocacy form the foundation of how we serve our clients.

Proven Track Record of Advocacy for South Carolina Injury Victims

With more than a century of combined legal practice, our Spartanburg attorneys have successfully represented clients in serious injury and wrongful death cases across South Carolina. Our work includes jury trials, mediations, and settlements built on strong evidence and compelling lay and professional testimony. Each case we take is approached with the goal of achieving meaningful results that help clients rebuild their lives.

Personal Injury Case Results Achieved for South Carolina Victims

Our case results demonstrate the depth of our advocacy and commitment to helping injured clients recover fair compensation throughout South Carolina. Recent outcomes include:

• $3,250,000 settlement for an intersection collision
• $1,500,000 settlement following a tractor-trailer collision
• $1,000,000+ settlement for a shoulder injury caused by electrical shock

These examples reflect the dedication and thorough preparation our attorneys bring to every case.

No Fees Unless We Recover Compensation for You

Patrick, Lewis & Watts represents personal injury clients on a contingency fee basis. You will not owe attorney’s fees unless we recover compensation for you. Before starting your case, we explain how fees and costs work so you know exactly what to expect. Our goal is to keep the process clear, fair, and accessible for every client.

Client Testimonials

“Austin is amazing! His great advice helped us immensely. He answered all of our questions and called us back even when he didn’t have to. He has a great combination of intelligence, compassion and kindness! I couldn’t be more grateful.” — Carol M.

“A True Legal Superhero! I cannot thank Patrick Lewis & Watts enough for the incredible support and expertise they provided after my son was involved in a car accident. From the very first conversation, Austin showed genuine care, compassion, and dedication to helping us navigate a stressful and emotional situation. Austin took the time to explain every step clearly, always made us feel heard, and fought tirelessly to protect my son’s rights and well-being. Their professionalism, responsiveness, and deep knowledge of the law truly set them apart. Thanks to their hard work, we achieved a result that exceeded our expectations — but more importantly, we felt supported every step of the way. If you’re looking for a lawyer who not only knows the law inside and out but also truly cares about their clients, look no further. Thank you again, Austin and his team for being our rock during such a difficult time. You are a true superstar in every sense of the word!” — Anupam D.

Types of Personal Injury Cases Our Spartanburg Personal Injury Lawyers Handle

Our Spartanburg personal injury attorneys handle a wide range of practice areas involving catastrophic injuries, wrongful death, and complex liability issues. Each case is managed in accordance with South Carolina law and with the care every client deserves.

Serious Injuries

Severe injuries can lead to long-term pain, permanent impairment, or reduced earning capacity. These cases often require detailed medical documentation and professional evaluations. Our legal team works with healthcare providers to assess the long-term effects and build strong claims for fair compensation.

Premises Liability

Property owners have a legal responsibility to keep their premises reasonably safe. Common claims include slip and falls, unsafe property conditions, and negligent security. We investigate whether the property owner failed to meet South Carolina’s safety standards and pursue accountability when negligence causes harm.

Product Liability

When defective or unsafe products cause injuries, manufacturers and distributors may be held liable. These claims often involve design flaws, manufacturing errors, or missing warnings. Our attorneys pursue recovery under South Carolina’s product liability laws to protect consumers and prevent future harm.

Medical Malpractice

Medical negligence occurs when a healthcare provider fails to deliver care that meets accepted standards. Our firm handles cases involving surgical errors, delayed diagnoses, and improper treatment that result in significant injury or loss.

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

Brain injuries can have lasting effects on physical, emotional, and cognitive health. We collaborate with medical specialists to document the injury’s impact, demonstrate causation, and pursue compensation for medical care, rehabilitation, and future needs.

Wrongful Death

When a loved one’s death results from negligence or misconduct, surviving family members may pursue a wrongful death claim. These cases allow recovery for financial losses, emotional distress, and funeral expenses. We approach every claim with sensitivity and a focus on justice for your family.

Truck Accidents

Commercial truck crashes often involve multiple parties and complex federal regulations. We review maintenance logs, driver records, and black box data to determine fault and preserve critical evidence. Prompt action is key to protecting your claim.

Car Accidents

Auto accident claims require a thorough evaluation of police reports, medical documentation, and insurance coverage. Our team handles insurer communication and negotiations so you can focus on recovery, and we’re prepared to file a lawsuit when needed to protect your rights.

Meet Our Spartanburg Personal Injury Attorneys

Our attorneys bring over ten decades of experience to personal injury cases across South Carolina. We are dedicated to providing professional, accessible, and compassionate representation for every client we serve.

Understanding Personal Injury Claims in Spartanburg, South Carolina

A personal injury claim arises when someone’s careless or wrongful actions cause harm to another person. To prove negligence under South Carolina law, four key elements must be shown:

• Duty owed to another person
• Breach of that duty
• Causation (the breach causes harm)
• Damages

Our attorneys collect medical records, witness statements, and professional evaluations to establish these elements and build a strong foundation for your claim. Understanding this process helps injury victims recognize the importance of documentation and timely legal guidance.

