Car Accident Attorney inColumbia, SC

Let's Talk!

Platform Lifts-phone-nuber 843-936-6680

Cobb Dill & Hammett, LLC Fighting
for Your Rights in Columbia, SC

When an accident comes without warning, even the most prepared person can fall victim. One moment, you're walking to a restaurant after a long day of work. The next moment, someone else's negligence and carelessness change your life forever. Personal injury victims aren't just the victims of negligence they suffer from pain, concern over family and ability to work. Often, these victims do not have the luxury of worrying about work and family, because they're clinging to life in an ER. Without a personal injury attorney in Columbia, SC, by their side, they mistakenly provide official statements to insurance agencies and accept settlement offers that only account for a fraction of what they have lost.

If you have recently been hurt in an accident, you may be asking questions like:

  • "What happens now?"
  • "How will I pay for my hospital bills?"
  • "Will I get fired from my job?"
  • "Will I be able to function independently ever again?"

With more than 100,000 car accidents in South Carolina every year, we hear these questions every day. Our hearts hurt for those who are suffering due to no fault of their own. Accident victims are not only left with questions like those above; they're also forced to deal with costs associated with medical bills, car repair, follow-up appointments, and loss of income.

While reading these facts can be bleak, there is a silver lining. South Carolina law dictates that those who are found responsible for your pain and suffering may be obligated to pay for your expenses. Cobb Dill & Hammett, LLC exists for that exact reason to make sure that negligent parties are held accountable. We fight on your behalf to make sure you get the compensation you deserve. We aren't afraid to go toe-to-toe with greedy insurance agencies who do not have your best interests at heart.

Our overarching goal is to protect your rights, and our law firm is uniquely positioned to do so, with attorney Michael Dill‘s vast experience in the auto insurance industry.

Personal Injury Attorney Columbia, SC
Service Areas

We offer comprehensive vehicle representation for a number of different automobile accidents, including:

  • Distracted Driving
  • Drunk Driving
  • Rollovers
  • Multi-Vehicle Accidents
  • Automobile Defects
  • Roadway Defects
  • Speeding
  • Reckless Driving
  • Uninsured Motorists or
    Underinsured Drivers
  • Rear-End Collisions
  • Car Rental Accidents
  • RV Accidents

If you know you have been involved in one of the car accidents above, the time to seek experienced representation is now. Generally, car accident victims have three years from the date of their injuries to file a personal injury claim in Columbia. That time frame can be reduced in certain circumstances. When a wrongful death is involved, surviving family members must take action in a similar time frame.

The bottom line is that speed is of the essence in these cases. When we sit down with you to learn more about your accident, we will help you understand South Carolina law so that you are fully informed before taking legal action. The sooner we can dig into the details of your case, the sooner we can fight for your rights.

We Recover Compensation
When You Need It Most

The law states that personal injury victims are entitled to compensation for the full extent of their injuries. Why? Because the primary goal of injury compensation in Columbia, SC, is to help the victim return to the state they would have been in, if the accident never occurred. In the literal sense, doing so isn't possible. The law cannot reverse the incredible suffering and pain that accompanies a severe injury. As such, personal injury victims are entitled to receive a financial reward that equals those damages.

How much compensation you get depends on the facts and nuances of your case. With that said, you may be able to recover compensation for the following needs:

  • Rehab-Related Expenses like
    Physical Therapy
  • All Medical Expenses
  • Pain and Suffering
  • Long-Term Disability
  • Lost Wages and Loss of
    Future Income Earning Ability
  • Disfigurement
  • Emotional Distress
  • Mental Anguish

If you or someone you love was recently injured in a car wreck, contact our office today to speak with a personal injury lawyer in Columbia, SC. The sooner you call, the sooner we can begin fighting for your rights and the compensation you need.

