Blog

Myrtle Beach, SC (March 14, 2026) — Emergency personnel responded to a two-vehicle collision on Friday, March 13, on US Highway 17 Bypass South near Myrtle Beach. The accident occurred at approximately 9:30 a.m. in a high-traffic section of the bypass.

Upon arrival, crews assessed the scene for damage and evaluated the occupants of both vehicles for injuries. Medical personnel determined that one individual required further evaluation and was transported to South Strand Hospital for treatment.

The exact cause of the crash remains under investigation.

We wish a full and swift recovery for the two hurt individuals.

What Is Comparative Negligence in South Carolina

In South Carolina, liability for car accidents is determined by modified comparative negligence. This legal principle is crucial for anyone involved in an accident, as it dictates how fault is distributed and whether you are entitled to recover damages. Under this system, you can pursue a claim for damages against another driver as long as your own percentage of fault is 50% or less.

If a jury or insurance adjuster determines that you are 51% or more at fault for the crash, you are legally barred from recovering any compensation, regardless of the severity of your injuries.

Furthermore, if you are found to be partially at fault (but less than 51%), your total compensation award will be reduced by your percentage of responsibility. For example, if your total damages are $10,000, but you are found to be 20% at fault, your final recovery would be reduced to $8,000.

Finally, because this accident occurred on a busy bypass, investigators often look at "contributing factors" such as distracted driving, improper lane changes, or tailgating. To ensure your rights are protected, it is essential to gather evidence early, such as police reports, witness contact information, and photos of vehicle damage.

South Carolina has a three-year time limit for filing a personal injury lawsuit, but gathering evidence immediately following the crash is vital to establishing a clear account of the events before memories fade or digital evidence is lost.

Navigating insurance claims after an accident can be a daunting process, especially when dealing with injuries and medical bills. An attorney handles all communications with insurance companies to ensure you are not unfairly assigned a higher percentage of fault than is accurate.

By managing the complexities of state law and insurance negotiations, an attorney allows you to focus on your medical recovery while they fight for the compensation you deserve.

If you want clear guidance on next steps after a vehicle crash, you can contact The Arndt Law Firm at (843) 469-8777 to speak with our car accident attorneys. We’re here to help you understand your options, navigate the recovery process, and make informed decisions after a crash.

Note: This post has been prepared using information gathered from publicly available secondary sources. The details of the incident have not been independently verified. If you notice any inaccuracies, please contact The Arndt Law Firm so we can promptly review and update the content to ensure accuracy and reliability.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this post is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered legal or medical advice. This content does not create an attorney-client relationship and does not constitute a solicitation for legal services. If you have been injured in an accident, you should seek immediate medical attention. Any photographs included in this post are for illustrative purposes only and do not depict the actual scene of the accident.