Slip & Fall Accident Lawyer South Carolina

South Carolina Slip & Fall Accident Lawyer

The Arndt Law Firm’s South Carolina slip and fall accident lawyer can help victims seek fair compensation. Contact the firm today for a free consultation!

A slip and fall can happen in an instant but leave lasting harm. One missed step on a wet supermarket floor or a hidden crack on a sidewalk can result in broken bones, torn ligaments, or a head injury.

These injuries often require costly medical care and may keep someone away from work for weeks or months. Lost wages, therapy bills, and ongoing pain can create significant financial and emotional stress.

Many injured people are unsure what to do after a fall. Insurance companies may reach out quickly and offer a settlement that does not cover the full cost of medical care or lost income. Understanding legal rights early helps protect an injured person’s ability to recover fair compensation.

At our firm, The Arndt Law Firm, we pride ourselves on our commitment to helping clients in Charleston County and throughout South Carolina who have experienced serious falls due to negligence. Our office is conveniently located near well-known community spots like Shem Creek and the shopping areas of Coleman Boulevard, making it easy for clients to reach us as they navigate their challenges.

Our founder, Jonathan Arndt, brings years of experience and a deep understanding of the complexities involved in slip-and-fall cases. He leads our team with a dedication to thoroughly investigating claims and promptly gathering evidence. At our firm, clients should focus on their recovery rather than getting bogged down in insurance disputes. With Jonathan’s expertise, we are here to guide you every step of the way and advocate fiercely on your behalf.

Falls are not minor events. According to the South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH), thousands of people visit emergency rooms each year after suffering fall-related injuries. These statistics highlight how common and costly these accidents can be for South Carolina families.

Where Slip and Fall Accidents Commonly Happen

Slip and fall hazards exist in almost every community setting, including places such as:

Grocery Stores
Restaurants
Parking Lots
Shopping Areas
Local Businesses
Residential And Public Areas

Grocery stores often have spills that make the aisles slick. Restaurants with high customer traffic may have wet entryways or uneven flooring. Parking lots without proper lighting create danger when potholes or curbs are hard to see. Shopping areas along US 17, big-box retailers near Mount Pleasant Towne Center, and small local businesses near Shem Creek all have a duty to keep their spaces safe for visitors.

Historic parts of Charleston attract residents and tourists, but also come with risks. Brick sidewalks can shift over time, creating uneven steps that trip pedestrians. Narrow streets near the French Quarter and areas around the City Market can become slick after rain, especially when moss grows between stones. Busy vacation destinations like the Isle of Palms and Sullivan’s Island often see hazards like sandy boardwalks or slippery wooden stairs at beach shops.

Even residential areas can be dangerous when property owners do not maintain sidewalks or stairs. Loose boards on porches, broken concrete driveways, and poorly secured rugs on apartment steps lead to many falls. In coastal neighborhoods, weather adds another layer of risk. High humidity and storms can make outdoor walkways and dock areas slippery for days.

South Carolina law requires property owners to regularly inspect their property, repair hazards, and warn visitors of any unsafe conditions. Failing to do so can make them responsible when someone is injured.

Understanding South Carolina Premises Liability Law

Slip and fall claims fall under the state’s premises liability rules. These include:

Modified comparative negligence means that a person may recover damages only if they are found to be less than 51 percent at fault for the accident.
Statute of limitations sets a deadline for filing a claim.

These laws require property owners, landlords, and businesses to keep their property reasonably safe. When an owner knows about a danger or should have known and fails to fix it or warn visitors, they may be liable for the resulting injuries.

One key rule is modified comparative negligence. Under this rule, an injured person can still recover damages if they were partly at fault, as long as their share of responsibility is less than 51 percent.

For example, if someone was texting and not fully watching where they stepped, but a store also failed to clean up a clear spill, the person may still recover a portion of their damages. Their percentage of fault would simply reduce their total compensation.