 Personal Injury Lawyer Columbia, SC The-Cobb-Dill-Hammett-Difference
rm-widget-icon.png

What Our Clients Say

The Role of Negligence in Your
Columbia Personal Injury Case

If there were one common truth that we can count on, it's that life is unpredictable. Sometimes, accidents just happen. However, when recklessness and negligence come into play in situations where accidents cause personal injuries, the negligent party can be held responsible under South Carolina law. For victims to have a chance at compensation, the party responsible for the accident must be proven to be negligent. When a party or parties are negligent, they fail to take appropriate care when performing an action, like driving an automobile.

 Car Accident Attorney Columbia, SC
At Cobb Dill & Hammett, LLC, our team works to prove negligence
for our clients by proving:
  • The defendant had an obligation to look out for your safety.
  • The defendant did not uphold that duty.
  • There was causation between the defendant's breach of duty and the injuries you sustained.
  • You suffered real damages.

After an accident occurs, it is critical to take certain steps to help prove the responsible party's negligence and maximize the compensation you rightly deserve.

Steps to Maximize Compensation
After an Accident in Columbia, SC

All too often, car wreck victims don't get the compensation they need because they failed to take the proper steps after their accident. Don't let this be you. By having comprehensive records of your car accident and its aftermath, you have a much better chance of protecting your rights and maximizing compensation for your bills and injuries. If you have been injured in an automobile accident in Columbia, follow these steps before doing anything else:

1.

Go to a Doctor

First and foremost, seek medical attention for any injuries that you have sustained. You might not realize it now, but your injuries may be more complex and serious than you think. Damage like head trauma and back injuries are not easy to diagnose on your own and sometimes take time to surface. A full medical examination will help reveal the extent of your injuries, lead to a quicker recovery, and help document the injuries you sustained. This last part is essential to prove the significance of your injuries.

 Law Firm Columbia, SC
2.

File an
Accident Report

The second step you should take is to report your injuries to the correct authorities. The authorities change depending on the circumstances of your accident. If you were involved in a car wreck in Columbia, you should file your report with the highway authorities and any associated insurance agencies. Regardless of where you were injured and how the wreck occurred, the biggest takeaway here is to file a report. That way, you have an established, official record of the incident that can be referred to down the line.

Personal Injury Attorney Columbia, SC
3.

Preserve Evidence
if Possible

Personal injury cases in Columbia are won with evidence. It might sound like the job of the police, but it's important that you try to secure any evidence that you can collect relating to your accident, especially if you are injured. Evidence in auto accident cases tends to disappear quickly. By preserving evidence soon after the accident, it can be used in court. For example, if you cannot get a witness statement immediately after your wreck, their testimony may come across as less reliable. Completing this task on your own can be quite difficult, especially after a serious accident. That's why it's so crucial to complete the last step below.

 Personal Injury Lawyer Columbia, SC
4.

Contact a Lawyer

One of the most intelligent, important steps you can take after a car accident is calling a personal injury attorney in Columbia, SC. At Cobb Dill & Hammett, LLC, we will assist you with every step of your personal injury case to ensure that your rights are protected. That includes gathering all types of evidence relevant to your case. When we investigate your accident, we will determine the person who is liable for your losses. If there are multiple liable parties, we will hold each one accountable for their negligence.

Every personal injury case is different, which is why experience counts when it comes to car accident compensation. Our track record speaks for itself, but no number of past results will guarantee a perfect outcome. What we can guarantee, however, is our undivided attention and fierce dedication to your case, no matter the circumstances. Unlike other personal injury law firms in Columbia, you can have peace of mind knowing your best interests always come first at Cobb Dill & Hammett, LLC.

 Car Accident Attorney Columbia, SC

Common Car Accidents in
Columbia, SC

At Cobb Dill & Hammett, LLC, we have years of experience handling some of Columbia's most complicated car accident cases. Some of the most common cases that come across our desks include:

Drunk Driving Accidents

Drunk driving is a major problem in the Lowcountry. Drunk drivers are incredibly irresponsible and regularly cause fatal accidents because they drive physically and mentally impaired by alcohol. Drunk drivers have slower reaction times, delayed reflexes, and impaired vision, making them unfit to operate a motor vehicle. In auto wrecks, drunk drivers often come away with minor injuries compared to their victims, which is a bitter pill to swallow

Individuals who make a choice to drive drunk cause accidents by weaving in and out of traffic, going over the speed limit, failing to see pedestrians, and ignoring traffic laws. They may run cars off the road, rear-end vehicles, hit them head-on, or even cause a vehicle to roll over.

