Bicycle Accident Lawyer South Carolina

South Carolina Bicycle Accident Lawyer

A trusted South Carolina bicycle accident lawyer, Jonathan Arndt, helps injured cyclists recover compensation through compassionate, expert legal representation.

Cycling is part of South Carolina's charm, whether cruising along the Ravenel Bridge, pedaling through historic Charleston streets, or enjoying the scenic paths near Sullivan's Island. Yet every year, drivers who fail to share the road seriously injure hundreds of cyclists.

If someone has been seriously injured in a bicycle accident, they deserve experienced legal help. The Arndt Law Firm, based in Mount Pleasant, represents cyclists across South Carolina who have been harmed by negligent motorists, unsafe roads, or defective equipment have harmed.

As a trusted South Carolina bicycle accident lawyer, Jonathan Arndt is dedicated to helping injured cyclists understand their legal rights and pursue the compensation they deserve.

The Rising Risk of Bicycle Accidents in South Carolina

South Carolina consistently ranks among the nation’s most dangerous states for cyclists.
Charleston County, Greenville County, and Horry County report the highest crash rates each year.

According to data from the South Carolina Department of Public Safety (SCDPS), more than 400 bicycle crashes occur statewide annually, with dozens resulting in fatalities. Many happen on busy corridors where traffic moves quickly and bike lanes are scarce, such as US-17 in Mount Pleasant, Savannah Highway near West Ashley, and Folly Road on James Island.

Tourist-heavy areas and older urban roads present additional hazards, where narrow lanes and distracted driving intersect. Despite safety campaigns and local bike-friendly initiatives, the risks remain high. Cyclists often have little protection when drivers fail to check blind spots, open doors into their path, or drift into bike lanes.

A South Carolina accident firm with knowledge of Charleston's traffic conditions, regional crash patterns, and local enforcement practices can help pursue claims effectively.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in South Carolina

Bicycle accidents across South Carolina stem from multiple preventable behaviors and unsafe roadway conditions. Many involve a combination of driver negligence, infrastructure issues, and a lack of awareness about cyclists’ rights on public roads.

Awareness of the most common causes helps victims recognize who's responsible and how to hold negligent parties accountable.

Motorists Failing to Yield When Turning Across Bike Lanes

One of the most frequent and dangerous mistakes drivers make involves turning across a cyclist’s path without checking blind spots. This often occurs at intersections, driveways, or parking lot exits where motorists underestimate a bicycle’s speed or presence.

Heavy traffic and mixed-use lanes create frequent conflicts between vehicles and bikes in areas like Coleman Boulevard, Ben Sawyer Boulevard, and Rifle Range Road in Mount Pleasant.

Failing to yield or improperly executing a turn can be considered negligent behavior under South Carolina law. Specifically, South Carolina Code §56-5-2120 outlines the required position and method for making turns, while §56-5-3230 mandates that drivers exercise due care to avoid collisions with cyclists. When these duties are breached, the driver may be liable for injuries.

Distracted Driving and Inattention

Distraction remains one of the leading causes of bicycle crashes in the Charleston area. Whether caused by cell phone use, in-car screens, or multitasking behind the wheel, even a brief lapse in attention can lead to catastrophic results for a cyclist.

Texting while driving is prohibited under S.C. Code §56-5-3890, yet enforcement remains challenging. Cyclists riding along Savannah Highway or Johnnie Dodds Boulevard often encounter motorists drifting into bike lanes or failing to notice red lights.

A local firm or attorney may examine cell phone records, witness accounts, and dashcam footage to prove when distraction directly contributed to a crash.

Speeding on Major Corridors

High-speed traffic presents a constant danger to cyclists. Roads like U.S. Highway 17, Savannah Highway, and I-526 access routes are designed for quick vehicle movement but are often used by local riders and commuters. When drivers exceed speed limits, the impact force in a collision increases significantly, leading to severe or fatal injuries.

Speeding not only reduces a driver’s reaction time but also shortens the distance available to brake when encountering a cyclist unexpectedly. South Carolina law prohibits driving faster than conditions safely permit, especially in congested or shared-use areas.

A South Carolina accident attorney may use police reports, accident reconstruction, and roadway data to prove excessive speed and secure full accountability for clients.

Opening Car Doors Into a Cyclist’s Path (“Dooring”)

“Dooring” incidents occur most frequently in urban centers like downtown Charleston, Summerville, and North Charleston, where cars park along narrow streets or business corridors. A driver or passenger opens a vehicle door into a bike lane or shoulder just as a cyclist passes by, leaving no time to avoid impact.