Timing is also critical. South Carolina’s statute of limitations for most personal injury cases is three years from the date of the accident, as mentioned by the South Carolina Judicial Department. Filing after that time usually means the case will be dismissed, regardless of how strong the evidence is. Injured people should speak with an attorney as soon as possible to avoid missing this deadline.

Premises liability cases can be complex because property owners and their insurers often deny liability. They may argue that a hazard was open and obvious, that the victim was careless, or that the danger appeared just moments before the fall.

A detailed investigation, including photos, witness accounts, and maintenance records, often distinguishes between a denied claim and fair compensation.

Injuries That Often Result From Slip and Fall Accidents

Slip and fall injuries range from painful but temporary to life-changing and permanent. Common injuries include:

Broken Bones
Spinal Cord Injuries
Traumatic Brain Injuries
Soft Tissue Injuries

Broken bones are among the most frequent outcomes, especially wrist and hip fractures. These injuries can require surgery and months of rehabilitation. Spinal cord injuries and herniated discs are also common, causing long-term pain and mobility problems. Traumatic brain injuries occur when a person hits their head during a fall, leading to headaches, memory issues, and sometimes lifelong complications.

Soft tissue injuries, such as sprains and torn ligaments, can be deceptively serious. They may prevent someone from working, driving, or caring for family members for weeks at a time. Older adults face an even greater risk. A single hip fracture can reduce independence, require in-home care, or lead to complications that impact overall health.

Hospitals across Charleston County treat thousands of fall victims every year. Facilities such as Roper St. Francis Mount Pleasant Hospital and nearby emergency departments see patients with everything from minor sprains to severe head trauma.

Getting medical attention right away is essential not only for health but also for documenting injuries in a potential legal case. Accurate records help show how the fall happened and the treatment required, which is essential for building a strong claim.

Building a Strong Slip and Fall Claim in South Carolina

A successful slip and fall case begins with substantial evidence. It is essential to document the scene and injuries right after an accident. Photos of the hazard, such as a wet floor or broken step, can be powerful proof.

Medical records, bills, and discharge summaries help show the seriousness of the harm. Witness statements are also valuable, especially if someone saw the fall or noticed the unsafe condition beforehand.

Time matters because property owners often repair hazards promptly after an accident. Security camera footage may be overwritten in days, and incident reports can be lost if not requested early.

An experienced South Carolina slip and fall accident lawyer knows how to gather and preserve this evidence before it disappears. To prove negligence, they may request store maintenance logs, safety inspection records, and cleaning schedules.

Insurance companies often try to reduce payouts by blaming the injured person. They may claim the hazard was obvious or that the victim was distracted. A carefully built case with photos, expert opinions, and medical evidence can counter these arguments and protect the injured person’s right to fair compensation.

Compensation Available for Slip and Fall Victims

A slip and fall claim can cover several types of damages, including:

Medical Expenses
Lost Income
Future Medical Costs
Reduced Earning Ability
Pain And Suffering Damages

Medical expenses include emergency care, hospital stays, surgery, physical therapy, and follow-up appointments. Lost income may be recovered if an injury keeps someone from working while they heal. If the injury has long-term effects, future medical costs and reduced earning ability can also be included.

Pain and suffering damages recognize the physical pain and emotional stress caused by a serious fall. Long recoveries, sleep problems, and limits on daily activities can all increase the value of this part of a claim. In some cases, when an injury creates lasting disability or requires ongoing care, compensation may also include the cost of assistive devices or home modifications.

Every case is unique. Factors such as the severity of the injury, the level of fault assigned to each party, and the amount of available insurance coverage all affect the final outcome. An accident or personal injury attorney reviews the details of the accident, calculates the full value of losses, and works to seek the maximum recovery the law allows.

The Arndt Law Firm’s Experience with Slip and Fall Cases

At our firm, we pride ourselves on the strong reputation we’ve built in South Carolina for assisting residents who have suffered serious injuries due to unsafe property conditions. Our Mount Pleasant office is deeply rooted in the local community, allowing us to understand the nuances of accidents that occur in both bustling commercial areas and quiet neighborhoods.

