Can I sue after a car accident if I was not wearing my seat belt?
Can I sue after a car accident if I was not wearing my seat belt?
Yes. In some states, a person’s failure to wear a seat belt can lower the amount of damages they can recover based on the doctrine of comparative or contributory negligence. However, a South Carolina statute (56-5-6540(C)) states that the failure to wear a seat belt is not contributory negligence and is not admissible as evidence in a civil action, such as a personal injury lawsuit. Therefore, you can sue after a car accident if you were not wearing a seat belt.
Other Car Accident FAQs:
- Am I liable if I hit the car in front of me after I was rear-ended by another driver?
- Can I sue after a car accident if I was not wearing my seat belt?
- Do I have to call the police after a car accident?
- Do I need a car accident attorney?
- Does South Carolina use a fault-based system for car accidents? What does that mean for someone involved in an auto accident?
- How is fault determined in South Carolina?
- How long do I have to file a car accident claim?
- How many car accidents occur in South Carolina each year?
- How many fatal car accidents happen in South Carolina each year?
- What compensation can I get after a car accident?
- What do I do if I am in a car accident and the at-fault driver does not have insurance?
- What do I do if my damages are more than the insurance policy limits of the at-fault driver who hit me in a car accident?
- What do I need to know about my South Carolina accident report?
- What does comparative fault mean when it relates to a South Carolina car accident?
- What should I do after a car accident?
Practice Areas
What Our Clients Say
They have amazing lawyers!
They have worked on an impossible situation and exceeded all expectations in the resulting settlements. I would recommend the Steinberg Law Firm to anyone and everyone!
- Susan
My experience was excellent
From the first consultation to the end of my case I was kept updated step by step. My attorney worked hard for me and got me more than what I expected.
- Vanessa
I never felt like I was alone
My lawyer and his Paralegal were right with me the entire case. I never felt like I was alone. At every turn they were in my corner. Someone recommended me to Steinberg law firm and I gladly would do the same for someone else.
- Mike
I couldn't have asked for better
The people from the Steinberg group are top-notch. They handled my case extremely well, I couldn’t have asked for a better performance. Thank you all so much for all you did for me.
- Brian
I am grateful for them!
At my worst, they honestly and carefully protected and defended my family on multiple levels. I’m a client for life and the integrity of this law firm is unmatched. Thank You Steinberg Law Family!!!
- Brandy
The people are thoughtful and professional
Questions and concerns always get answered and concerns are taken care of. Thank you all at Steinburg for a good experience and for showing me that you care about your clients.
- Joan
The best law firm
This the best law firm anyone could ever deal with. Mr. Pearlman will work hard to get everything that is owed to you. It was a pleasure to have been represented by this firm.
- Rena
A wonderful experience
Had a wonderful experience with Mr. Pearlman and his team. Thank you very much for your diligence and expertise.
- Meagan
I highly recommend them
They work as a team providing the best referrals and assistance to accomplish what my family and I needed. I highly recommend them because you won’t be disappointed.