# Fox Injury Law > Attorneys At Law --- ## Pages - [Greenville DUI Defense Attorney](https://smithjordan.com/greenville-dui-defense-attorney/): Greenville DUI Defense Attorney You may believe you can drive after a night of revelry at the local bar or... - [Testimonials](https://smithjordan.com/testimonials/): Testimonials Schedule a consultation “My SSA case was a few years ago. I had a chronic physical injury and developed... - [South Carolina Personal Injury Lawyer](https://smithjordan.com/): Caring Lawyers, Proven Results, Community Trust We’re here to get you back on your feet. We work hard to make... - [Contact Us](https://smithjordan.com/contact-us/): Connect with us Contact our office for a free legal consultation. We’ll learn more about your case and will help... - [Who We Are](https://smithjordan.com/who-we-are/): Who We Are Lawyers who Care Looking for an attorney can be stressful, especially if you’re dealing with an injury,... - [Blog](https://smithjordan.com/greenville-law-blog/) - [Easley, SC Criminal Defense Lawyer](https://smithjordan.com/easley-criminal-defense-lawyer/): CRIMINAL DEFENSE LAWYER IN EASLEY, SC If you have been accused of any type of criminal charge or you are... - [FAQs](https://smithjordan.com/faq/): FAQs All CategoriesCar AccidentFAQsMedical MalpracticeNursing Home AbusePedestrian AccidentPersonal InjuryTruck AccidentWorkers Compensation Not sure what your next step should be? Not... - [Easley, SC nursing home abuse lawyer](https://smithjordan.com/easley-nursing-home-abuse-lawyer/): EASLEY, SC NURSING HOME ABUSE LAWYER If you suspect your relative is being abused or neglected in their assisted living... - [Easley, SC medical malpractice attorney](https://smithjordan.com/easley-medical-malpractice-attorney/): EASLEY, SC MEDICAL MALPRACTICE ATTORNEY Unfortunately, just like with any profession, healthcare providers make mistakes. Sometimes, they’re honest mistakes, but... - [Easley, SC Social Security Disability lawyer](https://smithjordan.com/easley-sc-social-security-disability-lawyer/): EASLEY, SC SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY LAWYER Applying for Social Security Disability can be complicated due to the legal jargon, deadlines,... - [Easley, SC workers’ compensation lawyer](https://smithjordan.com/easley-sc-workers-compensation-lawyer/): EASLEY, SC WORKERS’ COMPENSATION LAWYER Depending on the facts and circumstances of your injury, you may be eligible for workers’... - [Easley, SC motorcycle accident lawyer](https://smithjordan.com/easley-sc-motorcycle-accident-lawyer/): EASLEY, SC MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT LAWYER If you or a loved one have been injured or have suffered a severe loss... - [Easley truck accident lawyer](https://smithjordan.com/easley-truck-accident-lawyer/): EASLEY TRUCK ACCIDENT LAWYER When a truck driver causes a crash, victims can be seriously injured or killed. Determining who... - [Car accident lawyer in Easley, SC](https://smithjordan.com/easley-car-accident-lawyer/): CAR ACCIDENT LAWYER IN EASLEY, SC A car crash can throw your world into chaos and uncertainty in a matter... - [Easley, SC personal injury lawyer](https://smithjordan.com/easley-personal-injury-lawyer/): EASLEY, SC PERSONAL INJURY LAWYERS Knowing how to move forward after a serious injury can seem impossible as you cope... - [Privacy Policy](https://smithjordan.com/privacy-policy/): Privacy Policy Smith Jordan Privacy Policy Thank you for visiting Smith Jordan’s web site. By submitting personal information using the... - [Speeding Accident Lawyer in Greenville, SC](https://smithjordan.com/greenville-car-accident-lawyer/speeding-accidents/): SPEEDING ACCIDENT LAWYER IN GREENVILLE, SC Cars are large, heavy, and potentially dangerous, but this is made even worse when... - [GREENVILLE NURSING HOME ABUSE LAWYER](https://smithjordan.com/greenville-nursing-home-abuse-lawyer/): GREENVILLE NURSING HOME ABUSE LAWYER If you suspect your loved one is being abused or neglected in their nursing home,... - [Greenville Dram Shop Lawyer](https://smithjordan.com/greenville-dram-shop-attorney/): DRAM SHOP LAWYER IN GREENVILLE, SC South Carolina residents owe it to themselves and other drivers to avoid operating vehicles... - [Greenville Hit-and-Run Accident Lawyers](https://smithjordan.com/greenville-car-accident-lawyer/greenville-hit-and-run-accident-lawyers/): GREENVILLE SC HIT AND RUN ACCIDENT LAWYERS Suffering a car accident is traumatic enough, but when the other driver speeds... - [Medical Malpractice Lawyers in Greenville, SC](https://smithjordan.com/greenville-medical-malpractice-lawyer/): MEDICAL MALPRACTICE LAWYERS IN GREENVILLE, SC The South Carolina medical industry is responsible for keeping you, your loved ones, and... - [Criminal Defense Attorney Greenville, SC](https://smithjordan.com/greenville-criminal-law-attorney/): CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY GREENVILLE SC If you or a loved one has been arrested and charged with a crime in... - [Greenville Bicycle Accident Attorneys](https://smithjordan.com/greenville-bicycle-accident-attorney/): GREENVILLE BICYCLE ACCIDENT ATTORNEY When your pleasant bike ride turns to tragedy in an accident, you can face severe injuries... - [Greenville Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer](https://smithjordan.com/greenville-car-accident-lawyer/drunk-driving-accident/): GREENVILLE DRUNK DRIVING ACCIDENT LAWYER Being struck by a drunk driver can lead to extensive and ongoing health complications. These... - [Greenville Pedestrian Accident Attorney](https://smithjordan.com/greenville-pedestrian-accident-attorney/): GREENVILLE PEDESTRIAN ACCIDENTS LAWYER Too many pedestrians are hit by motor vehicles. Drivers are distracted or not paying attention and... - [Greenville motorcycle accident lawyer](https://smithjordan.com/greenville-motorcycle-accident-lawyer/): GREENVILLE MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT LAWYER In a collision, motorcyclists are four times more likely to be injured and 28 times more... - [Greenville truck accident lawyer](https://smithjordan.com/greenville-truck-accident-lawyer/): GREENVILLE TRUCK ACCIDENT LAWYER When a tractor-trailer or other commercial vehicle is involved in a wreck, the results lead to... - [What Insurance Companies Don't Cover](https://smithjordan.com/what-insurance-companies-dont-cover/): What Insurance Companies Don’t Cover When meeting with an injured person for the first time, we hear different versions of... - [Insight On Insurance Companies & Settlements](https://smithjordan.com/insight-on-insurance-companies-and-settlements/): Insight On Insurance Companies & Settlements Insurance companies will often try to settle a wreck case as quick as they... - [Greenville car accident lawyer](https://smithjordan.com/greenville-car-accident-lawyer/): GREENVILLE CAR ACCIDENT LAWYER Every year, hundreds of Greenville drivers and passengers are killed in car accidents. Beyond this, thousands... - [Greenville, SC Personal Injury Lawyer](https://smithjordan.com/greenville-personal-injury-lawyer/): GREENVILLE PERSONAL INJURY LAWYER If you or a loved one have been injured through the negligence of another person, you... - [Greenville workers compensation lawyer](https://smithjordan.com/greenville-workers-compensation-lawyer/): GREENVILLE WORKERS’ COMPENSATION LAWYER Being injured on the job can be extremely stressful. The workers compensation insurance carrier might treat... - [Greenville, SC Social Security disability attorney](https://smithjordan.com/greenville-social-security-disability-lawyer/): GREENVILLE, SC SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY ATTORNEY What do you do when you make a legitimate claim but your Social Security... - [Cases We Handle](https://smithjordan.com/cases-we-handle/): Cases We Handle Experienced, Professional Attorneys on Your Side We have extensive experience with many types of legal cases, ranging... --- ## Posts - [How to win a social security disability hearing](https://smithjordan.com/social-security-disability/how-to-win-a-social-security-disability-hearing/): Getting Social Security disability benefits isn’t always easy. If your claim was denied, you still have options. A Greenville social... - [Can a police officer sue for personal injury?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/can-a-police-officer-sue-for-personal-injury/): The dangers of police work are well-documented. It’s the nature of the job to regularly interact with negligent, reckless, or... - [What to do if you witness a car crash](https://smithjordan.com/auto-accidents/what-to-do-if-you-witness-a-car-crash/): If you are nearby when a car accident occurs, you can become a valuable part of the investigation. By helping... - [How do 50/50 split liability claims work?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/how-do-50-50-split-liability-personal-injury-claims-work/): Split liability claims result from a car accident, or any type of accident, where each party involved bears half of... - [How does it work if my personal injury case goes to trial?](https://smithjordan.com/greenville-law-blog/how-do-personal-injury-trials-work/): Most personal injury cases settle outside of court. But when a fair deal isn’t possible, your case may go to... - [Am I liable if my spouse causes a car accident?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/am-i-liable-if-my-spouse-causes-a-car-accident/): The driver who causes an accident is usually the liable party, not their spouse. But even if you’re not legally... - [Can you sue the city of Greenville for a personal injury?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/can-you-sue-the-city-for-personal-injury/): You may be able to sue the city of Greenville for a personal injury, but the process is not always... - [Are Independent Contractors Covered By Workers’ Comp in Greenville?](https://smithjordan.com/workers-compensation/are-independent-contractors-covered-by-workers-comp/): If you’ve been injured on the job in Greenville and aren’t sure whether you qualify for workers’ compensation, you’re not... - [How much does workers’ comp pay in South Carolina?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/workers-compensation/): In South Carolina, injured workers typically receive ⅔ of their pre-tax weekly salary in workers’ comp benefits. This usually works... - [What happens if I have a partial fault in a car accident?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/car-accident/what-happens-if-i-have-a-partial-fault-in-a-car-accident/): It is more common than you think to be accused of sharing liability for a car accident. However, if you... - [How is fault determined in Greenville?](https://smithjordan.com/auto-accidents/how-is-fault-determined-in-greenville/): Determining fault in an accident is a crucial step in the legal process, impacting the outcome of insurance claims and... - [Dismissal vs. expungement: What’s the difference?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/dismissal-vs-expungement/): Navigating the criminal justice system can be daunting, particularly when trying to understand the outcomes of a case. Terms like... - [My car insurance lapsed and I had an accident. What are my options?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/car-accident/my-car-insurance-lapsed-and-i-had-an-accident-what-are-my-options/): Car accidents can cause thousands of dollars in losses. Having insurance can help reduce some of those costs, and it... - [Should I hire a personal injury attorney if I’ve been badly hurt in a car accident and the insurance company is offering its policy limits?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/should-i-hire-a-personal-injury-lawyer-after-being-the-policy-limit/): Here is a scenario that, unfortunately, plays out all too often- a person is badly hurt in a car wreck.... - [Do personal injury cases go to trial?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/do-personal-injury-cases-go-to-trial/): While many people envision dramatic courtroom showdowns like those on television, the reality is that most personal injury cases in... - [Can a pre-existing condition affect my car accident claim?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/car-accident/can-a-pre-existing-condition-affect-my-car-accident-claim/): If you’ve been injured in a car accident but already had a health condition before the crash, you might wonder... - [What is manslaughter vs. murder in South Carolina?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/criminal-defense/what-is-manslaughter-vs-murder/): In South Carolina, the distinction between murder and manslaughter involves important legal nuances that can significantly impact criminal charges and... - [What types of personal injury damages may I be entitled to?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/what-types-of-personal-injury-damages-may-i-be-entitled-to/): Personal injury victims in South Carolina are entitled to recover two forms of compensatory damages, plus, in some cases, punitive,... - [Does workers' comp cover the commute to work?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/workers-compensation/does-workers-comp-cover-the-commute-to-work/): Generally speaking, workers’ compensation in most states—including South Carolina—does **not** cover injuries that occur during your regular commute to and... - [What if I can't afford a lawyer?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/what-if-i-cant-afford-a-lawyer/): It’s hard to know where to turn when you desperately need legal help but can’t afford it. If you are... - [What is considered a serious injury in a car accident in Greenville, SC?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/what-is-considered-a-serious-injury-in-a-car-accident/): Car accident victims suffer injuries ranging from bumps and bruises to permanent, disabling, or even paralyzing, physical damage. As experienced... - [How long does workers' comp last in SC?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/how-long-does-workers-comp-last-in-sc/): Worker’s compensation benefits in South Carolina have a cap of 500 weeks for most cases (some such as brain injury,... - [These are the 10 most dangerous roads in Greenville, SC](https://smithjordan.com/auto-accidents/10-most-dangerous-roads-in-greenville-sc/): Beautiful mountain settings can improve the view while you’re on the road, but it’s important to know about the 10... - [Proving negligence in a personal injury claim](https://smithjordan.com/personal-injury/proving-negligence-in-a-personal-injury-claim/): When you have been wrongfully injured because of another party’s carelessness, proving negligence in a personal injury claim is essential.... - [Will a pre-existing injury affect my personal injury claim?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/personal-injury/will-a-pre-existing-injury-affect-my-personal-injury-claim/): Maybe. Some pre-existing conditions leave accident victims more vulnerable to re-injury, or are more likely to be aggravated by a... - [Who is liable in a truck accident?](https://smithjordan.com/trucking-accidents/who-is-liable-in-a-truck-accident/): Truck accidents are a daily part of life in Greenville and the Upstate area. This doesn’t mean you should accept... - [How do you calculate car accident compensation?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/car-accident/how-to-calculate-car-accident-compensation/): You’re eligible for compensation for your losses when you get into a car accident caused by another driver’s negligence. In... - [How do I choose a good personal injury lawyer?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/how-do-i-choose-a-good-personal-injury-lawyer/): You only have one chance for a settlement after an accident; once you sign a settlement offer or a jury... - [Do I have to use sick time for workers' compensation?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/workers-compensation/do-i-have-to-use-sick-time-for-workers-comp/): No, you don’t have to use your sick time if you receive workers’ compensation benefits in South Carolina unless you... - [How much does a truck accident lawyer cost?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/truck-accident/how-much-does-a-truck-accident-lawyer-cost/): Truck accident victims like you have expensive medical bills, may be out of work for months, and carry a heavy... - [When does workers' comp hire private investigators?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/workers-compensation/when-does-workers-comp-hire-private-investigators/): Have you felt like you’re being watched while you’re on workers’ comp? You may be correct. Workers’ compensation insurance companies... - [South Carolina workers' compensation guide](https://smithjordan.com/workers-compensation/south-carolina-workers-compensation-guide/): In South Carolina, you have the right to seek medical benefits and other benefits from your employer’s insurance program if... - [Should I get a lawyer after a car accident?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/car-accident/should-i-get-a-lawyer-after-a-car-accident/): The best time to hire a Greenville car accident lawyer is right after the crash, but if you haven’t yet,... - [How do I find a good criminal defense attorney?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/how-to-find-a-good-criminal-defense-attorney/): When your freedom is on the line, you can’t make a mistake in choosing an attorney. Everyone’s case is unique,... - [Should I get a lawyer for a minor car accident?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/should-i-get-a-lawyer-for-a-minor-car-accident/): Getting into a fender-bender can ruin your day, but without the help and advice of an attorney, the aftermath can... - [This is what happens if you crash a financed car](https://smithjordan.com/auto-accidents/this-is-what-happens-if-you-crash-a-financed-car/): Crashing a car is stressful under any circumstances, but it can feel even more complicated when the vehicle is still... - [How much does a car accident lawyer cost?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/car-accident/how-much-does-a-car-accident-lawyer-cost/): If you’ve been involved in a car accident, seeking legal representation is crucial to securing the compensation you deserve. But... - [Can dash cams prove fault in a car accident?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/can-dash-cams-prove-fault-in-a-car-accident/): Dash cams are becoming more common among drivers, providing a real-time video record of events on the road. When accidents... - [The importance of seeking medical attention immediately after a car accident](https://smithjordan.com/auto-accidents/importance-of-seeking-medical-attention-after-a-car-accident/): Car accidents can be shocking and overwhelming, leaving you unsure what to do next. Even if you feel fine immediately... - [Understanding “loss of use” car accident claims](https://smithjordan.com/auto-accidents/understanding-loss-of-use-car-accident-claims/): After a car accident, you are likely facing both medical costs and auto repairs. While your insurance claim should cover... - [Can my social media be used against me in a workers’ comp claim?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/can-social-media-be-used-against-me-in-a-workers-comp-claim/): Most people these days have some kind of online presence, whether it’s Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X, or BlueSky. We use... - [Can a DUI be expunged in South Carolina?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/dui/can-a-dui-be-expunged-in-south-carolina/): Expungement is the legal process of erasing all publicly available records of an arrest. If an expungement is granted, it... - [What are the common causes of motorcycle accidents?](https://smithjordan.com/motorcycle-accidents/leading-causes-of-motorcycle-accidents/): Motorcycles offer freedom and adventure on the open road but also come with risks. Motorcycle accidents are often more severe... - [What is whiplash after a car accident?](https://smithjordan.com/auto-accidents/what-is-whiplash-after-a-car-accident/): While it’s sometimes used as a joke on TV shows, whiplash is no laughing matter. It is a serious condition... - [How are car accident settlements calculated?](https://smithjordan.com/auto-accidents/how-are-car-accident-settlements-calculated/): After your car accident in South Carolina, the insurance representatives must decide how much of your damages they will pay.... - [Types of damages in personal injury cases](https://smithjordan.com/personal-injury/types-of-damages-in-personal-injury-cases/): After a car accident, slip-and-fall, or other situation where you’re hurt by someone else, you have the right to seek... - [Paying medical bills in personal injury case: What are my options?](https://smithjordan.com/personal-injury/paying-for-medical-bills-in-personal-injury-case/): After an injury, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the piles of bills coming your way – but there’s no... - [Most important SC DUI laws](https://smithjordan.com/greenville-law-blog/south-carolina-dui-laws/): Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense with significant legal and personal consequences. Understanding South Carolina DUI laws... - [Alcohol content in popular drinks](https://smithjordan.com/greenville-law-blog/alcohol-content-in-drinks/): If you’ve been injured in a crash caused by a drunk driver, understanding the alcohol content in popular drinks can... - [What does a criminal defense lawyer do?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/what-does-a-criminal-defense-lawyer-do/): Criminal defense lawyers defend anyone arrested or charged with a crime, but a good criminal defense attorney can do much... - [Economic vs. non-economic damages in personal injury cases](https://smithjordan.com/greenville-law-blog/economic-vs-non-economic-damages/): Victims of injuries caused by someone else’s negligence can seek financial compensation for their losses through a personal injury lawsuit... - [What you need to know about Medicare set-asides in South Carolina workers’ compensation](https://smithjordan.com/workers-compensation/what-you-should-know-about-medicare-set-aside-in-workers-compensation/): Imagine finally settling your workers’ compensation case, only to discover unexpected medical bills down the road. For many workers in... - [What Happens If the SSA Denies My SSDI Application?](https://smithjordan.com/social-security-disability/what-happens-if-the-ssa-denies-my-ssdi-application/): The SSA denies more than half of all Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) claims the first time. Social Security can deny your claim... - [Smith Jordan Q&A – We answer your common personal injury questions](https://smithjordan.com/personal-injury/attorney-raymond-wooten-on-personal-injury-law/): Have you been injured due to someone else’s negligence? Understanding your legal rights and options is crucial, and that’s where... - [7 Common Back Injuries from Car Accidents](https://smithjordan.com/auto-accidents/7-common-back-injuries-from-car-accidents/): Car accidents can cause all sorts of damages including back injuries, which are one of the most common types. According... - [How long after a car accident can injuries appear?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/how-long-after-a-car-accident-can-injuries-appear/): Car accidents can be traumatic, but not all injuries immediately appear. It’s common for some injuries to take hours, days,... - [Are personal injury settlements taxable?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/are-personal-injury-settlements-taxable/): If you’ve been injured in an accident and receive a settlement, you might wonder, “Are personal injury settlements taxable? ”... - [What’s the difference between a pre-suit claim and a lawsuit?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/what-is-a-pre-suit-claim/): At Smith Jordan Law, our Greenville personal injury lawyers believe in empowering our clients with knowledge to make informed decisions.... - [What are the different types of truck accidents?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/types-of-truck-accidents/): Truck accidents can be devastating, causing severe injuries and significant property damage. Understanding the different types of truck accidents is... - [What’s the difference between medical malpractice and negligence?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/how-does-medical-malpractice-differ-from-negligence/): Have you ever wondered what sets medical malpractice apart from general negligence? The distinctions can be subtle yet significant, especially... - [I feel fine after my car accident. Should I still go to the doctor?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/car-accident/feel-fine-after-car-accident/): Car accidents can be traumatic experiences, and it’s common to feel overwhelmed immediately afterward. You might think that if you... - [What should you not say to an insurance company?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/car-accident/what-should-you-not-say-to-an-insurance-company/): Dealing with an insurance company after an accident can be tricky, especially when your word choice can significantly impact the... - [What are the different statutes of limitations in South Carolina?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/personal-injury/what-is-the-statute-of-limitations-in-sc/): If you suffer a personal injury and choose to file a lawsuit, it’s important to understand how the law may... - [What information should I get from witnesses of my crash?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/questions-to-ask-witness-of-a-car-accident/): After a car accident, witnesses can be very helpful in proving what happened. Getting information from people who saw the... - [Who’s at fault in a T-bone accident?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/t-bone-accident-whos-at-fault/): A T-bone accident, also known as a side-impact collision, happens when the front of one car crashes into the side... - [How to protect yourself in a car accident](https://smithjordan.com/auto-accidents/how-to-protect-yourself-in-a-car-accident/): No one wants to experience a car accident, but knowing how to protect yourself can make a difference in the... - [How long does a personal injury settlement take?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/how-long-does-a-personal-injury-settlement-take/): One of the first things clients often want to know after filing a personal injury claim is, “How long will... - [Hidden dangers: Recognizing delayed injuries after car accidents](https://smithjordan.com/auto-accidents/delayed-injuries-after-a-car-accident/): After a car accident, some injuries are obvious right away, but others can sneak up on you, appearing hours, days,... - [When are you required to file an accident report?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/when-to-file-an-accident-report/): Knowing when to file an accident report is crucial to complying with South Carolina law and protecting your legal rights.... - [I’m not happy with my settlement offer. Do I have to accept it?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/not-happy-with-settlement-offer/): If you’re unhappy with the settlement offer, you are not obligated to accept it. You have the right to reject... - [Safety precautions motorcyclists can take to avoid collisions](https://smithjordan.com/motorcycle-accidents/motorcycle-safety-precautions/): Riding a motorcycle is all about freedom and adventure, especially when you’re cruising through the scenic roads of South Carolina.... - [What happens after deposition in a personal injury case?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/what-happens-after-deposition-in-a-personal-injury-case/): A deposition is a crucial part of the discovery process in a personal injury case. It is formal, sworn testimony... - [Statute of repose vs. statute of limitations: What you need to know](https://smithjordan.com/personal-injury/what-is-a-statute-of-repose-vs-limitations/): Timing is everything when it comes to filing a legal claim. You could lose your right to seek compensation entirely... - [Can a passenger be a witness in a car accident?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/car-accident/can-a-passenger-be-a-witness-in-a-car-accident/): Imagine you’re in a car accident, and everything happens so quickly that it’s hard to recall the exact details. In... - [8 Mistakes to avoid in a personal injury claim](https://smithjordan.com/personal-injury/mistakes-to-avoid-in-a-personal-injury-claim/): Navigating a personal injury claim can be complex and stressful, especially when you’re trying to recover from an injury. Making... - [8 Mistakes to avoid after a car accident](https://smithjordan.com/auto-accidents/mistakes-to-avoid-after-a-car-accident/): Being involved in a car accident can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. Knowing what to do—and what not to... - [Common causes of intersection car accidents](https://smithjordan.com/auto-accidents/common-causes-of-intersection-car-accidents/): With vehicles coming from multiple directions, traffic signals, and pedestrians, there’s a lot that can go wrong at intersections. At... - [How are truck accidents different from car accidents?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/truck-accident/how-are-truck-accidents-different-from-car-accidents/): Truck and car accidents can be serious, but they are not the same regarding the legal process. The differences can... - [Can your driving record affect a car accident case?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/car-accident/does-your-driving-record-affect-a-car-accident-case/): When you’re involved in a car accident, many elements can sway the outcome of your case, and one key factor... - [Third-party liability in work injury claims: Your rights and options](https://smithjordan.com/workers-compensation/third-party-liability-in-work-injury-claims/): Workplace incidents are often associated with workers’ compensation claims since they usually involve injuries directly related to an employer or... - [Understanding pain and suffering in South Carolina personal injury cases](https://smithjordan.com/personal-injury/understanding-pain-and-suffering-in-personal-injury-cases/): “Pain and suffering” is a key component of personal injury claims that address the mental and emotional toll of a... - [Summer road trip safety tips](https://smithjordan.com/auto-accidents/summer-road-trip-safety-tips/): Summer is the perfect time for a road trip, offering the opportunity to explore new places and create lasting memories.... - [What if I have a car accident at work?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/workers-compensation/what-if-i-have-a-car-accident-at-work/): Workers’ compensation may provide benefits for injuries from a car accident. Whether you were performing work will significantly affect whether... - [What should I do after a pedestrian accident?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/pedestrian-accident/what-to-do-after-a-pedestrian-accident/): When you are stuck by a car or truck, you should always call the police. Contact 911 to request medical... - [What should I do after an injury?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/personal-injury/what-to-do-after-an-injury/): When getting help after an injury, you should go to the hospital for medical treatment and then file a police... - [Can you get workers’ comp for a pre-existing injury?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/workers-compensation/can-you-get-workers-comp-for-a-pre-existing-injury/): It is possible to receive workers’ compensation if you have a pre-existing injury but get hurt at work. You can... - [Who is liable in a car pile-up?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/car-accident/who-is-liable-in-a-car-pile-up/): If you’ve been hurt in a car accident involving multiple vehicles, figuring out who is at fault can be complicated.... - [What is “causation” in personal injury cases?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/personal-injury/what-is-causation-in-personal-injury-cases/): A crucial part of an attorney’s work is showing causation in personal injury cases. Causation involves providing evidence that the... - [What compensation can I get after a car accident?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/car-accident/car-accident-compensation/): South Carolina is an at-fault state regarding handling car accident compensation. The person who caused the crash is financially responsible... - [Can I claim for mental health trauma after a car accident?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/car-accident/can-i-claim-for-mental-health-trauma-after-a-car-accident/): A car accident can do much more than damage your car. The sights, sounds, smells, and experience of the accident... - [Why do I need a truck accident lawyer?](https://smithjordan.com/trucking-accidents/when-and-why-should-i-hire-a-law-firm-truck-accident-case/): If you have been involved in a truck accident, the resulting physical and emotional trauma can be overwhelming. You may... - [What if the truck's cargo caused the accident? Can the driver still be liable?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/truck-accident/truck-cargo-falling-out/): When truck cargo falls out of a semi-trailer, it is probably the result of someone’s negligence. Though the company may... - [How do I find a skilled nursing home facility for a loved one?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/nursing-home-abuse/): My advice is to visit the facility and try to get an idea of the quality of care. You can... - [How do you prove personal injury liability?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/personal-injury/how-do-you-prove-personal-injury-liability/): In personal injury law, “liability” means that the person who hurt you is responsible for the financial, emotional, and other... - [What to do after a motorcycle accident](https://smithjordan.com/motorcycle-accidents/what-to-do-after-a-motorcycle-accident/): Protect your rights with these tips Motorcycle accidents are far too common. When there is a wreck involving a motorcycle,... - [How can a nursing home abuse lawyer help me?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/nursing-home-abuse/how-can-a-nursing-home-abuse-lawyer-help/): Families are often very reluctant to get involved in the legal system. They don’t want to sue or go to... - [What to do after a car accident that wasn’t your fault](https://smithjordan.com/auto-accidents/what-to-do-after-south-carolina-car-accident/): If you have been in a car accident, you may wonder what to do next. This guide will walk you... - [Implied vs. expressed consent: What’s the difference?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/medical-malpractice/implied-vs-expressed-consent/): The difference between express and implied consent is this: patients express consent for treatment through written or sometimes verbal communication.... - [What kinds of damages are available in nursing home cases?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/nursing-home-abuse/what-kinds-of-nursing-home-abuse-compensation-can-i-receive/): “Damages” is another word for the losses that your loved one has suffered as a result of their abuse or... - [Who pays medical bills in a car accident?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/car-accident/who-pays-medical-bills-in-a-car-accident/): Car accidents often produce injuries requiring immediate and extensive medical treatment. These costs are both unexpected and expensive. If you... - [Why should I hire a car accident lawyer?](https://smithjordan.com/greenville-law-blog/why-hire-a-car-accident-lawyer/): Benefits of working with an attorney in your car accident case After a car accident, you likely have injuries and... - [How common is nursing home abuse?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/nursing-home-abuse/how-common-is-nursing-home-abuse/): Nursing home abuse is on the rise in the United States. America has an aging population. According to the National... - [What are some nursing home abuse injuries to watch for?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/nursing-home-abuse/nursing-home-abuse-injuries/): Understanding the signs and symptoms of nursing home abuse is essential for family members, caregivers, and even residents themselves, as... - [How are personal injury settlements paid out?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/car-accident/how-are-personal-injury-settlements-paid-out/): Receiving a settlement should be fast and easy once it is agreed upon. However, some issues frequently arise. At Smith... - [Nursing home abuse liability: Who is liable for nursing home abuse or neglect?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/nursing-home-abuse/nursing-home-abuse-liability/): In South Carolina, the family member of a deceased patient or someone with power of attorney for a current living... - [How do you prove nursing home negligence?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/nursing-home-abuse/how-to-prove-nursing-home-negligence/): Your senior parent deserves the best in their golden years, but many nursing homes accidentally neglect patients. Even if no... - [How to decline a settlement offer from the insurance company](https://smithjordan.com/personal-injury/how-to-decline-a-settlement-offer-from-the-insurance-company/): Your accident was significant, and you have medical bills and numerous other losses to deal with now. It can feel... - [Can I get fired for filing workers’ comp?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/workers-compensation/can-i-get-fired-for-filing-workers-comp/): In South Carolina, it is illegal for an employer to fire an employee simply because the employee filed a workers’... - [How long does a work injury claim take?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/workers-compensation/how-long-do-workers-comp-claims-take/): As with many things in life, the sooner you get started on your workers’ compensation claim, the sooner it will... - [What do I do after being injured at work?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/workers-compensation/what-to-do-after-being-injured-at-work/): Follow these steps to protect your potential injury claim. If you have any questions, please contact our skilled Greenville workers’... - [How long after a workers’ comp settlement do I get paid?](https://smithjordan.com/workers-compensation/how-long-after-workers-comp-settlement-do-i-get-paid/): Dealing with a work injury or illness is hard. Waiting for the workers’ compensation settlement adds to the frustration of... - [What’s the average settlement for back and neck injury in a car accident?](https://smithjordan.com/faq/car-accident/average-settlement-for-car-accident-back-and-neck-injury/): Back and neck pain can be debilitating, making it hard for you to go to work and enjoy activities you... - [Social Security cost of living adjustment for 2024](https://smithjordan.com/social-security-disability/cost-of-living-adjustment-for-2024/): SSA announces 3. 