Under SC law, it is illegal to open a vehicle door unless it is safe to do so without interfering with traffic, including cyclists. Despite this, dooring remains a serious hazard, often leading to broken bones, head injuries, and concussions.

Attorney Arndt and his team can establish fault by examining the accident scene, vehicle positions, and door angles, supported by photographs or surveillance footage from nearby businesses.

Drunk or Impaired Driving

Driving under the influence remains one of the most preventable yet devastating causes of bicycle collisions. Impaired drivers have slower reaction times, reduced awareness, and poor judgment, all of which endanger cyclists sharing the road.

South Carolina enforces strict DUI laws under §56-5-2930, but despite ongoing efforts, alcohol-related crashes persist across Charleston County and the surrounding Lowcountry. Drunk drivers who strike cyclists often cause catastrophic injuries that require long-term rehabilitation.

Poorly Maintained Roads and Inadequate Signage

Not every bicycle crash stems from driver error. In many South Carolina communities, particularly in Berkeley, Dorchester, and Colleton Counties, damaged road surfaces, faded lane markings, and missing signage create unsafe conditions for cyclists. Potholes, debris, and uneven shoulders can cause riders to lose control or force them into vehicle traffic.

In such cases, liability extends beyond individual drivers. Municipalities, contractors, or property owners responsible for roadway upkeep may share liability if their negligence contributed to unsafe conditions.

The Arndt Law Firm can carefully evaluate these factors, ensuring that every responsible entity is identified and that every legal avenue for recovery is explored.

Inadequate Lighting and Low Visibility

Low visibility conditions, especially at dawn, dusk, or during rain, pose serious risks for cyclists throughout South Carolina’s coastal and rural areas.

Visibility-related risks often involve:

Insufficient street lighting or malfunctioning traffic signals
Drivers failing to use headlights or yield to cyclists at night

Many crashes along Maybank Highway, Long Point Road, and Dorchester Road occur simply because motorists fail to notice cyclists in time to react. While S.C. Code §56-5-3470 requires bicycles operated at night to display a front white light and a rear red reflector, drivers also have a duty to remain alert and use headlights appropriately.

When poorly lit roadways, broken streetlights, or negligent drivers cause avoidable collisions, liability may extend to both the motorist and the municipality responsible for roadway maintenance.

A Legal Advocate Who Understands Local Roads

Whether a crash occurs on the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, a quiet Summerville neighborhood street, or a busy Mount Pleasant thoroughfare, the underlying causes often involve preventable mistakes.

Attorney Jonathan Arndt combines local insight with a commitment to detail, investigating every element of a collision to uncover how it happened and who is responsible.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a South Carolina bicycle accident, early legal action can make a crucial difference.

Understanding South Carolina Bicycle Laws

Under state law, cyclists are entitled to the same rights and duties as motor vehicle drivers.
Violations of traffic rules by motorists can serve as strong evidence of negligence.

South Carolina law recognizes bicycles as vehicles under S.C. Code §56-5-3420, meaning cyclists have a right to use the road and must follow general traffic regulations. Motorists are required to:

Maintain a minimum three-foot passing distance when overtaking a cyclist (§56-5-3435).
Avoid harassing or threatening a cyclist while operating a vehicle.
Use caution when turning, merging, or opening doors in shared spaces.

When drivers ignore these protections and cause injury, they can be legally liable for damages. Local enforcement agencies, such as the Mount Pleasant Police Department and Charleston County Sheriff’s Office, routinely investigate such incidents, and their findings often play a central role in civil claims.

Understanding these laws helps The Arndt Law Firm build strong cases for clients and hold negligent drivers accountable under South Carolina’s traffic safety statutes.

Liability and Comparative Negligence in Bicycle Claims

South Carolina bicycle accident cases often involve multiple responsible parties and complex fault determinations. Because the state follows a modified comparative negligence rule, understanding how liability is assigned is crucial to protecting an injured cyclist’s right to recover damages.

Under South Carolina Code §15-38-15, an injured person can recover compensation only if they are less than 51% at fault for the accident. If the jury finds the cyclist partially responsible, for example, by not signaling a turn or failing to yield, the recovery is reduced by that percentage of fault.

How Comparative Negligence Affects Bicycle Accident Cases

This rule recognizes that more than one party can contribute to an accident. In practical terms, a cyclist found 10% at fault could still recover 90% of their total damages.

Key considerations include:

Determining whether the driver violated traffic laws, such as failing to yield or unsafe passing under S.C. Code §56-5-3435.
Evaluating the cyclist’s actions, including adherence to visibility and lane-use requirements.