Drunk driving accidents in Columbia care result in horrible injuries, such as:

  • Burns
  • Broken Bones
  • Head Injuries
  • Brain Trauma
  • Spinal Cord Injuries
  • Soft Tissue Injuries
  • Mental Anguish

If you are injured or have lost a family member due to an impaired or drunk driver, our team of personal injury lawyers in Columbia can help. We have extensive experience with car accident cases and can explain your rights in simple, plain terms. It is important to know that you can file a personal injury suit regardless of the criminal case outcome against the drunk driver.

 Law Firm Columbia, SC

Rental and RV Accidents

When accidents happen in RVs or rental cars, people are often unsure of their rights. This confusion is understandable since there are additional insurance and legal issues that must be accounted for in these cases.

Fortunately, the lawyers at Cobb Dill & Hammett, LLC, have the experience to help you with complex car accident and RV cases. Attorney Michael Dill worked in the auto insurance industry before becoming an attorney. He also has an undergraduate degree that includes a focus on risk management and insurance. When it comes to rental and RV accidents, we review each client's case with a fine-tooth comb. Once we understand your accident, our team will explain your rights and options in easy-to-understand terms.

If you were involved in an accident while driving an RV or a rental vehicle, you may find that your auto insurance company, the rental car's insurance company, and the other party's insurance carrier will try to deny your claim. Situations like these call for a bold, experienced personal injury attorney in Columbia, SC, who isn't afraid of large corporations and insurance groups. We have extensive experience with insurance companies and know how to interpret policies. As your advocate, we will ensure that you receive the coverage and compensation you are entitled to, even if an insurance company says you aren't.

We can help you seek compensation in cases that involve:

  • Injuries from Boating Ac
    cidents
  • Rental Cars Injuries
  • RV Accidents
  • Jet Ski Injuries
  • Golf Cart Injuries
  • Rental cars
  • Boat accidents
  • ATV Accidents

Victims of RV and rental car accidents (as well as their families) may be entitled to compensation for pain and suffering, medical expenses, and lost income or benefits. Our personal injury lawyers work with life-care planners, medical experts, and economists to determine the amount of compensation you will need.

Personal Injury Attorney Columbia, SC

Texting While Driving and
Distracted Driving Accidents

We live in a time where just about everyone has their eyes glued to their phones. Often, this happens in situations where the person needs to be paying attention, like when they're driving an automobile. Taking a few moments to glance down at your phone can cause irreparable damage to other drivers. That is why texting while driving is illegal in Columbia. Typically, this crime is met with a minor traffic violation. However, when a distracted driver injures another motorist, you can seek compensation through a legal suit. If you have been injured in such a situation, our team can help you hold the negligent driver accountable for your losses and damages.

Texting takes drivers' minds and eyes off the road and their hands off the wheel. Because they are not paying attention to their driving,

They miss crucial road signs and information such as:

  • Changes in the Flow
    of Traffic
  • Traffic Lights
  • Traffic Signs
  • Work Zones
  • Bicyclists
  • Lane Changes
  • Incapacitate Cars and
    Motorists

At Cobb Dill & Hammett, LLC, we represent injury victims in Columbia who are involved in all types of car accidents, including distracted driving. We work with vigor to recover the full amount of compensation you and your family will need to recover. You can rely on our attorneys for dedicated, representation throughout your case. Unlike some distracted driving lawyers in Columbia, we will assist you with all aspects of your accident, including access to good medical care if needed.

 Personal Injury Lawyer Columbia, SC

Unflinching Legal Advocacy. Compassionate Care

At Cobb Dill & Hammett, LLC, we are proud of our commitment to our clients. We pledge to provide them with the highest quality legal representation in Columbia and treat them with respect, empathy, and compassion. If you are suffering from the results of a dangerous car accident, know we are here to assist.

