Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer South Carolina

South Carolina Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer

If an impaired driver harmed you or a loved one, The Arndt Law Firm’s experienced South Carolina drunk driving accident lawyer can help you pursue justice and full compensation under state law.

Alcohol-impaired driving causes a large share of South Carolina traffic fatalities and serious injuries each year, leaving behind wrecked vehicles, broken families, and lifelong injuries. From the busy interstates near Charleston and Columbia to the rural roads of Berkeley and Dorchester Counties, impaired driving continues to endanger innocent lives.

These accidents are preventable, and when they happen, victims deserve powerful legal representation to demand accountability and justice.

Attorney Jonathan Arndt represents victims across the Lowcountry and beyond, fighting for those whose futures were forever changed by another person's reckless choice. Call today for a free consultation with an experienced South Carolina drunk driving accident lawyer and take the first step toward justice.

The Devastating Impact of Drunk Driving Accidents in South Carolina

South Carolina continues to rank as one of the worst states for alcohol-related crashes.
Victims face more than physical injuries: they endure emotional trauma, lost income, and life-changing consequences.

In 2024 alone, hundreds of lives were lost on interstates like I-26, I-95, and Highway 17, major routes connecting Charleston, Mount Pleasant, and Myrtle Beach. Rural counties such as Orangeburg, Florence, and Beaufort also experience alarming rates of DUI-related wrecks, particularly at night or on weekends.

Behind the statistics are families forever changed. Survivors often face months of rehabilitation and growing medical expenses, while grieving families must cope with a preventable loss. The financial and emotional burden can be overwhelming, and insurance companies are rarely quick to offer fair settlements.

A seasoned accident attorney understands that no amount of compensation can undo the harm an impaired driver caused. However, holding negligent individuals accountable can bring a sense of justice and security to victims who have lost so much.

Based in Mount Pleasant, our team at The Arndt Law Firm serves clients throughout Charleston County and across the state, standing up for South Carolinians whose lives have been affected by drunk driving.

Understanding Drunk Driving Laws and Victim Rights in South Carolina

Driving with a BAC of 0.08% or higher is illegal under South Carolina Code §56-5-2930, but impairment claims can still succeed below that limit.
Victims may pursue civil compensation independently of any criminal DUI case.

South Carolina enforces strict criminal penalties for DUI offenses, but criminal justice alone does not make victims whole. A conviction may punish the offender through fines, license suspension, or jail time, but it does nothing to cover the injured party’s medical bills, lost wages, or lasting pain.

That is why civil personal injury and wrongful death claims are critical in restoring justice. Victims and their families can pursue damages for the full scope of harm an intoxicated driver's reckless decision caused. Even if the driver's BAC is measured below 0.08%, a civil claim may still succeed if evidence shows the driver couldn't safely operate a vehicle.

In cities like Mount Pleasant, Charleston, and Columbia, victims often face confusion about how the criminal and civil systems intersect. The criminal case focuses on penalizing the offender, while the civil claim addresses the victim's losses.

A local legal counsel understands both systems and collaborates with law enforcement, prosecutors, and expert witnesses to gather evidence such as toxicology reports, field sobriety results, and crash reconstructions.

Extensive knowledge of South Carolina's court systems, from Charleston County to Horry and Richland, allows a legal representative to craft compelling claims that maximize recovery for clients statewide.

Common Injuries and Long-Term Consequences of Drunk Driving Crashes

Drunk driving accidents often occur at high speeds, causing catastrophic injuries such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and severe fractures.
Survivors frequently face long-term physical, emotional, and financial challenges, including rehabilitation costs and lost wages.

High-speed crashes often occur on interstates like I-526 near Charleston or Highway 52 through Berkeley County, where vehicles collide with significant force. Victims may suffer life-altering injuries that require extensive medical care, including surgeries, long-term physical therapy, and psychological support to cope with trauma.

Beyond the physical impact, the financial and emotional toll can be overwhelming. Lost income from missed work, mounting medical bills, and the inability to return to normal daily activities can compound the suffering. Families must often adapt to new realities, such as caring for a loved one with permanent disabilities.