Insurance companies often use comparative negligence to minimize payouts, arguing that the cyclist contributed to the collision. A local legal team may challenge these tactics through detailed accident reconstruction, witness testimony, and review of camera footage from local intersections in Mount Pleasant, Charleston, and Summerville.

Who Can Be Liable in a South Carolina Bicycle Accident

Determining liability extends beyond simply blaming a careless driver. Multiple entities may share responsibility, depending on how and where the crash occurred.

Potentially liable parties may include:

Negligent motorists who fail to share the road or violate right-of-way laws
Commercial drivers or delivery companies whose tight schedules encourage speeding or distraction
Local or state agencies responsible for unsafe road design, inadequate bike lanes, or poor signage
Manufacturers or repair shops, if defective brakes, gears, or tires contributed to the accident

In coastal communities like Mount Pleasant and Isle of Palms, accidents often involve a mix of factors: crowded tourist traffic, narrow bridges, and inadequate lighting. Identifying every responsible party helps ensure victims can pursue the maximum recovery available under state law.

Proving Fault and Building a Strong Claim

Establishing liability in a bicycle accident requires clear evidence of how each party contributed to the crash. A thorough investigation may include:

Reviewing traffic camera footage and onboard vehicle data
Consulting mechanical and road-safety experts to identify defects or hazards

By combining local knowledge of Charleston County road conditions with in-depth legal experience, attorney Jonathan Arndt and his team can present a fact-driven case that demonstrates who was responsible and how negligence directly impacted the victim’s life.

Protecting Cyclists Under South Carolina Law

South Carolina’s comparative negligence framework can be challenging, but it also allows injured cyclists a fair opportunity to recover damages even when they share partial fault. The key is early legal representation to prevent insurers from distorting the facts or undervaluing claims.

Common Injuries and Their Long-Term Impact

Bicycle accidents can cause serious and sometimes life-altering injuries, even at moderate speeds. Cyclists are particularly vulnerable because they lack the protective barriers that vehicles provide, making collisions with cars or trucks especially dangerous.

Common injuries include:

Traumatic brain injuries, fractures, and spinal cord damage
Road rash, internal injuries, and long-term musculoskeletal trauma

Beyond the immediate physical harm, these injuries often result in extended recovery periods, lost wages, and lasting lifestyle changes. Crashes along busy Charleston-area roads, such as Savannah Highway, Coleman Boulevard, or Ben Sawyer Boulevard, can be particularly severe due to high speeds and heavy traffic.

A seasoned South Carolina bicycle accident lawyer can work closely with medical and rehabilitation specialists to document injuries comprehensively, ensuring that all physical, emotional, and financial impacts are considered when seeking fair compensation.

The Legal Process After a Bicycle Accident

Navigating the aftermath of a bicycle crash in South Carolina can be overwhelming. Injuries, insurance negotiations, and deadlines often create stress for victims and families. Understanding the legal process helps cyclists take the proper steps, preserve evidence, and protect their right to the compensation they deserve.

Step 1: Initial Consultation and Case Review

The first step after a bicycle crash is to consult with an experienced accident or personal injury attorney. During this meeting, the legal team reviews the accident details, medical reports, and potential damages.

What the consultation typically includes:

Discussion of injuries, property damage, and immediate concerns
Evaluation of potential liability and the parties involved

At this stage, the firm also explains South Carolina’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims, emphasizing the importance of promptly protecting your rights.

Whether the crash occurred on Maybank Highway, Savannah Highway, or a neighborhood in Summerville, local knowledge ensures every detail is considered.

Step 2: Investigation and Evidence Gathering

A thorough investigation is critical to establishing fault and supporting a claim. Attorney Jonathan Arndt’s office collects all relevant evidence and reconstructs the accident to present a clear picture of the accident.

Key investigative actions may include:

Gathering police reports, witness statements, and photographs of the scene
Reviewing traffic camera footage or vehicle onboard data when available

This step is especially important for accidents in complex urban areas, such as downtown Charleston or near busy intersections in Mount Pleasant, where multiple factors, including traffic volume, road design, and obstructions, may contribute to liability.

Step 3: Filing Claims and Negotiating with Insurers

Once the facts are established, the legal team communicates with the insurance companies of the responsible parties. Skilled negotiation helps ensure victims are not underpaid or misled about their rights.

During this stage:

Demand letters outline the damages and legal grounds for recovery.
Negotiations aim for fair settlements covering medical expenses, lost wages, and other losses.

Local insurer practices and Charleston County court precedents often influence settlement strategies, making direct attorney involvement essential for achieving maximum compensation.

Step 4: Litigation and Trial

The firm may file a lawsuit if insurers refuse to offer fair compensation. Filing a lawsuit allows the court to weigh the evidence, determine liability, and award damages in accordance with South Carolina law.