We will help you seek compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and additional losses. Surviving family members may also recover funeral expenses and compensation for the personal loss of a loved one, including the deceased's future income and benefits. When you or your family's health and financial security are on the line, trust the best choose Cobb Dill & Hammett, LLC.

CONTACT US

Latest News in Columbia, SC

Local leaders push for change after mass shooting at Columbia park

COLUMBIA, SC (WACH) — As the Midlands comes to terms with yet another senseless act of violence involving young people, several local leaders are speaking out.“We have to figure out ways to get our youth talking about other ways of dealing with the stress and the drama and the things that they go through without violence,” said Perry Bradley with Building Better Communities.Bradley like many other local leaders, was devastated to hear of another tragedy involving weapons and young people.“Conflict...

COLUMBIA, SC (WACH) — As the Midlands comes to terms with yet another senseless act of violence involving young people, several local leaders are speaking out.

“We have to figure out ways to get our youth talking about other ways of dealing with the stress and the drama and the things that they go through without violence,” said Perry Bradley with Building Better Communities.

Bradley like many other local leaders, was devastated to hear of another tragedy involving weapons and young people.

“Conflict resolution has become on the backburner of a lot of people and we're afraid to really address those issues,” he said.

Saturday’s mass shooting at Meadowlake Park marks the third incident this week where a young person hurt another with a weapon.

On Monday, a teen was charged in a drive-by shooting at a home in Northeast Columbia that injured a 16-year-old girl.

Then on Tuesday, Richland County deputies say a 17-year-old student stabbed another student at Ridge View High School.

“We're talking about our future, we must protect our futures,” said James “JT” McLawhorn with Columbia Urban League.

As leaders continue to try and steer young people away from violence, many say they’ll need help making it happen.

“Adults really have the responsibility of protecting our future and it's up to us as adults to come together,” said McLawhorn.

In a statement, Oveta Glover, President of the Columbia SC Branch of the NAACP said:

“As the President and on behalf of the Columbia SC Branch NAACP, I am extremely saddened about the horrific incident that occurred in Meadow Lake Park and the other incidents throughout Richland County, Columbia, S. C. We are disgusted that this continues to happen and the consequences are either, death, hospitalization, or jail. When will those that are involved in these actions realize that they are only destroying themselves, their families, and their communities? How can we help them to realize what they are doing and the impact of it? Now more than ever is the time for Legislators, City Council, County Council, ministerial communities, school districts, law enforcement, community leaders, and parents to work together. Time out for separation! Our babies, youth, and communities are dying, and “WE ARE DONE DYING”. I implore all of us to dig deep to find solutions TOGETHER! Our continued prayers are with the families that have been affected. Peace be with you all.”

It’s nearly Cinco de Mayo time! 6 of the best ways to celebrate in the Columbia SC area

Who’s up for margaritas?Cinco de Mayo, Spanish for Fifth of May, will make its annual appearance on Friday. The holiday commemorates Mexico’s victory over the Second French Empire at the Battle of Puebla in 1862.For many Americans though, the day is more about drinking, partying and celebrating Mexican culture.Whatever your reason is for recognizing Cinco de Mayo, Columbia restaurants and bars have organized events to help you celebrate. Here are six of the best Cinco de Mayo events in the Columbia area plann...

Who’s up for margaritas?

Cinco de Mayo, Spanish for Fifth of May, will make its annual appearance on Friday. The holiday commemorates Mexico’s victory over the Second French Empire at the Battle of Puebla in 1862.

For many Americans though, the day is more about drinking, partying and celebrating Mexican culture.

Whatever your reason is for recognizing Cinco de Mayo, Columbia restaurants and bars have organized events to help you celebrate. Here are six of the best Cinco de Mayo events in the Columbia area planned for this year.

When: Friday at 6 p.m.

Where: Tin Roof at 1022 Senate Street, Columbia

Swing by the Tin Roof for fun on what the business’ website says is “one of our favorite days of the year!” Tin Roof is all about hosting live music and Cinco de Mayo will be no different. The event will feature music group Outtapocket, followed by The Great Reset. And naturally, there will be plenty of margaritas and tacos for everyone.