2% benefit increase The cost of living in the United States has risen again in 2023, which... - [Most Common Injuries From Car Accidents](https://smithjordan.com/auto-accidents/most-common-injuries-from-car-accidents/): Car accidents can happen in an instant, often leaving us feeling helpless and overwhelmed. The physical injuries suffered after a... - [What Do Pedestrian, Bicycle, and Motorcycle Accidents Have in Common?](https://smithjordan.com/personal-injury/commonalities-in-pedestrian-bicycle-motorcycle-accidents/): What do auto accidents involving pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcycles have in common? Your initial thought may be “not much” other... - [South Carolina Pedestrian Laws](https://smithjordan.com/personal-injury/south-carolina-pedestrian-laws/): Unfortunately, too many pedestrians are injured or killed by motor vehicles in South Carolina. South Carolina consistently has among the... - [Qué es la compensación de trabajadores](https://smithjordan.com/workers-compensation/que-es-la-compensacion-detrabajadores/): Abogados que ofrecen servicios profesionales a la gente en la Carolina del Sur con casos de Compensación de trabajo. Nosotros... - [Common Questions During Work Accident Cases in South Carolina](https://smithjordan.com/personal-injury/common-questions-during-work-accident-cases-in-south-carolina/): Many hard working people have an accident at work in South Carolina that changes their lives. Maybe the accident involves... - [Should I Hire an Attorney for My Personal Injury Claim](https://smithjordan.com/personal-injury/should-i-hire-an-attorney-for-my-personal-injury-claim/): When people are involved in a car wreck or other accident, they often wonder if they should hire a personal... - [Sue The Person, Not The Insurance Company](https://smithjordan.com/auto-accidents/sue-the-person-not-the-insurance-company/): In South Carolina, like in most states, a person injured due to the negligence of another has to file suit... - [8 Signs You Should Hire a Workers’ Comp Lawyer](https://smithjordan.com/workers-compensation/when-to-hire-a-workers-comp-lawyer/): If you have been injured at work, you may be wondering if you need to hire a workers’ comp lawyer.... - [What to Do If Your Claim was Denied and You Don’t Have Money to Hire a Lawyer?](https://smithjordan.com/workers-compensation/what-to-do-if-your-claim-was-denied-and-you-dont-have-money-to-hire-a-lawyer/): This Article Was Updated on 3/23/2022 Reasons Workers’ Comp Claims are Denied What happens if your workers’ claim is denied?... - [Workers’ Compensation 101](https://smithjordan.com/workers-compensation/workers-compensation-101/): Workers’ compensation claims can be a difficult journey for those injured on the job. There is the physical injury and... - [Your Guide to Nursing Home Abuse](https://smithjordan.com/nursing-home-abuse/your-guide-to-nursing-home-abuse/): As the population gets older, more Americans reside and receive care in nursing homes. You want the best possible care for... - [How Do Families Deal With Nursing Home Abuse?](https://smithjordan.com/nursing-home-abuse/how-do-families-deal-with-nursing-home-abuse/): If your loved one has been the victim of nursing home abuse, you may be unsure what to do. The... - [Is Posting Photos Nursing Home Abuse?](https://smithjordan.com/nursing-home-abuse/is-posting-photos-nursing-home-abuse/): When you think of nursing home abuse, you most likely think of physical abuse. You may not initially envision the... - [Another Satisfied Customer](https://smithjordan.com/personal-injury/another-satisfied-customer/): We love to hear this! Check out Charles and Sandra Turner’s story below: My husband was injured on his job.... - [What is a disability for purposes of Social Security Disability?](https://smithjordan.com/social-security-disability/what-is-a-disability-for-purposes-of-social-security-disability/): This is a frequently asked question for individuals that are thinking of applying for Social Security Disability. The Social Security... --- # # Detailed Content ## Pages - Published: 2024-11-07 - Modified: 2025-05-13 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/greenville-dui-defense-attorney/ Greenville DUI Defense Attorney You may believe you can drive after a night of revelry at the local bar or a friend’s house party. Yet, a passing police officer may suspect you are inebriated and pull you over, leading to a DUI charge. Even worse, you may cause an accident and injure someone. Any time you are arrested for driving under the influence, you need help from a qualified Greenville DUI defense attorney. We understand that you may be worried about avoiding substantial penalties and clearing your name at Smith Jordan Law. A Greenville criminal defense attorney from our team will listen to your story and defend your rights against unfair prosecution. Contact us online or by calling (864) 343-2222 to get help immediately so you do not jeopardize your defense without valuable legal counsel. We fiercely defend your constitutional rightsWhen facing DUI charges, you must have a legal advocate who understands both sides of the justice system. Attorney D. Graham Buckner, a Greenville, SC, DUI attorney on our team, spent 13 years prosecuting cases in the Pickens County office of the 13th Judicial Court. He knows the techniques used by prosecuting attorneys and can build solid defenses against them. The Sixth Amendment to the U. S. Constitution gives you the right to a speedy trial with a jury of your peers. You also have the right to fight against any evidence that is improperly gathered or inaccurate. The court assumes you are innocent until you are proven guilty, and... --- - Published: 2024-07-25 - Modified: 2025-04-30 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/testimonials/ Testimonials Schedule a consultation “My SSA case was a few years ago. I had a chronic physical injury and developed PTSD. I was a mess, so I couldn’t navigate the government requirements alone. The SSA even sent 2 men to my home posing as Federal Agents, only to see my physical health and record my very statements! After all, you can get a second-rate attorney and possibly lose your right to these benefits, OR you go see these guys. The choice is clear. Mr. Jordan, I thank you so very much! ” – Gary S. “I just wanted to tell the staff of Grady Jordan that I appreciate the birthday card. My case has been settled for over a year now and I’m still getting birthday cards. It means a lot to me that they take the time to do this. Thank you all so much! – Paula K. “I am so thankful for Smith & Jordan law firm. Not only did they help me, they always checked in on me about my case. I honestly would recommend this firm from anyone else. I am proof that they are good people and go above and beyond to help all. I am grateful to have found them. ” - Amanda R. “This law firm goes above and beyond to help their clients. We feel like we have new extended family with them! ” - Jennifer C. “ Awesome team, with very professional services. Graham is a great guy! Would definitely recommend... --- - Published: 2024-07-18 - Modified: 2025-05-06 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/ Caring Lawyers, Proven Results, Community Trust We’re here to get you back on your feet. We work hard to make sure every client gets personalized attention from his or her attorney. Benefit From Our Insight With a Free Initial Consultation! Full Name(Required) First Email(Required) Phone(Required)Untitled(Required)NameThis field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. Personal Injury Lawyers Personal Injury Lawyers IN UPSTATE SOUTH CAROLINA https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=XHOmBV4js_EThe attorneys at Smith Jordan have been serving our community for more than 40 years. Whether you’ve been denied a claim for Workers’ Compensation or Social Security Disability, are dealing with the aftermath of an Auto Accident or Personal Injury, or if you or a loved one has been arrested and charged with a crime, we understand your frustration. We’re here to get you back on your feet. We work hard to make sure every client gets personalized attention from his or her attorney. who we are Types of Cases Types of Cases we handle Our experience spans a wide range of legal cases, including personal injury, workers' compensation, and business litigation. Many of our clients return to us for their legal needs—initially seeking our help for a workers' compensation case, for example, and then returning later for assistance with real estate or business transactions. Social Security Disability Workers’ Compensation Personal Injury Auto & Motorcycle Accidents Nursing Home Abuse Criminal Law Explore all Practice areas Trusted Personal InjuryLawyers TrustedPersonal InjuryLawyers in South Carolina, Serving Easley, Greenville, Oconee County and Neighboring AreasFacing legal... --- - Published: 2024-07-17 - Modified: 2025-04-24 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/contact-us/ Connect with us Contact our office for a free legal consultation. We’ll learn more about your case and will help you decide the next course of action. Call our office with your question, or use the contact form below to send our staff an email. Speak with Our Skilled Legal Team About Your Case Full Name(Required) First Email(Required) Phone(Required)Untitled(Required)CommentsThis field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. Greenville Location: Orchard Park Dr,Suite E2,Greenville, SC 2961540 (864) 387-8657 Easley Location: 1810 East Main StreetEasley, SC 29640 (864) 387-1457 Facebook-f Youtube --- - Published: 2024-07-15 - Modified: 2025-04-30 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/who-we-are/ Who We Are Lawyers who Care Looking for an attorney can be stressful, especially if you're dealing with an injury, a chronic condition, or a rejected Social Security Disability or Workers' Compensation claim. Whatever your legal struggle, the attorneys at Smith Jordan are here to help. With decades of experience, we have an in-depth understanding of the court systems, insurance companies, and the Social Security Administration. We know how to guide you through the system and build a case so that you can get your life back on track. Lawyers who respect you We are here to help during this stressful time. We respect you and will defend your legal rights. Though we handle many cases each year, you are more than just a number to us. Our lawyers listen carefully and work closely with you. If you have a court date, your lawyer will be by your side; we won't pass you off to a paralegal or a new lawyer. Dedicated to the Hispanic community, we have several Spanish-speaking employees, including attorney Grady Jordan. We are here to help during this stressful time. We respect you and will defend your legal rights. Our Team RONNIE L. SMITHpartner w. grady jordanpartner raymond t. wootenpartner d. graham bucknerpartner Our Team RONNIE L. SMITHpartner w. grady jordanpartner RAYMOND T. WOOTENpartner D. GRAHAM BUCKNERpartner Not sure what your next step should be? Not sure what your next step should be? Let us help you! We’ll learn more about your case and will help... --- - Published: 2024-04-02 - Modified: 2024-10-10 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/easley-criminal-defense-lawyer/ CRIMINAL DEFENSE LAWYER IN EASLEY, SC If you have been accused of any type of criminal charge or you are facing accusations, it is critical to work from the start to protect your rights. Perhaps your family member is facing charges, and you are unsure what to do to help them. Regardless of guilt, you have rights, and our criminal defense lawyer in Easley, SC, can help you protect them. Hiring a Greenville criminal law attorney ensures you know why you’re facing a charge and why the charge may not be lawful or just. Having an attorney by your side ensures you have an experienced legal professional capable of providing exceptional legal support and strategy. At Smith Jordan Law, we are passionate about providing our clients with the level and type of legal support they need in these critical situations. Types of criminal cases we handle Our criminal defense attorney in Easley, SC, provides legal support for most criminal accusations and charges. With our exceptional insights and long-term experience in the local court system, we can guide and support you throughout your case. Some of the most common criminal cases we support our clients through include the following. DUIDriving under the influence of alcohol or drugs carries a significant risk of fines and loss of driving privileges. Under South Carolina law, you could face a fine of up to $400 and/or imprisonment for 48 hours to 30 days if convicted. This also includes suspending your driver’s license for up to... --- - Published: 2023-11-14 - Modified: 2025-04-30 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/ FAQs All Categories Car Accident FAQs Medical Malpractice Nursing Home Abuse Pedestrian Accident Personal Injury Truck Accident Workers Compensation Not sure what your next step should be? Not sure what your next step should be? Let us help you! We’ll learn more about your case and will help you decide the next course of action. Call us (864)343-2222 We look forward to discussing your case Schedule a consultation --- - Published: 2023-11-14 - Modified: 2024-09-26 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/easley-nursing-home-abuse-lawyer/ EASLEY, SC NURSING HOME ABUSE LAWYER If you suspect your relative is being abused or neglected in their assisted living center or nursing home facility, you may have the right to take legal action. A respected Easley nursing home abuse attorney from Smith Jordan Law can help you explore your legal options. Our Easley, SC personal injury lawyers are ready to bring your loved one’s abuser to justice. Contact our office for a 100% free consultation today to learn more about how nursing home abuse claims work, who could be sued for negligence, and how much your family could be awarded if your complaint is successful. How much does it cost to hire a nursing home abuse attorney in Easley? The team at Smith Jordan Law works on contingency. Instead of requiring you to put money down or pay an hourly fee, we cover every cost related to pursuing your case for you. Then, when we win, a percentage of your trial verdict payout or insurance settlement will go toward our attorney’s fees. If we do not win, however, you will not have to pay anything. This gives you a chance to fight for the compensation you deserve without having to worry about putting your finances at risk. What should I do if I suspect abuse at my loved one’s nursing home? There are several steps you can take to protect your loved one and start building a case against those responsible. First and foremost, you are going to want... --- - Published: 2023-11-14 - Modified: 2024-08-15 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/easley-medical-malpractice-attorney/ EASLEY, SC MEDICAL MALPRACTICE ATTORNEY Unfortunately, just like with any profession, healthcare providers make mistakes. Sometimes, they’re honest mistakes, but other times, they come from malice or carelessness. If you have been seriously injured or became ill due to your healthcare provider’s negligence, misconduct, or medical mistakes, you have the right to compensation for your damages. An experienced Easley, SC medical malpractice attorney from Smith Jordan Law can help you hold the negligent provider accountable and recover the funds you need to get through this period in your life. A respected Easley personal injury lawyer at our firm can help you figure out how to navigate the claims process, understand some of the complex laws that are affecting your case, and ensure you are compensated fairly for your suffering. Contact our office to request a free consultation today and learn more about your next steps. What is and what is not considered medical malpractice? Many patients are unsure whether their healthcare provider has made a mistake or committed medical malpractice. There are several reasons for this. First, there are side effects and risks associated with nearly any type of treatment option, including a simple prescription drug. For example, you may experience headaches, dizziness, nose bleeds, nausea, and other side effects when you undergo anesthesia or take certain types of prescription medications. Your healthcare provider has a legal obligation to inform you of these risks before moving forward with the treatment plan. Once you understand the potential risks and side effects,... --- - Published: 2023-10-11 - Modified: 2024-10-10 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/easley-sc-social-security-disability-lawyer/ EASLEY, SC SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY LAWYER Applying for Social Security Disability can be complicated due to the legal jargon, deadlines, and red tape the government has put in place in order to be approved. With the help of an Easley, SC Social Security Disability lawyer, you can work to get approved for these benefits as soon as possible. An Easley, SC personal injury lawyer with Smith Jordan Law has experience handling the challenges of the Social Security Disability process. What kinds of Social Security Disability benefits can I receive? When you have a medical disability, there are two types of programs that offer financial help when you are unable to work and earn an income. The two types of Social Security Disability programs available are:Supplemental Security Income (SSI)Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)How much money can you make on Social Security Disability? The amount you are able to make on Social Security Disability will depend on several factors. You may not receive the full available monthly benefit if you are earning an income. The maximum Social Security Disability benefit is currently $3,267, and Supplemental Security Income is $914. Individual circumstances will affect what level of either of these benefits you will be eligible to receive. Why do I need to work with a lawyer? How can a lawyer help me? Unfortunately, an extremely high percentage of disability claims get denied the first time for one reason or another. Working with an Easley, SC Social Security Disability lawyer can help you avoid... --- - Published: 2023-10-11 - Modified: 2025-04-08 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/easley-sc-workers-compensation-lawyer/ EASLEY, SC WORKERS’ COMPENSATION LAWYER Depending on the facts and circumstances of your injury, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits, which will help you and your family get by during this tough time. Because every case is unique, reaching out to an Easley personal injury lawyer is crucial. Your attorney may be able to help you file multiple types of lawsuits in order to recover the maximum compensation you need and deserve. What’s the purpose of workers’ compensation? Workers’ compensation aims to help workers financially get by while they are out of work and healing from their workplace injuries. Individuals who qualify for workers’ compensation while at home or in the hospital recovering typically receive compensation to cover part of their lost income and all of the authorized medical expenses. The last thing the state of South Carolina wants is for our workers to be going through a challenging healing process while also worrying or stressing over how they will pay for their medical bills as well as feed their families. What types of benefits are available? South Carolina residents who become injured on the job may be eligible for three different types of benefits. Medical benefitsCover and pay for your medical bills and expenses. This includes emergency room visits, hospital stays, surgeries, physician appointments, prescriptions, and more. Lost incomeThe lost income benefit will cover two-thirds (⅔) of your lost wages while you can’t work. It is important that your income prior to the accident is verified as... --- - Published: 2023-10-11 - Modified: 2024-09-26 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/easley-sc-motorcycle-accident-lawyer/ EASLEY, SC MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT LAWYER If you or a loved one have been injured or have suffered a severe loss from a motorcycle accident in Easley, South Carolina, the accident attorneys with Smith Jordan Law are available to discuss the details of your case. Our skilled Easley personal injury lawyer is prepared to defend your legal rights and help you seek the compensation you deserve. How much does it cost to hire an Easley motorcycle accident lawyer? People often call motorcycle accident attorneys at their worst times, after being severely injured in a car crash or after losing a loved one to another driver’s negligence. A confident and compassionate law firm should offer free case evaluations to discuss the details of the accident. Your attorney works on a contingency fee basis where any fees they receive would come from the settlement amount they fought for you to receive. “Accident” is a misleading term The term accident means that the event was not foreseen or expected. However, in many cases, the crash could have been prevented with a small ounce of prevention. Drivers of larger vehicles often tend to be dismissive towards motorcyclists, not driving cautiously in their surroundings. Distracted or intoxicated drivers can cause severe harm to a motorcyclist they are sharing the roadways with. Local dram shops (any commercial venue that sells alcohol, such as clubs or bars) that over-serve their customers can also cause severe harm to a motorcyclist who has to share the road with their intoxicated... --- - Published: 2023-09-12 - Modified: 2025-06-04 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/easley-truck-accident-lawyer/ EASLEY TRUCK ACCIDENT LAWYER When a truck driver causes a crash, victims can be seriously injured or killed. Determining who is at fault can be complicated without experienced legal guidance. Smith Jordan Attorneys at Law is ready to assist you or your loved one with a free consultation with an Easley truck accident lawyer at our firm. We assess your case and explain how to proceed. Our personal injury lawyers in Easley, SC have managed cases like yours for over 40 years and we’re ready to help you today. Why should I work with Smith Jordan? At Smith Jordan, our attorneys work tirelessly on your behalf so you can focus on healing. We negotiate for you so you aren’t taken advantage of by ruthless trucking company lawyers who only want you to close your claim. We push back until we’ve reached a satisfactory settlement that provides the justice and compensation you deserve. How much does it cost to hire a truck accident lawyer in Easley? A trustworthy Easley truck accident attorney is more interested in ensuring your rights are protected than treating you like an ATM. At Smith Jordan, our lawyers offer free consultations so you can discuss your concerns without risk. We then work on a contingency fee basis, where we do not get paid until we secure a settlement for you. What should I do after being in a crash with a semi-truck? A semi-truck accident can be extremely chaotic. You may or may not be injured, but... --- - Published: 2023-09-11 - Modified: 2025-06-04 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/easley-car-accident-lawyer/ CAR ACCIDENT LAWYER IN EASLEY, SC A car crash can throw your world into chaos and uncertainty in a matter of seconds, leaving you unsure of the steps to take to move forward. This reaction is normal, and Smith Jordan Attorneys at Law respond to these situations daily, providing compassionate and experienced guidance to clients who may be overwhelmed by medical bills and calls from the insurance company. We provide relentless dedication as your personal injury lawyer in Easley, SC. Decades of experience have allowed us to offer exceptional care and service through some of life’s most difficult challenges. Our hard work pays off for clients Smith Jordan Attorneys at Law takes personal responsibility in caring for each client with unwavering support, dignity, and respect. We work hard to keep each of our clients informed about the specifics of their case. We refuse to bow to insurance companies’ excuses and attempts at meager compensation because we understand the cost of the injuries you have suffered and how those damages pour into every part of your physical, mental, and social well-being. Our relentless determination is noted by our satisfied clients. In any case, we stand by you until the end to secure the compensation you need to strive for recovery supported by maximum compensation. How much does it cost to hire a car accident attorney in Easley? Our team is here for you, which means we do not receive compensation unless we can secure compensation for you, known as a contingency... --- - Published: 2023-09-07 - Modified: 2025-04-28 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/easley-personal-injury-lawyer/ EASLEY, SC PERSONAL INJURY LAWYERS Knowing how to move forward after a serious injury can seem impossible as you cope with recovery, medical bills, and mounting home and work duties that must take a backseat to your healing. South Carolinians have a source of compassion and understanding in the team at Smith Jordan Law. When you work with Smith Jordan, you’ll work with a South Carolina personal injury lawyer who has your full and undivided attention from the first meeting. Call and learn why Smith Jordan is the top choice for injured people in Upstate South Carolina. Our hard work pays off for clients With Smith Jordan Law as your legal advocate, you can rest knowing that an experienced team is in your corner. But don’t just take our word for it – read our client testimonials to see why we are your choice as top Easley, SC personal injury lawyers. Types of cases we handle in Easley Smith Jordan Law has decades of dedicated experience representing clients injured in the following accidents. Car crashesRecent statistics demonstrate that a traffic accident occurs every 3. 6 minutes in South Carolina. Knowing the most dedicated representation to call is essential when you’re facing property damage, medical bills, and lost income from time spent out of work. Motorcycle collisionsHistorically, motorcycle fatalities have risen with few exceptions over the past decades and years. Smith Jordan Law understands your vulnerability as a motorcyclist and will fight for full compensation. Truck crashesDetermining who is at fault... --- - Published: 2023-09-07 - Modified: 2024-08-15 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/privacy-policy/ Privacy Policy Smith Jordan Privacy Policy Thank you for visiting Smith Jordan’s web site. By submitting personal information using the site, you are accepting the practices described in this privacy policy. Please review the privacy policy whenever you visit the site to make sure that you understand how any personal information you provide will be used. Please Note: the privacy practices outlined below apply to smithjordan. com only. If you link to other web sites, please review the privacy policies posted at those sites. Personal InformationThis site includes voluntary forms that collect personal information including names, email addresses, etc. Any information provided is used to fulfill your request. We will never sell or share your personal information to third parties. We will work to protect the security and privacy of any personal information that you provide. Only authorized employees and contractors have access to personal information, and all personnel have agreed to keep this information secure and confidential. Contact UsPlease feel free to contact us at (864)343-2222 with any questions or concerns regarding this policy. --- - Published: 2022-12-16 - Modified: 2025-08-05 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/greenville-car-accident-lawyer/speeding-accidents/ SPEEDING ACCIDENT LAWYER IN GREENVILLE, SC Cars are large, heavy, and potentially dangerous, but this is made even worse when a driver chooses to go too fast and causes an accident. A driver going over the speed limit or failing to take weather conditions into account is acting negligently, and you have the right to seek compensation from them with help from a skilled car accident attorney if you are injured. At Smith Jordan, you can get information, guidance, and legal representation from an experienced Greenville speeding accident lawyer from our team. We will listen to your story and investigate your claim to hold those at fault accountable for their careless actions. Contact us to schedule a free consultation today. How much does it cost to hire a speeding accident lawyer in Greenville? At Smith Jordan, we know you are already concerned about how to pay for your medical expenses and lost income while you wait for your claim to be completed. We do not add to your financial burden by charging a large retainer before we begin. In fact, your first case evaluation is completely free. When you decide to hire us, we work diligently for you and take our fees as a percentage of your settlement. This means you do not pay us until we secure compensation for you. Your speeding accident lawyer in Greenville will provide the help you need without worrying about another bill. Why is speeding so deadly? According to the National Safety Council (NSC),... --- - Published: 2022-12-05 - Modified: 2025-09-23 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/greenville-nursing-home-abuse-lawyer/ GREENVILLE NURSING HOME ABUSE LAWYER If you suspect your loved one is being abused or neglected in their nursing home, you must take action against the nursing home facility and other liable parties. With help from a compassionate Greenville nursing home abuse lawyer, you can demand justice for your family member. Connect with a top-rated attorney today and learn more about your legal options. We’ll work hard to ensure that those responsible for the abuse are held accountable to the fullest extent of the law. Fighting for Justice in Greenville Nursing Home Abuse Cases Our Greenville nursing home abuse lawyers are dedicated to helping our clients get through some of the most challenging times in their lives. We have extensive experience handling nursing home abuse and neglect cases and have won our clients millions of dollars in trial verdicts and insurance settlements. When you hope to maximize your financial compensation, our team at Smith Jordan is here to fight for your rights. We will be by your side as you pursue legal action against the nursing home facility, abuser, and even the nursing home’s parent company, where applicable. How much does it cost to hire a Greenville nursing home abuse lawyer? Smith Jordan Attorneys at Law works for nursing home abuse victims and their family members on contingency. You do not have to pay anything for our legal representation until we win your case. What should I do if I suspect abuse at my loved one’s nursing home? If you... --- - Published: 2022-12-05 - Modified: 2025-06-13 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/greenville-dram-shop-attorney/ DRAM SHOP LAWYER IN GREENVILLE, SC South Carolina residents owe it to themselves and other drivers to avoid operating vehicles when they’re under the influence of alcohol. While individual drivers should absolutely be held responsible in the event of any crash involving alcohol impairment, restaurants and bars that knowingly serve intoxicated patrons should also be held responsible for their actions. Enter the complicated personal injury niche known as dram shop law. This references the complicated web of liability that can arise when drunk drivers have been overserved by restaurants, bars, and other establishments. Keep reading to learn how these personal injury cases work — and why working with a South Carolina dram shop lawyer is so important. What is a “dram shop? ” The term “dram shop” references any commercial enterprise that sells alcoholic beverages. Common examples include bars, pubs, dance clubs, and restaurants. Dram shop laws determine the extent to which these and other types of businesses can be held liable based on how their intoxicated customers behave — especially if their negligence causes harm to innocent individuals. Dram shop rules vary significantly from one state to the next. In general, however, establishments that sell alcohol can get in big trouble if they continue to serve alcohol to patrons who are obviously intoxicated or are under the legal drinking age. What are dram shop laws in South Carolina? South Carolina does not currently have a specific statute designated as a dram shop law. Rather, the state prohibits businesses from knowingly serving alcohol to... --- - Published: 2022-11-28 - Modified: 2025-09-08 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/greenville-car-accident-lawyer/greenville-hit-and-run-accident-lawyers/ GREENVILLE SC HIT AND RUN ACCIDENT LAWYERS Suffering a car accident is traumatic enough, but when the other driver speeds off without performing their legal duties, it is even more upsetting. How will you find them? What if you are seriously injured, and they were at fault? You need help from a skilled car accident attorney to understand your options for seeking justice. At Smith Jordan, we are ready to listen to your story and provide solutions from our skilled hit and run accident lawyers. Our team offers compassion and experience to locate the wrongdoer and secure compensation for your damages. Contact us to schedule a free consultation and learn more today. How can our hit and run accident lawyers help? Hit-and-run drivers often think they are getting away after causing a crash, but there are ways to hold them accountable. You aren’t out of luck when you depend on Smith Jordan’s team of knowledgeable and tenacious personal injury attorneys. We put our resources and skills to work to examine every detail that could help us identify and pursue a negligent driver. We work with police and gather additional information such as:Accident scene photos of your injuries, road conditions, and property damageWitness statementsTestimony from expertsVideo from any cameras in the areaVideos, posts, and pictures from social media describing the crashStatements from local repair shops on cars that match the wanted vehicle’s descriptionPaint, parts, or other items left behind after the crashWhile we work to locate the driver so we can... --- - Published: 2021-12-20 - Modified: 2025-09-15 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/greenville-medical-malpractice-lawyer/ MEDICAL MALPRACTICE LAWYERS IN GREENVILLE, SC The South Carolina medical industry is responsible for keeping you, your loved ones, and the entire community as safe and healthy as possible. Many talented and passionate healthcare professionals work hard to make a positive difference — but negligence is also shockingly common. When negligence in health care leads to physical or emotional suffering, it’s important to take action with help from a top-rated medical malpractice lawyer in Greenville. The more you know about the scope of the problem, the better you’ll understand the value of seeking legal representation in the aftermath of a negligence-related personal injury incident. Our hard work pays off for our clients A Smith Jordan medical malpractice lawyer in Greenville, SC is here to guide you through the claims process. We understand how overwhelming pursuing a medical malpractice claim can be. Our strong track record of success is evidence that we take cases like yours seriously and will do everything possible to win for our clients. We have substantial experience handling medical malpractice claims and negotiating with insurance companies. With the liable parties attempting to get away with paying you less than you deserve, we will ensure you receive fair compensation for your physical, emotional, and financial losses. How much does it cost to hire a medical malpractice lawyer? Hiring a medical malpractice lawyer in Greenville from Smith Jordan Attorneys at Law will be more cost-effective than you probably thought. We work with medical malpractice victims on contingency agreements. You... --- - Published: 2021-07-07 - Modified: 2025-09-10 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/greenville-criminal-law-attorney/ CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY GREENVILLE SC If you or a loved one has been arrested and charged with a crime in South Carolina, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney serving Greenville SC, who will fight to protect your rights. Smith Jordan Attorneys at Law offers some of the best criminal defense in the state, and they’re ready to assist you. Graham Buckner is a criminal law attorney and former prosecutor in the Pickens County office of the 13th Judicial Circuit. He has had years of experience prosecuting crimes. Graham has successfully tried a wide variety of cases to verdict in his career, ranging from DUI to murder. Why hire A criminal defense attorney with Smith Jordan law? The criminal justice system is complex and confusing. Without proper representation, charges can become a conviction and then negatively impact your future. A criminal defense attorney can assist you in contesting your charges and ensuring you are not taken advantage of in “the system. ” Criminal Defense lawyers understand how to navigate the law and work within the state court system to make sure you have the best outcome possible in your case. These skills include being a shield for you from the prosecutor’s office while your case is pending and presenting your case in the best possible light to a judge or jury. Handling a case yourself could mean that you are at the mercy of the prosecutor’s office, hoping for a good outcome. The problem is that the state is not... --- - Published: 2021-03-30 - Modified: 2025-06-13 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/greenville-bicycle-accident-attorney/ GREENVILLE BICYCLE ACCIDENT ATTORNEY When your pleasant bike ride turns to tragedy in an accident, you can face severe injuries and mounting medical bills. You need a skilled Greenville bicycle accident attorney to examine your case and hold the liable parties accountable. Smith Jordan Attorneys at Law is committed to helping you recover physically, emotionally, and financially from your crash. Contact us to speak with a qualified personal injury lawyer and learn more about your options today. Why work with Smith Jordan Attorneys at Law Our firm has served Upstate South Carolina for over 40 years with the highest quality legal representation in numerous fields where people need help from the law. We put our knowledge and dedication to work for every client, working tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for each unique case. We’ll work hard to obtain total compensation on your behalf. Don’t go it alone; contact us online and get started. We’re Here to Help You Recover What You’ve Lost If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident in Greenville, you may be entitled to compensation for:Medical Costs – ER visits, hospital stays, medications, rehab, and future care. Lost Income – Wages lost during recovery and reduced future earning ability. Property Damage – Repair or replacement of your bike and personal items. Pain and Suffering – Physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. Punitive Damages – In rare cases involving extreme negligence, like drunk driving. Our team will work to identify all damages... --- - Published: 2021-03-30 - Modified: 2025-09-08 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/greenville-car-accident-lawyer/drunk-driving-accident/ GREENVILLE DRUNK DRIVING ACCIDENT LAWYER Being struck by a drunk driver can lead to extensive and ongoing health complications. These types of preventable accidents put the lives of others at risk on a consistent basis. Yet, as a Greenville drunk driving accident lawyer, we see this occurring rather commonly. If you were struck by a drunk driver and suffered injuries, allow us to work closely with you to pursue the compensation owed to you and hold those responsible for your losses accountable. How Can our Greenville drunk driving accident Lawyer help prove negligence? Our Greenville car accident lawyers are committed to working closely with you to ensure your rights remain protected throughout this legal process. In South Carolina, driving under the influence (DUI) is considered negligence per se, meaning that if a driver is proven to be intoxicated, they are automatically considered negligent. This strengthens our case in proving liability. We'll fight the insurance company to get you the maximum compensation Insurance companies are not on your side. They want to settle for far less than what you are owed. We fight against this by ensuring they treat you fairly and provide the compensation you are owed. What are The Drunk driving laws in South Carolina? The South Carolina Code of Laws prohibits motorists from operating vehicles with a BAC of over 0. 