Suing After Crashing into a Tree in South Carolina

Trees often claim lives in South Carolina. In fact, one particular tree in the Palmetto State has killed so many motorists that it now has a fearsome nickname: The “Widowmaker.” If you have crashed into a tree while driving in South Carolina, you already know how dangerous these accidents can be. As you recover, you might struggle with medical bills, missed wages, emotional distress, and many other damages. How can you pursue compensation for these damages? Is it possible to sue even if no other motorists were involved in your crash?

Trees Constantly Claim Lives in South Carolina 

Back in November of 2023, four passengers died after a single collision with a tree on James Island. This particular tree is known as the “Widowmaker” among locals, and it has claimed numerous lives over the years. It has proven particularly dangerous because of its position on the road. Not only is it close to the road, but the asphalt seems to “lure” drivers directly into it. The tree has been covered in reflective tape, but it continues to pose serious hazards. On a previous occasion, it managed to cause two accidents within a single day. Many locals are begging authorities to simply cut it down.

The Widowmaker isn’t the only dangerous tree in the State. On March 9th of 2024, a motorist lost her life after striking a tree in Greer. Even though the 23-year-old woman was wearing her seatbelt, the collision caused fatal blunt-force trauma. It is not clear why the woman veered into the tree, or whether the position of the tree is particularly hazardous to motorists.

How to Pursue Compensation After Hitting a Tree in South Carolina 

There are a few potential sources of compensation after hitting a tree in South Carolina. While you can only file a lawsuit if you prove fault, you might establish that a “near miss” caused your accident. For example, a negligent motorist may have cut you off, causing you to veer into a tree. The lack of a collision with another vehicle doesn’t necessarily prevent you from suing. You might also sue local authorities for failing to remove particularly hazardous trees – such as the “Widowmaker.” With numerous past accidents, authorities clearly become aware of these hazardous trees. Failure to act could constitute negligence.

Find a Qualified Auto Accident Lawyer in South Carolina 

If you’ve been searching for a qualified, experienced Charleston auto accident lawyer, look no further than Mickelsen Dalton, LLC. A collision with a tree in the Palmetto State can easily lead to lifelong disabilities, and these accidents often prove fatal. Whether you’re a grieving family member or an injured motorist, we can help you assess your legal options after these crashes. Compensation may be possible even if there were no collisions with other vehicles. Book your consultation today to learn more.

Sources: 

ca.finance.yahoo.com/news/4-dead-car-collides-widowmaker-170233694.html?guccounter=1&guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbS8&guce_referrer_sig=AQAAAFo0fsuUl7Y1M5gU_k0ARmNbfWzw963V7lIx8k2fgaeiN-w7h7oeeiIDvSBwEyz20wOhwlGroB66Y67g0Ubhiz-qMKkXmPWvpm_eRjDQkGoDJWsFHGuF8IfjExwPEbobzRpC0Z73cRL1209LM28bPKGMy7qIP3yKWlz3IDXNf2oE

wyff4.com/article/south-carolina-woman-killed-in-crash/60147160