Our founder, Attorney Jonathan Arndt, can document and address clients' full range of damages in claims. He can build a comprehensive picture of the injury's long-term consequences by working with medical professionals, accident reconstruction specialists, and financial experts.

This approach helps victims in Mount Pleasant, Charleston, and the Lowcountry areas pursue the maximum compensation to support recovery and protect their futures.

Determining Liability in a Drunk Driving Accident

Responsibility often extends beyond the intoxicated driver to bars, restaurants, or hosts who may have served alcohol negligently.
South Carolina’s comparative negligence laws can affect recovery if multiple parties share fault for the crash.

While the drunk driver is the primary source of fault, liability can sometimes reach beyond the individual behind the wheel.

South Carolina case law allows victims to hold alcohol-serving establishments accountable if they overserved visibly intoxicated patrons who later caused harm. This may include bars along King Street in Charleston, popular Myrtle Beach beachfront venues, or private hosts in Mount Pleasant or Summerville. A thorough investigation helps determine whether these parties helped cause the accident.

South Carolina follows a modified comparative negligence standard under S.C. Code §15-38-15, meaning victims can still recover damages if a jury finds them less than 51% at fault. This rule can be especially important in multi-vehicle crashes or cases where insurers question the victim's own actions. Understanding these nuances helps build a strong civil case and maximizes compensation.

Law firms may investigate all potential sources of negligence, drivers, establishments, and other parties. This ensures victims have the best opportunity for justice and full financial recovery.

Recoverable Damages in Drunk Driving Accident Cases

Victims may seek economic damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, rehabilitation costs, and future treatment needs.
Non-economic and punitive damages address pain, suffering, emotional distress, and, in some instances, punish egregious behavior.

In South Carolina, the goal of a personal injury or wrongful death claim is to compensate victims for the losses an impaired driver caused fully. Economic damages cover tangible financial losses, such as hospital bills, prescription costs, vehicle repair or replacement, and lost income from time away from work.

Non-economic damages recognize the intangible impact of a drunk driving crash, including physical pain, emotional suffering, and reduced quality of life. In particularly reckless cases, such as those involving a driver with prior DUI convictions or extremely high BAC levels, courts may also award punitive damages to punish the wrongdoer.

A personal injury or accident attorney will carefully document each category of damages, working with medical and financial experts to ensure claims include the full scope of harm.

What to Do After a Drunk Driving Accident in South Carolina

Seek immediate medical attention, even if injuries seem minor, and document all treatment for future claims.
Gather evidence and witness information, and contact a local attorney as soon as possible to protect legal rights.

Whether the incident happened on I-26, I-95, or U.S. Highway 17, victims should prioritize their health and safety after the crash. Prompt medical evaluation helps recovery and creates a documented record of injuries, which is critical for a successful personal injury claim.

Securing evidence early can significantly strengthen a case. Take photos of the accident scene, preserve damaged vehicles, and obtain witness statements while memories are fresh. Contacting a South Carolina drunk driving accident lawyer early helps preserve key evidence, such as police reports, breathalyzer results, or accident reconstruction data.

Our founder Attorney Jonathan Arndt can guide clients step by step, coordinating with medical providers and investigators to document injuries and determine liability. His proactive approach helps Charleston, Mount Pleasant, and Lowcountry victims pursue justice while minimizing delays and complications.

The Legal Process in a Drunk Driving Accident Case

Every case begins with a comprehensive evaluation, during which attorneys collect evidence, determine liability, and develop a tailored legal strategy. The process may involve negotiation, mediation, or trial, depending on the complexity of the case and the insurers' willingness to offer fair compensation.

Case Evaluation and Evidence Gathering

The legal process for a drunk driving accident in South Carolina begins long before any court filing. An attorney conducts a meticulous review of the accident, including:

Police reports and witness statements
Traffic camera or surveillance footage
Toxicology and breathalyzer results
Medical records and treatment plans

In many cases, South Carolina drunk driving accident lawyers consult accident reconstruction experts to determine precisely how the crash occurred and to establish negligence or recklessness. This initial stage sets the foundation for the entire case, ensuring attorneys don't overlook any critical detail.