08 percent. Depending on the availability of other evidence, a motorist can also be regarded as driving under the influence with a BAC of between 0. 05... --- - Published: 2021-03-30 - Modified: 2025-06-13 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/greenville-pedestrian-accident-attorney/ GREENVILLE PEDESTRIAN ACCIDENTS LAWYER Too many pedestrians are hit by motor vehicles. Drivers are distracted or not paying attention and will hit pedestrians. All too often, a few seconds of inattention by a driver will lead to a pedestrian’s severe injury or death. If you or a loved one has been hit, you need an Greenville pedestrian accidents lawyer who knows the law and knows how to investigate and handle these cases. Even if you or your loved one was marked at fault by the police, our can often help. We’ll fight the insurance company to get you full compensation A Smith Jordan Greenville pedestrian accidents lawyer is here to help you. We are committed to working hard to help you obtain all the compensation for your losses. We know what is at stake and will work hard to meet your needs. What are the common causes of pedestrian accidents we work with? It can be daunting to think about how such an accident could occur and what it may mean for your future. Why did this happen? There are many reasons this can happen, and often, as Greenville pedestrian accident attorneys, we struggle to understand what happens or why, just as you do. Yet, there are some common reasons for these incidents to occur, including the following. Distracted drivingOne of the most common causes of pedestrian accidents is distracted driving. A person may be:Looking at their phoneTalking to someone else in the car and not paying attention to what... --- - Published: 2021-03-30 - Modified: 2025-09-16 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/greenville-motorcycle-accident-lawyer/ GREENVILLE MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT LAWYER In a collision, motorcyclists are four times more likely to be injured and 28 times more likely to die than passenger car occupants. But the bad news doesn’t end there – investigations are often conducted without the biker getting the opportunity to explain what happened to police officers and emergency personnel. This means the motorcyclist is often marked as being at fault in the wreck when they did nothing wrong, and the other driver’s insurance company often refuses to pay for the motorcyclist’s injuries. If you or a loved one was involved in a motorcycle wreck, you need an experienced Greenville motorcycle accident lawyer to deal with the insurance companies and any personal injuries you’ve sustained in order to ensure you get everything you’re entitled to under South Carolina law. Why work with Smith Jordan Attorneys at Law As you seek a motorcycle accident lawyer in Greenville, SC or Easley, SC, look no further than Smith Jordan. Boasting a strong reputation throughout South Carolina, our team fights passionately on behalf of the state’s equally passionate motorcyclists. At Smith Jordan, we strongly believe that you should be able to ride without fear on South Carolina roads. When negligence gets in the way, we’ll help you fight back. Call us today. What are possible damages our Greenville Motorcycle Accident Lawyer help you claim? The main goal of a Greenville motorcycle accident claim is to recover compensation for the losses you sustained as a result of the other party’s... --- - Published: 2021-03-30 - Modified: 2025-09-16 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/greenville-truck-accident-lawyer/ GREENVILLE TRUCK ACCIDENT LAWYER When a tractor-trailer or other commercial vehicle is involved in a wreck, the results lead to personal injury that is often tragic. These vehicles can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, and even the safest car, truck, or SUV doesn’t stand a chance when it gets hit by a tractor-trailer. From requirements that drivers have commercial licenses to rules about the way the trucks are maintained and how long drivers can go without taking a break, truckers and other commercial drivers have to follow rules to protect themselves and the other drivers on the road. If you or a loved one is involved in a wreck with a tractor-trailer or other commercial vehicle, you need a Greenville truck accident lawyer who understands the rules for commercial drivers and knows what to look for when investigating your case. Smith Jordan Fights truck insurance companies for maximum compensation Trucking insurance companies often have robust teams of lawyers and insurance adjusters ready to challenge claims. These companies exist to make money, and they will do everything in their power to minimize the amount of compensation paid to you. At Smith Jordan, we level the playing field. Our Greenville truck accident lawyers have the experience and resources to take on even the most powerful trucking insurance companies. Our goal is to maximize the compensation you receive to account for the full scope of your losses. What are THe possible damages we can help you claim? The primary objective of any Greenville... --- - Published: 2021-03-04 - Modified: 2024-08-15 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/what-insurance-companies-dont-cover/ What Insurance Companies Don’t Cover When meeting with an injured person for the first time, we hear different versions of the same story over and over again... They tried to handle the claim themselves, and the insurance adjuster told them that their damages weren’t covered. For example, the insurance adjuster may say that they only cover emergency room visits, or that they only cover medical bills for a certain time after a wreck. They may be told that its “company policy” to only provide a rental car for a few days, or that the insurance company doesn’t pay diminished value claims. The truth is, when you are injured due to the negligence of another, the law doesn’t allow their insurance company to pick and choose what it pays and what it doesn’t. The at fault person’s insurance company’s policies don’t matter. A liability insurance company is required to pay any and all damages that its insured is liable for up to its policy limits. Whether that’s medical bills incurred months after the wreck, or diminished value because your car is worth less after the wreck than before the wreck, the insurance company is obligated to pay it. If an insurance company is refusing to pay your damages, let us help. --- - Published: 2021-03-04 - Modified: 2024-08-15 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/insight-on-insurance-companies-and-settlements/ Insight On Insurance Companies & Settlements Insurance companies will often try to settle a wreck case as quick as they can. If you are injured in a wreck, you may receive an offer from the insurance company before you even get out of the hospital. Insurance companies will often quickly approach an injured person with an offer that is something along the lines of agreeing to pay for all the medical bills already incurred and giving the person an additional $500-$1,000. To sweeten the deal, the insurance company may even offer to pay for any medical bills incurred for a couple of additional weeks or even a month. The first question that should pop into your mind is, “why is the insurance company trying to settle the case so quickly? ” The answer is not that the insurance company is trying to do the right thing- instead, the insurance company is trying to minimize how much it has to pay. It often takes weeks or months for an injured person to realize the full extent of the injuries they suffered in a wreck. Doctors frequently start off with conservative treatments such as rest or muscle relaxers. Often, the expensive diagnostic tests such as MRI’s that are necessary to diagnose many problems are not ordered unless the initial conservative treatment fails. What you thought was just a neck strain could actually be a herniated disc. Once a person settles their claim with the insurance company, they can’t go back and get... --- - Published: 2021-02-04 - Modified: 2025-09-16 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/greenville-car-accident-lawyer/ GREENVILLE CAR ACCIDENT LAWYER Every year, hundreds of Greenville drivers and passengers are killed in car accidents. Beyond this, thousands suffer severe and debilitating injuries. While various factors can contribute to these collisions, negligence is often to blame. Compensation is possible when irresponsible behavior plays a role, but it is important to work with a Greenville car accident lawyer. Strong legal representation can dramatically improve your odds of securing damages, and Smith Jordan Attorneys at Law can help. Contact us today at (864) 343-2222 for a free consultation. Your rights as a car accident victim in Greenville, SC If you were involved in a car accident in Greenville, South Carolina, here are the five most important rights you have: Right to seek compensation: You have the right to file a claim for damages resulting from the car wreck, including medical expenses, lost wages, vehicle repairs, and pain and suffering. Right to legal representation: You are entitled to hire an attorney to represent your interests, handle negotiations with insurance companies, and pursue litigation if necessary to obtain fair compensation. Right to medical treatment: You have the right to receive immediate and ongoing medical care for any injuries sustained in the accident. The costs of this treatment can be part of your compensation claim. Right to a fair insurance settlement: You have the right to negotiate with the insurance companies for a fair settlement. If the offer is too low, you can challenge it or take legal action to secure appropriate compensation.... --- - Published: 2021-02-04 - Modified: 2025-09-04 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/greenville-personal-injury-lawyer/ GREENVILLE PERSONAL INJURY LAWYER If you or a loved one have been injured through the negligence of another person, you may be wondering what to do next. You may not know where to turn. When you work with our Greenville personal injury lawyer, you can seek justice for the harm caused to you or your loved one. Working with an attorney is the way to move forward. It can not only provide you with fair and just compensation, but it can also help to increase your peace of mind. Why hire Smith Jordan Attorneys at Law To get the quality help and support you need with your case, you want a Greenville personal injury lawyer that residents recommend. We know it can be very difficult to navigate the accident aftermath and the insurance claims made from the injuries. However, the attorneys at Smith Jordan have years of experience working against insurance companies. We want to ensure you can get back on your feet financially and experience a better quality of life. If you were emotionally or physically injured by the negligence of someone else, reaching out to a Greenville personal injury lawyer is the first step. What damages can Smith Jordan help you claim for your injury? The primary goal of any personal injury claim is to recover compensation for the losses you suffered as a result of the other party’s negligence. These losses are known as damages and may include both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damagesEconomic damages are... --- - Published: 2021-02-03 - Modified: 2025-08-29 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/greenville-workers-compensation-lawyer/ GREENVILLE WORKERS' COMPENSATION LAWYER Being injured on the job can be extremely stressful. The workers compensation insurance carrier might treat you like the bad guy for getting injured, but you have the right to fair compensation, no matter what they say or how they make you feel. If you’re facing a workplace injury and going up against an insurance company, our workers comp lawyers are here to level the playing field. With our help, you’ll have the best chance of receiving the compensation that you deserve.  Call (864) 343-2222 to contact a Greenville workers compensation lawyer with Smith Jordan Attorneys at Law and learn about how we can help. Why choose Smith Jordan Attorneys at Law Navigating workers compensation benefits while recovering from an injury can be overwhelming. If you were injured at work, a Greenville workers comp lawyer with Smith Jordan can help you understand how workers compensation laws can protect you. Our compassionate attorneys will take the time to listen to you and relieve some of the stress of dealing with insurance companies. With over 40 years of experience representing workers before the South Carolina Workers Compensation Commission, we have handled cases for hundreds of people injured on the job. We know how to get you the help you deserve. What is the purpose of workers compensation Traditionally, when a person gets injured due to another party’s negligence, they would file a personal injury claim to seek compensation for their losses. However, applying these rules to the workplace can be messy. Workplace injuries... --- - Published: 2019-03-01 - Modified: 2025-06-13 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/greenville-social-security-disability-lawyer/ GREENVILLE, SC SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY ATTORNEY What do you do when you make a legitimate claim but your Social Security disability claim is denied? You know you can’t work, but how do you begin to explain that to the Social Security Administration—especially while you’re feeling so poorly? If your Social Security disability claim has been denied, you are not alone. Our Greenville lawyers understand how discouraging it can be to be denied a claim when you’re already feeling down, and we’re here to help. Contact us today at (864) 343-2222 to speak with us about your legal options. Understanding Social Security’s definition of “disability” and meeting the criteria Generally speaking, only individuals who meet the Social Security Administration’s stringent criteria for disability are eligible to receive Social Security disability benefits. Severity requirementTo be considered disabled by the SSA, you must be unable to engage in any “substantial gainful activity” because of a medically determinable mental or physical impairment. The impairment must be expected to last for at least 12 continuous months or result in death. Work capacity evaluationThe SSA will also consider your work capacity or your “residual functional capacity. ” This takes into account factors such as your age, education, and work history to determine if you can perform any type of job. Listing of impairmentsIf you are out of work due to an unexpected accident or illness, you may be entitled to Social Security benefits, especially if you have one of the following conditions:FibromyalgiaArthritisChronic Back PainLupusHepatitis CMultiple SclerosisHeart... --- - Published: 2019-02-28 - Modified: 2024-08-15 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/cases-we-handle/ Cases We Handle Experienced, Professional Attorneys on Your Side We have extensive experience with many types of legal cases, ranging from personal injury to workers’ compensation to business litigation. We often have repeat clients—that is, someone who initially comes to us for one kind of case, such as Workers’ Compensation, and after that is settled comes to us again when they need a lawyer for a real estate or business transaction. Not sure what your next step should be? Not sure what your next step should be? Let us help you! We’ll learn more about your case and will help you decide the next course of action. Call us (864)343-2222 We look forward to discussing your case Schedule a consultation --- --- ## Posts - Published: 2025-09-02 - Modified: 2025-09-18 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/social-security-disability/how-to-win-a-social-security-disability-hearing/ - Categories: Social Security Disability Getting Social Security disability benefits isn’t always easy. If your claim was denied, you still have options. A Greenville social security disability attorney can help you prepare for your hearing and give you the best chance to win. While you’re allowed to appeal on your own, having a lawyer on your side can make a big difference when you’re unable to work and need benefits to get by. What to do if your disability claim is denied If you have submitted an initial application for social security disability and received a denial, you are must file a request for reconsideration within 60 days. If the claim is then denied at the reconsideration stage then you have 60 days to file for a hearing before an administrative law judge (ALJ). These hearings may take place by phone, video conference, or in the Greenville area hearing office located in Mauldin.   This hearing typically consists of speaking with the ALJ and answering the judge’s questions about your medical conditions, including questions about your current ability to work, work history, and daily activities. Many people hurt their case by not providing all of their medical records and by talking about what they can do on a good day. But that doesn’t show how their condition affects them most of the time. It can give the judge the wrong idea and make it seem like they don’t qualify for benefits. A disability lawyer can help you avoid mistakes and improve your chances of getting... --- - Published: 2025-09-01 - Modified: 2025-09-08 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/can-a-police-officer-sue-for-personal-injury/ - Categories: Personal Injury The dangers of police work are well-documented. It’s the nature of the job to regularly interact with negligent, reckless, or otherwise malicious individuals who may cause injury. While workers’ compensation benefits cover most work injuries that an officer will sustain, some situations may allow police officers to sue for personal injury.   If you have been injured in the line of duty and want to pursue a personal injury lawsuit against the responsible party, you may benefit from speaking with a Greenville personal injury lawyer with Smith Jordan Law to help you protect your rights to compensation and avoid unnecessary complications or delays. Why would injured police officers sue for personal injury instead of filing a workers’ compensation claim? Police officers can access workers’ compensation benefits when they are injured on the job. The benefit of a South Carolina workers’ compensation claim is that it pays out based on a no-fault system, allowing you to collect benefits sooner in many cases. If a third party who you do not work with was the direct cause of your injuries, you may also be able to pursue a personal injury claim against that third party in addition to your workers compensation claim. Personal injury claims allow you to recover for damages such as pain and suffering and loss of enjoyment of life that are not included in a workers compensation claim. For example, an officer may consider filing a personal injury lawsuit against a driver who caused a car wreck that injured... --- - Published: 2025-08-29 - Modified: 2025-09-08 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/auto-accidents/what-to-do-if-you-witness-a-car-crash/ - Categories: Car Accidents If you are nearby when a car accident occurs, you can become a valuable part of the investigation. By helping others, telling the police what you saw, and offering your story to the victims, you could help them find justice. Their Greenville car accident lawyer can use your statement as part of a personal injury claim against any wrongdoers. Let’s examine what to do if you witness a car crash so you are prepared to help.   Are you legally required to help a car crash victim? No, you are not. Under South Carolina Code of Law Section 56-5-1230, drivers involved in a car accident must report the crash under certain circumstances and render aid to anyone who is involved. This law technically doesn’t apply to witnesses, but calling 911 counts as rendering aid. If you’re a medical professional, you might worry about getting sued if you try to help someone at a crash scene. Fortunately, South Carolina’s Good Samaritan statute generally protects you from civil lawsuits if you attempt to help someone in good faith when they are injured. Even if you can’t give medical care, we recommend performing the following actions to potentially save lives. Stay calm and stay safe, then call for help First, stay calm and avoid putting yourself in danger. Call 911 right away to get police and emergency responders on the way. If you’re driving, pull over safely, turn on your hazard lights, and keep a safe distance. Approach the scene only if it’s... --- - Published: 2025-08-20 - Modified: 2025-09-08 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/how-do-50-50-split-liability-personal-injury-claims-work/ - Categories: Personal Injury Split liability claims result from a car accident, or any type of accident, where each party involved bears half of the blame for causing the incident. These situations do not outright prevent those injured from collecting compensation, but doing so can be more complicated. If your accident represents a 50/50 liability claim, getting help from a Greenville personal injury lawyer from Smith Jordan Law can improve your chances of securing the highest compensation available.   How is liability determined? The person responsible for the accident is the liable party. This party pays the victim’s compensation, often through insurance coverage. Whether an accident occurs from a battle for a parking space, a road traffic accident, or takes some other form, determining liability is a critical opening step. Insurance companies and attorneys conduct a post-accident analysis to find out what happened, determine liability, and collect evidence to establish negligence. An attorney can protect you from being assigned unwarranted blame and find evidence demonstrating the at-fault party’s negligence. What is split liability? Sometimes, different parties involved in an accident may each be partly responsible for the crash. For example, one driver may be 75% responsible and the other 25% responsible.   In South Carolina, the amount of liability each party holds factors heavily into how a claim plays out. Per the South Carolina Contribution Among Tort Feasors Act, victims can pursue damages as long as their fault does not exceed 50%. If they meet this criterion but still hold a smaller percentage of... --- - Published: 2025-08-11 - Modified: 2025-09-08 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/greenville-law-blog/how-do-personal-injury-trials-work/ - Categories: Personal Injury Most personal injury cases settle outside of court. But when a fair deal isn’t possible, your case may go to trial. So, how do personal injury trials work? Here’s what you can expect, and how a Greenville personal injury lawyer can help guide you through the process, from filing to verdict. Why do personal injury cases go to trial? Many personal injury claims settle out of court. The opposing sides negotiate until coming to an agreed-upon compensation amount. Hiring a personal injury lawyer to handle these negotiations with the insurance company or other representatives for the at-fault party will serve you best. Your attorney will know how much your case is worth and give you guidance for deciding whether to accept or decline a settlement offer. When the other side refuses to negotiate productively or make a fair offer, you may decide to take your case to court and fight for justice at trial. Your personal injury attorney can help you make this decision. Once you decide to move forward, your attorney files a lawsuit on your behalf, if you have not done so already. Chapter three of the South Carolina Code of Laws typically gives victims three years to file a claim. What is the process of a personal injury trial Your lawyer will already have conducted a careful accident investigation to collect evidence used in settlement negotiations. If either side has discovered additional evidence, they must exchange that information during the pre-trial “discovery” step in the legal process.... --- - Published: 2025-08-04 - Modified: 2025-09-08 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/am-i-liable-if-my-spouse-causes-a-car-accident/ - Categories: Car Accident The driver who causes an accident is usually the liable party, not their spouse. But even if you’re not legally responsible, your household may still feel the financial impact. Most spouses share insurance policies and assets, which means your insurance could be used to cover damages, and jointly owned property might be at risk if your spouse is sued. A Greenville car accident lawyer from Smith Jordan Law can help you sort through your options and protect what matters most. How does South Carolina car insurance work when covering a spouse? South Carolina requires a minimum level of insurance coverage for all registered vehicles. According to Chapter 77 of South Carolina Code 38-77-140, the “insured” party is the person named on the policy, and “while resident of the same household, the spouse of any named insured... ” should be automatically covered. If your spouse was driving a vehicle for which you are the primary insurance policyholder when the accident occurred, your insurance policy should cover the accident. Some insurance companies require policyholders to include the names of spouses or other household members who drive. While your spouse is often automatically included in most car insurance policies, it is smart to include the names of all driving household members to avoid surprises if they cause an accident. A lawyer can negotiate with insurance companies and hold them accountable for honoring your policy as the law requires, but this additional battle can be easily prevented. Can I be held liable if my... --- - Published: 2025-07-31 - Modified: 2025-09-08 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/can-you-sue-the-city-for-personal-injury/ - Categories: Personal Injury You may be able to sue the city of Greenville for a personal injury, but the process is not always straightforward. Government agencies enjoy protections from lawsuits that private individuals or businesses do not. A Greenville personal injury lawyer from Smith Jordan Law knows how claims against the government work and can fight to hold them accountable for compensating you for injuries their negligence caused. Is the City protected from lawsuits by sovereign immunity? It used to be much more difficult for injury victims to file a personal injury claim against the city and collect damages for injuries caused by government entities or on government property. The City and government offices at large enjoyed legal protection, called sovereign immunity, which often prevented victims from filing a claim for an accident caused by a government employee.   While sovereign immunity once completely shielded government entities from liability, the South Carolina Tort Claims Act allows lawsuits against government agencies for certain negligent acts, within specific limits. The laws governing this type of tort claim are complex, so securing representation from an experienced personal injury attorney is critical to your case’s success. Are there special rules for filing personal injury lawsuits against the city? The procedures for filing against the city are different from those for filing against private individuals or companies. For example, you may first file a “verified claim for damages” with the city, including specific information about the accident, the extent of your losses, the names of all involved, and... --- - Published: 2025-07-15 - Modified: 2025-09-18 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/workers-compensation/are-independent-contractors-covered-by-workers-comp/ - Categories: Workers Compensation If you’ve been injured on the job in Greenville and aren’t sure whether you qualify for workers’ compensation, you’re not alone—especially if you’re classified as an independent contractor. Many workers find themselves in a grey area, wondering whether their classification affects their right to benefits. As a Greenville workers’ compensation lawyer, we get this question a lot at Smith Jordan Law: Are independent contractors covered by workers’ comp in South Carolina? Let’s break down what the law says and what it means for you. Understanding workers’ compensation in South Carolina Workers’ compensation is a no-fault insurance system designed to protect employees who are injured while performing job-related duties. If you’re hurt on the job, workers’ comp can cover your medical expenses, a portion of your lost wages, and any permanent disability. However, these protections are generally limited to employees. That’s where things get tricky for independent contractors. Are independent contractors covered? In most cases, independent contractors are not eligible for workers’ compensation benefits in South Carolina. The reasoning is that contractors are self-employed individuals who aren’t under the direct control of a single employer. Since employers aren’t required to provide coverage for non-employees, contractors are often left without this vital safety net. That said, classification isn’t always clear-cut—and it’s not solely based on what your contract says. Just because your employer calls you a contractor doesn’t mean the law agrees. Employee vs. independent contractor: it’s about control South Carolina courts and the Workers’ Compensation Commission use several factors to determine... --- - Published: 2025-06-10 - Modified: 2025-06-10 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/workers-compensation/ - Categories: FAQs, Workers Compensation In South Carolina, injured workers typically receive ⅔ of their pre-tax weekly salary in workers’ comp benefits. This usually works out to workers receiving 66 and ⅔ % of their average weekly wage. So if you typically make $600 a week, you may receive up to $400 in weekly compensation. You’ve probably heard these payments referred to as “workers’ comp checks,” but the legal term is “temporary total disability. ” The purpose of these payments is to help you pay your bills until you can return to work. Keep reading for more from our Greenville workers’ compensation lawyers. What’s the maximum amount of workers’ comp in South Carolina? There is a limit to how much workers’ comp will pay in South Carolina. If you were injured in 2022, your maximum weekly compensation is $963. 37. If your injury occurred in 2023, your maximum weekly compensation is $1,035. 78; if you were injured on or after January 1, 2024, your maximum weekly compensation is $1,093. 67. SCWCC states that in 2025, the maximum weekly payment is $1,134. 43 Hurt at work? Call Smith Jordan Law today. Work-related injuries are frustrating and scary if you do not have enough funds to pay your expenses. Please contact Smith Jordan Attorneys at Law if you need assistance with your workers’ compensation claim. We will work hard to ensure you receive the medical care and other benefits you deserve. We will also work diligently on your behalf for a fair payment to you for any... --- - Published: 2025-06-02 - Modified: 2025-06-02 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/car-accident/what-happens-if-i-have-a-partial-fault-in-a-car-accident/ - Categories: Car Accident, FAQs It is more common than you think to be accused of sharing liability for a car accident. However, if you are found partially responsible, it could have a substantial impact on the outcome of your case. An experienced Greenville car accident lawyer from Smith Jordan Law can help you deal with the ramifications of a partial fault car accident. Contact our office for a 100% free consultation today to learn more about how shared liability claims work, how you can protect yourself against unjust partial blame accusations, and how your case could be affected. How South Carolina’s modified comparative negligence laws work South Carolina follows modified comparative negligence rules. This means if you are involved in a partial liability car accident, you could still recover compensation for your damages as long as your percentage of blame does not exceed the state's threshold. The 51% rule In South Carolina, if you are 51% or more at fault for an accident, then you are barred from recovering. If, however, you are 50% or less at fault, then you can still recoup your damages at a reduced rate. If your fault percentage is less than the bar threshold, you can expect your settlement to be reduced in proportion to your percentage of the blame. This means if you are 15% at fault, there will be a 15% deduction of your award. This can have a significant impact on the amount of your car accident settlement. A look at partially at-fault car accidents It... --- - Published: 2025-05-30 - Modified: 2025-06-02 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/auto-accidents/how-is-fault-determined-in-greenville/ - Categories: Auto Accidents Determining fault in an accident is a crucial step in the legal process, impacting the outcome of insurance claims and potential lawsuits. In Greenville, South Carolina, the rules for establishing fault follow state guidelines, and understanding these can help you navigate the aftermath of an accident. At Smith Jordan Law, we are committed to providing you with the knowledge and legal support needed to manage such situations effectively. Please call our Greenville car accident lawyers at (864) 343-2222 if you or a loved one are hurt in a crash. The basics of fault determination Fault determination involves identifying who was responsible for causing an accident. This process is critical for deciding who will pay for damages and injuries. South Carolina follows a "fault" or "tort" system, meaning the person found to be at fault for an accident is liable for the resulting damages. Key factors in determining fault Police reports After an accident, law enforcement officers typically prepare a police report detailing the scene, the involved parties, and any potential traffic violations. While not admissible at trial, the police report is a vital piece of evidence that is used in determining fault. Eyewitness testimonies Statements from witnesses who saw the accident can provide crucial information about what happened and who might be at fault. Traffic laws Traffic laws violations are strong indicators of fault. For example, running a red light or failing to yield can directly point to the negligent party. Relevant statutes include the South Carolina Code of Laws... --- - Published: 2025-05-23 - Modified: 2025-06-03 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/dismissal-vs-expungement/ - Categories: Criminal Defense Navigating the criminal justice system can be daunting, particularly when trying to understand the outcomes of a case. Terms like "dismissal" and "expungement" are often misunderstood. We aim to clarify these legal concepts at Smith Jordan Law. So, dismissal vs. expungement: What’s the difference? Let’s dive into these terms and their implications under South Carolina law. Keep reading for more, then call a Greenville criminal defense lawyer at (864) 343-2222. Understanding dismissal What Is a dismissal? A dismissal occurs when a criminal charge is dropped, and the case is closed without a conviction. This can happen for various reasons, including insufficient evidence, procedural errors, or successful legal defense. Once a case is dismissed, the defendant is no longer subject to prosecution for that specific charge. Types of dismissal Voluntary dismissal – The prosecution drops the charges before or during the trial. Involuntary dismissal – The judge dismisses the case for legal reasons, such as lack of evidence or violating the defendant’s rights. Legal implications While a dismissal means that the defendant is no longer facing charges, the arrest record and charges may still appear on their criminal record. This can impact future employment opportunities, housing applications, and more. Understanding expungement What Is expungement? Expungement is a legal process that removes a criminal record from public access. Once a record is expunged, it is as if the offense never occurred. The record is sealed and not accessible through standard background checks. Eligibility for expungement in South Carolina Under South Carolina law,... --- - Published: 2025-05-20 - Modified: 2025-06-11 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/car-accident/my-car-insurance-lapsed-and-i-had-an-accident-what-are-my-options/ - Categories: Car Accident, FAQs Car accidents can cause thousands of dollars in losses. Having insurance can help reduce some of those costs, and it provides you with some of the financial support you need to recover. But what happens if you don’t have insurance? “My car insurance lapsed, and I had an accident. Now what? ” To answer this question, our Greenville car accident lawyer needs a bit more information about your case and situation. When you contact Smith Jordan Law, we can provide you with more information and insight to help guide you throughout this process. Here is some information to help you get started. The role of fault If you’re in a crash while your insurance is lapsed, you should immediately seek the help of a skilled attorney. A lawyer can guide and support you in obtaining the