Avoid These 7 Costly Mistakes After a South Carolina Auto Accident

You’re driving down a familiar South Carolina road, the morning sun is shining, and everything seems normal. Suddenly, in the blink of an eye, your routine commute turns into a chaotic scene as you’re involved in a car accident. Whether you’re heading to work or enjoying a weekend drive, accidents can catch you off guard when you least expect them.

What you do next—and in the days that follow—can have a lasting impact on your recovery and your rights. It’s not just the immediate aftermath that matters; avoiding certain mistakes in the hours, days, and even weeks after a South Carolina auto accident is crucial. In this blog, a Greenville personal injury lawyer from Hammack Law Firm shares seven costly mistakes to avoid after a car accident. If you or a loved one has been in a crash, we’re here to support you. Call us at (864) 326-3333 to schedule your free consultation and take the first step toward regaining control of your life.

1. Leaving the Scene Too Soon

When an accident happens, your instinct might be to move on as quickly as possible, especially if the damage seems minor. However, leaving the scene prematurely can lead to serious legal trouble. In South Carolina, it’s required by law to stop and exchange information with the other driver.

Failing to do so could result in hit-and-run charges, even if you’re not at fault. Take a moment to gather your thoughts, ensure everyone is safe, and stay at the scene until all necessary information has been exchanged.

2. Not Contacting the Police

Even if the accident appears to be minor, always report it to the police. A police report serves as an official record of what happened and can be critical if disputes arise later. The report will also provide valuable evidence if you need to file an insurance claim or take legal action.

Don’t assume that just because there are no visible injuries or minimal damage, the accident doesn’t need to be reported. In many cases, underlying issues can surface later, making that initial police report essential.

3. Overlooking Evidence Collection

The moments after an accident can be chaotic, but taking the time to gather evidence can make a significant difference in your case. Use your phone to take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. Collect contact information from witnesses who saw what happened. Keep a record of any medical treatment you receive, as well as other accident-related expenses. All this information can be invaluable when negotiating with insurance companies or pursuing legal action.

4. Skipping Medical Evaluation

After an accident, your adrenaline might be running high, masking symptoms of injury. Some injuries, such as whiplash or internal bleeding, may not show immediate symptoms but can become serious if left untreated. Even if you feel fine, it’s wise to get checked by a healthcare professional as soon as possible. This not only ensures your well-being but also provides documentation that can be crucial if you need to prove the accident caused your injuries.

5. Speaking with the Other Driver’s Insurance Company

You might be contacted by the other driver’s insurance company soon after the accident, but be cautious about giving any statements. Insurance adjusters are trained to ask questions that might lead you to say something that could hurt your claim. Before speaking with the other insurance company, consult with local auto accident lawyers. They can guide you on what to say and help protect your interests.

6. Accepting the First Settlement Offer

After an accident, especially if you’re dealing with car repairs and medical bills, you might be eager to settle quickly. However, the first offer from an insurance company is often much lower than what you might actually be entitled to receive. Insurance companies aim to minimize their payouts, so it’s in your best interest to consult with an attorney before agreeing to any settlement. They can help ensure the offer is fair and reflects the full extent of your damages.

7. Deciding Against Consulting an Attorney

Handling a car accident claim on your own might seem like a way to save time and money, but it can actually cost you in the long run. A skilled attorney can navigate the complexities of your case, negotiate with insurance companies, and fight to ensure you receive what you’re entitled to. Most Greenville personal injury lawyers work on a contingency basis, meaning you won’t pay anything upfront and only owe fees if your case is successful. This gives you access to legal guidance without adding financial stress during an already challenging time.

Bonus: Avoid Posting About the Accident on Social Media

In today’s digital age, it’s natural to want to share your experiences on social media. However, posting about your accident online can backfire. Insurance companies often monitor social media to gather evidence that might be used against you. Even seemingly innocent posts can be misinterpreted and used to undermine your claim. It’s best to keep details of your accident private and avoid posting anything related to it until your case is resolved.

By avoiding these costly mistakes, you can protect your rights and improve your chances of a favorable outcome after a car accident in South Carolina. Each decision you make after the accident can significantly impact the recovery process, so it’s essential to approach the situation with care and informed guidance.

Call Hammack Law Firm in Greenville, South Carolina if You’ve Been in a Car Accident

At Hammack Law Firm, we understand the challenges car accident victims face. Serious injuries, mounting medical bills, and the stress of being unable to work can turn your life upside down. That’s why we’re here to help you navigate the legal complexities and fight for the compensation you need to get your life back on track.

When you work with us, you won’t need to worry about upfront legal fees. We operate on a contingency basis, meaning you won’t owe us anything unless we recover compensation for you. Our attorneys will handle every aspect of your case, from investigating the accident and gathering crucial evidence to negotiating with insurance companies and representing you in court if necessary. With a strong track record of securing compensation for past and future medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages, we’re committed to pursuing the best possible outcome for you.

No need to spend time searching online for “auto collision lawyers near me.” Call Hammack Law Firm instead at (864) 326-3333 or fill out our online form to schedule your free consultation. Let us be your voice through this challenging time.

At Hammack Law Firm, our team is trained and experienced to win!

Copyright © 2024. Hammack Law Firm. All rights reserved.

The information in this blog post (“post”) is provided for general informational purposes only and may not reflect the current law in your jurisdiction. No information in this post should be construed as legal advice from the individual author or the law firm, nor is it intended to be a substitute for legal counsel on any subject matter. No reader of this post should act or refrain from acting based on any information included in or accessible through this post without seeking the appropriate legal or other professional advice on the particular facts and circumstances at issue from a lawyer licensed in the recipient’s state, country, or other appropriate licensing jurisdiction.

Hammack Law Firm
223 W Stone Avenue
Greenville, SC 29609
(864) 326-3333
https://hammacklawfirm.com/