Personal Injury Attorney in Columbia SC

Personal Injury Attorney in Columbia SC

 

When the unexpected happens, and you suffer a personal injury due to someone else’s negligence, the path forward can feel overwhelming. You may be grappling with physical pain, emotional distress, mounting medical bills, and lost wages. The uncertainty of your future can make it even harder to move forward. During this challenging time, having a trusted and experienced personal injury attorney in Columbia SC, is crucial to protecting your rights and securing the compensation you deserve.

At Joe Cunningham Law, we understand the profound impact a personal injury can have on you and your loved ones. We are committed to helping individuals and families recover the compensation they need to heal, rebuild, and move forward. As a former U.S. Congressman, Joe profoundly understands the legislative process, negotiation strategies, and the importance of unwavering advocacy. This distinctive background provides our clients with unparalleled insight and strategic advantage in their personal injury cases.

Why Choose Joe Cunningham Law?

Choosing the right attorney is a critical decision that can significantly impact the outcome of your personal injury case. Joe Cunningham Law offers a unique combination of experience, dedication, and a proven track record of success. Here are some of the reasons why you should consider entrusting your case to us:

Leadership with a Legacy of Service

Founded by Joe Cunningham, a former U.S. Congressman and dedicated attorney, our firm embodies a deep-rooted commitment to public service and client advocacy. Joe’s journey began in Kentucky, where he observed his father, a small-town lawyer who later became a Kentucky Supreme Court justice, serve the community with unwavering dedication. This early exposure instilled in Joe the values of accessibility, respect, and relentless pursuit of justice.

During his tenure in Congress, Joe was renowned for his people-first approach to legislating, consistently prioritizing his constituents’ needs and concerns. He brings this same philosophy to our legal practice, ensuring that every client receives personalized attention and steadfast representation.

Client-Centered Communication

We believe that effective representation is built on clear and consistent communication. Joe maintains frequent contact with clients, providing straightforward advice and keeping them informed about their case progress. Whether discussing settlement options or preparing for court proceedings, he empowers clients to make informed decisions. 

Selective Case Acceptance for Focused Advocacy

Our firm is selective in the cases we accept, allowing us to dedicate the necessary time and resources to each client. This approach enables us to develop tailored legal strategies aimed at achieving the best possible outcomes. We are committed to advocating vigorously on your behalf, whether negotiating with insurance companies or litigating in court.

No Fee Unless We Win

We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no legal fees unless we successfully resolve your case. This reflects our confidence in our ability to represent you effectively and our commitment to making quality legal representation accessible.

Types of Personal Injury Cases We Handle at Cunningham Law

At Joe Cunningham Law, we advocate for South Carolinians who have suffered serious injuries due to someone else’s negligence or misconduct. We handle a variety of personal injury cases and are committed to pursuing full and fair compensation for each client we represent. Here are some of the types of cases Joe and Aaron routinely handle:

 

  • Car accidents: From rear-end collisions on I-26 to distracted driving crashes on Gervais Street, car accidents can result in painful injuries and overwhelming expenses. We help injured drivers, passengers, and pedestrians recover compensation for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages.

 

  • Motorcycle accidents: Motorcyclists are especially vulnerable on the road, often suffering catastrophic injuries like broken bones, spinal cord damage, or traumatic brain injuries. We advocate for riders who have been hit by careless drivers, denied their right-of-way, or injured due to dangerous road conditions.

 

  • Truck accidents: Crashes involving 18-wheelers, delivery trucks, and other commercial vehicles can involve multiple liable parties, including trucking companies, drivers, maintenance contractors, and cargo loaders. We handle complex investigations to determine fault and pursue maximum compensation for our clients.

 

  • Boat accidents: Whether the result of operator intoxication, reckless behavior, or faulty equipment, boat crashes on South Carolina’s many lakes, rivers, and coastal waters can lead to serious injury or drowning. We represent victims injured in recreational boating accidents, jet ski incidents, and charter boat crashes.

 

  • Pedestrian accidents: We will fight to hold negligent drivers accountable if they strike you in a crosswalk or hit you while walking near a road. We pursue compensation for life-changing injuries like fractures, head trauma, and internal injuries while working to secure justice for vulnerable road users.

 

  • Rideshare accidents: Uber and Lyft have transformed how we travel, but liability can be confusing when accidents occur. Our firm understands how to navigate the complex insurance policies and legal responsibilities that apply to these companies and their drivers.

 

  • Bicycle accidents: We represent cyclists injured due to inattentive drivers, dooring incidents, unsafe infrastructure, or defective bike components. Our goal is to help you get back on your feet physically and financially while holding negligent parties accountable.

 

  • Slips and falls: Property owners must keep their premises safe, and when they fail to do so, serious injuries like broken bones, concussions, and spinal injuries can occur. We represent clients injured by wet floors, broken stairs, poor lighting, and other hazardous conditions on commercial and residential properties.

 

  • Construction accidents: We represent workers and bystanders injured on inherently dangerous construction sites by falling objects, equipment malfunctions, trench collapses, or safety violations. While workers’ compensation may apply, many cases also involve third-party liability claims against contractors or manufacturers.

 

  • Brain injuries: Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can occur from vehicle crashes, falls, sports injuries, or workplace accidents, and they often have long-term or permanent consequences. We work with medical experts to understand the full impact of your injury and fight for compensation that reflects the cognitive, emotional, and physical challenges you face.