compensation owed to you, whether you shared some of the fault or not. What happens when you’re at fault If your insurance lapsed and you were in a car accident that you caused or you are found at fault for, you may not have insurance coverage. Unfortunately, you may be responsible for the losses you have – and the losses you may have caused to another driver – fully out-of-pocket. You may also have your license suspended and have to pay fees for not having insurance in place. What happens when someone else is at fault Another situation occurs when your insurance lapses and you are in a car accident that someone else causes.... --- - Published: 2025-04-30 - Modified: 2025-05-23 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/should-i-hire-a-personal-injury-lawyer-after-being-the-policy-limit/ - Categories: Personal Injury Here is a scenario that, unfortunately, plays out all too often- a person is badly hurt in a car wreck. They have to spend days or weeks in the hospital and months or years to recover. While they’re in the hospital, the insurance company for the person who hit them calls and offers to tender their insured’s policy limits. All the hurt person has to do is sign a few documents, and the insurance company will send them a check. The insurance limits aren’t enough to cover the hospital bills, but that’s all there is the insurance company says. If this happens to you, you may think you don’t need a personal injury attorney. However, in a situation like this, it is important to have an experienced personal injury attorney to help maximize your recovery. An experienced personal injury attorney can do this by helping to locate additional insurance coverage to make sure that you get all the insurance payments you are entitled to, and by also helping to navigate medical bills and health insurance liens to make sure that the medical providers and health insurers don’t get all the money, while you don’t get any. An experienced personal injury attorney in Greenville will also make sure that you don’t sign any documents that hurt your case in the long run or keep you from recovering all the available insurance coverage. Maximize insurance recovery The first job of an experienced personal injury attorney in a situation like this is to... --- - Published: 2025-04-24 - Modified: 2025-05-14 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/do-personal-injury-cases-go-to-trial/ - Categories: Personal Injury While many people envision dramatic courtroom showdowns like those on television, the reality is that most personal injury cases in South Carolina never see the inside of a courtroom. In fact, approximately 95-97% of personal injury claims settle before trial. Keep reading to learn why most cases settle outside of court. If you were hurt in an incident that wasn’t your fault, the Greenville personal injury lawyers at Smith Jordan Law are ready to help, whether through settlement or trial. Why most cases settle There are several reasons why personal injury cases typically resolve through settlement rather than trial: Cost-effectiveness: Trials are expensive for all parties involved, including attorney fees, expert witness costs, court filing fees, and other litigation expenses. Time considerations: The South Carolina court system can be backlogged, meaning trials might be scheduled 12-18 months after filing. Under South Carolina Code § 15-3-530, most personal injury claims have a three-year statute of limitations, but resolution through settlement is almost always faster. Uncertainty: Trials introduce significant unpredictability - juries are inherently unpredictable, and even strong cases carry risk. Insurance company preferences: Insurance companies generally prefer to settle cases rather than risk larger jury verdicts and additional litigation costs. When cases do go to trial Despite the preference for settlement, some personal injury cases do proceed to trial when: The parties have fundamentally different views on liability (who was at fault) There's significant disagreement about the value of damages The insurance company makes unreasonably low settlement offers Complex legal questions... --- - Published: 2025-04-17 - Modified: 2025-05-14 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/car-accident/can-a-pre-existing-condition-affect-my-car-accident-claim/ - Categories: Car Accident If you've been injured in a car accident but already had a health condition before the crash, you might wonder how this affects your claim. The short answer is yes—pre-existing conditions can impact your car accident claim, but not in the way many people fear. Keep reading for more from our skilled Greenville car accident lawyers, then call (864) 343-2222 to schedule a free consultation today. The "eggshell plaintiff" rule The law recognizes what's called the "eggshell plaintiff" (eggshull skull) rule, which means the at-fault party must take you as they find you. Even if your prior condition made you more vulnerable to injury, the responsible driver can't use this as an excuse to avoid liability. They're responsible for any worsening of your condition caused by their negligence. How insurance companies handle pre-existing conditions Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts by arguing that your injuries existed before the accident. They might claim: Your pain is entirely due to your pre-existing condition The accident merely revealed problems you already had Your current treatment would have been necessary regardless of the accident These tactics can significantly reduce your compensation if not properly addressed. Documentation is your best defense The key to protecting your claim is clear documentation that distinguishes between your pre-existing condition and new injuries or aggravations. This includes: Being completely honest with your doctors about your medical history Having medical professionals document how the accident specifically worsened your condition Maintaining records showing your condition's stability before the accident Gathering... --- - Published: 2025-04-16 - Modified: 2025-09-19 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/criminal-defense/what-is-manslaughter-vs-murder/ - Categories: Criminal Defense In South Carolina, the distinction between murder and manslaughter involves important legal nuances that can significantly impact criminal charges and sentencing. While both involve the unlawful killing of another person, they differ primarily in intent, mental state, and circumstances. Understanding these distinctions is crucial if you're facing charges or have a loved one in this situation. The difference between murder and manslaughter charges can mean decades of difference in sentencing outcomes. Murder in South Carolina South Carolina law defines murder as the unlawful killing of another person with "malice aforethought. " Unlike some jurisdictions, South Carolina criminal laws do not specifically define or delineate degrees of murder, such as First - Degree or Second - Degree Murder. Rather, all murder charges in South Carolina are defined as the killing of a person with malice aforethought, express or implied. The key element in murder cases is malice—the intentional doing of a wrongful act without just cause or excuse, with an intent to inflict injury or under circumstances that indicate a wanton disregard for human life. Manslaughter in South Carolina Manslaughter involves killing without malice aforethought and is divided into two categories: Voluntary and involuntary. Voluntary manslaughter Often called a "heat of passion" killing Occurs when a reasonable person would be emotionally or mentally disturbed Requires adequate provocation The provocation must occur immediately before the killing Typically carries lesser penalties than murder but still involves significant prison time Involuntary manslaughter Results from criminal negligence or recklessness No intention to kill, but death... --- - Published: 2025-04-10 - Modified: 2025-05-08 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/what-types-of-personal-injury-damages-may-i-be-entitled-to/ - Categories: Personal Injury Personal injury victims in South Carolina are entitled to recover two forms of compensatory damages, plus, in some cases, punitive, or exemplary, damages. Let’s take a closer look at what each of these types of personal injury damages involves with the help of our Greenville personal injury lawyer. First off, what exactly are “damages? ” The purpose of a personal injury lawsuit is to return the plaintiff (the victim) to the financial status they were in at the time of the incident. Clearly, a financial settlement can’t unbreak a bone or erase the trauma you suffered as are result of the accident, but it can help relieve the financial burdens you and your family have and give you a sense of justice and closure. Economic damages in South Carolina personal injury claims Economic damages refers to the material losses that personal injury plaintiffs suffer. This includes all out-of-pocket expenses you paid, plus future needs, like medical care to cover complications from your injuries. Economic damages consist of: All past, present, and future medical bills, including medications, durable medical devices, and hospital stays Any modifications you need to make to your home or vehicle if you become disabled in the accident Lost wages from all time missed at work (even if you used your PTO to cover part of the time you missed) Travel time to the doctor or medical specialist Property damage (like repairing or replacing your vehicle) This isn’t an exhaustive list, just the most common losses personal injury... --- - Published: 2025-04-01 - Modified: 2025-09-18 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/workers-compensation/does-workers-comp-cover-the-commute-to-work/ - Categories: Workers Compensation Generally speaking, workers' compensation in most states—including South Carolina—does **not** cover injuries that occur during your regular commute to and from work. This principle is known as the "going and coming" rule. The reasoning behind this rule is straightforward: your employer typically doesn't control your commute choices, route, or transportation method. You're not considered "on the clock" or performing work duties during your standard commute. However, there are exceptions to this rule. Keep reading for more from our Greenville car accident lawyers. Important exceptions to know However, several important exceptions to this rule may allow you to receive workers' compensation benefits for commuting injuries. 1. Travel as part of your job If driving or traveling is an essential part of your job duties, injuries sustained while doing so may be covered. This applies to: Delivery drivers Traveling salespeople Home healthcare workers traveling between clients Workers required to travel between multiple job sites 2. Special missions for your employer If you're running an errand or performing a task for your employer during your commute, this may be covered. Examples include: Picking up supplies on your way to work at your boss's request Dropping off company mail on your way home Attending an offsite business meeting 3. Company transportation Injuries that occur while using employer-provided transportation may qualify for coverage, especially if: Your employer requires you to use this transportation You're traveling on a company vehicle or shuttle The transportation benefit primarily serves your employer's interests 4. Employer-owned premises Injuries that happen... --- - Published: 2025-03-31 - Modified: 2025-04-15 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/what-if-i-cant-afford-a-lawyer/ - Categories: FAQs, Personal Injury It’s hard to know where to turn when you desperately need legal help but can’t afford it. If you are arrested or charged with a crime, you have the right to have the state appoint an attorney if you can’t afford one. If your legal matter relates to family law (divorce, child support or custody, domestic violence, adoption) or civil matters (debt collections, small claims court, or filing a lawsuit for damages, like after a car wreck), the Constitutional right to free representation, unfortunately, does not extend to you. However, there may be other options open to you for these matters. A Greenville personal injury lawyer may take your case if it’s civil and involves personal injury. Many firms offer representation up front and take payment on the contingency that they win your claim. Your options for free or reduced-rate legal representation typically depend on the matter. Services provided by South Carolina Legal Services South Carolina Legal Services offers free legal assistance in civil matters, including consumer issues, some family law issues, housing and landlord-tenant issues, and employment concerns for people who meet the income requirements. Your household income and family size determine your eligibility. Your rights to a public defender in South Carolina criminal matters The court will appoint an attorney if you cannot afford one. However, you must go through an income screening process through the South Carolina Commission on Indigent Defense (SCCID) to qualify. Although the South Carolina Code of Laws guarantees your right to have a... --- - Published: 2025-03-29 - Modified: 2025-05-19 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/what-is-considered-a-serious-injury-in-a-car-accident/ - Categories: Car Accident Car accident victims suffer injuries ranging from bumps and bruises to permanent, disabling, or even paralyzing, physical damage. As experienced Greenville car accident lawyers, we often talk about serious injuries versus moderate injuries, but what does this mean in the context of a car accident claim? In general, a serious injury is one that causes severe impairment of bodily function or permanent disfigurement. This definition is fairly broad, but it does distinguish between recoverable injuries and those that permanently change the victim's abilities. Serious injuries typically result in a higher-value claim, but a few requirements must be met to secure maximum recovery. Serious injuries and your pain and suffering damages In a car accident claim, you’re entitled to fully recover all necessary medical expenses and also for the pain and suffering and loss of enjoyment of life that you experience as a result of your injuries. Serious injuries often cause significant pain and suffering. Pain and suffering can be broken into several categories. First, there is physical pain and suffering. Physical pain and suffering is the physical pain that someone feels when they are injured. There is also mental pain and suffering. Mental pain and suffering is the mental anguish that someone feels thinking about their injury, the way they were injured, and how they are affected. Further, there is past and future pain and suffering. Loss of enjoyment of life damages compensate someone for the effects that injuries have on their life. Serious injuries often take away the things... --- - Published: 2025-03-28 - Modified: 2025-09-18 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/how-long-does-workers-comp-last-in-sc/ - Categories: Workers Compensation Worker’s compensation benefits in South Carolina have a cap of 500 weeks for most cases (some such as brain injury, paraplegic or quadriplegic have no cap), although how long your particular benefits last depends on your claim and how badly you’re injured. Your employer pays for workers’ compensation insurance, which goes into effect the first day you start working. If you get hurt on the job, workers’ comp covers all necessary medical care, plus a wage replacement benefit so you can pay your bills while you’re out of work recovering from the injury. Although the workers’ compensation claims process is designed to be fairly straightforward, it’s not uncommon to run into problems securing the benefits you’re entitled to or to run into complications with your employer and/or the insurance carrier after you file a claim. If this happens to you, you should know that you have rights, including initiating legal action, and our Greenville workers’ compensation lawyer can help you assert them. Calculating the wage replacement benefits timeline for South Carolina workers’ compensation benefits Per South Carolina workers’ compensation regulations, all your medical care, including treating complications, having surgery, and seeing a specialist, is covered, even if you don’t miss more than a day of work due to your injuries. However, the wage replacement stipend doesn’t begin until you’ve missed at least one week of work due to the injury. You’ll become eligible for wage replacement benefits starting on the eighth day after your accident, but if you end up... --- - Published: 2025-03-27 - Modified: 2025-03-27 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/auto-accidents/10-most-dangerous-roads-in-greenville-sc/ - Categories: Auto Accidents Beautiful mountain settings can improve the view while you’re on the road, but it’s important to know about the 10 most dangerous roads in Greenville, SC. These roadways pose significant threats to residents and tourists alike, and Smith Jordan Law is ready to represent you when you have been an accident victim in one of these many locations.   A Greenville car accident lawyer from Smith Jordan Law will provide exceptional service and secure your needed resources. We keep your best interests at heart in everything we do and ensure you are always informed.   Greenville’s most dangerous roadways The City of Greenville contains many roads that are particularly dangerous for motorists. These areas form Greenville’s “High Injury Network” and are being targeted as part of the city’s Traffic Safety Action Plan to reduce the danger to motorists. Each road is responsible for causing a number of injury crashes and some fatalities. Several of them are also a threat to pedestrian safety. Below is a closer look at the 10 most dangerous roads in Greenville, SC. 1. Laurens Road Laurens Road between I-385 and Woodruff Road is one of the most dangerous roads in the city. This 2. 7-mile segment has caused 228 injury accidents, three fatalities, and five pedestrian/bike injuries. As this area undergoes revitalization efforts, safety and infrastructure changes should improve conditions on this road. 2. North Pleasantburg Drive Given the length of North Pleasantburg Drive, this road poses hazards in two places. The first section is a... --- - Published: 2025-03-25 - Modified: 2025-03-27 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/personal-injury/proving-negligence-in-a-personal-injury-claim/ - Categories: Personal Injury When you have been wrongfully injured because of another party’s carelessness, proving negligence in a personal injury claim is essential. Demonstrating the negligence links the cause and effect of the accident together to provide a clear picture of the situation. A Greenville personal injury lawyer from Smith Jordan Law has extensive experience with this process and can help you get justice for your losses. The purpose of a personal injury claim Personal injury claims arise out of accidents that are triggered by negligence. One party behaves in a way that endangers others rather than taking the appropriate precautions to prevent an incident altogether. These types of accidents can be caused by inaction as much as action.   As such, proving negligence in a personal injury claim is a key component to demonstrating the other party’s liability. This must be shown before you can recover any compensation.   Establishing the standard of care and breach of that duty The standard of care is the basic requirement you and your personal injury attorney must meet to establish that a party acted negligently. If a person violates the standard of care, then they are negligent. There are four elements in determine liability and, therefore, who is responsible for providing compensation to the victim. These components are: Duty of care: An individual or entity has a responsibility to act in a safe manner and prevent harm from happening to those around them. Breach of duty: The individual or entity failed to take the proper... --- - Published: 2025-03-24 - Modified: 2025-05-08 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/personal-injury/will-a-pre-existing-injury-affect-my-personal-injury-claim/ - Categories: Personal Injury Maybe. Some pre-existing conditions leave accident victims more vulnerable to re-injury, or are more likely to be aggravated by a traumatic collision or fall (joint damage or arthritis). Even with a pre-existing injury, if you suffered physical harm in the accident, you can still claim compensation for the medical care you required to address the damage. That being said, insurance companies look for any reason to reduce or deny a valid personal injury claim, and citing that your injuries existed before the accident is a common one. Proving the extent of the harm that the accident caused can be more difficult than proving that the incident caused a “fresh” injury. Working with an experienced Greenville personal injury lawyer can improve your chances of a fair settlement in a personal injury claim involving a pre-existing condition. What is a pre-existing condition? Pre-existing conditions are any health condition or injury you had before a specific incident (for example, a car wreck). Many people are able to manage their chronic health conditions or may be recovering fine from an injury or surgery, only to sustain more serious damage in the accident. Not all pre-existing medical conditions or old injuries are negatively impacted in an accident, but many of us live with conditions that can easily be aggravated in many types of personal injury accidents, like: Cervical spine conditions or degenerative spinal disorders Sciatica, herniated discs, or persistent back pain Joint issues, such as arthritis or previous injuries People who have “invisible disabilities,” like... --- - Published: 2025-03-21 - Modified: 2025-03-24 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/trucking-accidents/who-is-liable-in-a-truck-accident/ - Categories: Trucking Accidents Truck accidents are a daily part of life in Greenville and the Upstate area. This doesn’t mean you should accept the financial consequences when you’ve been hurt. If a truck accident has left you injured, you need the support of a reputable Greenville truck accident lawyer from Smith Jordan Law to determine who is liable in a truck accident.   Determining liability in your Greenville truck accident Determining liability depends on identifying each party who contributed to your accident. Building a strong case requires a thorough investigation that uncovers what happened, who is to blame, and what share of each person's fault. Some common liable parties your attorney may investigate include: Truck driver: An exhausted or careless driver may break traffic laws or hours of service regulations, causing an accident and injuries. Trucking company: The truck owner may have been negligent in ensuring appropriate maintenance of the vehicle to keep it in safe, operating order. Dock workers: Those who load the cargo may have loaded it improperly. Shifting cargo can affect the way the truck drives and cause an accident. Mechanics: A negligent or careless mechanic may fail to perform basic safety checks over their work, leading to an improperly functioning vehicle. Other motorists: In some cases, other motorists can drive erratically, forcing the truck driver to take actions that lead to a crash. Manufacturers: If tire or truck component manufacturers produce defective parts, they could be held liable if the defective item causes an accident. This is not an... --- - Published: 2025-03-20 - Modified: 2025-03-24 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/car-accident/how-to-calculate-car-accident-compensation/ - Categories: Car Accident, FAQs You're eligible for compensation for your losses when you get into a car accident caused by another driver’s negligence. In South Carolina, the driver who caused your accident is responsible for paying your damages. This includes material losses, like medical bills and fixing your car, and intangible losses, like pain and suffering. The other driver’s insurance company may offer you a settlement, but how do they arrive at that number? What the insurance company thinks your claim is worth and what your Greenville car accident lawyer thinks is a fair settlement are often widely different. Our attorneys properly value your claim and often can negotiate a better settlement than you could on your own. Let’s take a more detailed look at how to calculate car accident compensation for plaintiffs. South Carolina laws governing car accident compensation South Carolina follows a modified comparative negligence rule for car accident compensation; if you contributed less than 50% of the blame for the wreck, you may file a claim against the at-fault driver. You may claim compensation for your economic damages, including: Medical care Property damages Lost wages And non-economic damages: Pain and suffering emotional trauma Diminished quality of life Economic and non-economic damages are calculated differently; an experienced car accident lawyer can properly calculate the full extent of each. Calculating economic damages in South Carolina car accidents Economic damages, also referred to as material losses, are the out-of-pocket expenses you incurred because of the car wreck. Medical care: You may claim all necessary... --- - Published: 2025-03-17 - Modified: 2025-05-08 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/how-do-i-choose-a-good-personal-injury-lawyer/ - Categories: Personal Injury You only have one chance for a settlement after an accident; once you sign a settlement offer or a jury determines that the defendant is not liable for your damages, your case is over. How much money you get—or whether you get anything at all—often depends on the skill of your Greenville personal injury lawyer. With so many talented lawyers in South Carolina, how do you choose a good personal injury lawyer? Look for someone with experience successfully litigating your type of claim, someone you trust, and someone with the resources necessary to see your case to the end, even if it gets complicated. Let’s explore how to do this. Evaluate your lawyer’s professional qualifications Is your lawyer a licensed attorney in good standing with the South Carolina Bar Association? You can check with the Bar to verify their education and licensure and see if any complaints or disciplinary actions have ever been filed against them. Nearly all licensed attorneys will hold a Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school. You can find out your lawyer’s educational background either through the state bar or on their website. You can also learn a little more about potential lawyers on their “About Us” page on their firm site. How much experience does your lawyer have with cases like yours? Some personal injury attorneys are “jack of all trades” lawyers, handling every type of case from dangerous drug class actions to dog bites. Others focus their practice area on one or two... --- - Published: 2025-03-13 - Modified: 2025-03-13 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/workers-compensation/do-i-have-to-use-sick-time-for-workers-comp/ - Categories: FAQs, Workers Compensation No, you don’t have to use your sick time if you receive workers’ compensation benefits in South Carolina unless you miss less than seven days of work to recover. There are some reasons that people choose to use sick time, which our Greenville workers’ compensation lawyer talks about below. Your wage replacement benefit under South Carolina workers’ compensation All employees receive the same benefits for SC workers’ compensation: All causally related medical benefits, including physical therapy Temporary compensation benefits Reasonable accommodations for their injury or disability when they return to work We’re focusing on item #2 today. In South Carolina, injured workers receive 66. 67% of their average weekly wage while they are out on workers’ comp, although there is a cap that changes each year. The maximum wage replacement benefit for injuries after January 1, 2025, is $1,134. 43. In 2024, the maximum wage replacement benefit was $1,093. 67. The wage replacement benefit is available on the 8th day of missed work. If you are out of work for more than 14 days, you may receive retroactive temporary compensation benefits for the first seven missed workdays and then continue to receive your weekly benefits. Why do people use their sick pay when they’re getting workers’ comp? Even if you make a lot more than $1,134 per week, your wage benefit is limited to that amount. This may not be enough for some people to cover their household expenses and other bills, especially if they’re the main breadwinner. Fortunately, there... --- - Published: 2025-03-13 - Modified: 2025-05-07 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/truck-accident/how-much-does-a-truck-accident-lawyer-cost/ - Categories: FAQs, Truck Accident Truck accident victims like you have expensive medical bills, may be out of work for months, and carry a heavy financial burden. You don’t want to add lawyer fees on top, and we understand. The good news is, when you work with our firm, it costs nothing up front to hire an experienced Greenville truck accident lawyer. Many other lawyers charge retainer fees or bill by the hour and require payment before starting to work on your case. Most personal injury lawyers, though, don’t. Instead, they operate on a contingency fee, meaning that they only get paid if they win your case, taking a percentage of the settlement to cover their fees and the cost of litigating your case. How does this work? Well, you still have to pay your lawyer, but after the case is over, not before the first motion is filed. Your specific fees are unique to your case and depend on several factors, which we’ll explain below. How contingency fees work in South Carolina A contingency fee is a fee payable on the contingency that a specific outcome occurs; in this case, a settlement of your claim or a jury award of damages. Personal injury lawyers receive a percentage of the settlement, usually 33-40%, depending on the complexity of the case and the time and resources the lawyer must devote to case-building. South Carolina law prohibits attorneys from collecting unreasonable fees, but it acknowledges that certain cases may have more complex issues to address, which can... --- - Published: 2025-03-11 - Modified: 2025-03-12 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/workers-compensation/when-does-workers-comp-hire-private-investigators/ - Categories: FAQs, Workers Compensation Have you felt like you’re being watched while you’re on workers’ comp? You may be correct. Workers’ compensation insurance companies in South Carolina may hire private investigators to gather information about your daily life.   Not every workers’ comp recipient is investigated because it costs the insurer money. So, when does workers’ comp hire private investigators? It differs, but it may be because you have a high-value claim. You have the right to talk to a Greenville workers’ compensation lawyer if you suspect your employer’s insurance company is investigating you. They can guide you through your legal options and help protect your rights. Why would a workers’ compensation insurer investigate me? The simple answer? They may think you’re lying. Insurance companies have the right to protect themselves from fraudulent claims. If they suspect your claim is a sham, they may gather information to prove it. Another reason you may be investigated is if you have a high-value claim. If you become disabled or require a lot of medical treatment to recover from your workplace injury, then the insurance company may investigate to see if you are hurt as badly as you claim.   Finally, have you filed a claim for workers’ compensation in the past? You may be more likely to be investigated. Insurers may not believe that it’s a coincidence. What is a private investigator allowed to do? The insurance investigator may conduct surveillance of your house and follow you when you leave. If you’re back at work but... --- - Published: 2025-03-10 - Modified: 2025-08-12 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/workers-compensation/south-carolina-workers-compensation-guide/ - Categories: Workers Compensation In South Carolina, you have the right to seek medical benefits and other benefits from your employer’s insurance program if you are injured on the job. However, applying for and securing these benefits can be difficult without help from an experienced Greenville workers’ compensation lawyer. The team at Smith Jordan Law offers this South Carolina workers’ compensation guide to help you understand when you qualify for benefits, how to report your injury, and what to do if your claim is denied.   Who qualifies for workers’ comp in South Carolina? The South Carolina Workers’ Compensation Commission oversees all aspects of workers’ comp insurance programs and claims. They require any employer with four or more employees to carry coverage. You don’t have to prove who was at fault for your injury to qualify for the benefits. Those eligible for coverage include full-time, part-time, seasonal, and underage workers. You also do not have to be a documented worker to qualify for workers’ comp benefits if you’re hurt while working.   There are some workers who can’t receive workers’ comp. If you’re not sure if you qualify, you can check with a workers’ compensation attorney in Greenville to discuss your concerns and get answers to your questions.   What benefits does SC workers’ comp provide? When you file a workers’ comp claim, you can receive the following benefits: Medical bill coverage: All costs associated with your injury, such as emergency care, doctor visits, surgery, medication, and others, are paid by your workers’ comp... --- - Published: 2025-03-10 - Modified: 2025-05-07 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/car-accident/should-i-get-a-lawyer-after-a-car-accident/ - Categories: Car Accident, FAQs The best time to hire a Greenville car accident lawyer is right after the crash, but if you haven’t yet, the next best time is now. While you don’t need an attorney to get a settlement, having one can help you secure full compensation and protect you from unfair blame. You can hire a lawyer at any point before signing a settlement, but once you agree to an offer, you can’t seek additional money. Acting quickly ensures you get strong legal support and maximize your claim. Keep reading to learn more, then call (864) 343-2222 to schedule a consultation. Your lawyer can guide you through filing your insurance claims Whether or not you plan to file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company, you must notify your auto insurance carrier of the wreck or risk invalidating your policy. Your insurance company may cover the cost of fixing your car while your claim with the other party is being processed (so you don’t have to wait to get your car fixed), then pursue its own legal action against the other driver to recoup the expense. Once you have an attorney, they act as the primary point of contact with the other party in the claim, including the other driver’s insurance carrier. You can comfortably refer all communications from the other party to your lawyer, so you don’t have to worry about whether your words will be twisted into an admission of fault. Your lawyer can start building a case while... --- - Published: 2025-02-26 - Modified: 2025-03-20 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/how-to-find-a-good-criminal-defense-attorney/ - Categories: Criminal Defense, FAQs When your freedom is on the line, you can’t make a mistake in choosing an attorney. Everyone’s case is unique, so the right lawyer for your case may not be the best pick for someone else.   Most lawyers will meet with you for a talk before taking your case. Be ready with these tips on how to find a good criminal defense attorney from our Greenville criminal defense lawyer. 1. Does the lawyer have experience handling cases like yours? In your initial consultation, explain your situation. Share what you’ve been charged with, evidence you think the police may have, and other important details. Ask them if they’ve handled cases like yours and what the outcomes were. What will they do to build a strong defense? 2. Does your lawyer focus on your type of criminal charges? Some criminal defense attorneys are “jack of all trades” and take all types of cases, but some develop their skills in a specific direction.   Some lawyers may not handle misdemeanors, instead focusing on more complex felony cases. Others may have a better reputation handling DUI and misdemeanor drug charges and little experience with serious felonies. Your attorney might also have board certifications, such as bankruptcy and debtor-creditor law, employment and labor law, estate planning and probate law, and taxation law. These may not directly pertain to criminal law, but some people charged with white-collar crimes may prefer an attorney with advanced knowledge in one of these areas. 