Call us at (864) 477-7395 or contact us online today to set up a free consultation.
Anderson Personal Injury Lawyers
Serving Anderson, Pickens, and Oconee Counties and Beyond
When you or a loved one suffers an injury due to someone else’s negligence, your life can change at a moment’s notice. The consequences could include medical bills, lost wages, emotional trauma, and physical pain. Smith & Griffith, LLP has over 25 years of experience serving the people of South Carolina with compassionate and professional legal representation during these difficult times.
The personal injury lawyers in our Anderson office routinely handle cases that include, but are not limited to, the following:
Wherever you are in the state of South Carolina, call us at (864) 477-7395 to set up a free consultation.
How to Prove Negligence in a Personal Injury Case
Negligence on the part of the defendant is the very foundation of personal cases. Proving it means that we have to establish all four of these elements:
Duty of Care
This principle holds that individuals or entities must act in a manner that avoids causing harm to others. For instance, drivers have a duty to follow traffic laws to prevent accidents, while businesses must keep their premises safe for customers. Demonstrating that the defendant owed a duty of care to the plaintiff is a prerequisite for the case to proceed.
Breach of Duty
Once a duty of care is established, the next step is to prove a breach of that duty. A breach occurs when the defendant fails to meet the expected standard of care, acting negligently or recklessly. Examples include a driver texting while driving or a store owner neglecting a spill on the floor. The law does not expect those who owe a duty of care to prevent all accidents. However, implicit in the duty of care is the responsibility to at least take reasonable steps towards safety. Failure to act reasonably constitutes a breach.
Causation
Causation links the breach of duty directly to the injuries sustained. It involves proving that the defendant’s actions (or lack thereof) were the direct cause of the plaintiff’s harm. This step may require expert witness testimony to establish that the injury would not have occurred but for the defendant’s negligence.
Damages
The final component of proving negligence is demonstrating the damages incurred as a result of the injury. Damages can be economic, such as medical expenses and lost earnings, or non-economic, including pain, suffering, and emotional distress. Documenting these damages comprehensively is essential for securing appropriate compensation. We’re here to help you make sure nothing gets overlooked.
Practice Areas How We Can Help
Personalized and Dedicated Legal Help
At Smith & Griffith, LLP, we pride ourselves on offering personalized and dedicated legal help that goes beyond the norm. Unlike “mill” firms focused on quick settlements, we invest time in understanding your unique situation and what matters most to you. Our goal isn’t just to secure compensation that “gets you by.” We strive to fully comprehend the extent of your injuries and pursue what’s necessary for your genuine recovery and future well-being.
Our team members have deep roots in upstate South Carolina, actively engaging with and contributing to our community. We’re committed to delivering the exceptional service you deserve, leveraging our established reputation, achievements, and acclaim to advocate for your best interests. When you choose Smith & Griffith, LLP, you’re choosing a firm that’s dedicated to helping you recover.
Call (864) 477-7395 or contact us online to set up an appointment with the personal injury lawyers in our Anderson office. We serve clients throughout the state.
Hear What Our Clients Are Saying
“Not only was he able to go up and beyond the call of duty for me, he knows his client and your not a number to him.”“John was a beacon of hope to me at a time when my options appeared limited and the likelihood of a satisfactory resolution seemed nigh on impossible.”- Adam C.