When: Friday

Where; The Grand on Main at 1621 Main Street, Columbia

Party it up on Columbia’s Main Street for Cinco de Mayo at The Grand this year. The restaurant will offer margarita flights, taco specials and more. To reserve a table, click here.

When: Friday at 5:30 p.m.

Where: Savage Craft Ale Works at 430 Center Street, West Columbia

Savage Craft Ale Works invites everyone for a Cinco de Mayo with Caribe Latin Sound. Besides the authentic live music, there will be plenty of drinks to go around.

When: Friday at 9 p.m.

Where: Legacy Caribbean Bar Grill at 215 Oneil Court, Columbia

Join Legacy Caribbean Bar & Grill for their Cinco de Locos event. They’ll be celebrating Cinco de Mayo with $5 margaritas all night, party favors, food, drinks and music.

When: Friday at 4 p.m.

Where: Woody on Main at 1649 Main Street, Columbia

Stop by this dance club for a night of fun and entertainment. The Woody on Main plans to offer a festive Cinco de Mayo with plenty of food, dancing and Tequila and Corona specials.

When: Friday at 6:30 p.m.

Where: City Roots Organic Farm at 1005 Airport Blvd, Columbia

Not interested in bars for Cinco de Mayo this year? Then how about a hearty meal at City Roots Farm at its Cinco de Mayo Harvest Dinner? Be prepared for a family-style, four-course farm-to-table dinner, featuring seasonal ingredients from local farmers and artisans. Also enjoy cocktail and wine pairings.

Tickets are $85 each, a percentage of which will be used to support The Charitable Plate 501 C3, which provides scholarships to help shepherd the development of future chefs and farmers. To buy tickets, click here.

If you have a big Cinco de Mayo event in the Columbia area you think should be included, email pmccreless@thestate.com.

This story was originally published May 2, 2023, 7:00 AM.

I-26?s ‘tangled mess of ramps’ south of Columbia getting $62M makeover

COLUMBIA — The S.C. Department of Transportation broke ground on a project to redesign and modernize a major Interstate 26 interchange near Columbia as part of a larger plan to fix up the thruway connecting the capital city to Charleston and the Upstate.The project, which will build more modern on and off ramps at the convergence of U.S. 21 and I-26 ...

COLUMBIA — The S.C. Department of Transportation broke ground on a project to redesign and modernize a major Interstate 26 interchange near Columbia as part of a larger plan to fix up the thruway connecting the capital city to Charleston and the Upstate.

The project, which will build more modern on and off ramps at the convergence of U.S. 21 and I-26 that is 12 miles south of downtown Columbia near I-77, will stimulate growth in the Midlands and statewide, SCDOT Secretary of Transportation Christy Hall said.

″(South Carolina), we’re having growing pains,” said Gov. Henry McMaster, who attended the ceremony. “We have grown and our job is to be sure that we do the right thing. We’re going in the right direction.”

The I-26/U.S. 21 interchange has stood since 1959 and is a “tangled mess of ramps” that is in desperate need of a facelift as South Carolina continues to grow, Hall said.

DOT formally broke ground on the project on May 5 and expects to start work immediately, Hall said. The project is expected to take about three years, but drivers will have access to the same number of lanes as they normally would during construction, she said.

The project will start by demolishing the U.S. 21 overpass and constructing a new bridge. The current cloverleaf ramps will be replaced with diamond shaped ramps that are more compatible with current Interstate vehicle speeds, according to a DOT statement.

Additionally, U.S. 21 and Rolling Meadows Lane will be realigned to simplify the road network and accommodate a new eastbound offramp.

The project is expected to cost $62.1 million.

Lawmakers touted the soon-to-be improved interchange as an access point to a major South Carolina business hub.

Rep. Russell Ott, D-St. Matthews, highlighted the impact the project will have for cargo access to nearby business such as Blanchard Machinery and the State Farmers Market.

Sen. Nikki Setzler, D-West Columbia, added could impact the Saxe Gotha Industrial Park, home to Nephron Pharmaceuticals and two Amazon facilities, which is just a few miles from the interchange.