3. Ask around Ask friends,... --- - Published: 2025-02-19 - Modified: 2025-05-07 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/should-i-get-a-lawyer-for-a-minor-car-accident/ - Categories: Car Accident, FAQs Getting into a fender-bender can ruin your day, but without the help and advice of an attorney, the aftermath can ruin your next six months—or more. Even if it looks like there is no damage to either vehicle, and even if you think you’re not hurt, you may still be wondering, “Should I get a lawyer for a minor car accident? ” There are several good reasons to have a Greenville car accident lawyer by your side after a collision. What if the other driver blames you? South Carolina is a modified comparative fault state for car accidents. This means that the driver who caused the accident is financially responsible for paying for the other person’s damages (car repairs, medical bills, etc. ). So, you may think you can simply exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver and then file your claim with their insurance company, only to find out that the other driver told their insurance company that you caused the accident! When you work with a car accident lawyer, they do their own investigation of the accident and its cause. If the other driver’s insurance company tries to pin the blame on you, your lawyer may have evidence supporting your side to present to the insurance adjuster. This can help push your claim through. Is the car accident partly your fault? Because South Carolina is a modified comparative negligence state for car accidents, you can claim damages from the other driver if you are less than... --- - Published: 2025-02-07 - Modified: 2025-02-10 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/auto-accidents/this-is-what-happens-if-you-crash-a-financed-car/ - Categories: Auto Accidents Crashing a car is stressful under any circumstances, but it can feel even more complicated when the vehicle is still being financed. If you’ve been in an accident and are wondering, "What happens if you crash a financed car? " it’s important to understand the legal and financial implications. Our Greenville car accident lawyers are proud to guide clients through these situations, ensuring they know their rights and responsibilities. In this guide, we’ll break down what happens after you crash a financed car and how to navigate the process while protecting your financial and legal interests. Who owns a financed car? When you finance a car, the lender has a lien on the vehicle until the loan is paid off. As the buyer, you possess and use the vehicle, but the lender holds a lien on the car. This means they have a financial interest in the car, and you must meet the loan agreement terms. This lien plays a significant role in what happens if you crash a financed car. Your insurance coverage Comprehensive and collision coverage Most lenders require you to carry comprehensive and collision coverage while the car is being financed. These coverages are essential because they help pay for damages to your vehicle if you crash, regardless of who is at fault. Collision insurance covers repairs to your car after an accident. Comprehensive insurance covers damages caused by non-accident events, such as theft or weather damage. If you crash a financed car, your collision insurance will... --- - Published: 2025-02-06 - Modified: 2025-02-10 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/car-accident/how-much-does-a-car-accident-lawyer-cost/ - Categories: Car Accident If you’ve been involved in a car accident, seeking legal representation is crucial to securing the compensation you deserve. But aren’t lawyers expensive? What’s the point of hiring an attorney if they just take all your settlement? Don’t worry – our Greenville car accident lawyers understand these concerns and are here to provide clear, honest answers. Our approach is centered on your best interests and offers personalized attention from start to finish. Keep reading to learn the costs of hiring a car accident lawyer and how Smith Jordan Law provides exceptional service. What Is a contingency fee? At Smith Jordan Law, we work on a contingency fee basis for car accident cases. This means that you don’t pay any upfront fees. Instead, our payment is contingent (depends) upon winning your case. If you receive a settlement or court award, our fee will be a percentage of that amount. This structure aligns our interests with yours—we only get paid when you do. Standard contingency fees The standard contingency fee for car accident cases typically ranges from 33% to 40% of the settlement or award. The specific percentage may vary depending on the complexity of the case and whether it goes to trial: Before trial – If your case is settled before a lawsuit is filed, the fee may be around 33%. After filing a lawsuit – If the case proceeds to litigation or trial, the fee may increase to 40%. Individual attention from start to finish At Smith Jordan Law, we... --- - Published: 2025-01-28 - Modified: 2025-01-31 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/can-dash-cams-prove-fault-in-a-car-accident/ - Categories: Car Accident Dash cams are becoming more common among drivers, providing a real-time video record of events on the road. When accidents happen, one of the first questions is, “Can dash cams prove fault in a car accident? ” The short answer is yes—dash cam footage can play a significant role in determining fault. At Smith Jordan Law, we understand the complexities of proving fault in car accidents and how tools like dash cams can make a difference. Below, our Greenville car accident lawyers explore how dash cams and fault intersect, whether you’ve been hit or are defending yourself against blame. How dash cams help determine fault Dash cams record what happens on the road, offering unbiased evidence of the events leading up to and during a crash. This footage can help answer critical questions about fault, such as: Who had the right of way? Did someone run a red light or stop sign? Was anyone speeding or driving aggressively? Did distracted or reckless driving contribute to the crash? Dash cams can provide visual evidence to clarify the events surrounding an accident and support claims about what happened. How dash cams can help when another driver hits you If another driver caused your accident, dash cam footage could help prove their fault. For example: Running a red light: Your dash cam might show that the other driver ran a red light or ignored a stop sign, violating South Carolina traffic laws (South Carolina Code of Laws Section 56-5-970). Distracted driving: Footage could... --- - Published: 2025-01-28 - Modified: 2025-01-31 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/auto-accidents/importance-of-seeking-medical-attention-after-a-car-accident/ - Categories: Auto Accidents Car accidents can be shocking and overwhelming, leaving you unsure what to do next. Even if you feel fine immediately after the crash, seeking medical attention is one of the most important steps. Delaying medical care can put your health at risk and negatively impact any potential legal claims. At Smith Jordan Law, our Greenville car accident lawyers emphasize the critical role of seeking medical attention after a car accident for your well-being and your case. Here’s why it’s so important. Some injuries aren’t immediately obvious After an accident, your body’s “fight or flight” response can mask pain and symptoms of injuries. This response releases adrenaline and endorphins, which may make you feel fine even if you’ve been seriously hurt. Many injuries, like whiplash, concussions, or internal damage, may take hours or days to become noticeable. Seeking immediate medical attention ensures these hidden injuries are identified and treated before they worsen. Protect your long-term health Untreated injuries can lead to serious complications. For example: Whiplash may start as mild neck pain but can lead to chronic discomfort or reduced mobility if not addressed. Internal bleeding or organ damage might not show symptoms right away but can become life-threatening without prompt care. Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) might initially seem mild but can have lasting effects on memory, mood, and cognitive function. Visiting a doctor promptly ensures that these issues are diagnosed and treated early, improving your chances of a full recovery. Establish a medical record for your legal claim Medical records... --- - Published: 2025-01-27 - Modified: 2025-01-31 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/auto-accidents/understanding-loss-of-use-car-accident-claims/ - Categories: Auto Accidents After a car accident, you are likely facing both medical costs and auto repairs. While your insurance claim should cover both, there are some important damages you might overlook without advice from a Greenville car accident lawyer. One of the most common factors you should include is the financial impact you have because you can’t use your vehicle. At Smith Jordan Law, we believe in educating our clients so they understand how the insurance claim process can benefit them without reducing their settlement. Below, we provide a guide to understanding “loss of use” car accident claims so you can seek full compensation. What does “loss of use” mean for an SC car accident claim? Whether your car is damaged a little or a lot, it will need to be repaired, putting it in the auto shop for a few days or weeks. During that time, you don’t have a vehicle, which makes it hard to take care of daily tasks and get to work. You probably need to get a rental car to get around, and all these costs are part of your “loss of use” expenses. A “loss of use” claim in a car accident covers the time you are without your car as a result of a wreck. You may include a loss of use claim in a liability claim after an accident that wasn’t your fault. It’s vital that you work with a skilled car crash attorney so you don’t miss out. Insurance companies often tell unrepresented... --- - Published: 2025-01-23 - Modified: 2025-02-03 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/can-social-media-be-used-against-me-in-a-workers-comp-claim/ - Categories: Workers Compensation Most people these days have some kind of online presence, whether it’s Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X, or BlueSky. We use these platforms to stay in touch with friends and family, but doing so can cause big problems if you suffer a work-related injury and vent about it on social media. Workers’ compensation insurers may scour your posts for anything that might discredit or limit your benefits claim. A Greenville workers’ compensation lawyer from Smith Jordan Law is here to answer the question of, “Can my social media be used against me in a workers’ comp claim? ” Do’s and don'ts after a workers’ comp injury What to do A basic part of workers’ compensation 101 after you are hurt at work is to get medical attention immediately. You may only require first aid and some bandaging, but it’s vital to take care of your health first. If you need emergency care, get to a doctor or hospital. After that, you should immediately report your injury to your employer, ensuring you tell a supervisor or manager, not just another employee. If you can’t do it right away, you must notify your company within 90 days, according to the South Carolina Workers’ Compensation Commission. What not to do Workers’ comp and social media are a bad combination for your claim. Avoid going on your favorite social media site and posting anything about your accident, and we mean anything. While it’s natural to want to let people know you’ve been hurt, you are... --- - Published: 2025-01-23 - Modified: 2025-05-14 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/dui/can-a-dui-be-expunged-in-south-carolina/ - Categories: DUI Expungement is the legal process of erasing all publicly available records of an arrest. If an expungement is granted, it is as if the arrest never occurred in the eyes of the law.   Unfortunately, unlike many other criminal offenses in South Carolina, a DUI conviction cannot be expunged from your record. However, the DUI arrest itself can be removed from your record under certain circumstances. Dismissal of the DUI charge by a Judge or a Prosecutor Not Guilty Verdict Reduction of the DUI to a lesser charge. Do you need legal help after a DUI? If you’ve been charged with a DUI, please contact Smith Jordan Law at (864) 343-2222 for help.   --- - Published: 2025-01-22 - Modified: 2025-01-31 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/motorcycle-accidents/leading-causes-of-motorcycle-accidents/ - Categories: Motorcycle Accidents Motorcycles offer freedom and adventure on the open road but also come with risks. Motorcycle accidents are often more severe than car accidents due to the lack of protection riders have. Understanding the leading causes of motorcycle accidents can help motorcyclists stay safe and protect their legal rights. Our Greenville motorcycle accident lawyers have helped many Upstate bikers navigate the aftermath of accidents and fight for the compensation they deserve. This blog will explore the most common causes of motorcycle accidents and how South Carolina law applies. 1. Failure to yield the right of way One of the top causes of motorcycle accidents is when other drivers fail to yield the right of way. This often happens at intersections or when drivers turn left in front of oncoming motorcycles. Motorcycles are smaller than cars and can be harder for drivers to see, but that doesn’t excuse negligence. South Carolina law: Drivers must yield the right of way under South Carolina Code of Laws Section 56-5-2320. Failure to do so can result in serious accidents. 2. Speeding Speeding reduces reaction time and increases the severity of collisions. Whether it’s the motorcyclist or another driver who is speeding, the high impact crashes caused by speeding can lead to devastating injuries. South Carolina law: Speeding is prohibited under South Carolina Code of Laws Section 56-5-1520. Drivers and motorcyclists are required to obey posted speed limits and adjust their speed to road and traffic conditions. 3. Distracted driving Distracted driving is a major problem... --- - Published: 2025-01-18 - Modified: 2025-01-22 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/auto-accidents/what-is-whiplash-after-a-car-accident/ - Categories: Auto Accidents While it’s sometimes used as a joke on TV shows, whiplash is no laughing matter. It is a serious condition that often happens after a car crash, especially if you are hit from behind. Most victims can recover completely after a short time, but others suffer more serious injuries and complications, requiring extensive medical care.   If someone else is at fault for your vehicle accident, you should not have to pay the consequences of their bad actions out of your own pocket. Getting professional and trustworthy legal guidance can make all the difference in how well you recover. A Greenville car accident lawyer from Smith Jordan Law answers the question, “What is whiplash after a car accident, and what can I do about it? ” Whiplash affects the neck and shoulders According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, whiplash involves damage to the muscles, tendons, and ligaments in the neck and shoulders. When your head moves forward and back suddenly, such as in a rear-end car accident, these tissues can be torn, strained, or otherwise injured. Occasionally, the nerves in the area, including the spinal cord, could be affected. Whiplash symptoms may appear within the first few hours or a couple of days after your accident. They are often disguised by the rush of adrenaline you experience as a result of your car accident, so you may not notice them until later, especially if you need emergency care for cuts, broken bones, or other severe injuries after your crash. The most... --- - Published: 2025-01-17 - Modified: 2025-01-22 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/auto-accidents/how-are-car-accident-settlements-calculated/ - Categories: Auto Accidents After your car accident in South Carolina, the insurance representatives must decide how much of your damages they will pay. They may make an offer that seems fair, but often, they may give an initial number that’s almost insultingly low. Before you accept that check, it’s wise to know more about how car accident settlements are calculated.   Below, a Greenville car accident lawyer from Smith Jordan Law explains the factors an adjuster may use to make their first offer. By scheduling a free consultation with us, we can help you understand how to potentially get more so that all your damages are covered fairly. South Carolina auto insurance basics The South Carolina Department of Insurance (SCDOI) states that all drivers in our state must carry liability insurance and uninsured motorist coverage (UM). Further, insurance companies are required to offer underinsured motorist coverage (UIM). Liability pays for damages a driver causes in an accident, while UM pays for your losses if the at-fault driver doesn’t have any insurance. UIM pays for your losses if the at-fault driver doesn’t have enough insurance. The minimum for both liability and UM/UIM is $25,000 bodily injury costs per person (and up to $50,000 per accident) plus $25,000 for property damage. Auto insurance is intended to “make the victim whole,” which means the settlement must fix what was broken, help the person recover, and balance out any lasting impacts.   Fixing what was broken: This covers most economic damages that have a specific value, such... --- - Published: 2025-01-17 - Modified: 2025-01-22 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/personal-injury/types-of-damages-in-personal-injury-cases/ - Categories: Personal Injury After a car accident, slip-and-fall, or other situation where you’re hurt by someone else, you have the right to seek compensation from those at fault. Calculating how much to request can be complicated, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the legal process. By working with a Greenville personal injury lawyer, you have a better chance of maximizing your settlement amount. Below, the team at Smith Jordan Law explains the three main types of damages in personal injury cases and discusses important laws that could affect what you receive. Available types of personal injury damages in South Carolina The three most common types of damages in personal injury cases are economic, non-economic, and punitive. For each of these, you must demonstrate negligence by the other party, showing the following elements: Duty: Your attorney should establish that the at-fault person owed you a duty of care to behave safely and reasonably. Breach: You must show how the defendant breached or failed in their duty of care. Causation: Through evidence, you should explain how the defendant’s actions or inactions directly led to your injuries and property damage. Damages: This is when you present your damage demands, listing every expense you’ve suffered as a result of the at-fault party’s negligence. Because the other person can’t physically fix your injuries, they must be held financially liable so you can pay the doctors and other caregivers who help you heal. This is where damages work to compensate you for the harm they did to you. Economic damages... --- - Published: 2025-01-16 - Modified: 2025-01-22 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/personal-injury/paying-for-medical-bills-in-personal-injury-case/ - Categories: Personal Injury After an injury, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the piles of bills coming your way – but there’s no need to worry with the help of our skilled Greenville personal injury lawyers. We aim to provide clear and comprehensive information regarding your options for paying medical expenses in a personal injury case. Keep reading for more, then call (864) 343-2222 to schedule your free case consultation. Using health insurance Your health insurance can immediately cover your medical bills following an injury. Using your health insurance ensures that you receive timely treatment without worrying about upfront costs. Remember that your insurance company may seek reimbursement from any future settlement or judgment you receive, a process known as subrogation. Medical payment coverage (MedPay)/Personal Injury Protection (PIP) MedPay and PIP are optional coverages available in auto insurance policies that can help pay for medical expenses, regardless of who is at fault. In South Carolina, MedPay and PIP can cover hospital bills, surgery, and even funeral expenses. This coverage can be particularly helpful for covering out-of-pocket costs that your health insurance doesn’t fully cover. Collecting MedPay or PIP does not affect your ability to collect liability coverage from the at fault driver’s insurance company.   Payment plans and medical liens Some healthcare providers may offer payment plans or agree to treat you on a lien basis, meaning they will receive payment from your eventual settlement. This arrangement allows you to get the necessary medical care without upfront costs, but it also means that... --- - Published: 2025-01-16 - Modified: 2025-01-22 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/greenville-law-blog/south-carolina-dui-laws/ - Categories: Criminal Defense Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense with significant legal and personal consequences. Understanding South Carolina DUI laws is essential for ensuring your safety and compliance with state regulations. At Smith Jordan Law, our Greenville criminal defense attorneys are dedicated to providing clear and comprehensive information to help you navigate the complexities of DUI laws. Here, we outline the most important South Carolina DUI laws. Legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limits In South Carolina, the legal BAC limit for drivers aged 21 and over is 0. 08%. Exceeding this limit can result in a DUI charge. The BAC limit is stricter for commercial drivers, set at 0. 04%. Drivers under 21 are subject to a zero-tolerance policy, with a BAC limit of 0. 02% (South Carolina Code of Laws Section 56-5-2933). Implied consent law South Carolina's implied consent law mandates that drivers automatically consent to chemical tests (breath, blood, or urine) to determine their BAC if suspected of DUI. Refusing to submit to these tests can result in an automatic suspension of your driver’s license for six months for the first offense and longer for subsequent offenses (South Carolina Code of Laws Section 56-5-2950). DUI penalties First offense A first-time DUI offense in South Carolina carries significant penalties, including: Fines – $400 to $1,000. Jail time – 48 hours to 30 days. A judge may allow community service instead of jail time. License suspension – Six months. Second offense For a second DUI offense, the penalties increase: Fines... --- - Published: 2025-01-15 - Modified: 2025-01-21 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/greenville-law-blog/alcohol-content-in-drinks/ - Categories: Drunk Driving Accidents If you’ve been injured in a crash caused by a drunk driver, understanding the alcohol content in popular drinks can provide valuable context for your case. Knowing how much alcohol is typically found in different beverages can help illustrate the extent of the other driver’s impairment and support your legal claim. At Smith Jordan Law, our Greenville drunk driving accident lawyers are dedicated to helping victims of drunk driving accidents seek justice and compensation. Keep reading to learn the alcohol content of popular drinks, then call our firm at (864) 343-2222 for a free consultation. Understanding ABV (alcohol by volume) Alcohol content is typically measured as a percentage of alcohol by volume (ABV). ABV indicates the amount of alcohol in a beverage compared to the total volume of the liquid. For example, a drink with 10% ABV contains 10% pure alcohol and 90% other ingredients. Alcohol content in popular drinks Beer Beer is one of the most popular alcoholic beverages worldwide, and its alcohol content can vary widely depending on the type and brand. Light beer – Typically has an ABV of 3-4%. Examples include Bud Light and Miller Lite. Regular beer – Usually has an ABV of 4-5%. Common brands are Budweiser, Coors, and Heineken. Craft beer – Can have a higher ABV, ranging from 5-12% or more. Examples include IPAs and stouts from craft breweries. Wine Wine also varies in alcohol content, often influenced by the type of wine and its production process. Table wine – Generally has... --- - Published: 2025-01-15 - Modified: 2025-03-20 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/what-does-a-criminal-defense-lawyer-do/ - Categories: Criminal Defense, FAQs Criminal defense lawyers defend anyone arrested or charged with a crime, but a good criminal defense attorney can do much more for you. You have the right to legal representation from the moment you’re arrested—and even before.   If you are being questioned by the police about a crime, even if you’re not under arrest, a Greenville criminal defense lawyer can still help you. We help people involved in a crime at each stage of the incident, from initial questioning through trial and even an appeal. Let’s break down the longer answer to the question, “What does a criminal defense lawyer do? ” Your right to legal representation during police questioning If you’re being questioned about a crime, you have the right to have a lawyer present. Police officers may try to talk you out of calling an attorney. They may hint that you only want a lawyer because you’re guilty.   This is far from the truth. It’s your right, and you should assert it. Post-arrest interrogations focus on pressuring you for information that can incriminate you. Your lawyer can stop questioning that goes out of bounds. They know that answering certain questions may not be in your best interest. Your right to zealous representation in court Criminal defense lawyers have a duty to “zealously” represent their clients, regardless of whether they believe the client is guilty or innocent of the crime. This is one of the obligations of all lawyers admitted to the bar. By doing so, they... --- - Published: 2025-01-13 - Modified: 2025-01-13 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/greenville-law-blog/economic-vs-non-economic-damages/ - Categories: Personal Injury Victims of injuries caused by someone else’s negligence can seek financial compensation for their losses through a personal injury lawsuit managed by an experienced Greenville personal injury lawyer. Compensation often includes coverage of your bills and other losses. Yet, you may need help understanding economic vs. non-economic damages in personal injury cases. If you are an injury victim, Smith Jordan Law can help determine what damages you may be entitled to collect. We offer free case reviews, so asking for help costs you nothing. What is the difference between economic and non-economic damages? Economic damages affect your bank account. They are the costs and losses you experience from an injury with an actual dollar amount. Economic damages include: Medical bills Future medical care costs Income lost to missed days at work while you underwent treatment and recovered from the injury. Potential lost income and benefits if your injury has long-term consequences preventing you from working Property damage costs to repair or replace your car or other personal property Other expenses such as child care, transportation, or property maintenance. Non-economic damages do not have a precise dollar amount but carry significant value. They represent the non-tangible effects your injuries have had on your quality of life, such as: Physical pain Emotional suffering, including fear, shock, grief, and embarrassment Loss of enjoyment of hobbies and activities Scarring and disfigurement Permanent disability Loss of personal and professional relationships Loss of personal and professional reputations South Carolina Title 15 Chapter 32 defines and establishes... --- - Published: 2025-01-13 - Modified: 2025-01-13 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/workers-compensation/what-you-should-know-about-medicare-set-aside-in-workers-compensation/ - Categories: Workers Compensation Imagine finally settling your workers' compensation case, only to discover unexpected medical bills down the road. For many workers in South Carolina, understanding the role of Medicare Set-Asides (MSAs) can prevent this scenario and safeguard their future medical needs. At Smith Jordan Law, our Greenville workers’ compensation lawyers believe in the power of clear, honest communication and the importance of diligent preparation. Let’s dive into Medicare Set-Asides, why they matter, and how they are crucial to your workers' compensation settlement. What is a Medicare Set-Aside? A Workers’ Compensation Medicare Set-Aside Arrangement (WCMSA, or MSA) is a financial arrangement designed to allocate a portion of a workers' compensation settlement for future medical expenses that would otherwise be covered by Medicare. This ensures that Medicare remains the secondary payer and that the funds are properly used for medical treatments related to the work injury. Why are Medicare Set-Asides important? MSAs protect Medicare's interests and ensure that settlement funds are appropriately spent on future medical needs related to the workers' compensation claim. Failing to establish an MSA when required can result in Medicare refusing to pay for medical expenses, potentially leaving the injured worker with out-of-pocket costs. When is a Medicare Set-Aside required? In South Carolina, an MSA is typically required in two main scenarios. Workers aged 65 or older An MSA is necessary if you are a Medicare beneficiary (usually 65 or older) and your workers' compensation settlement exceeds a certain threshold. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) requires an... --- - Published: 2025-01-09 - Modified: 2025-02-18 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/social-security-disability/what-happens-if-the-ssa-denies-my-ssdi-application/ - Categories: Social Security Disability The SSA denies more than half of all Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) claims the first time.  Social Security can deny your claim for a variety of reasons, including application errors and inadequate medical evidence. The good news is that even if Social Security denies your claim, you can have an attorney review your case, and you can appeal the denial too. An experienced Social Security lawyer will be invaluable in helping you lodge a successful appeal to receive the benefits you deserve. Read on to learn more about what to expect and do if Social Security denies your SSDI claim. Request a Reconsideration Many people wrongly assume that once you receive a denial notice from Social Security, the next best thing to do is to make a new application. If you send another application with the same information, chances are that Social Security will deny your claim again. A better approach is to request Social Security review your initial application. This is known as requesting reconsideration. You must file a request for reconsideration within 60 days of receiving a denial notice. A different examiner and medical consultant will review your application, but they will apply the same rules to determine your eligibility for disability benefits. To improve your chances of success at the reconsideration stage, provide any new and relevant information, for example, any new notes from your doctor or a new treatment you are undergoing. Inadequate information is a major reason why Social Security denies claims. Consider asking an experienced attorney to review... --- - Published: 2025-01-09 - Modified: 2025-01-09 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/personal-injury/attorney-raymond-wooten-on-personal-injury-law/ - Categories: Personal Injury Have you been injured due to someone else’s negligence? Understanding your legal rights and options is crucial, and that's where Greenville personal injury lawyers come in. At Smith Jordan Attorneys at Law, you'll find a team dedicated to supporting and guiding you through the legal maze of personal injury claims. Keep reading for answers to some common personal injury questions. Do I have a personal injury case? At its heart, personal injury law involves someone being injured because of another person’s actions. There are three main elements in any successful personal injury claim, whether it’s a car wreck, a slip, and fall, or other types of injuries:Someone is injured;The injury was caused by someone else; andThere is insurance or some other source to pay for their damages. If someone is just negligent you can’t recover. For example, if someone drives down the road drunk, but they don’t injure anyone or destroy any property that’s not a case because there is no injury even though the driver was acting negligently. If you are walking into your house and trip over something you put there and are injured there’s no case because someone else’s negligence did not cause the injury. Even if you have an injury caused by someone else there may not be any insurance or assets from which to recover. Most normal people don’t have the assets to where you could collect if you won a judgment against them so that’s why you normally have to look for insurance coverage.... --- - Published: 2025-01-09 - Modified: 2025-01-30 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/auto-accidents/7-common-back-injuries-from-car-accidents/ - Categories: Auto Accidents Car accidents can cause all sorts of damages including back injuries, which are one of the most common types. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, more than 2. 5 million people are injured in car accidents each year. While some injuries are minor, others can be quite serious. Let’s take a look at some of the most common back injuries sustained in car accidents, and what you can do to recover from them. 1. Whiplash Whiplash is one of the most frequent types of injuries. Whiplash occurs when the head is suddenly snapped backwards and then forwards, causing the neck muscles and ligaments to stretch beyond their normal range of motion. In severe cases, the spine can be damaged. Symptoms of whiplash include neck pain and stiffness, headaches, dizziness, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating. If you experience any of these symptoms after a car accident, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment can help to prevent long-term problems. Whiplash can often be treated with a combination of rest, ice, and physical therapy. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary. With proper treatment, most people with whiplash recover completely within a few months. However, some people may experience long-term back problems as a result of their injury. Symptoms of whiplash Pain and stiffness in the neck and upper back, headaches, dizziness, and reduced range of motion. 2. Soft Tissue Injuries (Back Sprains and Strains) Back sprains and strains, or soft tissue... --- - Published: 2025-01-02 - Modified: 2025-01-22 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/how-long-after-a-car-accident-can-injuries-appear/ - Categories: Car Accident Car accidents can be traumatic, but not all injuries immediately appear. It’s common for some injuries to take hours, days, or even weeks to become noticeable. At Smith Jordan Law, clients often ask, “How long after a car accident can injuries appear? ” Understanding the delayed onset of certain injuries is important for your health and legal rights. In this guide, our Greenville car accident lawyers explain why injuries might take time to appear, common delayed injuries, and what steps you should take if you’re hurt. Why do injuries sometimes take time to appear? After a car accident, your body’s “fight-or-flight” response kicks in. This natural stress reaction releases adrenaline and endorphins, temporarily calming pain. You may not notice symptoms until your body calms down, sometimes hours or days later. Additionally, some injuries, like internal damage or soft tissue injuries, may not show symptoms until swelling or inflammation worsens. Further, you may focus on one injury that is extremely obvious or painful, and not notice another injury until the more obvious or painful injury has started healing. Common injuries with delayed symptoms Delayed injuries are more common than many people think. Here are some examples of injuries that may take time to appear. Whiplash Whiplash is one of the most common car accident injuries. It occurs when the neck is suddenly jerked forward and back. Symptoms, such as neck pain, stiffness, and headaches, may take a day or two to develop as inflammation builds up. Concussions A concussion is a... --- - Published: 2024-12-24 - Modified: 2025-01-22 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/are-personal-injury-settlements-taxable/ - Categories: Personal Injury If you’ve been injured in an accident and receive a settlement, you might wonder, “Are personal injury settlements taxable? ” The answer depends on several factors, including the type of compensation included in your settlement. At Smith Jordan Law, we understand how confusing tax rules can be, especially when dealing with the aftermath of an injury. In this guide, our Greenville personal injury lawyers break down how settlements are taxed, what is exempt, and what you need to know to protect your financial recovery. *Disclaimer: Lawyers with Smith Jordan Law are not tax attorneys or accountants. You should consult with a tax professional for your particular situation. General rule: Most personal injury settlements are not taxable Under federal tax law, compensation received for physical injuries or illnesses is generally not taxable. According to the Internal Revenue Code (IRC) Section 104(a)(2), amounts received as a result of personal injury or sickness are excluded from taxable income. This means that if your settlement compensates you for medical expenses, pain and suffering, or lost wages directly related to your injury, it’s usually not subject to federal or state taxes. Taxable vs. non-taxable portions of a settlement While much of a personal injury settlement is not taxable, some parts might be. Let’s look at the differences. 1. Medical expenses Non-taxable: Compensation for past and future medical expenses related to your injury is not taxable. Exception: If you previously deducted medical expenses on your tax return and received a tax benefit, the portion of your... --- - Published: 2024-12-11 - Modified: 2025-04-30 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/what-is-a-pre-suit-claim/ - Categories: Personal Injury At Smith Jordan Law, our Greenville personal injury lawyers believe in empowering our clients with knowledge to make informed decisions. So, what is a pre-suit claim, and how does it differ from a lawsuit? Let’s explore these concepts and their relevance under South Carolina law. What is a pre-suit claim? A pre-suit claim is an attempt to resolve a dispute or injury claim before filing a formal lawsuit in court. The goal is to negotiate a settlement between the parties involved without litigation. This process often involves exchanging information, documentation, and negotiations to reach a mutually agreeable resolution. Steps involved in a pre-suit claim 1. Notification The injured party, or their attorney, notifies the insurance company of their injury claim, and sets up an insurance claim. 2. Investigation Both parties investigate the claim. This may involve gathering medical records, accident reports, witness statements, and other relevant evidence. 3. Demand The injured party, or their attorney, sends a demand letter to the responsible party or their insurance company. This letter outlines the details of the claim, including the nature of the injury, damages incurred, and the compensation sought. 3. Negotiation The parties engage in negotiations to try to settle. This can involve multiple rounds of offers and counteroffers. 4. Settlement agreement The parties will draft and sign a settlement agreement if an agreement is reached. This document outlines the settlement terms and typically includes a release of liability, meaning the injured party agrees not to pursue further legal action related to... --- - Published: 2024-11-30 - Modified: 2025-01-21 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/types-of-truck-accidents/ - Categories: Truck Accident Truck accidents can be devastating, causing severe injuries and significant property damage. Understanding the different types of truck accidents is crucial for recognizing the risks and seeking appropriate legal assistance. Join our Greenville truck accident lawyers as we explore the various types of truck accidents and their implications under South Carolina law. Common types of truck accidents 1. Head-on collisions Head-on collisions between trucks and smaller vehicles are among the most deadly accidents. These collisions usually occur when a truck crosses into oncoming traffic, often due to driver fatigue, impaired driving, or loss of control. The force of impact in head-on collisions can result in catastrophic injuries or fatalities. 