What to Do After a Serious Injury in Spartanburg

Taking the right steps after a serious injury can protect your health and strengthen your claim. Here’s what to do:

• Get medical attention. Even if injuries seem minor, see a doctor right away. Medical records are vital evidence.
• Report the incident. File an official report with the police, your employer, or the property owner, and keep a copy for your records.
• Preserve evidence. Take photos, gather witness contact information, and keep damaged items until your attorney reviews them.
• Track your expenses. Save medical bills, pay stubs, and receipts for all related costs to document your losses.
• Speak with an experienced personal injury lawyer. A South Carolina attorney from Patrick, Lewis & Watts can help you meet deadlines, gather evidence, and handle communication with insurers while you focus on recovery.

What Not to Do After a Serious Accident

After an accident, certain actions can weaken your case. Avoid the following:

• Delaying medical treatment
• Admitting fault or apologizing at the scene
• Giving recorded statements to insurance adjusters
• Posting about your accident or injuries on social media
• Missing follow-up appointments with your doctor
• Signing broad medical authorizations without legal advice

Our attorneys handle communications with insurance companies to help protect clients from procedural errors and tactics that could reduce compensation.

Key South Carolina Personal Injury Laws

Understanding how South Carolina law handles personal injury claims can help you make informed decisions after an accident. Here are a few key rules that often affect recovery:

Modified Comparative Negligence (51% Rule)

Under South Carolina law, you can recover compensation if you are less than 51% at fault for the accident. Your total recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault, and if you are found mostly responsible, you cannot recover damages.

Punitive Damages Limits

Punitive damages are meant to punish reckless or intentional behavior. In most cases, South Carolina limits these damages to three times the compensatory amount or $500,000, whichever is greater. Certain exceptions under South Carolina law may allow higher awards, such as cases involving intentional harm, intoxication, or profit-motivated misconduct.

Medical Malpractice Damage Caps

In South Carolina medical malpractice cases, non-economic damages (such as pain and suffering) are generally capped at $350,000 per defendant under S.C. Code §15-32-220. When more than one healthcare provider is involved, the total cap is usually $1.05 million, subject to periodic adjustments. Exceptions may apply in cases involving gross negligence or multiple occurrences of misconduct.

Negligence and Liability

Negligence means failing to act with reasonable care, causing someone else harm. To hold another person or business responsible, your attorney must prove that carelessness directly caused your injuries and financial losses.

Statute of Limitations

Most personal injury cases in South Carolina must be filed within three years of the date of injury (S.C. Code §15-3-530). Different deadlines can apply to medical malpractice claims and cases against government entities, so it’s important to speak with an attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights.

Types of Compensation Available After a Personal Injury in Spartanburg

If you were injured because of someone else’s negligence, South Carolina law allows you to pursue compensation for the financial and personal impact of your injuries.

Economic Damages

These cover direct financial losses related to your accident, such as medical expenses, lost income, property damage, and ongoing care or rehabilitation costs. Economic damages are based on documented evidence like bills, pay stubs, and repair estimates.

Non-Economic Damages

These account for the human cost of an injury, such as pain, emotional suffering, and loss of enjoyment of daily life. Non-economic damages recognize how an accident affects your well-being and long-term quality of life.

Wrongful Death Claims

When negligence causes a fatal injury, surviving family members may bring a wrongful death claim. Recoverable damages can include lost financial support, companionship, and funeral expenses, as provided under South Carolina law.

Frequently Asked Questions About Personal Injury Claims

What Happens If the At-Fault Driver Has No Insurance?

If the other driver is uninsured or underinsured, you may still be covered through your own auto policy. Our attorneys review all available insurance options, including uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, to identify potential recovery sources.

What Evidence Do I Need to Prove a Personal Injury Claim?

Strong evidence can include medical records, witness statements, photos from the scene, and expert evaluations. Our attorneys help gather and organize this information to build a solid case on your behalf.

What If I Can’t Afford Medical Treatment While My Case Is Pending?

Many injury victims worry about paying for care before their case settles. Our attorneys can help explore options such as medical liens or insurance coverage that allow treatment now, with payment deferred until your claim resolves.

Will My Personal Injury Case Go to Court?

Most personal injury cases settle before trial through negotiation or mediation. However, if the insurance company refuses to offer fair compensation, our firm is prepared to take your case to court and advocate for you before a judge or jury.

Your Free Consultation Is the First Step Toward Recovery

At Patrick, Lewis & Watts, we have years of experience helping accident victims and their families take the next step toward recovery. Our Spartanburg personal injury attorneys offer clear guidance, steady support, and focused representation from start to finish.

Call 864-240-5500 or complete our online contact form to schedule a free case review.