Aiken Car Accident Lawyer

Helping Auto Accident Victims in Aiken, SC

If you've been injured in a car accident in Aiken, you may be dealing with pain, emotional trauma, and financial burdens that feel overwhelming. At Smith Born Leventis Taylor & Vega, LLC, our experienced Aiken car accident attorneys are here to help you get the compensation you deserve. Whether you were hit by a distracted driver, rear-ended in traffic, or injured in a more serious collision, we’re ready to advocate for your rights and guide you through the legal process.

Here are several benefits of hiring our firm:

• Decades of combined legal experience
• Millions of dollars recovered in awards and settlements
• Personalized, one-on-one approach
• You don't have to pay us anything unless we recover compensation

Contact us today at for a free consultation—let us help you move forward with confidence.

Common Causes of Car Accidents

Every crash is unique, but many collisions share common causes. Understanding what led to your accident helps build a strong claim and proves liability. Some of the most frequent causes of car accidents in Aiken include:

• Distracted Driving: Using a phone, texting, eating, or adjusting a GPS can divert a driver’s attention long enough to cause a serious crash.
• Speeding and Aggressive Driving: Exceeding the speed limit or driving recklessly reduces reaction time and increases both impact force and injury severity.
• Drunk or Drug-Impaired Driving: Impaired driving remains a major threat on South Carolina roads, especially at night or on weekends.
• Failure to Yield or Running Red Lights: Intersections such as those near major Aiken corridors can be dangerous when drivers ignore traffic rules.
• Fatigued or Drowsy Driving: Tired drivers often experience slowed reflexes or microsleep episodes, creating hazards on highways and rural roads.
• Hazardous Road Conditions: Poor road maintenance, debris, or weather conditions may also contribute to collisions.

When someone’s carelessness causes a crash, they should be held accountable. Our firm investigates every detail to determine what happened and who is at fault.

The Legal Process of a Car Accident Claim

If you’re pursuing compensation after a crash, you may be wondering what to expect. At Smith Born Leventis Taylor & Vega, LLC, we guide clients through every step of the process. Here’s an overview of how a typical car accident claim works:

1. Initial Consultation and Case Evaluation

We start by learning about your crash, injuries, medical treatment, and insurance situation. This consultation is free.

2. Investigation and Evidence Gathering

Our team collects crucial evidence such as:

• Police reports
• Photos and videos
• Medical records
• Witness statements
• Accident reconstruction analysis
• Vehicle damage assessments
• Strong evidence is essential for proving negligence.

3. Filing the Insurance Claim

We notify the insurer, submit all required documentation, and manage all communications to protect you from unfair tactics.

4. Negotiating a Settlement

Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. We negotiate aggressively to obtain the full compensation you deserve for medical bills, pain and suffering, lost wages, and more.

5. Litigation if Necessary

Most cases settle, but if an insurance company refuses to act fairly, our experienced trial lawyers are prepared to take your case to court.

6. Payout and Case Resolution

Once your case resolves, we ensure medical liens are handled appropriately and you receive your portion of the settlement or verdict promptly.

Throughout the process, our goal is to remove stress from your shoulders so you can focus on healing.

South Carolina Car Accident Laws

If you’ve been in a car accident in Aiken, understanding the state laws that govern your case is critical. Here are some key laws and legal principles you should know:

Fault-Based System

South Carolina follows a fault-based (or “tort”) system for car accident claims. This means the driver who is legally at fault for the accident is financially responsible for the resulting damages.

Comparative Negligence

Under South Carolina's modified comparative negligence rule, you can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault—as long as you were less than 51% responsible. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

Statute of Limitations

In South Carolina, you generally have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to pursue compensation.

Mandatory Insurance

South Carolina requires all drivers to carry minimum liability coverage:

• $25,000 for bodily injury per person
• $50,000 for total bodily injury per accident
• $25,000 for property damage

Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage is also mandatory, which can help if the at-fault driver has insufficient insurance.

What to Do After a Car Accident in Aiken

Taking the right steps after a collision can protect your health, your legal rights, and your ability to seek compensation.

• Call 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance.
• Exchange information with the other driver(s), including contact and insurance details.
• Document the scene with photos, videos, and witness statements if possible.
• Seek medical care, even if you feel fine—some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
• Contact an experienced Aiken car accident lawyer to evaluate your case.

Compensation You Can Recover After a Car Accident

If you were injured in a crash, you may be entitled to several types of compensation. At Smith Born Leventis Taylor & Vega, LLC, we work to make sure you receive the full amount you deserve. Common forms of compensation include:

• Medical Costs: You can recover money for hospital bills, doctor visits, physical therapy, medication, and any future medical treatment related to your injuries.
• Lost Wages: If your injuries kept you from working, you may receive compensation for lost income. If your ability to work in the future is affected, you may also recover for reduced earning capacity.
• Property Damage: This includes the cost to repair or replace your vehicle and any other personal property damaged in the crash.
• Pain and Suffering: You may be compensated for the physical pain, emotional distress, and overall impact the accident has had on your daily life.
• Permanent Injury or Disability: If the accident caused long-term or permanent harm, you may receive additional compensation for the lasting impact on your quality of life.
• Wrongful Death Damages: If a loved one was killed in the accident, eligible family members may recover funeral costs, lost financial support, and compensation for emotional loss.
• Punitive Damages: These are awarded only in cases involving extreme negligence—such as drunk driving—to punish the wrongdoer.

FAQs About Car Accident Claims

What are the most dangerous intersections in Aiken?

Staying vigilant on the road is paramount to preventing serious accidents and injuries. 

Some local high-risk areas to be aware of in Aiken include: 

• Whiskey Road & East Pine Log Road: This intersection is known for heavy traffic and sees frequent accidents due to limited turn lanes and visibility. 
• Highway 1 & South Boundary Avenue: Multiple roads intersect at this busy junction, making it a hotspot for accidents. 
• Pine Log Road & Hitchcock Parkway: High speed limits on Hitchcock Parkway put this area at a high risk of traffic accidents.
• York Street NE & Richland Avenue E: This busy downtown intersection is known for pedestrian accidents due to heavy foot traffic. 

How much is my car accident claim worth?

The value of your claim depends on many factors, including the severity of your injuries, medical costs, lost income, and the impact on your life. Our Aiken car accident attorney can help estimate your potential compensation.

Should I talk to the insurance company after an accident?

You must notify your insurer, but avoid giving recorded statements or accepting a quick settlement without legal advice. Insurers often try to minimize payouts.

What if the other driver doesn’t have insurance?

You may be able to file a claim under your uninsured motorist coverage, which is required in South Carolina. We can help you explore all available options.

Can I recover damages if I was partially at fault?

Yes—as long as you were less than 51% at fault. Your compensation will be reduced based on your percentage of responsibility.

Do I need a lawyer for a minor car accident?

Even in seemingly minor cases, injuries and complications can arise. A free consultation with our team can help determine whether legal representation is in your best interest.

Contact an Experienced Aiken Car Accident Lawyer Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident in Aiken, SC, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. At Smith Born Leventis Taylor & Vega, LLC, we’re committed to securing justice and maximum compensation for car accident victims. Our knowledgeable and compassionate legal team will stand by you every step of the way.

If you're dealing with the aftermath of a car accident in Aiken, contact Smith Born Leventis Taylor & Vega, LLC at to schedule a free consultation.