2. Underride accidents Underride accidents happen when a smaller vehicle slides under a truck's trailer. These accidents are extremely dangerous and often fatal, as the top of the smaller vehicle can be sheared off. Properly maintained underride guards can help prevent these accidents, but not all trucks are equipped with them. 3. Rollover accidents Rollover accidents happen when a truck tips over onto its side or roof. Sharp turns, excessive speed, or uneven loads often cause these accidents. Due to the size and weight of the truck, rollover accidents can be particularly dangerous, crushing smaller vehicles and causing severe injuries to other road users. 4. Jackknife accidents A jackknife accident occurs when the truck's trailer swings out to the side, forming an angle with the cab that resembles a folding knife. This typically happens when the driver brakes suddenly or loses... --- - Published: 2024-11-11 - Modified: 2025-01-21 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/how-does-medical-malpractice-differ-from-negligence/ - Categories: Medical Malpractice Have you ever wondered what sets medical malpractice apart from general negligence? The distinctions can be subtle yet significant, especially when navigating a personal injury claim.   At Smith Jordan Law, we know that understanding these differences is crucial for effectively pursuing justice. Whether it's a healthcare provider's error or a general act of carelessness, knowing how each is defined can make all the difference in your case. Keep reading to learn how these legal concepts differ, as our skilled Greenville medical malpractice lawyers explain. Defining negligence Negligence is a broad legal concept that applies to many personal injury cases. It occurs when a person or entity fails to exercise reasonable care, resulting in harm to another person. The key elements of negligence include: Duty of care – The defendant owed a duty of care to the plaintiff. Breach of duty – The defendant breached that duty by acting or failing to act in a certain way. Causation – The defendant’s actions (or inactions) caused the plaintiff’s injuries. Damages – The plaintiff suffered actual harm or losses as a result. In South Carolina, these elements are outlined in various statutes and case law, forming the basis for personal injury claims (South Carolina Code of Laws Section 15-38-15). Defining medical malpractice Medical malpractice is a specific type of negligence that occurs within the healthcare context. It involves a healthcare professional or provider failing to provide the standard of care that a reasonably competent professional would provide under similar circumstances. Key components... --- - Published: 2024-10-30 - Modified: 2025-01-21 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/car-accident/feel-fine-after-car-accident/ - Categories: Car Accident Car accidents can be traumatic experiences, and it’s common to feel overwhelmed immediately afterward. You might think that if you feel fine after a car accident, there’s no need to see a doctor. However, this assumption can be dangerous. At Smith Jordan Law, we prioritize your health and legal rights. Keep reading to learn why seeking medical attention is crucial even if you feel fine after a car accident. When you’re ready, contact us online or call (864) 343-2222 to schedule a free consultation with our skilled Greenville car accident lawyers. Hidden injuries Many injuries from car accidents don’t manifest immediately. Adrenaline and shock can mask pain and injury initially, making you feel fine when underlying issues occur. Common delayed injuries Whiplash – Caused by a sudden jolt of the neck, whiplash can lead to pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion. Concussions – Mild traumatic brain injuries can occur without immediate symptoms but can cause headaches, dizziness, and cognitive issues later on. Internal bleeding – This serious condition might not be immediately apparent but can have severe consequences if not treated promptly. Soft tissue injuries – Strains and sprains might take time to develop noticeable symptoms. Legal implications Documenting your injuries Seeing a doctor promptly after a car accident is vital for documenting your injuries. Medical records serve as crucial evidence in personal injury claims, showing a direct connection between the accident and your injuries. Without this documentation, insurance companies might argue that your injuries are unrelated to the... --- - Published: 2024-10-19 - Modified: 2025-01-20 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/car-accident/what-should-you-not-say-to-an-insurance-company/ - Categories: Car Accident, FAQs Dealing with an insurance company after an accident can be tricky, especially when your word choice can significantly impact the outcome of your claim. So, what should you not say to an insurance company? Keep reading for guidance from our skilled Greenville car accident lawyers. Avoid giving a recorded statement Consult your attorney Insurance adjusters may ask for a recorded statement about the accident. Politely decline this request until you’ve consulted with an attorney. Recorded statements can be used against you, and any inconsistencies in your account may harm your claim. Your attorney can guide you in providing information to an insurance company without jeopardizing your case. After consulting with an attorney, there may be situations where you are required to give a statement to the insurance company. In such cases, it is important to remember the following. Avoid admitting fault Do not admit liability One of the most critical things you should not say to an insurance company is anything that suggests you are at fault for the accident. Insurance adjusters are trained to try to coax you into admitting fault, even if you did nothing wrong. Even a simple apology can be misconstrued as an admission of guilt. In South Carolina, the concept of comparative negligence means that admitting partial fault can reduce your compensation. Instead, stick to the facts and let the investigation determine liability. Avoid speculating about the accident Stick to the facts When discussing the accident, only provide factual information. Do not speculate or guess... --- - Published: 2024-10-08 - Modified: 2025-01-20 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/personal-injury/what-is-the-statute-of-limitations-in-sc/ - Categories: FAQs, Personal Injury If you suffer a personal injury and choose to file a lawsuit, it’s important to understand how the law may limit the amount of time you have to take legal action. Below, a skilled Greenville personal injury lawyer from Smith Jordan Law explains the statutes of limitations in SC and how they may apply to your claim. What does “statute of limitations” mean in personal injury cases? A statute of limitations governs how long a person has to file a lawsuit against a person or entity that caused them harm. You are required to bring a claim within the statute of limits, and if you fail to do so, you are barred from bringing your claim. For most personal injury claims, SC victims have three years from the date of the incident. Waiting too long could cost you the right to hear your case in court. Your lawyer needs time to collect evidence, interview witnesses, and formalize their arguments to prepare your case for the best chance of success in court. What is the South Carolina statute of limitations for medical malpractice? The statute of limitations in South Carolina is different for medical malpractice claims. Like other cases, the clock begins when the procedure or treatment occurs. However, a doctor’s negligence is sometimes not discovered until after the procedure or treatment. In that case, the clock begins when you discover that you were harmed, or should have discovered that you were harmed, up to six years after the procedure or... --- - Published: 2024-09-26 - Modified: 2024-11-07 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/questions-to-ask-witness-of-a-car-accident/ - Categories: Car Accident After a car accident, witnesses can be very helpful in proving what happened. Getting information from people who saw the accident can support your case, especially if you must show who was at fault. At Smith Jordan Law, our Greenville car accident lawyers are here to guide you through gathering information, including questions to ask a car accident witness and why this information matters. Here’s a simple list of what to ask and collect from witnesses after a crash. 1. Get the witness’s contact information One of the most important things is getting the witness’s contact information. This helps if you need to reach them later for your case. Ask for: Full name Phone number Address or email 2. Ask what they saw happen The witness’s story is crucial. Ask them to tell you what they saw in their own words. This can help show who was at fault in the accident. Here are some helpful questions: “Where were you when the accident happened? ” This gives context to what they saw. “What did you see happen? ” Ask for as much detail as they can give. “What did you notice about the drivers or cars before the crash? ” Details like speed, use of signals, or sudden moves are important. 3. Ask about conditions at the scene Knowing the conditions at the time of the accident can also help. Witnesses may have noticed things that you didn’t. Questions to ask include: “Was the weather affecting visibility? ” Rain, fog,... --- - Published: 2024-09-15 - Modified: 2025-04-30 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/t-bone-accident-whos-at-fault/ - Categories: Car Accident A T-bone accident, also known as a side-impact collision, happens when the front of one car crashes into the side of another, forming a “T” shape. These accidents often occur at intersections when one driver doesn’t yield the right of way or runs a red light and can lead to serious injuries, especially for the person hit on the side. At Smith Jordan Law, our Greenville car accident lawyers know how complicated determining fault can be, and we’re here to help you understand the factors involved in a T-bone accident and who’s at fault. Who’s usually at fault in a T-bone accident? Fault in a T-bone accident generally depends on who had the right of way. Here’s how it often breaks down: At an intersection: The driver who did not yield or who ran a red light or stop sign is usually at fault. Left turns: If a driver making a left turn is hit by an oncoming car, they are typically at fault unless the other driver was speeding or ran a red light. Fault can sometimes be tricky to establish. Both drivers might claim they had the green light or right of way. This is why evidence, like traffic camera footage or witness statements, is important in proving fault. South Carolina traffic laws and right-of-way South Carolina laws outline who has the right of way at intersections. According to South Carolina law, drivers must yield the right of way when entering an intersection, especially if they have a... --- - Published: 2024-09-07 - Modified: 2024-11-07 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/auto-accidents/how-to-protect-yourself-in-a-car-accident/ - Categories: Auto Accidents No one wants to experience a car accident, but knowing how to protect yourself can make a difference in the outcome. Whether preventing injuries, securing evidence, or safeguarding your legal rights, taking the right steps can help you avoid additional issues later. At Smith Jordan Law, our Greenville car accident lawyers help clients navigate the aftermath of accidents to ensure they are well-protected. Here’s a guide on protecting yourself in a car accident, from immediate actions at the scene to following up in the days afterward. 1. Prioritize safety first The first step in protecting yourself is to ensure you’re in a safe place. If your car is in the middle of traffic or a dangerous spot, move it to the shoulder of the road if you can do so safely. If your car can’t be moved, turn on your hazard lights and stay inside the vehicle until help arrives. Stepping out of the car in heavy traffic can be hazardous, so be cautious. 2. Check for injuries and seek medical help After securing your safety, check for injuries. If you or anyone involved has been injured, call 911 immediately. Even if you feel fine, seeking medical attention is crucial. Some injuries, like whiplash or concussions, may not be immediately apparent and could worsen without treatment. Seeking prompt medical help also creates a record of your injuries, which can be valuable if you need to file a claim later on. 3. Call the police and file an accident report In... --- - Published: 2024-09-03 - Modified: 2024-10-23 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/how-long-does-a-personal-injury-settlement-take/ - Categories: Personal Injury One of the first things clients often want to know after filing a personal injury claim is, "How long will this take? " The timeline for settling a personal injury case can differ greatly based on several factors. At Smith Jordan Law, we believe in keeping you informed every step of the way. We’re here to provide clear answers, honest timelines, and transparency throughout the process. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key factors that impact how long it takes to reach a settlement and break down what to expect at each stage. Keep reading for more from our skilled Greenville personal injury lawyers, then call (864) 343-2222 to schedule your free consultation. Factors that influence the timeline of a personal injury settlement Severity of injuries Severe injuries requiring ongoing treatment or rehabilitation can delay settlement, as it’s crucial to understand the full extent of medical costs before reaching an agreement. Medical treatment completion Waiting until you've reached maximum medical improvement (MMI) ensures the full extent of your injuries is known, which can prolong the process but is necessary for fair compensation. Investigation and gathering evidence Collecting evidence like medical records and accident reports takes time, and more complex cases require a longer investigation period. Liability disputes If fault is contested, the settlement process can be delayed as both parties negotiate responsibility, especially under South Carolina’s comparative negligence rule. Insurance company delays Insurance companies may intentionally delay negotiations to pressure lower settlements. Skilled attorneys can help avoid these... --- - Published: 2024-08-22 - Modified: 2025-04-07 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/auto-accidents/delayed-injuries-after-a-car-accident/ - Categories: Auto Accidents After a car accident, some injuries are obvious right away, but others can sneak up on you, appearing hours, days, or even weeks later. These delayed injuries can be just as serious—if not more so—than those that are immediately apparent. At Smith Jordan Law, we understand how unsettling delayed symptoms can be and are here to help you through every step of the process. From ensuring you get the medical care you need to fighting for fair compensation, we’ve got you covered. Keep reading for more from our skilled Greenville car accident lawyers, then call (864) 343-2222 to schedule a free consultation. Why are symptoms sometimes delayed after an accident? Car accidents are traumatic events, and the body’s natural fight-or-flight response can mask pain in the immediate aftermath. When you're stressed, your body releases adrenaline, which increases alertness and energy while reducing your perception of pain. This can make you feel fine, even if you’ve sustained a serious injury. In addition, some injuries take time to manifest. For example, swelling from soft tissue damage or internal injuries may not become apparent until hours or days later. That’s why paying close attention to your body in the days following an accident is important. Common delayed symptoms after a car accident Even if you feel fine right after the accident, delayed symptoms could indicate underlying injuries that need medical attention. Here are some symptoms to watch out for: Headaches A headache might seem harmless, but after a car accident, it could be... --- - Published: 2024-08-22 - Modified: 2024-10-23 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/when-to-file-an-accident-report/ - Categories: Car Accident Knowing when to file an accident report is crucial to complying with South Carolina law and protecting your legal rights. At Smith Jordan Law, our Greenville car accident lawyers guide clients through the aftermath of an accident, ensuring they understand their responsibilities and how to move forward. Keep reading to learn the requirements for filing an accident report in South Carolina and the steps you must take after a crash. If you were hurt in a crash that wasn’t your fault, contact us online or call (864) 343-2222 today. When are you required to file an accident report? Accidents involving injuries, death, or significant damage In South Carolina, the law requires you to file an accident report if the collision results in injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000. Under South Carolina law, you must report the accident to law enforcement immediately if these conditions are met. Failing to report an accident in these cases can result in fines or legal complications. Involving law enforcement on the scene In most accidents involving injury or substantial damage, law enforcement officers must come to the scene. When police officers arrive, they will complete and file an official accident report, which fulfills your reporting obligation. It’s essential to remain at the scene until law enforcement arrives and provides clearance to leave. Resource:Request a collision report from SCDMV When you need to file your own accident report If law enforcement does not come to the scene of an accident that meets the injury or... --- - Published: 2024-08-10 - Modified: 2024-09-27 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/not-happy-with-settlement-offer/ - Categories: FAQs, Personal Injury If you’re unhappy with the settlement offer, you are not obligated to accept it. You have the right to reject the offer and negotiate for a higher amount that better reflects the value of your claim. It’s essential to approach this decision carefully and with the guidance of an experienced Greenville personal injury lawyer. At Smith Jordan Law, we believe in empowering our clients to make informed decisions. Let’s explore your options when you’re dissatisfied with a settlement offer and how to proceed to ensure you get the compensation you deserve. What exactly is a settlement offer? A settlement offer is a proposal from the insurance company or the party at fault to resolve your personal injury claim without going to trial. The offer typically includes a monetary amount meant to cover your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related damages. Evaluating the offer Before accepting any settlement offer, evaluating whether it fully compensates you for all your damages is crucial. This includes both current and future expenses related to your injury. Settlement offers are often the starting point for negotiations, and they may not reflect the full value of your claim. Why you might not be happy with the settlement offer Lowball offers It’s not uncommon for initial settlement offers to be lower than you deserve. Insurance companies may start with a low offer, hoping you’ll accept it quickly to avoid the hassle of further negotiations or a potential trial. Uncovered damages The offer may not... --- - Published: 2024-08-07 - Modified: 2024-10-21 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/motorcycle-accidents/motorcycle-safety-precautions/ - Categories: Motorcycle Accidents Riding a motorcycle is all about freedom and adventure, especially when you're cruising through the scenic roads of South Carolina. But with that thrill comes the responsibility of staying safe.   At Smith Jordan Law, we’ve seen how taking the right precautions can make all the difference for motorcyclists. Whether you're just starting or have been riding for years, our Greenville motorcycle accident lawyers cover essential motorcycle safety precautions to help you stay safe and lower your risk of accidents. No matter your experience level, these tips will ensure you're ready for anything the road throws your way. 1. Always wear protective gear Your first line of defense on a motorcycle is proper protective gear. South Carolina motorcycle law requires riders under 21 to wear helmets, but we recommend all riders wear one for safety. A DOT-compliant helmet can reduce the risk of serious head injury in an accident. Look for one that fits snugly and comfortably, and replace it if damaged or after five years of use. In addition to a helmet, consider wearing: Gloves A durable jacket Long pants Boots that cover your ankles Eye protection (required for riders under 21) Reflective clothing or gear is also important, especially in low-light conditions, to help make you more visible to other drivers. 2. Perform regular maintenance checks Before every ride, inspect your motorcycle to make sure it’s in good condition. Check the tire pressure and tread, brakes, fluid levels (oil, brake fluid, coolant), lights, and signals. This routine can... --- - Published: 2024-08-02 - Modified: 2025-01-30 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/what-happens-after-deposition-in-a-personal-injury-case/ - Categories: FAQs, Personal Injury A deposition is a crucial part of the discovery process in a personal injury case. It is formal, sworn testimony given by a witness or a party involved in the case outside of the courtroom but under oath. You might wonder what happens next if you’ve recently completed a deposition in a personal injury case. At Smith Jordan Law, we guide you through each stage, ensuring you know what to expect. Let’s explore what typically happens after a deposition and how it may impact your personal injury case in Greenville. What exactly is a deposition? How does it work? During a deposition, attorneys for both sides can ask the deponent (the person being questioned) a series of questions related to the case.   Depositions serve several key purposes in a personal injury case: Gather information – Depositions allow both parties to collect detailed information and understand the other side’s position. Preserve testimony – The testimony given during a deposition can be used at trial, especially if a witness is unavailable or their testimony differs from their deposition. Evaluate witness credibility – Attorneys use depositions to evaluate how credible a witness may appear to a jury. Shape legal strategy – The information obtained during a deposition can influence both parties' legal strategies, including decisions about settlement or trial. How does a deposition work? Location – Depositions typically occur in a lawyer's office or a conference room, not in a courtroom. Participants – The deponent, their attorney, the opposing attorney, and a... --- - Published: 2024-07-26 - Modified: 2024-10-21 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/personal-injury/what-is-a-statute-of-repose-vs-limitations/ - Categories: Personal Injury Timing is everything when it comes to filing a legal claim. You could lose your right to seek compensation entirely if you miss critical deadlines. Two important legal deadlines you need to know about are the statute of limitations and the statute of repose. While both can affect your ability to file a lawsuit, they operate differently. Understanding how they differ is crucial for anyone dealing with a personal injury, construction defect, or product liability case. In this guide, our Greenville personal injury lawyers break down what a statute of repose vs. limitations is and how each can impact your legal rights. Keep reading for more, then contact us online or call (864) 343-2222 to schedule a free consultation. What is a statute of limitations? A statute of limitations limits how long you must file a lawsuit after an incident occurs. This time frame begins when the cause of action "accrues"—when the injury or harm is discovered or reasonably should have been discovered. Statutes of limitations are designed to prevent claims from being filed too long after the fact when evidence might be lost, or memories may fade. For example, in South Carolina, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases is generally three years from the date of the injury. If you’ve been injured in a car accident or suffered harm due to someone else’s negligence, you have three years to file a claim in court. If you miss this deadline, your case will likely be dismissed, and you... --- - Published: 2024-07-25 - Modified: 2024-09-27 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/car-accident/can-a-passenger-be-a-witness-in-a-car-accident/ - Categories: Car Accident, FAQs Imagine you're in a car accident, and everything happens so quickly that it’s hard to recall the exact details. In such moments, witnesses become crucial in piecing together the events. But what if the best witness was right in the car with you? Can a passenger be a witness in a car accident? At Smith Jordan Law, our Greenville car accident lawyers understand the importance of every piece of testimony and want to clarify how passengers can play a vital role in your case. Let's dive into how passenger witnesses can impact car accident claims and legal proceedings. Understanding the role of a witness after a crash Witnesses provide critical information that helps establish the facts of an accident. Their statements can corroborate or challenge the accounts the drivers involved give, offering an objective perspective on the events that transpired. A witness's testimony can significantly influence the outcome of insurance claims and legal proceedings. Can a passenger be a witness in a car accident? Yes, a passenger can be a witness in a car accident. Passengers often provide valuable testimony because they clearly view the events leading up to and following the accident. Their accounts can help clarify details such as the speed of the vehicles, actions taken by the drivers, and the sequence of events. Credibility and bias While passengers can serve as witnesses, their credibility may be scrutinized more closely than that of an impartial third-party witness. This is because passengers may have a personal connection to the... --- - Published: 2024-07-15 - Modified: 2025-03-10 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/personal-injury/mistakes-to-avoid-in-a-personal-injury-claim/ - Categories: Personal Injury Navigating a personal injury claim can be complex and stressful, especially when you’re trying to recover from an injury. Making mistakes during this process can significantly impact the outcome of your claim. At Smith Jordan Law, we are committed to helping you avoid common pitfalls and secure the compensation you deserve. Here’s a detailed guide on avoiding mistakes in a personal injury claim. 1. Not seeking immediate medical attention One of the most critical mistakes to avoid in a personal injury claim is neglecting to seek medical attention immediately after the accident. Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not manifest until later. Delaying medical care can worsen your condition and provide grounds for insurance companies to argue that your injuries are not serious or not related to the accident. 2. Failing to document the incident Proper documentation is crucial for a successful personal injury claim. Failing to collect evidence at the scene can significantly weaken your case. Take photographs of the accident scene, your injuries, and any property damage. Gather contact information from witnesses and ensure you have a copy of the police report. 3. Giving a recorded statement to the insurance company Insurance adjusters may ask you to provide a recorded statement about the accident. It’s crucial to avoid this without consulting your attorney. Recorded statements can be used against you, especially if you inadvertently admit fault or minimize your injuries. Always speak with your attorney before communicating with insurance companies. 4. Admitting fault Admitting fault at... --- - Published: 2024-07-09 - Modified: 2025-03-10 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/auto-accidents/mistakes-to-avoid-after-a-car-accident/ - Categories: Auto Accidents Being involved in a car accident can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. Knowing what to do—and what not to do—immediately following the incident is crucial for protecting your rights and ensuring a smoother recovery process. At Smith Jordan Law, our Greenville car accident lawyers are dedicated to helping you navigate these challenging times. Let's explore the main mistakes to avoid after a car accident to safeguard your well-being and legal standing. 1. Not seeking medical attention One of the biggest mistakes to avoid after a car accident is neglecting to seek medical attention, even if you feel fine. Some injuries, such as whiplash or internal injuries, may not be immediately apparent. Delaying medical treatment can jeopardize your health and weaken your personal injury claim. Always visit a healthcare professional as soon as possible to document injuries and receive appropriate care. 2. Failing to call the police In South Carolina, you must report an accident that results in injury, death, or significant property damage (South Carolina Code of Laws Section 56-5-1270). Failing to call the police can result in legal consequences and make establishing a clear record of the incident difficult. A police report provides an official accident account, which is vital for insurance claims and potential legal proceedings. 3. Admitting fault Admitting fault at the scene of the accident is a critical mistake. Even a simple apology can be construed as an admission of liability. Statements made in the heat of the moment can later be used against you.... --- - Published: 2024-07-02 - Modified: 2025-04-30 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/auto-accidents/common-causes-of-intersection-car-accidents/ - Categories: Auto Accidents With vehicles coming from multiple directions, traffic signals, and pedestrians, there’s a lot that can go wrong at intersections. At Smith Jordan Law, we understand the devastating impact of an intersection car accident, and we’re here to help you understand the common causes behind these accidents. Knowing what factors contribute to intersection accidents can help you stay safe and protect your legal rights if you’re involved in one. If you or a loved one were hurt in a crash, call our Greenville car accident lawyers at (864) 343-2222 to schedule a free consultation. 1. Running red lights or stop signs One of the most common causes of intersection car accidents is drivers running red lights or stop signs. When a driver fails to stop at a red light or a stop sign, they can collide with other vehicles that have the right of way. These accidents often result in T-bone or side-impact collisions, which can lead to serious injuries. 2. Failure to yield Another frequent cause of intersection car accidents is the failure to yield. When drivers don’t yield the right of way, they can collide with vehicles that are lawfully passing through the intersection. This often happens when drivers are making left turns without waiting for oncoming traffic or when they fail to yield to pedestrians. South Carolina Law: South Carolina Code of Laws Section 56-5-2350 outlines the rules regarding yielding the right of way. Failure to yield can result in serious accidents, especially at busy intersections. 3. Distracted... --- - Published: 2024-06-20 - Modified: 2024-09-27 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/truck-accident/how-are-truck-accidents-different-from-car-accidents/ - Categories: FAQs, Truck Accident Truck and car accidents can be serious, but they are not the same regarding the legal process. The differences can be significant, affecting everything from how investigations are conducted to how liability is determined. Understanding these distinctions is crucial if you've been involved in a truck accident. Smith Jordan Law is experienced in navigating the unique challenges of truck accident cases in South Carolina, and we're here to ensure you get the guidance and support you need. Contact our skilled Greenville truck accident lawyers if you or a loved one have been hurt in a big rig collision. Size and weight differences The most obvious difference between truck accidents and car accidents is the size and weight of the vehicles involved. Trucks, especially commercial ones, are much larger and heavier than passenger cars. And that can be extremely dangerous. Greater impact force Trucks' sheer size and weight mean collisions typically result in more severe damage and injuries. The force of impact in a truck accident is significantly higher, which can lead to catastrophic outcomes. Increased risk of fatalities Due to their size, truck accidents have a higher risk of fatalities than car accidents. The legal speed limits and other truck regulations are stricter to mitigate this risk. Regulatory differences Trucks, particularly commercial trucks, are subject to different regulations than passenger cars. These regulations impact how accidents are investigated and litigated. Federal and state regulations Trucking companies and drivers must comply with federal regulations from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration... --- - Published: 2024-06-20 - Modified: 2024-09-27 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/car-accident/does-your-driving-record-affect-a-car-accident-case/ - Categories: Car Accident, FAQs When you’re involved in a car accident, many elements can sway the outcome of your case, and one key factor is your driving record. At Smith Jordan Law, we recognize the importance of understanding whether and how your past driving behavior can affect your current situation. Please call our Greenville car accident lawyers at (864) 343-2222 if you have been injured in crash. How your driving record can influence your case Your driving record can play a significant role in determining fault and liability in a car accident case. If you have a history of traffic violations or previous accidents, the opposing party will try everything they can to use it against you. This could affect the perception of your driving behavior at the time of the accident. Evidence of similar past conduct In certain circumstances, your driving history may be admitted at trial. This means that a history of traffic violations, such as speeding tickets or DUIs, could show evidence of a pattern of negligent behavior. This can influence the court’s or insurance company’s assessment of fault. Comparative negligence South Carolina follows a modified comparative negligence rule, as outlined in the South Carolina Code of Laws Section 15-38-15. If you are found partially at fault for the accident, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. Impact on insurance claims Your driving record also affects how insurance companies handle your claim. Insurers will review your past driving behavior to assess the risk you pose and may use... --- - Published: 2024-06-20 - Modified: 2024-09-27 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/workers-compensation/third-party-liability-in-work-injury-claims/ - Categories: Workers Compensation Workplace incidents are often associated with workers' compensation claims since they usually involve injuries directly related to an employer or a co-worker’s actions. However, there are situations where a third party’s negligence contributes to a workplace injury. At Smith Jordan Law, we aim to help you understand your rights and the legal pathways available when you are injured at work due to third-party negligence. Keep reading to learn more about third-party liability in South Carolina, then call a Greenville workers’ compensation lawyer at (864) 343-2222 to get started. What is third-party liability? Third-party liability occurs when an entity other than your employer or a co-worker is responsible for your injury. This could involve contractors, equipment manufacturers, property owners, or other parties whose actions or failures to act lead to an accident. Common scenarios of third-party negligence Construction site accidents Construction sites often have multiple contractors and subcontractors working simultaneously. If subcontractors fail to adhere to safety regulations, causing an accident, they can be liable for any injuries. Defective equipment Injuries caused by faulty machinery or tools fall under third-party negligence if the manufacturer or supplier failed to ensure the equipment was safe. Vehicle accidents If you are injured in a vehicle accident while on the job, and the other driver (who is not a co-worker) is at fault, you can pursue a claim against that driver. Premises liability If you are working on someone else’s property and are injured due to hazardous conditions, the property owner can be held responsible... --- - Published: 2024-06-20 - Modified: 2024-09-27 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/personal-injury/understanding-pain-and-suffering-in-personal-injury-cases/ - Categories: Personal Injury "Pain and suffering" is a key component of personal injury claims that address the mental and emotional toll of a serious injury. Under South Carolina law, you are entitled to seek compensation for pain and suffering as part of your personal injury claim. At Smith Jordan Law, our Greenville personal injury lawyers work hard to recover maximum compensation on your behalf. Contact us online or call (864) 343-2222 to learn how we can help in your case. What is pain and suffering? Pain and suffering encompass the physical and emotional distress resulting from an injury. This includes the actual physical pain experienced, as well as emotional and psychological impacts like anxiety, depression, and loss of enjoyment of life. Types of pain and suffering Physical pain This refers to the bodily pain and discomfort you endure due to the injury, including chronic pain and ongoing medical treatment. Emotional distress Emotional distress covers the mental impact of an injury, such as anxiety, depression, fear, and insomnia. Loss of enjoyment If your injury prevents you from enjoying activities you once loved, this loss of enjoyment can be compensated as part of pain and suffering. Permanent disfigurement or disability Long-term or permanent changes to your body or capabilities can also be considered under pain and suffering. Past and Future Pain and Suffering Past Pain and Suffering This refers to pain and suffering that happened in the past. For example, if you broke your leg a week ago, your pain and suffering over the last... --- - Published: 2024-06-20 - Modified: 2024-09-27 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/auto-accidents/summer-road-trip-safety-tips/ - Categories: Auto Accidents Summer is the perfect time for a road trip, offering the opportunity to explore new places and create lasting memories. However, a safe and enjoyable journey requires careful planning and adherence to safety guidelines. At Smith Jordan Law, we care about your safety and want to ensure you have a smooth, trouble-free trip. Here are some essential summer road trip safety tips. Call our Greenville car accident lawyers at (864) 343-2222 to schedule your free case consultation if you or a loved one are hurt in a crash. Prepping your vehicle Perform a vehicle check-up Before hitting the road, ensure your car is in top condition. This includes: Tire inspection: Check the tire pressure and tread depth. South Carolina law requires tires to have a minimum tread depth of 2/32 inches for safe driving (South Carolina Code of Laws Section 56-5-5040). Fluid levels: Ensure all fluids, including oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid, are at appropriate levels. Battery: Test your car battery to avoid unexpected breakdowns. Brakes: Inspect your brakes for any wear or damage. Lights: Check all lights, including headlights, brake lights, and turn signals, to ensure they function correctly. Pack an emergency kit An emergency kit can be a lifesaver in case of an unexpected situation. Your kit should include: First aid supplies Flashlight with extra batteries Basic tools (wrenches, screwdrivers, pliers) Jumper cables Spare tire and jack Emergency flares or triangles Water and non-perishable snacks Blankets or extra clothing Safe driving practices Plan your route... --- - Published: 2024-05-28 - Modified: 2024-09-27 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/workers-compensation/what-if-i-have-a-car-accident-at-work/ - Categories: FAQs, Workers Compensation Workers' compensation may provide benefits for injuries from a car accident. Whether you were performing work will significantly affect whether your employer will cover your injuries. South Carolina workers' compensation laws are complex. Working with an experienced Greenville workers' compensation lawyer can help you determine if workers' compensation may cover your injuries, whether your claim was wrongfully denied, and the steps to take when financial compensation is available. Does workers' compensation cover a car accident while traveling for work? Workers on the job who are injured while traveling as part of a duty are covered by workers' compensation in most cases. Examples of work travel that are covered may include: Driving is part of your daily job performance Transporting clients or employees Making deliveries or completing errands for a company A worker’s compensation attorney can help you review South Carolina workers' compensation benefits laws. Compensation may be impacted by the type of injuries you suffer, whether you can perform a less strenuous job during recovery, and if your injuries result in temporary or permanent disability. Experiencing these incidents when filing a claim could indicate you should hire a workers' comp lawyer. If someone else caused the wreck, you may have a claim against them in addition to your worker's compensation claim. What if I have a car accident on my way to work? Car accidents during your daily commute while you are off the clock are not considered workplace injuries. A coming-and-going rule may apply to these accidents because they... --- - Published: 2024-05-28 - Modified: 2024-09-27 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/pedestrian-accident/what-to-do-after-a-pedestrian-accident/ - Categories: FAQs, Pedestrian Accident When you are stuck by a car or truck, you should always call the police. Contact 911 to request medical help and the police to come to the scene, even if you feel okay. This will document the incident and clarify your next steps, such as going to the hospital. At Smith Jordan Law, we strongly encourage you to get medical care at the scene and file a police report. Then, contact our Greenville pedestrian accident attorney for immediate help and guidance. We are here to help you navigate the entire process of getting compensation for your losses when determining what you should do after a pedestrian accident. What are the steps to take after a pedestrian accident? When you are involved in a pedestrian accident, your priority is your health and well-being. Here are several things you can do at that moment and right after. Call 911 to get medical care and law enforcement Talk to the police and medical team about what happened so you can get the care you need. Do not put yourself in further danger by trying to move if you cannot do so. Go to the ER and get care if needed. It is always wise to work with the police to fully document what occurred at the scene. Most pedestrian accidents are caused by driver negligence or inattention, although there are times when the pedestrian may be at fault. Police officers often mark the pedestrian at fault, even when they did not do... --- - Published: 2024-05-23 - Modified: 2024-09-27 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/personal-injury/what-to-do-after-an-injury/ - Categories: FAQs, Personal Injury When getting help after an injury, you should go to the hospital for medical treatment and then file a police report if someone else is responsible for your losses. Once you do that, call your Greenville personal injury lawyer for immediate help. At Smith Jordan Law, we strive to be by your side as soon as possible so you know what to do. Get medical help right away Whenever you suffer an injury, seek medical care from an emergency room. Even if you are unsure how serious your injury is or need any additional medical attention, you need to establish if you are okay right now and if you need any medical care to ensure you recover properly. Your health and well-being should be your first priority after an injury. In addition to protecting your health, you will establish a connection between the incident and your injuries, which can strengthen your claim against the at-fault party. What to do after an ankle injury If you cannot walk due to an ankle injury, call for help. If you can, stabilize the injury by wrapping your ankle with a sports wrap or other material, and then move out of harm's way until a medical team can get to you. Ankle injuries are likely to worsen the longer you put off care. They can also become more serious if you walk on them, which means it is best to wait for help instead of trying to walk or drive a car with an... --- - Published: 2024-04-02 - Modified: 2024-09-27 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/workers-compensation/can-you-get-workers-comp-for-a-pre-existing-injury/ - Categories: FAQs, Workers Compensation It is possible to receive workers' compensation if you have a pre-existing injury but get hurt at work. You can obtain compensation for the worsened condition due to the accident at work. For example, if you have a pre-existing back condition and suffer an injury that aggravates the condition, you may be able to obtain compensation for the worsening of the condition. To navigate workers’ compensation claims involving the aggravation of a pre-existing condition, contact our Greenville workers’ compensation lawyer. Allow our attorneys to navigate the legal system to help you obtain the benefits to which you are entitled. What key factors play a role in obtaining workers’ compensation for a pre-existing injury? Determining whether you can get workers’ comp for a pre-existing injury depends on your ability to prove that the injury worsened the prior condition. To do that, your attorney must show, through evidence, that the accident caused an aggravation or worsening of the pre-existing condition. You may need to inform your employer about the pre-existing injury or condition when hired, depending on whether they ask in an application or interview if you have any current health issues. If you do not disclose the condition when asked at the time of hiring, it can bar you from obtaining benefits if injured at work. Laws in South Carolina do not punish workers for their prior conditions. They can obtain a job and work to meet the employer’s requirements. Like any other employee, if they suffer an injury on the... --- - Published: 2024-03-29 - Modified: 2024-09-27 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/car-accident/who-is-liable-in-a-car-pile-up/ - Categories: Car Accident, FAQs If you’ve been hurt in a car accident involving multiple vehicles, figuring out who is at fault can be complicated. Determining which parties were negligent is key to recovering compensation through an insurance claim or in court. A Greenville car accident lawyer from Smith Jordan Law can identify who is liable for a car pile-up by thoroughly investigating the accident and analyzing the evidence. How is fault determined in a South Carolina multi-car accident? Fault describes negligent or reckless actions that contribute to a crash. Driving while distracted, speeding, driving while intoxicated, or driving aggressively are all considered negligent behaviors that contribute to someone’s fault. A person may be assigned more fault if their actions were reckless or intentional. By investigating evidence from the scene, your car accident attorney can determine who is at fault, including whether you carry any measure of responsibility. Photos, video, witness statements, and physical evidence can help your lawyer understand who is to blame. Insurance companies will also investigate before making a settlement offer. Police officers will review the accident scene when they arrive and record their impressions of who is at fault in their collision report. This document can be valuable to your case when seeking compensation. Whose insurance pays for my injuries in a pile-up car accident? Drivers in SC who are found at fault for causing your injuries and property damage must pay. Residents must purchase liability insurance, and you can file a claim against their policy. Coverage minimums are: $25,000 for... --- - Published: 2024-03-22 - Modified: 2024-09-27 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/personal-injury/what-is-causation-in-personal-injury-cases/ - Categories: FAQs, Personal Injury A crucial part of an attorney’s work is showing causation in personal injury cases. Causation involves providing evidence that the defendant’s actions or inactions caused your injuries. To secure damages, your Greenville personal injury lawyer must connect the defendant’s actions to the events that led to your injuries. How is causation in personal injury claims defined? There are two kinds of legal cause: cause in fact and proximate cause. Cause means the event that is the direct cause of your harm, while the proximate cause is the legal cause. For example, if a bus runs into a truck and pushes that truck into your car, the truck hitting your car is the cause of your injuries. The bus hitting the truck is the proximate cause of your injuries as that is what started the whole chain of events. Your Greenville personal injury attorney will need to show you more than likely wouldn’t have suffered the specific injuries you did if the defendant had behaved the way a reasonable person would have in the same circumstances. This can be complicated, especially if there are multiple parties involved. By conducting a thorough investigation, your lawyer can identify these entities and collect evidence to support your claim. How does my attorney prove personal injury causation? Proving causation in a personal injury case is just one of the four elements required to show negligence. Your lawyer must demonstrate: Duty: The defendant owed you a duty of care to drive safely. Breach: The defendant’s actions... --- - Published: 2024-03-12 - Modified: 2024-09-27 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/car-accident/car-accident-compensation/ - Categories: Car Accident, FAQs South Carolina is an at-fault state regarding handling car accident compensation. The person who caused the crash is financially responsible for paying your medical bills and other expenses, but how does this process work? When you hire a skilled Greenville car accident lawyer from Smith Jordan Law, they can guide you through filing insurance claims and advise whether you should pursue a personal injury lawsuit. What damages does car accident compensation cover? There are two kinds of compensatory damages from car accident claims: economic and non-economic. Economic losses are any expense you can support with a receipt, bill, or repair estimate, such as: Medical bills Lost income while you recover Rehabilitation and therapy costs Repair or replacement for your vehicle Non-economic losses describe your pain and suffering. Insurance policies resist paying for these losses, so you may need to take the at-fault party to court to recover damages such as: Physical pain and suffering Anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders Emotional anguish Mental distress Loss of enjoyment of activities Loss of personal and professional reputation Your car accident attorney can help you with the special calculations required to estimate the financial relief you deserve for your non-economic damages. How can I file auto insurance claims for compensation in South Carolina? Every driver in South Carolina must carry minimum amounts of liability insurance for bodily injury, property damage, and uninsured motorists. The minimums for each policy are as follows: Bodily injury: At least $25,000 for one person and $50,000 per accident... --- - Published: 2024-03-07 - Modified: 2024-09-27 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/car-accident/can-i-claim-for-mental-health-trauma-after-a-car-accident/ - Categories: Car Accident, FAQs A car accident can do much more than damage your car. The sights, sounds, smells, and experience of the accident overall can leave you with lingering psychological issues. In a car accident, the party at fault for property damage, physical injuries, and damage to your mental health is responsible for paying you back for the harm they have caused. A Greenville car accident lawyer from Smith Jordan Law can help you hold the at-fault party accountable for your mental health trauma and other losses following a car accident. Our team of compassionate attorneys cares about your well-being and will work to facilitate your recovery. How can a car accident affect your mental health? After an accident, a car may be scratched, dented, or crushed. The people involved can be bruised, bloodied, or suffer from broken bones. While this visible damage must be addressed, less apparent damage should not be dismissed. Mental and emotional injury can be just as serious and warrants compensation. Car accidents are the leading cause of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in the general population. Car accidents are the number one cause of PTSD for men and the second most frequent cause of PTSD for women. According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA), car accident victims often suffer emotional distress. Those affected may notice symptoms such as: Anxiety Depression Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Anguish Fear Fatigue Sleep disruptions Nightmares These feelings and conditions can lead victims to avoid engaging in otherwise normal activities. For example,... --- - Published: 2024-02-27 - Modified: 2024-09-27 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/trucking-accidents/when-and-why-should-i-hire-a-law-firm-truck-accident-case/ - Categories: Personal Injury, Trucking Accidents If you have been involved in a truck accident, the resulting physical and emotional trauma can be overwhelming. You may wonder if hiring a law firm to represent your rights as an injured person is necessary. The truth is, bringing on legal representation for your case can be beneficial – from gathering evidence and filing the required paperwork to negotiating with insurance companies or beginning litigation. You must understand when and why it makes sense to work with a skilled Greenville truck accident lawyer familiar with state laws about truck accidents. Why do I need an attorney? When you suffer severe injuries due to a truck accident, you can rest assured that the driver and their insurance companies are likely to have experienced legal representation. Ensuring your rights are adequately protected is important to level the playing field. A law firm representing you can provide comprehensive legal advice on personal injury claims that could help you obtain the best possible outcome for your case. A truck accident lawyer understands the complexities and nuances of truck accident cases and has the legal knowledge to negotiate with insurance companies. Having someone experienced in the field on your side will ensure that your case is taken seriously and is given due consideration. Additionally, they can view any evidence from the scene and accurately assess all applicable laws so that you can be awarded whatever you are entitled to under the circumstances. Hiring a knowledgeable attorney is worth it as it could minimize any... --- - Published: 2024-02-26 - Modified: 2024-09-27 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/truck-accident/truck-cargo-falling-out/ - Categories: FAQs, Truck Accident When truck cargo falls out of a semi-trailer, it is probably the result of someone’s negligence. Though the company may be responsible for loading the cargo into the truck, the truck driver may also be held at fault if the driver did not complete the necessary checks to ensure the load was secure or if the driver‘s actions caused the cargo to fall. Our Greenville truck accident lawyer can help you explore more insight into when the truck driver or other parties are responsible. Our team at Smith Jordan Law will help you navigate all of your legal options to ensure all parties liable for your losses are held accountable. Who is responsible when cargo falls out of the back of a semi-trailer? Cargo can tumble out the back of a truck or fly out the side panel of a truck if it is not positioned correctly in the semi-trailer. A truck accident can occur when the loose freight hits other vehicles surrounding the truck or a vehicle cannot avoid hitting cargo on the road. To determine responsibility, it is critical to consider questions about what occurred in the case. Was the cargo loaded properly? When a third party loads the cargo, the driver must ensure the cargo is secure. This includes having the appropriate tie-downs or other methods of strapping it into place. There are rules on the type of securement devices cargo loaders can use and particular guidelines for hazardous, extremely large, or heavy products. Was the truck’s... --- - Published: 2024-02-23 - Modified: 2024-09-27 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/nursing-home-abuse/ - Categories: FAQs, Nursing Home Abuse My advice is to visit the facility and try to get an idea of the quality of care. You can go online and search DHEC’s and Medicare’s websites to investigate the history of the facility. Once you’ve narrowed it down, you should ask each facility the following questions: Who provides the physician care? Is it a contract doctor? How often do the doctors see the patients? Once the loved one is a patient, the family needs to visit the facility very often, be very involved and ask a lot of questions and not feel as if they can’t do that. They should continually ask their family member (the patient) questions about their care, like: How often are you getting a bath? Are you taking your medicine on time? Are you having any problems? If for some reason a problem develops one of the things that usually gets to the family is when the facility says, “Well you didn’t visit much so you didn’t care. ” If you visit a lot then no one can say that because you were engaged in their well-being. And that is pathetic that a facility would say that to a family who’s lost a loved one due to negligent care. Do these failures or abuse in care get reported to any official agencies? Certain problems, like falls, are reported. Those reports go to DHEC in South Carolina which is the Department of Health and Environmental Control. So, if there is a fall in a facility... --- - Published: 2024-02-21 - Modified: 2024-11-25 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/personal-injury/how-do-you-prove-personal-injury-liability/ - Categories: FAQs, Personal Injury In personal injury law, “liability” means that the person who hurt you is responsible for the financial, emotional, and other losses you experienced due to your negligence. Proving personal injury liability requires several steps that can be complex, depending on the situation. At Smith Jordan Law, our Greenville personal injury lawyer has ample experience helping clients prove that someone else was responsible for their losses. This may lead to significant financial compensation to make up for those losses. Liability in personal injury cases: how do you prove negligence? Personal injury liability requires you and your attorney to present a preponderance of the evidence that shows negligence by the at-fault party. This proof may come from medical records, police reports, accident reports, photographs, and video footage showing what happened. Your lawyer must prove all four elements of negligence by demonstrating the defendant did the following: Owed you a duty of care: The person owed you a safe place or experience in some way, such as by welcoming you into their home or opening their shop for business. Breached that duty of care: They did or did not do something they should have done to avoid the risks. For example, they did not fix a broken stair railing, though they knew of the hazard and that someone could be hurt. Their breach of duty caused your injury: In this component, you must prove that their failure led directly to the injury, such as a fall because the railing was not repaired. The... --- - Published: 2024-02-20 - Modified: 2024-09-27 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/motorcycle-accidents/what-to-do-after-a-motorcycle-accident/ - Categories: Motorcycle Accidents Protect your rights with these tips Motorcycle accidents are far too common. When there is a wreck involving a motorcycle, the motorcyclist is often severely injured even though they were not at fault in the wreck. Sadly, South Carolina often ranks in the top 10 nationwide in motorcycle fatalities. If you or a family member have been in a motorcycle accident, you may be wondering what to do next. This guide will walk you through the steps you need to take at the accident scene and when you get home. Remember, it is important to stay calm and collected after an accident. If you are injured, seek medical attention immediately, then contact a skilled Greenville motorcycle accident lawyer to get started on the road to recovery. 1. Contact law enforcement The first thing you should do after a motorcycle accident is call local law enforcement and report the accident. You must give them your name, contact information, insurance information, and a brief description of what happened. It is vital to get the police involved to have an official record of the accident. 2. Seek medical help If you are injured in a motorcycle accident, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately. Even if you do not think your injuries are severe, it is always better to be safe and have them checked out by a medical professional. 3. Exchange information with the other driver Next, you should exchange information with the other driver. You must get their name, address,... --- - Published: 2024-02-16 - Modified: 2024-09-27 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/nursing-home-abuse/how-can-a-nursing-home-abuse-lawyer-help/ - Categories: FAQs, Nursing Home Abuse Families are often very reluctant to get involved in the legal system. They don’t want to sue or go to court, but sometimes the abuse is so bad that they just become so disgusted that they reach out to a lawyer for help and at that point, we are dealing with a family member(s) who has already been traumatized by what’s happened to their loved one and at the same time they want to get some kind of relief from the court system because of what happened. So, we end up helping them by reviewing their records and explaining what happened. Sometimes family members don’t even realize how bad it was. As part of that process, they end up reliving the abuse their family member suffered. Sometimes they find out it is far more abusive than they ever realized which adds more trauma and guilt upon the surviving family members. Even though they may have visited their loved one daily and ask if everything is ok and the victim says it is and they discover after the death what happened and feel horrible. We are very conscious of the stress this can cause our clients and we handle these matters in a very professional manner. And the legal process brings even more trauma, doesn’t it? Yes, but we work with our clients to limit the trauma as best we can. We hold their hand in the process so they can get through the litigation. At some point, the client has... --- - Published: 2024-02-14 - Modified: 2025-01-30 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/auto-accidents/what-to-do-after-south-carolina-car-accident/ - Categories: Auto Accidents If you have been in a car accident, you may wonder what to do next. This guide will walk you through the steps that you, as the not-at-fault driver, must take both at the accident scene and when you get home. Remember, it is crucial to stay calm and collected after an accident. If you are injured, seek medical attention immediately, then contact an experienced Greenville car accident lawyer with Smith Jordan Attorneys at Law. 1. Contact law enforcement The first thing you should do after a car accident is call local law enforcement and report the accident. You must give them your name, contact information, insurance information, and a brief description of what happened. It is important to get the police involved to have an official record of the accident. 2. Seek medical help If you are injured in a car accident, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Even if you do not think your injuries are severe, it is always better to be safe and checked out by a medical professional. 3. Exchange information with the other driver Next, you should exchange information with the other driver. You must get their name, address, phone number, and insurance information. It is important to get this information to contact their insurance company if you need to file a claim. 4. Gather photo & video evidence It is also a good idea to take pictures of the damage to both vehicles. If there are any witnesses, get their contact... --- - Published: 2024-02-13 - Modified: 2024-09-27 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/medical-malpractice/implied-vs-expressed-consent/ - Categories: FAQs, Medical Malpractice The difference between express and implied consent is this: patients express consent for treatment through written or sometimes verbal communication. They give implied consent through an action or gesture. The implied consent vs. expressed consent issue is a factor in medical malpractice cases, as is “informed consent. ” If you have been harmed by an intervention you did not consent to, contact Smith Jordan Law. A Greenville medical malpractice lawyer from our team will review your case for free and advise you on the best way forward. What are examples of informed vs. express vs. implied consent? Most medical professionals understand informed and express consent as having the same meaning. A patient receives information from the provider about the procedure or treatment required and expressly–clearly and definitively–agrees to that treatment, usually in writing. Informed consent, as defined by the National Library of Medicine (NLM), “is the process in which a health care provider educates a patient about the risks, benefits, and alternatives of a given procedure or intervention. The patient must be competent to decide whether to undergo the procedure or intervention. ” The medical definition of “implied consent,” according to the Journal of Family Medicine and Primary Care, is “when a patient passively cooperates in a process without discussion or formal consent. ” For example, if you go for your yearly physical, and your doctor asks if you want a flu shot, you might roll up your sleeve to indicate consent even without saying “yes. ” Other examples are... --- - Published: 2024-02-09 - Modified: 2024-09-27 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/nursing-home-abuse/what-kinds-of-nursing-home-abuse-compensation-can-i-receive/ - Categories: FAQs, Nursing Home Abuse “Damages” is another word for the losses that your loved one has suffered as a result of their abuse or neglect. Most cases of nursing home abuse will result in compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, and more. Keep reading to learn more about nursing home abuse compensation from our Greenville nursing home abuse lawyers. What kinds of damages can I recover? Actual damages are the costs incurred for going to the hospital and having to treat whatever the problem was. The law does allow for pain and suffering damages for the patient for what they experienced. And you can get punitive damages if you meet certain statutory requirements like gross negligence. The cases we take would be ripe for these damages. The family can be compensated, but sometimes when there is a death there is never enough that the legal system can do to compensate the family. And a lot of these people are reluctant to file a lawsuit, it’s something they never wanted to do, they are not litigious by nature, but they are so disgusted with the care provided that sometimes they just feel like it is the right thing to do and they are not only doing it for their loved one, but also so that in the future, another family won’t experience what they have had to endure. We get results Grady Jordan was the lead attorney on a recent nursing home abuse case handled by Smith Jordan. The case settled for $1,465,000, after... --- - Published: 2024-02-06 - Modified: 2024-09-27 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/car-accident/who-pays-medical-bills-in-a-car-accident/ - Categories: Car Accident, FAQs Car accidents often produce injuries requiring immediate and extensive medical treatment. These costs are both unexpected and expensive. If you are the injured victim, it makes sense that you want to know who pays medical bills in a car accident. A Greenville car accident lawyer can help you sort through the possible answers, depending on the circumstances of your claim. Your attorney will also work to ensure you are not left footing the bill for injuries caused by someone else’s negligence and that all involved insurance providers treat you fairly. Will auto insurance contribute to my medical bills? Unfortunately, auto insurance companies won’t pay your medical bills as they are incurred like a health insurer. Instead, the auto insurance company will wait until the end of the case and make a lump sum offer that covers your medical bills and pain and suffering. South Carolina requires all drivers to carry liability and uninsured motorist insurance (UMI). Liability covers others injured in an accident that you caused. Minimum requirements are: $25,000 for bodily injury per person $50,000 for bodily injury per accident $25,000 for property damage per accident These minimum coverage amounts are the same for UMI, but UMI protects you when an uninsured driver is at fault for the accident causing your injuries. Insurance companies must also offer South Carolina drivers underinsured motorist coverage (UIM). UIM protects you when a has liability coverage, but it isn’t enough to cover your injuries and damages. South Carolina law does not require drivers... --- - Published: 2024-02-06 - Modified: 2024-09-27 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/greenville-law-blog/why-hire-a-car-accident-lawyer/ - Categories: Auto Accidents Benefits of working with an attorney in your car accident case After a car accident, you likely have injuries and are dealing with insurance claims. So, why hire a car accident lawyer? When you connect with a Greenville car accident lawyer promptly after your accident, they will take care of the legalities involved in working toward fair compensation and dealing with the insurance company while you put your energy where it belongs–into recovery and healing. Should I connect with an attorney right away? It’s best to partner with an attorney as soon as possible after your accident. Your health and safety come first, so call Smith Jordan Law once you get the care you need. Prompt access to your case allows your attorney to collect evidence while it is still available and fresh. For example, traffic, surveillance, or other drivers’ dash cams may have important footage. However, the more time passes, the more likely that footage is lost or erased. Similarly, witness statements can help your case. However, memories can fade or become muddled in the weeks following your crash, making it essential for your lawyer to gather that testimony swiftly. Smith Jordan Law has the experience and connections to thoroughly investigate your accident, determine its cause, and identify the at-fault party. To collect a settlement, you must prove the liable party’s negligence caused the accident, leading to your damages. Without a proper investigation, you could point the finger at the obvious, potentially wrong party and risk losing the settlement... --- - Published: 2024-02-02 - Modified: 2024-09-27 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/nursing-home-abuse/how-common-is-nursing-home-abuse/ - Categories: FAQs, Nursing Home Abuse Nursing home abuse is on the rise in the United States. America has an aging population. According to the National Center on Elder Abuse, “Life expectancy has risen from 68 years in the mid-20th century to the current average of about 81 years for women and 76 years for men... In 2018 there were 29. 1 million older women in the United States, compared with 23. 3 million older men... . It is expected that by 2030 there will be a 50% increase in the number of elders over the age of 65 who require nursing home care. ” This rapidly increasing demographic is accompanied by some horrible and unimaginable national elder abuse statistics in the nursing home and skilled nursing facilities provided by the NCEA: “A recent systematic review that collected self-reports of abuse by residents found high levels of institutional abuse. By type, prevalence estimates reported: psychological abuse (33. 4%), physical (14. 1%), financial (13. 8%), neglect (11. 6%), and sexual abuse (1. 