Additionally, improved the infrastructure in rural areas of South Carolina could attract businesses and open up well paying jobs for people in more remote areas, Ott said.

DOT will continue to make major improvements to I-26 and update the outdated road in the coming years, Hall said.

Meanwhile, 13 miles west on I-26, construction at the convergence of I-20 and I-26, known as Malfunction Junction, is underway, as part of a $2 billion, 9-year project aimed at easing congestion in the area’s most notorious interchange.

COLUMBIA, SC CELEBRATES BETTER HEALTH URBAN RENEWAL MILESTONE

Dedicated Senior Medical Center fuels new era of VIP care for older adults in North Main DistrictCOLUMBIA, S.C., May 3, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- ChenMed, a leading provider of concierge-style primary care for older adults, with more than 125 centers in underserved neighborhoods across 15 states, is now welcoming patients at its first ...

Dedicated Senior Medical Center fuels new era of VIP care for older adults in North Main District

COLUMBIA, S.C., May 3, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- ChenMed, a leading provider of concierge-style primary care for older adults, with more than 125 centers in underserved neighborhoods across 15 states, is now welcoming patients at its first Dedicated Senior Medical Center in South Carolina. The new Dedicated medical practice in Columbia is intentionally located in the long underserved North Main District, where tens of thousands of older residents previously were unable to benefit from outstanding access to primary care doctors in their neighborhoods.

Continue Reading

"I am so happy to be one of Dedicated's first patients in Columbia," says 106-year-old resident Lecie Worthy, adding, "I love how my Dedicated doctor treats me like family. She gave me her cell phone number, so I can call or text anytime, and she encourages me to come in for walk-in and same-day appointments."

Ms. Worthy, who cut the ribbon for the new center from her wheelchair, surprised and delighted the audience, earning a standing ovation for her strong rendition of the "Can You Truly Say God is Yours" hymn.

Thousands of local seniors are expected to quickly join more than 300 older adults already benefitting from the personalized, high-touch, value-based care Dedicated primary care providers are delivering at the new center located at 5900 North Main Street. The center is a little north of where the $59.2 million Richland County road widening and upgrades project (North Main between Anthony and Fuller Avenues) last week celebrated completion after several years of corridor improvement work.

Hundreds of local seniors and community leaders participated in today's grand opening that featured U.S. Congressman James E. Clyburn; State Representative Christopher Hart; Richland County Councilwoman Yvonne McBridge; City of Columbia Councilman Edward H. McDowell, Jr.; Reverend Dr. Anthony A. McCallum, Bethlehem Baptist Church; singer and evangelist Toccara Spann; food, music, dancing, and VIP tours.

During today's formal addresses at the Dedicated grand opening in the North Main District's 29203 zip code:

Dedicated provides superior, coordinated care focused on seniors with Medicare Advantage, many of whom have multiple major and chronic conditions. Fully focused on preventive care, Dedicated earns patient trust by delivering VIP service during every visit or call.

Dedicated locates centers in communities where a lack of access to high-quality primary care and other social determinants of health has negatively impacted longevity for many years. These barriers have shortened average life spans by as much as 20 years when compared to others living in nearby more affluent zip codes. So, the innovative medical practice is working to address what Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. heralded more than 50 years ago: "Of all the forms of inequality, injustice in health is the most shocking and the most inhumane."

"Almost 80 percent of older adults living in the North Main District are African Americans and every senior deserves compassionate, affordable care," says Meera Kelley, M.D., regional chief medical officer for Dedicated Southeast. "Our clinicians focus on earning trust with every visit, with every call, and with every text. They also encourage walk-in and same-day appointments for patients in need – all to transform health in ways proven to reduce emergency room visits and hospitalizations by 33 percent."