 

  • Product liability: Consumers should be able to trust that the products they use are safe, and when companies fail in this duty by designing, manufacturing, or marketing unsafe products, they can be liable for the injuries that result. We handle product liability cases involving defective vehicles, electronics, appliances, children’s products, medications, and more.

 

  • Whistleblower / qui tam claims: Individuals deserve legal protection and support when they come forward to expose fraud against the government. We represent whistleblowers in cases involving healthcare fraud, defense contractor misconduct, and other government fraud schemes.

 

  • Social media mental health lawsuits: Recent lawsuits allege that social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and Snapchat are contributing to rising rates of anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and suicidal thoughts in teens and young adults through platform designers knowingly designing addictive algorithms that harm users’ mental health. We are actively investigating these cases and helping families pursue justice against tech giants.

 

Each of these cases requires a unique legal approach, and our firm is ready to help you build the strongest possible claim. Joe Cunningham Law is here to fight for you if you are dealing with the aftermath of a serious accident or speaking out against corporate wrongdoing.

What Compensation Can You Recover in a Columbia Personal Injury Claim?

Every case is different, but under South Carolina law, injured individuals may be entitled to compensation for:

  • Past and future medical expenses related to the accident
  • Lost wages if you are unable to work
  • Loss of future income
  • Pain and suffering damages
  • Emotional distress or mental anguish
  • Property damage
  • Rehabilitation and therapy
  • Loss of enjoyment of life
  • Punitive damages in cases of gross negligence or intentional harm

We take time to understand how your injury has impacted every aspect of your life and use that knowledge to build a compelling case for maximum damages.

How We Build a Strong Personal Injury Case

Winning a personal injury case takes more than telling your story. It requires building a solid legal foundation supported by evidence and skilled insight. Our approach includes:

  • Thorough investigation: We examine every detail, from police reports to witness statements to surveillance footage. When needed, we work with accident reconstructionists, medical professionals, and other experts to uncover the truth and support your claim.
  • Strategic negotiation: Insurance companies are not on your side, but we are. We know their tactics and how to counter them. We will handle all communication and push for a fair settlement that reflects the full scope of your losses.
  • Litigation when necessary: We are ready to take your case to trial if insurers do not make a fair offer. Our courtroom experience and Joe’s legislative background make us a formidable force in front of judges and juries.

The Personal Injury Claim Process in South Carolina

Navigating a personal injury claim can be overwhelming, especially while you are recovering. Here is a general overview of how we help guide you through each step:

  • Free consultation: We listen to your story and explain your rights.

 

  • Investigation and evidence gathering: We begin building your case.

 

  • Medical evaluation: We assess your injuries and treatment needs.

 

  • Insurance negotiations: We pursue a fair settlement.

 

  • Filing a lawsuit: We prepare and file your claim in court, if necessary.

 

  • Litigation and trial: We advocate for you before a judge or jury.

 

  • Resolution and recovery: You receive your settlement or verdict award.

 

We handle all the legal intricacies so you can focus on healing.

South Carolina Personal Injury Laws You Should Know

Understanding how personal injury laws work in South Carolina can significantly impact how you approach your case and what compensation you may be entitled to recover.

Statute of Limitations

In South Carolina, you typically have three years from the date of your injury to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, different timelines may apply depending on the facts of your case, so working with an experienced Columbia personal injury lawyer is crucial.

Comparative Negligence

South Carolina follows a modified comparative negligence rule. You can still recover damages if you were less than 51% at fault, but the court will reduce your compensation in proportion to your degree of fault. For example, suppose you are partially liable for a car accident and are awarded $100,000. If you are found 25% at fault for the accident, your damages may be reduced by $25,000. 

No Cap on Economic Damages

While South Carolina places caps on some non-economic damages in medical malpractice cases, there are no limits on economic damages like medical bills and lost wages in general personal injury claims.

We will explain how these laws apply to your situation and help protect your rights.

What To Do After an Injury in Columbia, South Carolina

If you have been injured, the steps you take now can significantly impact your future claim. Here is what to do:

  • Seek medical attention immediately, even if your injuries seem minor.
  • Report the incident to the appropriate authority.
  • Document everything by taking photos, gathering contact information, and preserving evidence.
  • Avoid giving recorded statements to insurance adjusters without legal guidance.
  • Contact our Columbia personal injury attorneys as soon as possible.

Meet Our Founding Attorney

Our firm is led by Joe Cunningham, a former member of the U.S. House of Representatives who chose to return to his legal roots to help everyday South Carolinians. His time in Washington taught him the power of persistence, negotiation, and standing up for what is right. Now, he brings that same passion to personal injury law, offering legal representation grounded in trust, transparency, and results.

Clients know Joe as a straight shooter who stays in frequent contact and provides honest advice.

Contact Our Personal Injury Attorney in Columbia SC

You deserve justice when someone else’s negligence causes you harm. Let us help you get the compensation you need to move forward. We offer free consultations and handle personal injury cases throughout Columbia and the surrounding areas.

Do not wait until it is too late. Contact Joe Cunningham Law today to schedule a free, confidential consultation with our skilled personal injury attorneys. We will discuss your accident and how we can help you recover your losses.