Negotiation with Insurance Companies

Once attorneys collect evidence, the claim often enters the negotiation phase. Insurance companies may attempt to settle quickly for less than the claim’s full value. Experienced representation makes a critical difference.

A skilled accident lawyer can present a detailed case showing the extent of injuries, lost wages, and emotional distress to ensure that victims are not pressured into accepting inadequate settlements.

Negotiations may involve:

Presenting medical documentation and financial impact reports
Demonstrating liability through crash reconstruction and expert testimony

This stage often resolves cases efficiently, but attorneys must take further steps when insurers act in bad faith.

Mediation and Litigation

If negotiations fail, the case may proceed to mediation or trial. Mediation offers a structured environment to reach an agreement with a neutral third-party mediator, often saving time and legal costs.

In more complex cases, such as those involving negligent alcohol providers, multiple vehicles, or severe injuries, litigation becomes necessary. In court, an attorney:

Presents evidence and examines witnesses
Works with medical and reconstruction experts
Argues for full compensation and punitive damages when appropriate

This ensures that negligent drivers and contributing parties are held fully accountable.

Timelines and Statutes of Limitations

South Carolina generally allows three years from the date of injury to file a civil claim, making timely action essential. Missing this deadline can prevent victims from seeking justice. The legal team guides clients through all deadlines and procedural requirements, ensuring the firm doesn't overlook any critical step.

Client Guidance Throughout the Process

At our firm, we prioritize clear communication and transparency throughout the legal process. We ensure our clients receive comprehensive guidance and regular updates throughout their case. We take the time to explain the nuances of the legal journey, including potential outcomes and the various options available for settlement or trial.

Holding Negligent Establishments Accountable

Bars, restaurants, and private hosts may be liable if they overserve visibly intoxicated patrons who later cause harm.
Accountability extends to both commercial and private settings, including nightlife districts, beachfront venues, and private parties.

In South Carolina, while there is no formal “dram shop statute,” case law allows victims to pursue claims against alcohol providers who contributed to a crash. For example, establishments along King Street in Charleston, Shem Creek in Mount Pleasant, or popular Myrtle Beach venues may face liability if they ignored clear signs of intoxication and continued serving alcohol.

Private hosts are also accountable when providing alcohol to underage or visibly impaired guests who later injure others. These claims require careful investigation, including reviewing receipts, surveillance footage, and witness statements to establish a chain of responsibility.

An experienced South Carolina drunk driving accident lawyer diligently identifies all parties who may share responsibility, pursuing claims against negligent establishments or hosts to secure full compensation for victims.

By holding these parties accountable, legal representatives help reinforce community safety and send a clear message that reckless alcohol service has serious consequences.

Challenges in Drunk Driving Accident Cases

Insurance companies may attempt to minimize liability or undervalue claims, especially in alcohol-related crashes.
Establishing full responsibility can be complicated in cases with multiple parties or contributory factors, such as roads in poor condition or shared negligence.

Dealing with Insurance Companies

One of the first challenges victims face after a drunk driving accident is navigating the insurance system. Adjusters may try to limit payouts, delay negotiations, or shift partial blame to the victim. Without experienced representation, victims risk accepting settlements far below the actual cost of medical care, lost wages, and long-term rehabilitation.

Our firm, led by Attorney Jonathan Arndt, can handle all communication with insurers on your behalf. We ensure that every claim is fully documented and that insurers do not pressure victims into inadequate settlements. With our expertise, we present a detailed account of damages and liability, increasing the likelihood of securing fair compensation for our clients.

Proving Liability and Responsibility

Drunk driving crashes often involve multiple factors that complicate liability. For example, if a crash occurs at a busy intersection in Charleston, along I-95 in Florence County, or near a nightlife district in Mount Pleasant, determining which driver or contributing party is most responsible can be challenging. Establishments that overserve alcohol or allow third parties to do so may share responsibility.