An April 2022 central Carolinas perception survey of residents ages 65 or older and responsible for their healthcare decisions (N=152) found that:

Dedicated providers at the event explained how their medical practice fulfills its purpose by being accountable for helping their patients achieve better health. The Dedicated staff provides personalized, friendly care and ensures their patients can get the care they need when they need it. Dedicated's care teams give patients their cell phone numbers and respond quickly to patient calls or texts. Dedicated also offers same-day appointments, whenever needed. Additionally, Dedicated centers help reduce barriers to healthy living and help seniors benefit from community services.

The highly personalized care at Dedicated leads to happier and healthier patients, as noted by a 2022 third-party survey of more than 76,500 ChenMed patients:

About Dedicated Senior Medical Center:Dedicated is part of ChenMed, which today operates more than 125 centers in 15 states. The hyper-growth company employs outstanding primary care physicians and specialist doctors who are empowered to deliver VIP service; to detect and effectively manage high-risk diseases; and to reduce hospital sick days for Medicare-eligible seniors, many of whom are living with multiple and major chronic conditions. ChenMed is a privately owned medical, management and technology company that delivers the high-touch and personalized primary care Medicare-eligible seniors need to enjoy better health. Named one of Fortune 2020 "Change the World" companies, twice a "Most Loved Workplace" by Newsweek Magazine, and a certified Great Place to Work® by the Great Place to Work Institute, ChenMed brings concierge-style medicine and better health outcomes to the neediest populations. See ChenMed's 2022 Impact Report.

SOURCE ChenMed

Is Columbia, SC, a Good Place to Live? 10 Pros and Cons to Calling Columbia Your Home

Nestled in the heart of South Carolina, Columbia offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern amenities. As the state capital, it’s a bustling city that’s home to several colleges and universities, making it a vibrant and diverse community. But, like any place, there are pros and cons to living in Columbia. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor looking into the ...

Nestled in the heart of South Carolina, Columbia offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern amenities. As the state capital, it’s a bustling city that’s home to several colleges and universities, making it a vibrant and diverse community. But, like any place, there are pros and cons to living in Columbia. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor looking into the Columbia housing market, this city has a whole heap of perks that more than make up for any downsides.

In this Redfin article, we’ll weigh the advantages against the disadvantages to calling South Carolina’s capital your new home.

Pros of living in Columbia

Columbia’s affordability is a significant advantage, whether you’re buying a house or renting an apartment in the heart of the city. The cost of living in Columbia is lower than the national average and significantly lower than other major U.S. cities. Housing costs, in particular, are very reasonable. The median home price in Columbia is around $244K, which is substantially less than the median home price in other major cities such as New York or Los Angeles.

Additionally, Columbia has a variety of options for budget-friendly entertainment, such as free concerts and festivals throughout the year which can really reduce the cost of living there. There are also many parks and outdoor spaces to explore, and many of them are free to the public. Dining out in Columbia can also be relatively inexpensive, with plenty of affordable restaurants and cafes to choose from.

Columbia is known for its welcoming and friendly atmosphere, which is a significant draw for many residents. The city has a strong sense of community, with residents taking pride in their hometown and working together to make it a great place to live. An excellent example of this is the Soda City Market, which takes place every Saturday morning in downtown Columbia. It’s a farmers market, craft fair, and community gathering all in one, where locals come together to shop for fresh produce, handmade crafts, and unique gifts, and to catch up with their neighbors. The market is a great way to experience Columbia’s Southern charm firsthand, and it’s a beloved local tradition.

Columbia’s climate is another advantage for those looking to live in a comfortable year-round environment. The city has a humid subtropical climate, which means hot summers and cool winters. However, the temperatures rarely reach extreme levels, with the hottest month, July, averaging a high of around 92 degrees Fahrenheit and the coldest month, January, averaging a low of around 36 degrees Fahrenheit. This mild climate allows residents to enjoy outdoor activities throughout the year, from hiking and biking in the spring and fall to boating and swimming in the summer.

Columbia has a rich and fascinating history, with many landmarks and sites to explore. The South Carolina State House is a magnificent building that has been the seat of the state government since 1786. It’s open to the public for tours, and visitors can see historic documents, paintings, and sculptures. The Columbia Museum of Art is another great example of the city’s history, with a collection that spans centuries of European and American art, as well as modern and contemporary works. Finally, the Riverbanks Zoo and Garden is a must-visit for anyone interested in the natural history of the area, featuring over 2,000 animals from around the world, including rare and endangered species.