Litigation can involve:

Depositions of witnesses, drivers, and expert witnesses
Presentation of accident reconstruction and medical testimony in court

Attorney Jonathan Arndt has extensive trial experience in Charleston County Circuit Court and nearby jurisdictions, ensuring clients receive strong advocacy before a jury or a judge.

Step 5: Ongoing Communication and Client Support

Throughout the legal process, clients receive continuous guidance and updates. The firm emphasizes personalized service, helping clients navigate medical documentation, insurance interactions, and legal decisions with confidence.

Ongoing support includes:

Explaining each stage of the process and anticipated timelines
Coordinating with medical providers and economic experts to quantify damages accurately

This client-focused approach ensures victims are never left in the dark about the status of their case, allowing them to focus on recovery. At the same time, the firm’s experienced attorneys handle legal complexities.

Compensation Available in South Carolina Bicycle Accident Claims

Cyclists injured in South Carolina accidents may be entitled to recover a wide range of damages. The type and amount of compensation depend on the severity of injuries, the impact on daily life, and the degree of fault assigned under South Carolina’s comparative negligence law (S.C. Code §15-38-15).

Medical Expenses and Rehabilitation Costs

Bicycle crashes often cause injuries that require extensive medical treatment. Victims may recover compensation for:

Hospital bills, surgeries, and emergency care
Ongoing physical therapy, occupational therapy, or rehabilitation services

In areas such as Mount Pleasant, Charleston, and North Charleston, collisions with high-speed vehicles frequently result in severe injuries that require months or even years of care. Proper documentation of medical records is essential to ensure the full cost of treatment is included in any claim.

Lost Wages and Reduced Earning Capacity

Serious injuries can prevent cyclists from returning to work immediately or even permanently alter their ability to earn a living. Compensation may cover:

Income lost during recovery and missed workdays
Future earnings lost due to long-term disability or reduced employment opportunities

The lawyer can collaborate with economists and vocational specialists to accurately quantify these losses, particularly for Charleston County residents who rely on local industries or commute to work.

Pain, Suffering, and Emotional Distress

Bicycle accidents can leave lasting physical and emotional scars. South Carolina law recognizes that injured victims may be entitled to compensation for:

Physical pain and discomfort resulting from the crash
Emotional distress, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress related to the accident

These non-economic damages are often the most difficult to quantify, which is why experienced legal guidance is essential. A reliable legal team will use medical testimony, personal accounts, and expert evaluation to support claims for both physical and psychological impact.

Property Damage

Even seemingly minor damage to bicycles, helmets, or personal gear may be recoverable.

Replacement costs for damaged bicycles, helmets, and accessories
Repair costs for gear necessary for work or commuting

The firm can ensure that every aspect of the victim’s financial burden is addressed by including property losses.

Punitive Damages in Severe Cases

South Carolina law allows punitive damages in some instances involving gross negligence or reckless conduct, such as drunk driving or willful disregard of cyclists’ rights.

Courts award these damages to punish wrongful behavior.
They also serve as a deterrent to prevent similar accidents in the future.

A South Carolina bicycle accident lawyer may evaluate the circumstances of each case to determine whether punitive damages may apply, particularly in crashes along high-risk roads like US-17, Savannah Highway, and Ravenel Bridge.

Why Choose The Arndt Law Firm

A Mount Pleasant law firm built on integrity, local insight, and proven experience
Skilled accident attorney providing the direct counsel and courtroom skills injured clients need

Attorney Jonathan Arndt draws on years of experience in South Carolina civil litigation to advocate for accident victims throughout the Lowcountry.

Clients benefit from:

Local familiarity: knowledge of Charleston-area roadways, police reporting standards, and insurance dynamics
Individualized strategy: every case receives Jonathan Arndt’s attention from start to finish
Commitment to results: pursuing maximum compensation with respect and diligence

The firm has built its reputation through consistent success and community trust. Residents of Mount Pleasant, Charleston, Summerville, and North Charleston turn to the firm’s experienced attorneys when they need dependable, compassionate representation after a serious bicycle crash.

Start Your Recovery With a Trusted South Carolina Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Bicycle crashes can change lives in an instant, but with the right legal guidance, recovery is possible. The Arndt Law Firm stands ready to protect cyclists’ rights, hold negligent drivers accountable, and pursue the compensation necessary for complete healing.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident anywhere in South Carolina, including Mount Pleasant, Charleston, Goose Creek, or Summerville, reach out today for a free, confidential consultation.

Call The Arndt Law Firm or submit a case inquiry online to speak directly with attorney Jonathan Arndt and begin the path toward justice and recovery.