At our firm, Jonathan Arndt emphasizes the importance of thorough investigations, expert testimony, and meticulous analysis of crash reconstruction to establish a clear chain of responsibility. By addressing these challenges proactively, we empower victims to pursue maximum compensation and ensure that all negligent parties are held accountable.

Navigating South Carolina Law

South Carolina’s modified comparative negligence rules and statute of limitations can pose challenges. Victims must file claims within three years and understand how shared fault may reduce recovery.

Experienced legal counsel ensures that victims meet these legal requirements and structures cases to fully protect clients' rights.

Why Choose The Arndt Law Firm for a South Carolina Drunk Driving Accident Case

Proven track record representing victims of serious and fatal drunk driving accidents across Charleston, Mount Pleasant, and surrounding counties
Compassionate, client-focused advocacy that ensures victims receive full compensation while holding negligent parties accountable

Attorney Jonathan Arndt has built a reputation in the Lowcountry as a skilled and dedicated personal injury lawyer. With years of experience handling complex drunk driving accident cases, he brings both legal expertise and a deep understanding of the emotional and financial challenges victims and their families face.

The firm’s experienced attorneys combine meticulous case preparation with a personalized approach, ensuring clients in Charleston, Mount Pleasant, Berkeley, Dorchester, and Horry Counties feel supported throughout the legal process.

The firm treats every case with the seriousness it deserves, from gathering evidence and working with medical experts to negotiating aggressively with insurance companies and, if necessary, taking the case to trial.

Frequently Asked Questions About Drunk Driving Accident Cases in South Carolina

1. What should I do immediately after a drunk driving accident?

After a drunk driving accident, immediately seek medical attention, even for minor injuries, to ensure safety and create a documented record for the case. Gather evidence, such as photos of the accident scene, witness contact information, and police reports, and contact an experienced attorney as soon as possible.

Prompt action can preserve critical evidence and protect the victim’s legal rights. Work with a seasoned attorney who can guide clients step by step and ensure that medical documentation and accident details are correctly recorded for insurance claims or civil lawsuits.

2. How long do I have to file a claim in South Carolina?

Under South Carolina's statute of limitations, injured victims have 3 years from the date of the injury to file a personal injury claim. Filing promptly is crucial, as waiting too long can risk the injured’s right to compensation.

3. Can I recover damages if the drunk driver wasn’t criminally convicted?

Yes. The injured party can recover damages if the drunk driver wasn’t criminally convicted. A criminal DUI conviction is separate from a civil case, and victims can pursue compensation regardless of criminal outcomes. Civil claims aim to make victims whole by compensating for medical bills, lost wages, and emotional suffering.

4. What types of damages can I seek?

The types of damages drunk-driving accident victims may recover include economic and non-economic damages.

Economic damages include medical expenses, lost income, vehicle repairs, and future treatment costs. Non-economic damages address pain, suffering, emotional distress, and, in cases of gross negligence, punitive damages to deter reckless behavior.

5. How does shared fault affect my case in South Carolina?

Shared fault affects a case in South Carolina because the state uses a “modified comparative negligence” rule. This means a person can still get compensation for their injuries as long as they are less than 51% at fault for the accident.

However, if they are partly to blame, the amount they receive will be reduced in proportion to their share of the fault. Since this can lower the final payout, it’s essential to clearly understand what happened and have strong evidence to ensure fault is fairly divided and the right people are held responsible.

Take Action Today to Protect Your Rights and Pursue Justice

If a drunk driver in South Carolina injured you or a loved one, every moment matters. Contact The Arndt Law Firm in Mount Pleasant today for a free, no-obligation consultation.

Attorney Jonathan Arndt and his team will review your case, explain your options, and begin building a strategy to secure the compensation you deserve. Justice is possible, and the first step is reaching out.

Even in the most complex cases involving multiple parties or negligent establishments, having an experienced South Carolina drunk driving accident lawyer on your side can make all the difference. The Arndt Law Firm is committed to holding every responsible party accountable, protecting your rights, and pursuing the full compensation you need to rebuild your life.

Schedule a free case review and learn your legal options. Call (843) 469-8777 today to speak with an experienced South Carolina dog bite lawyer and take the first step toward recovery and justice.