With the sun shining and warm breezes blowing, there’s no better way to enjoy a South Carolina day than a relaxing bike ride. That is, until you come across a pothole. It’s no secret that South Carolina has a pothole problem. After all, we ranked 15th in the nation for states with the worst ones. While the state is making efforts to rectify the issue, people are still at risk of injury. If you’ve been injured by a pothole on a neglected road, you may be entitled to compensation. By hiring pothole injury Attorney Matthew Breen, you can get the justice you deserve.
Why Does South Carolina Have Pothole Issues?
We’re all too familiar with potholes in South Carolina. Not only can they seriously damage your car—sometimes costing hundreds or even thousands in repairs—but they also pose a real danger to bicyclists. It’s incredibly frustrating, and you might wonder why our state has such a persistent pothole problem.
The issue stems from a combination of factors, including weather conditions, funding shortages, and infrastructure priorities.
Some causes—like weather impacts—are largely out of the state’s control. Potholes begin when water seeps into small cracks in the pavement. When it gets cold, the water freezes and expands, forcing the pavement apart. In South Carolina, frequent flooding and heavy rains make this process even more intense, leading to weakened roads and freeze-thaw damage.
Other contributors include high traffic volumes, especially from freight vehicles. On top of that, limited funding and backlogged maintenance make it difficult to keep up with repairs.
Unfortunately, pothole-related accidents affect both drivers and bicyclists. Striking a pothole can throw cyclists off their bikes, leading to serious injuries. These can range from mild concussions to more severe traumatic brain injuries. To add to the intensity, bicyclists are also at risk of spinal cord injuries, fractures, and sprains. If you find yourself in the situation, having an experienced lawyer like Attorney Breen on your side can make all the difference.
How a Pothole Injury Attorney Can Help You After an Accident
If you’ve been injured in a pothole-related accident, the road to recovery can be long. When you’re focused on healing, the last thing you need is the added stress of a legal fight—and that’s where Attorney Breen steps in. With proven experience and a strong track record, he offers the guidance and support you need. In one case, he secured a $287,500 settlement for a cyclist who required knee replacement surgery after crashing due to a pothole. When it comes to navigating complex injury claims, Attorney Breen brings exceptional skill and outstanding results.
So how can he help you? First, Attorney Breen will determine if the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) is responsible for your injury. For a pothole claim to be valid, SCDOT must have prior knowledge of the hazard and failed to repair it within a reasonable timeframe. This is why it’s so important to report potholes as soon as you see them. He will also gather key evidence, such as photographs of the pothole, accident reports, medical records, and any witness statements.
Additionally, Attorney Breen will handle the procedural requirements for filing claims with SCDOT and ensure that all paperwork is completed correctly and on time. Remember that there is a one-year limit for claims against SCDOT, so the sooner you act, the better.
If necessary, Attorney Breen will take legal action on your behalf, including filing a lawsuit and preparing to represent you in court. He’ll begin by calculating the full extent of your losses, such as medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering. Often, he can use this detailed assessment to negotiate a fair settlement before the case ever reaches trial.
Maximize Your Compensation With Attorney Matthew Breen by Your Side
If you’ve been injured in a pothole-related accident, don’t wait to pursue the compensation you deserve. Pothole injury attorney Matthew Breen has the experience and dedication to guide you through every step of the legal process, whether that means filing a claim against the SCDOT, negotiating a fair settlement, or taking your case to court. With a proven track record, including a $287,500 settlement for a client injured in a pothole accident, Attorney Breen is committed to fighting for justice.
Don’t let a pothole derail your life—take the first step toward recovery by arranging a free case consultation.