Columbia is known for its delicious Southern cuisine, which is a highlight for foodies and casual diners alike. Barbecue is a particular specialty, with local spots like Southern Belly BBQ and Doc’s Barbecue serving up mouth-watering pulled pork and brisket. Seafood is another popular option, with restaurants like Blue Marlin and Pearlz Oyster Bar offering fresh and flavorful dishes. For something sweet, Kiki’s Chicken and Waffles is a local favorite, with its famous chicken and waffles combo and delicious sweet potato pie. Overall, there’s no shortage of fantastic dining options in Columbia, and residents can easily explore a variety of cuisines and styles.

Cons of living in Columbia

While the mild climate in Columbia is generally a plus, there is one major downside: the sticky, humid summers. For some folks, the humidity is no big deal, and they can handle a little bit of sweat and frizzy hair. But for others, the humidity can be downright unbearable, turning a leisurely stroll through the park into a sauna-like experience. Locals have all sorts of tips and tricks for surviving the summer months, from carrying a personal fan to avoiding outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day. And let’s not forget about the dreaded “humidity hair” – that puffy, frizzy look that seems to defy all attempts at taming. So, if you’re planning to make Columbia your home, just be prepared for a little extra moisture in the air and maybe invest in a good leave-in conditioner.

Before you move to Columbia just know you’ll be in a constant battle with the state bird: the mosquito. While these pesky insects are not unique to Columbia, they do seem to have a particular affinity for the area’s warm and humid climate. As a result, locals have become experts at mosquito avoidance techniques, from slathering on bug spray to strategically positioning citronella candles around their yards. If there is any relief, mosquitos there tend to come swarming in seasons, so no worries because it won’t last forever. Be prepared to make friends with some itchy bumps and invest in plenty of insect repellent.

While there are certainly bars and clubs in the area, the scene may not be as extensive or diverse. Some visitors or new residents may find that the options for after-hours entertainment can feel limited, especially if they are used to a more vibrant nightlife. Part of the reason for this may be the size of the city.

That being said, Columbia still has plenty to offer for those looking to enjoy a night out on the town. The city has a number of popular bars and nightclubs, and there are also plenty of restaurants and cafes that stay open late, as well as outdoor parks and venues that host events and concerts throughout the year. While it may not offer the same level of nightlife options as some larger cities, Columbia can still be a fun and enjoyable place to spend an evening with friends or loved ones.

Columbia’s transportation options can be a challenge for those without access to a car, with a Walk Score of 35 out of 100, a Transit Score of 0 out of 100, and a Bike Score of 35 out of 100. While the city does have some public transportation options, such as buses and shuttles, the system may not be as comprehensive or efficient as in other cities, making it difficult for those who rely on public transportation to get around the city. Additionally, Finding parking in certain parts of Columbia can be challenging because the infrastructure may not be as developed or extensive as in other areas.

One potential drawback to living in Columbia is the risk of hurricanes during the Atlantic hurricane season, which typically runs from June to November. While Columbia is not located directly on the coast, it’s still vulnerable to the effects of hurricanes, such as heavy rainfall, strong winds, and power outages. In the past, the city has experienced damage from hurricanes and tropical storms, such as Hurricane Hugo in 1989 and Tropical Storm Michael in 2018. While residents can take precautions to prepare for a hurricane, the risk of property damage and potential evacuation can be a concern for some.

If you are represented by an agent, this is not a solicitation of your business. This article is for informational purposes only, and is not a substitute for professional advice from a medical provider, licensed attorney, financial advisor, or tax professional. Consumers should independently verify any agency or service mentioned will meet their needs. Learn more about our Editorial Guidelines here.

Disclaimer:

This website publishes news articles that contain copyrighted material whose use has not been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. The non-commercial use of these news articles for the purposes of local news reporting constitutes "Fair Use" of the copyrighted materials as provided for in Section 107 of the US Copyright Law.