9%). ” Why does abuse happen so often? Neglect can be common in skilled nursing facilities because they are short-staffed and many of those providing care have limited experience, or they are not certified and accredited to do the job. Many skilled nursing facilities are chronically understaffed and not always well supervised. The paperwork may have been checked off, but that doesn’t mean what was supposed to have been done was actually done. What can I do if I think my loved one is being... --- - Published: 2024-01-30 - Modified: 2024-09-27 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/nursing-home-abuse/nursing-home-abuse-injuries/ - Categories: FAQs, Nursing Home Abuse Understanding the signs and symptoms of nursing home abuse is essential for family members, caregivers, and even residents themselves, as it enables them to recognize potential abuse and take necessary actions to protect the well-being of the elderly. From physical indicators such as unexplained injuries to emotional and behavioral changes that hint at neglect or psychological harm, below we provide an insightful overview of potential indicators of neglect or abuse. If you suspect your loved one is suffering abuse or neglect at their nursing home or assisted living facility, call the skilled Greenville nursing home abuse attorneys at Smith Jordan Law. Common signs and symptoms to watch for If you suspect your loved one is being neglected, start by looking for physical signs, such as rashes, bedsores, random bruises, and unexplained broken bones. If left untreated, this neglect can lead to skin or soft-tissue infections. Even if your loved one seems healthy, they constantly have bad hygiene, it may indicate neglect. Signs that the patient is not being bathed properly, soiled diapers, or they look like they are not getting proper nutrition. Oftentimes nursing home patients become dehydrated or end up getting Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) that cause them to be transferred to the hospital. There are times when a patient with a UTI can develop a systemic infection that is referred to as “sepsis. ” Another common problem with nursing home patients is bed sores. These occur on the patient’s sacrum or their heels and they can develop rather... --- - Published: 2024-01-29 - Modified: 2024-09-27 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/car-accident/how-are-personal-injury-settlements-paid-out/ - Categories: FAQs, Personal Injury Receiving a settlement should be fast and easy once it is agreed upon. However, some issues frequently arise. At Smith Jordan Law, we aim to help you every step of the way to get the compensation you are owed. As a result, if you anticipate a claim or hope to receive a settlement, it is worth working with our Greenville personal injury lawyer to ensure the process goes smoothly. This can reduce your concerns about when you will receive the compensation you are owed. How is a personal injury settlement paid? There are two types of settlement options: lump sum and structured settlement, which is paid out over several years. Lump sum payments are the most common type of settlement. Structured settlements are frequently used when a damages award is very large. Both options are still subject to medical bills health insurance reimbursement and attorney fees. Does the personal injury settlement pay off liens? If there are bills from medical providers, those are paid. It is a good idea to speak to your attorney about any type of financial compensation that may go to these requirements first. Your attorney should seek reductions for medical bills to be paid out of the settlement. Additionally, if health insurance covers any of your medical bills, you may have to pay the health insurance company back out of the settlement. Additionally, if you borrowed money from a loan company before the settlement, then this will also get paid back out of the settlement Will... --- - Published: 2024-01-20 - Modified: 2024-09-27 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/nursing-home-abuse/nursing-home-abuse-liability/ - Categories: FAQs, Nursing Home Abuse In South Carolina, the family member of a deceased patient or someone with power of attorney for a current living patient has the right to bring civil litigation against the negligent party or parties that caused the loved one’s injury. But just who are those parties? Keep reading to learn who can be held liable for nursing home abuse, then call a skilled Greenville nursing home abuse attorney with Smith Jordan today. Potentially liable parties Depending on the circumstances, your attorney may be able to hold the nursing home facility accountable, which would include the staff as well as the providers, nurse practitioners, PAs, or the physicians that provide care. Often the providers are contracted by separate companies into the skilled nursing facilities to see patients and write orders. So if there is a problem with a patient in a skilled nursing facility then the family member can bring an action against the nursing home itself as well as against the company that contracts or brings in the professional staff. Do these cases often result in the removal of people involved in the abuse or neglect? We recently finished a case where the nurse practitioner did not provide any care and admitted it. This type of conduct can lead to an investigation by a professional’s licensing authority. There are also instances where a nurse does more than she is licensed. For example, in South Carolina, only a licensed registered nurse can provide wound care. I’ve seen where licensed practical nurses... --- - Published: 2024-01-10 - Modified: 2024-09-27 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/nursing-home-abuse/how-to-prove-nursing-home-negligence/ - Categories: FAQs, Nursing Home Abuse Your senior parent deserves the best in their golden years, but many nursing homes accidentally neglect patients. Even if no one meant to hurt your loved one, however, your loved one deserves restitution. If you would like to know more about how to fight a negligent nursing home, contact the skilled Greenville nursing home abuse attorneys with Smith Jordan Law. Requirements for proving negligence Nursing homes must properly care for residents, which is why you trust them to care for your loved one. If the elderly parent is bedridden and can’t do anything for themselves (feed, bathe, go to the bathroom, etc. ), you’ll need a long-term facility with sufficient staff and proper equipment. You may have a case if the care is substandard and your loved one suffers an injury or other loss. You likely have a case against the nursing home if you can prove four elements: a duty of care existed between the nursing home and your loved one, the nursing home breached that duty, the breach directly caused your loved one’s injury, and your loved one suffered real damages as a result. Considerations The breach must cause some kind of harm to your loved one: physical or emotional. For example, if your loved one was not properly cared for and developed severe bed sores, you may have a claim for damages. If your loved one was not properly monitored and developed a severe medical condition like Sepsis (infection), Broken Bones, etc. , you may also have... --- - Published: 2024-01-08 - Modified: 2024-09-27 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/personal-injury/how-to-decline-a-settlement-offer-from-the-insurance-company/ - Categories: Personal Injury Your accident was significant, and you have medical bills and numerous other losses to deal with now. It can feel overwhelming, especially when you receive a settlement offer from the insurance company that is nowhere near what you need to pay your bills and help you get back on your feet. This is a real possibility, and it happens often to people who may not know what to do. You can learn how to decline a settlement offer and move your case forward with a few simple steps. At Smith Jordan Law, our Greenville personal injury lawyer would happily discuss your case. We encourage you not even to file a claim with the insurance company until you speak to an attorney who can help you examine all of your losses. Let us help you to do that. How to decline a settlement offer properly When you receive a settlement offer from an insurance company, it will likely come with instructions. You may have some time to accept the claim, or it will become null and void. You may also be told how to accept and move the claim forward. Insurance companies often put artificial deadlines on offers to pressure people into accepting low offers. However, this does not mean you cannot claim compensation if you don’t comply with the insurance company’s deadline. Remember, the statute of limitations is three years for most injury claims in South Carolina, so the insurance company cannot refuse to pay your claim if you settle... --- - Published: 2023-12-22 - Modified: 2024-09-27 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/workers-compensation/can-i-get-fired-for-filing-workers-comp/ - Categories: FAQs, Workers Compensation In South Carolina, it is illegal for an employer to fire an employee simply because the employee filed a workers’ compensation claim. If that were allowed, employers would not be incentivized to maintain safe premises for their employees. In South Carolina, you can technically lose your job at any time for any reason or no reason. However, your employer cannot terminate your employment in retaliation from your employer for making a workers’ compensation claim. You can, however, lose your job while your claim is in process for various reasons, but not because you filed a claim and are receiving benefits. Keep reading for more from our skilled Greenville workers’ compensation lawyers. Indirect retaliation is also illegal While direct retaliatory termination is prohibited by South Carolina law, employers may attempt “indirect retaliation” by claiming that you are no longer physically capable of performing essential job duties. This is illegal, and the SCWCC strictly prohibits the following actions: Forced leave Workplace harassment Discriminatory treatment Retaliatory termination You are protected from such actions starting from the time of your accident and injury, even before filing your claim. Once you've filed, your employer is obligated to keep you employed until your doctor determines you've reached maximum medical improvement (MMI). At this point, when your recovery allows, the company must reasonably accommodate any restrictions resulting from your injuries and facilitate your return to duties. The SCWCC encourages injured employees to continue working if possible. Protect your rights – work with a Greenville workers’ compensation lawyer... --- - Published: 2023-11-22 - Modified: 2024-09-27 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/workers-compensation/how-long-do-workers-comp-claims-take/ - Categories: FAQs, Workers Compensation As with many things in life, the sooner you get started on your workers’ compensation claim, the sooner it will likely resolve. The length of your workers’ compensation case will depend on the injury you have. If you have a minor injury, your case will typically take a short time to resolve, typically within a couple weeks. If you have a serious injury or an injury that results in a disability, the claim can take several months to resolve. Keep reading for more from a Greenville workers’ compensation lawyer. How long do I have to report my injury? In South Carolina, it is mandatory to notify your immediate supervisor of any workplace injury within 90 days. Reporting your injury promptly and having your employer approve your claim should result in the prompt initiation of benefits. Workers' compensation claims that are valid are expected to be paid without unnecessary delays. Don’t delay – get started on your claim today Suffering a work-related injury can be unsettling, especially if financial constraints add to the worry. If you need assistance with your workers' compensation claim, reach out to Smith Jordan Attorneys at Law. We are dedicated to advocating for the medical care and additional benefits you deserve. --- - Published: 2023-10-22 - Modified: 2024-09-27 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/workers-compensation/what-to-do-after-being-injured-at-work/ - Categories: FAQs, Workers Compensation Follow these steps to protect your potential injury claim. If you have any questions, please contact our skilled Greenville workers’ compensation lawyers at (864) 343-2222. Step one: Notify your employer Ideally, you’ll notify your employer or supervisor of your injury at the scene, but this isn’t always possible, especially if you suffer a severe injury and have to leave in an ambulance. In South Carolina, employees must notify their employers of an injury within 90 days to be eligible for compensation, but it’s in your best interest to let them know sooner. If you wait too long, your employer’s insurance company may question the validity of your claim. Step two: Seek medical attention If you did not receive emergency medical care at the scene, you must schedule a visit with a doctor selected by your employer or their insurer. You could visit your primary care physician (PCP) or Urgent Care, but your employer’s insurance will not reimburse your medical bills if you see a doctor outside their network. Hold on to all medical documentation and doctor’s notes – these help support your claim. Step three: File a workers’ compensation claim Typically, employers are responsible for initiating the workers’ comp process by notifying their insurance company. However, if your employer neglects to report your injury or your claim is rejected, you may need to file the claim using Form 50 of the South Carolina Workers' Compensation Commission (SCWCC). You must file this form within two years from the date of your... --- - Published: 2023-09-18 - Modified: 2025-01-30 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/workers-compensation/how-long-after-workers-comp-settlement-do-i-get-paid/ - Categories: Workers Compensation Dealing with a work injury or illness is hard. Waiting for the workers’ compensation settlement adds to the frustration of your situation. You and your household need that settlement money to cover your necessities and stabilize your financial future. Whether applying for workers’ compensation or waiting for a settlement, it is best to partner with a Greenville workers’ compensation lawyer. The team at Smith Jordan Law can give you sound legal advice, take care of the application process, and answer questions about when you can expect your settlement. South Carolina worker’s compensation law In South Carolina, almost all employers must purchase workers’ compensation insurance to cover injured employees or those who develop a work-related illness. If you are hurt or suffer from an occupational disease and cannot work for an extended period, you might be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. These benefits cover your medical expenses and two-thirds of your lost income for several weeks. The benefits stop once you reach maximum medical improvement (MMI) and are medically cleared to return to work. However, some victims of job injuries or illnesses are left permanently disabled and cannot return to their previous job–or perhaps any job. Injured parties can seek a workers’ compensation settlement when this happens. For the best outcome, put your case in the capable, trustworthy hands of a Greenville workers’ compensation lawyer. When to expect workers’ compensation settlements Suppose your injuries prevent you from working for more than seven days. In that case, you are entitled to collect... --- - Published: 2023-08-18 - Modified: 2024-09-27 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/faq/car-accident/average-settlement-for-car-accident-back-and-neck-injury/ - Categories: Car Accident, FAQs Back and neck pain can be debilitating, making it hard for you to go to work and enjoy activities you once loved. If you suffered a back or neck injury in a car accident, you may be able to file a claim to receive compensation for your losses. You may be curious about the average settlement for back and neck injuries in a car accident like this. That is very much dependent on the complexity of your case. At Smith Jordan Law, we take your case seriously and do everything possible to get you the compensation you deserve. We encourage you to schedule an appointment and free consultation with our Greenville car accident lawyer to discuss your case. Breaking down the average car accident settlement In 2022, the average liability insurance claim for bodily injury across the U. S. was over $24,000, according to data from the Insurance Information Institute. Some of those cases involve back and neck injuries. Keep in mind that these are just averages. The value of your case could be much different than the average. Our attorneys will work closely with you to better understand how your accident impacted your situation. In short, while averages are interesting, you need a car accident attorney who can provide specific insight into how much your case is worth. How we calculate your losses in a car accident If you are in a car accident and suffer neck and back injuries, you likely need medical care, pain medication, physical therapy,... --- - Published: 2023-07-27 - Modified: 2024-09-27 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/social-security-disability/cost-of-living-adjustment-for-2024/ - Categories: Social Security Disability SSA announces 3. 2% benefit increase The cost of living in the United States has risen again in 2023, which means that the Social Security Administration needs to adjust the amount they pay to individuals receiving disability or other forms of Social Security benefits. The 2024 cost of living benefit increase is 3. 2%. If you have suffered an injury and need to file a claim for Social Security or are trying to qualify for Social Security benefits for other needs, let our team at Smith Jordan Law help you. With our years of experience and compassionate level of service, we are here to help you. Contact our Greenville, SC, Social Security Disability attorney today. What the cost of living adjustment means for you In mid-October, the Social Security Administration announced that the cost of living increase for 2024 would be 3. 2%. This means that those receiving these benefits (whether through Social Security retirement funding or Social Security disability) would see an increase of 3. 2% on their current monthly payment. The agency reported that, on average, this will equate to more than $50 per month per person. For many people, that increase will mean adding money to the budget to meet their needs. The organization, which pays more than 66 million people monthly, stated that the increase would begin with payments received in January 2024. About 7. 5 million people are currently receiving SSI benefits, as well. The cost of living adjustment, sometimes called COLA, is a component... --- - Published: 2023-04-20 - Modified: 2024-09-27 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/auto-accidents/most-common-injuries-from-car-accidents/ - Categories: Auto Accidents, Personal Injury Car accidents can happen in an instant, often leaving us feeling helpless and overwhelmed. The physical injuries suffered after a car accident can be traumatic for both the victim and their family. Each year in South Carolina, thousands of people suffer from severe trauma because of car wrecks, with many needing long-term medical attention for their wounds. However, if you know what to look out for regarding common car accident injuries, it may give you the tools needed to recognize warning signs of injury or provide the support that could help heal from current trauma faster. Most Common Injuries from Car Wrecks in South Carolina Car accidents are unfortunately very common in today's world, and with them can come a variety of injuries. In South Carolina, the most common injuries resulting from car wrecks are: Whiplash Whiplash is an injury to the neck area caused by a sudden and violent back-and-forth jerking motion and can be particularly painful. It often occurs in car accidents but can also occur in some physical sports such as judo and boxing. Patients with whiplash can experience neck pain, shoulder pain, and stiffness, headaches, dizziness, tingling or numbness in the arms, blurred vision, or difficulty concentrating. Treatment for whiplash typically includes rest, medicines to relieve pain and reduce inflammation, physical therapy exercises to stretch the neck muscles and put them back into alignment if needed, as well as hot or cold packs to ease any discomfort. Back Strains Back strains caused by a car accident... --- - Published: 2023-03-22 - Modified: 2024-10-03 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/personal-injury/commonalities-in-pedestrian-bicycle-motorcycle-accidents/ - Categories: Personal Injury What do auto accidents involving pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcycles have in common? Your initial thought may be “not much” other than the fact that they are all auto accidents, but these type of accidents actually have a lot in common. Each time a car, truck, or SUV gets into a wreck with a pedestrian, bicyclist, or motorcyclist, the pedestrian, bicyclist, or motorcyclist is going to become seriously injured, while the driver of the other vehicle will only suffer minor injuries. This means that, while the pedestrian, bicyclist, or motorcyclist is being loaded in an ambulance and taken to the emergency room, the driver of the other vehicle will probably be at the scene telling their version of what happened to the investigating officer.   Pedestrians, Bicyclists, and Motorcyclists Are Commonly Considered At Fault All too often, instead of admitting their lack of attention, the uninjured driver will blame the pedestrian, bicyclist, or motorcyclist. For instance, the driver may say that a pedestrian “darted out in front of them,” or that the bicyclist “came from out of nowhere,” or that the motorcyclist was speeding. While the investigating officer hears the driver’s side of the story, the pedestrian, bicyclist, or motorcyclist does not get a chance to tell the officer what happened. Accident scenes are often chaotic, and the investigating officer may not have time to do an in depth investigation. This means that the pedestrian, bicyclist, or motorcyclist, is often marked at fault for a wreck that really was not their... --- - Published: 2023-03-21 - Modified: 2024-09-27 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/personal-injury/south-carolina-pedestrian-laws/ - Categories: Personal Injury Unfortunately, too many pedestrians are injured or killed by motor vehicles in South Carolina. South Carolina consistently has among the highest pedestrian fatality rates in the country. In 2020, South Carolina had the second highest pedestrian fatality rate in the country. See https://www-fars. nhtsa. dot. gov/states/statespedestrians. aspx. Our firm frequently represents pedestrians or the families of pedestrians, who are injured or killed by vehicles. Attorney Raymond Wooten won the most recent appellant case in South Carolina involving a question of liability for a wreck involving a pedestrian. See Abdelgheny v. Moody, 852 S. E. 2d 225 (S. C. App. 2020). All too often, the pedestrian is blamed for a wreck that is not their fault. This happens because when a car, truck, or SUV hits a pedestrian, the pedestrian is probably going to be hurt very badly, while the driver of the vehicle will probably be unhurt or suffer only minor injuries . While the pedestrian is being loaded in an ambulance and taken to the emergency room, the driver of the other vehicle will probably be at the scene telling their version of what happened to the investigating officer. Unlike the driver of a vehicle who is surrounded by thousands of pounds of metal and plastic, a pedestrian does not have anything to protect them in the crash. The size and weight of a vehicle not only protects its driver, but it also increases the likelihood that the pedestrian is going to be badly injured. As we will explain... --- - Published: 2023-03-08 - Modified: 2024-09-27 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/workers-compensation/que-es-la-compensacion-detrabajadores/ - Categories: Personal Injury, Workers Compensation Abogados que ofrecen servicios profesionales a la gente en la Carolina del Sur con casos de Compensación de trabajo. Nosotros a Smith Jordan estamos orgullosos de representar a los trabajadores lesionados. Este blog es para brindar información útil si usted está lesionado en el trabajo. ¿Qué es la compensación de trabajadores? Si usted se lesiona en el trabajo, su empleador está obligado por ley a pagarle los beneficios de compensación de trabajadores. Usted podría lesionarse por:Un incidente en el trabajo. Ejemplos: lastimarse la espalda al caerse, quemarse con un producto químico que le salpica la piel, lesionarse en un accidente automovilístico mientras hace entregas. –O–Exposiciones repetidas en el trabajo. Ejemplos: lastimarse la muñeca por hacer movimientos repetitivos, perder la audición debido a la presencia de ruidos fuertes y constantes. ¿Cuáles son los beneficios? Atención médica: Pagada por su empleador, para ayudarle a recuperarse de una lesión o enfermedad causada por el trabajo. Beneficios por incapacidad temporal: Pagos que usted recibe por los salarios perdidos si su lesión le impide hacer su trabajo habitual mientras se recupera. Beneficios por incapacidad permanente: Pagos que usted recibe si no se recupera completamente. Beneficios suplementarios por la pérdida de trabajo: Vales que ayudan a cubrir el costo de capacitación o desarrollo de habilidades en caso de que usted no se recupere por completo y no regrese a trabajar para su empleador. Beneficios por muerte: Pagos que recibe su cónyuge, sus hijos u otros dependientes en caso de su muerte a causa de una lesión... --- - Published: 2023-02-24 - Modified: 2024-09-27 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/personal-injury/common-questions-during-work-accident-cases-in-south-carolina/ - Categories: Personal Injury, Workers Compensation Many hard working people have an accident at work in South Carolina that changes their lives. Maybe the accident involves a back injury from lifting something heavy. Sometimes heavy pushing and pulling causes a shoulder injury. No matter the injury, the same logic applies as to what to do. Being injured at work can cause a lot of stress and worry on a person. No one wants to be injured at work, but once the accident occurs a lot of questions race through a person’s mind. What do I do now? Do I tell my supervisor? Do I not say anything and hope I get better? Do I need to go to the company doctor? Should I give a statement to the insurance company? How long do I have to report a work accident in South Carolina? The law in South Carolina requires that an injured worker report the accident, to someone in a supervisory position at the company. Although the law requires that this notice to the employer be made within ninety (90) days of the accident, it should be made as soon as possible after the accident. If a person waits to report an accident, hoping they will get better, the employer and the workers’ compensation insurance carrier will often use this against the worker, claiming that they did not tell someone at work on the day of the accident, thereby calling in to question whether the person was hurt at work. The best advice is to report... --- - Published: 2023-01-12 - Modified: 2025-01-30 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/personal-injury/should-i-hire-an-attorney-for-my-personal-injury-claim/ - Categories: Personal Injury When people are involved in a car wreck or other accident, they often wonder if they should hire a personal injury attorney to help them, or if they should try to handle their claim with the insurance company themselves. The first thing to keep in mind is that an insurance company is not trying to help you. Insurance companies will often try to take advantage of people who do not have lawyers. Many of our clients tried to handle their insurance claims themselves, and then hired our firm after getting frustrated dealing with the insurance company. If you have been in an accident, there are two main factors that should guide whether or not you should hire a car accident attorney. Keep in mind that there are a bunch of different things that affect how much a personal injury claim settles for, but these two factors will help you determine if you need to hire a personal injury attorney to help you with your claim. Who caused the accident? The first factor that will determine whether or not you need to hire a personal injury attorney is who was at fault in causing the accident. Generally, a person can only recover for their injuries suffered in an accident if someone else caused the accident. Car insurance companies are only required to pay for a person’s injuries if their insured was at fault in causing the wreck. For example, if someone runs a red light and hits you, then they are... --- - Published: 2022-12-19 - Modified: 2025-06-10 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/auto-accidents/sue-the-person-not-the-insurance-company/ - Categories: Auto Accidents In South Carolina, like in most states, a person injured due to the negligence of another has to file suit against the person or company that injured them- not the insurance company that is providing coverage. The insurance company then has a duty to hire an attorney to defend the case and has to pay any judgment up to its policy limits. See S. C. Med. Malpractice Liab. Ins. Jt. Underwriting Ass'n v. Ferry, 354 S. E. 2d 378, 380 (S. C. 1987). For example, if you get injured by a person who runs a red light and hits your car, you would deal with their insurance company in trying to settle your property damage and bodily injury claims prior to filing suit. If you are unable to settle your claims with their insurance company, then you would have to file suit against the person who hit you- not their insurance company which refused to settle the case. The at fault driver’s insurance company would then have a duty to hire an attorney to defend the at fault driver and to pay any judgment up to the insurance company’s policy limits. At trial, the jury is not told that there is an insurance company involved, or that the insurance company will be responsible for paying the judgment against the defendant. See SCRE 411. This rule leads to some odd lawsuits such as a husband suing a wife, or a child suing a parent because the insurance company does not want... --- - Published: 2022-08-12 - Modified: 2025-01-30 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/workers-compensation/when-to-hire-a-workers-comp-lawyer/ - Categories: Workers Compensation If you have been injured at work, you may be wondering if you need to hire a workers’ comp lawyer. Workers’ compensation is a program that many people don’t know about or understand. This can be a confusing process, and it is important to have someone on your side who can help guide you through it. A workers’ comp lawyer can help make sure that you receive the benefits that you deserve. Here are some factors that can help you decide when to hire a workers' comp lawyer. 1. Your claim is denied If your workers' compensation claim is denied, you may be tempted to give up and move on, but that isn't always the best course of action. If you believe that your claim was wrongly denied, you may want to consider hiring a workers' compensation lawyer. A workers' compensation lawyer can help you navigate the appeals process and give you a better chance of getting the benefits you need and deserve. Workers' compensation laws are complex, and a lawyer can help you understand them and build a strong case for why your claim should be approved. If you've been injured at work, don't try to go it alone - hire a workers' compensation lawyer and give yourself the best chance of success. 2. Your claim is delayed by your insurance or employer. Sometimes employers will delay or deny claims in order to save money. If this happens to you, it's important to hire a workers' compensation lawyer. A... --- - Published: 2022-03-23 - Modified: 2024-09-27 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/workers-compensation/what-to-do-if-your-claim-was-denied-and-you-dont-have-money-to-hire-a-lawyer/ - Categories: Workers Compensation This Article Was Updated on 3/23/2022 Reasons Workers' Comp Claims are Denied What happens if your workers' claim is denied? Unfortunately, a significant share of South Carolina workers' compensation claims are denied. Sometimes, these denials are warranted — but often, companies go out of their way to turn claims down. Still, with a proactive approach, it's possible to limit the potential for denial. Common reasons workers' comp claims denied include the following: Missed deadlines. One of the most frequent — and most avoidable — issues underscoring denied workers' comp claims, missed deadlines often occur when employees attempt to submit claims on their own. Often, it's simply not clear when, exactly, the injury developed. This makes it difficult to discern when the deadline might arrive. Injuries occur off the job. Workers' comp is reserved, as its name indicates, for injuries that occur at work. Employees injured elsewhere will typically not qualify. As with missed deadlines, however, this workers' comp obstacle is not as straightforward as it seems. Workplace obligations can sometimes exacerbate existing injuries, after all. Misclassified employees. Unfortunately, workers' compensation benefits are not available to independent contractors. If employees are misclassified, they may be deemed ineligible for benefits when injuries occur while completing contract work. Insufficient proof. Extensive documentation must accompany workers' compensation claims. If this is not provided, employers or insurance providers may argue that these injuries are nowhere near as severe as the employee insists. Is it Too Late to Hire a Lawyer After a Claim is Denied?... --- - Published: 2021-06-22 - Modified: 2024-09-27 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/workers-compensation/workers-compensation-101/ - Categories: Workers Compensation Workers’ compensation claims can be a difficult journey for those injured on the job. There is the physical injury and medical treatment, being out of work and dealing with your employer, their insurer, and the entire claim process which is different in each state. It can be confusing, stressful, and emotionally taxing. There are two important factors if you are injured at work. The first is reporting the injury to your supervisor, manager, or HR department. In South Carolina, you have 90 days to report the injury to your employer. It’s imperative that you inform your employer which puts them on notice that an injury has occurred. Secondly, seek medical treatment if necessary. In South Carolina, you have two years to file a workers’ compensation claim. If you do not provide your employer with notice of your injury or file a claim within these strict time constraints, your claim may ultimately be barred. A doctor may have you placed on “light duty” or declared you unable to work due to the injury. If you are placed in another position or on light duty and you make less than you made prior to being injured, workers’ compensation will owe you weekly temporary partial disability (“TPD”) benefits. If you are declared unable to return to work then workers’ compensation has to pay you weekly temporary total disability (“TTD”) benefits. The amount of both TPD and TTD benefits are based on your compensation rate. Compensation Rate Calculation There is a formula to calculate... --- - Published: 2019-08-31 - Modified: 2024-09-27 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/nursing-home-abuse/your-guide-to-nursing-home-abuse/ - Categories: Nursing Home Abuse As the population gets older, more Americans reside and receive care in nursing homes. You want the best possible care for your friends and relatives, and it’s disheartening to suspect that they may not receive the loving treatment they deserve. Here’s what you need to know about nursing home abuse, including the various types of mistreatment, signs of abuse, and what you should do if you suspect abuse. Types of Abuse in Nursing Homes You may have a pre-determined image of what nursing home mistreatment entails but abuse actually takes several different forms. Physical abuse occurs when a nursing home employee intentionally hits, pushes, or trips your loved one.  Sexual abuse involves taking advantage of the resident for sexual purposes, either via force, trickery, or manipulation. Mental or psychological abuse is another form of abuse; staff may verbally degrade the patient, or they might intentionally withhold items or communication with friends and family members. Neglect is another type of abuse that can occur intentionally or unintentionally. Staff may deliberately withhold care from their patients (such as ignoring residents when they use their call buttons), or they might inadvertently fail to provide the care the resident reserves due to lack of resources, knowledge, or adequate staffing. Signs of Nursing Home Abuse Whether you’re able to see your loved regularly or sporadically, it’s important to recognize potential signs of nursing home abuse. If your loved one has a lot of bruises or has unexplained injuries (like broken bones or burns), this can be... --- - Published: 2019-08-29 - Modified: 2024-09-27 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/nursing-home-abuse/how-do-families-deal-with-nursing-home-abuse/ - Categories: Nursing Home Abuse If your loved one has been the victim of nursing home abuse, you may be unsure what to do. The good news is that, after you’ve contacted the proper authorities and removed your loved one from the abusive situation, there are many methods for how to deal with nursing home abuse after the fact, depending on your needs and those of your loved one. The following coping options can help you deal with the aftermath of discovering nursing home abuse. Keep reading to see what steps you can take and what you need to consider. Understand Personal Coping Mechanisms No two people cope with abuse in exactly the same way. Do not expect that your loved one who was abused at the nursing home will cope in exactly the way you do. Be cautious regarding your loved one’s timeline, and avoid forcing him or her to pursue options they are not comfortable with. Some nursing home abuse victims simply need more time to deal with the issue. Additionally, keep in mind that many seniors will not want to enter another nursing home immediately after they suffer from abuse. He or she may also not feel comfortable enough to stay in the same home in which they were abused, even if those involved were fired. You may need to discuss options with your loved one and consider your financial situation to see what else you can do to see to your loved one’s care, such as hire an in-home nurse. Consider... --- - Published: 2019-04-21 - Modified: 2024-09-27 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/nursing-home-abuse/is-posting-photos-nursing-home-abuse/ - Categories: Nursing Home Abuse When you think of nursing home abuse, you most likely think of physical abuse. You may not initially envision the damage that can be caused by nursing home staff posting photos of your loved one on social media. When people take pictures of your loved one that they or you aren’t aware of, the effects feel dehumanizing and degrading. But do you have a personal injury case? A lawsuit is a possibility. What Must Images Portray to Establish a Nursing Home Abuse Case? In one video posted online, a nursing home staff member slapped a woman with dementia with a strap and laughed. Another woman was filmed using the toilet. The videos were posted online for all to see. Images that seek to humiliate the individual photographed may be labeled emotionally and mentally abusive. While no clear-cut boundaries exist to make or break a case, certain subjects and depictions may bolster your loved one’s claim. For example, some nursing home staff members have taken nude or partially nude photos of residents. In some photos and videos, nursing home staff members capture actual abuse, but simply uploading images and video of residents could be enough to be considered abuse. Often, the pictures portray people who are not able to prevent others from snapping a photo of them. Perhaps they are incapacitated by dementia or another condition that makes it difficult to speak up. Additionally, nursing home residents often expect these moments are private. How To Gather Evidence in Your Case Nursing... --- - Published: 2016-03-30 - Modified: 2024-09-27 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/personal-injury/another-satisfied-customer/ - Categories: Personal Injury We love to hear this! Check out Charles and Sandra Turner’s story below: My husband was injured on his job. Two weeks later his boss the owner of the company fired him. He told my husband he couldn’t afford to send him to the dr. It would put his company at risk. When my husband hung up the phone I handed him the phone book and told him to call Grady Jordan. That was in 2008. Grady and everyone at his law firm treated us like decent people. Grady fought for and won my husband’s workers comp case. Then went on to represent and win my husband’s disability. The first time we met with Grady he walked us out, shook my husband’s hand and told him he believed him, that he was hurt on his job. When we left both of us almost cried. We had someone on our side. Grady Jordan is a great human being, he listens to his clients. And he is the best lawyer I have ever met. Thank you Grady. You helped us to be able to live again. Instead of waiting on someone else to decide our future. Bless you and everyone in your firm. Charles and Sandra Turner. --- - Published: 2013-08-08 - Modified: 2025-01-30 - URL: https://smithjordan.com/social-security-disability/what-is-a-disability-for-purposes-of-social-security-disability/ - Categories: Social Security Disability This is a frequently asked question for individuals that are thinking of applying for Social Security Disability. The Social Security Administration defines Disability as, “the inability to engage in any substantial gainful activity by reason of any medically determinable physical or mental impairment which can be expected to result in death or which has lasted or can be expected to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months. ” (42 USC Section 423(d)(1)(A) Many individuals do not want to apply for Social Security Disability because they want to get better and go back to work. But there often comes a time when they realize that they are not going to be able to return to work. Social Security looks at whether you are able to engage in any type gainful activity and whether your medical problems are expected to last for at least 12 months. If you are sick and cannot work, but are able to return before the end of 12 months then you would not be eligible for Social Security Disability. If you are not able to work and you have already been out for 12 months or your illness or impairments are expected to last for 12 months or more, you may be eligible for Social Security Disability. --- ---