Our founder, Jonathan Arndt, brings years of personal injury experience to each case we handle. He has dedicated his career to representing individuals harmed by negligent property owners, unsafe construction sites, and poorly maintained businesses. At our firm, we are committed to advocating for our clients, ensuring they receive the justice and compensation they deserve. Your safety and well-being are our top priorities, and we are here to support you every step of the way.

As a seasoned South Carolina slip and fall accident lawyer, his approach is detail-oriented and client-focused. He may review medical records, consult experts when needed, and negotiate firmly with insurance companies. When fair settlements are not offered, he is prepared to bring cases to trial to seek justice for clients.

Many people choose the firm because of its personal attention. Clients are guided through each step of the process, from the first consultation to final resolution. Clear communication and practical advice help reduce stress during what can be an overwhelming time.

What to Do After a Slip and Fall Accident

Taking the proper steps after a fall can protect health and legal rights.

The priority is always medical care. Even seemingly minor injuries may become serious over time, and a doctor’s report provides essential documentation.

If possible, report the accident to the property owner or manager right away. Ask for a copy of any incident report. Take photographs of the scene, including the hazard, the surrounding area, and any visible injuries. Save the shoes and clothing worn at the time, as they may show evidence like water or debris. Keep medical bills, receipts, and notes about missed work or daily limitations caused by the injury.

Avoid posting about the accident on social media. Insurance companies sometimes review posts to find reasons to reduce or deny claims. Contacting an attorney soon after the accident helps ensure evidence is collected while it is still fresh. An attorney can handle communication with insurers, protect against unfair blame, and work to recover the full value of the claim.

Legal help is available for anyone who has suffered a fall in Mount Pleasant or anywhere in South Carolina. A free case review with the Arndt Law Firm can provide answers and guidance on the next steps.

Frequently Asked Questions About South Carolina Slip and Fall Cases

How long do I have to file a slip and fall lawsuit?

Most slip and fall claims in South Carolina must be filed within three years from the date of the accident. Missing this deadline usually means losing the right to pursue compensation.

What if I was partly responsible for the fall?

If a person is partly responsible for a slip and fall accident in South Carolina, they may still be able to recover compensation. The state follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which means a person can recover damages as long as they are less than 51 percent at fault. However, their compensation will be reduced by the percentage of fault they share.

For example, if they are found to be 30 percent responsible, they would receive 70 percent of the total damages.

Do I need a South Carolina slip and fall accident lawyer if the insurance company offers a settlement?

If an individual receives a settlement offer from an insurance company after a slip and fall, it is advisable to have an attorney review it first. Insurance companies often attempt to settle quickly for less than the claim’s actual value.

An experienced South Carolina slip and fall accident lawyer can evaluate the offer, determine the full extent of the victim’s losses, and negotiate for a fair settlement.

How much does it cost to hire The Arndt Law Firm?

Slip and fall cases are usually handled on a contingency-fee basis. This means clients pay no upfront fees, and the lawyer is paid only if the case is successful.

Will my case go to trial?

Many cases settle through negotiation, but some require a trial if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair amount. The Arndt Law Firm is prepared for both settlement discussions and courtroom litigation when needed.

Get Legal Help After a Slip and Fall in South Carolina

If you were injured in a slip and fall accident, you do not have to face medical bills, lost income, and insurance negotiations alone. The Arndt Law Firm is dedicated to helping South Carolinians hold negligent property owners accountable.

From the firm’s Mount Pleasant office, attorney Jonathan Arndt guides clients through every step, from gathering evidence and speaking with insurers to pursuing fair compensation in court when necessary.

Key evidence can disappear quickly, and strict deadlines limit the time to file a claim. A free consultation can help you understand your legal options and the potential value of your case without any upfront cost or obligation.

Take the first step toward protecting your rights today. Call (843) 469-8777 to schedule a free case review and learn how The Arndt Law Firm can help you move forward after a serious injury.