How to File a Claim with State Farm After a Car Accident in SC

A car accident can change your life in an instant, leaving you with unexpected expenses and a long recovery ahead. If the at-fault driver is insured by State Farm, understanding how to file and manage your claim is essential to help you secure compensation for medical bills, vehicle repairs, and lost income.

This blog breaks down how to file a claim with State Farm, helping you avoid common pitfalls while focusing on what matters most: your recovery.

Key Steps to Take Immediately After the Accident

Taking the right steps right after an accident can provide crucial support for your claim. When you’re ready to report the incident, State Farm will need specific information to process your claim effectively. Here’s what to do and what to gather:

1. Ensure Safety and Call for Help

• Make sure everyone involved is safe and seek medical attention if necessary. Call 911 to report the accident, especially if there are injuries or significant damage. A police report provides an impartial account of the incident, which can support your claim.

2. Exchange Essential Information

• Contact Information: Obtain the names, phone numbers, and addresses of everyone involved, including other drivers, passengers, and witnesses.
• Insurance Details: Collect insurance company names and policy numbers from the other driver(s).
• Vehicle Information: Note the make, model, color, and license plate numbers of all vehicles involved.

3. Document the Scene

• Take clear photos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, skid marks, traffic signs, and the surrounding area. Note key details like the date, time, road conditions, and any statements made by the other driver(s). If there are witnesses, record their statements and contact information, as they can support your claim if fault is disputed.

4. Obtain a Copy of the Police Report

• If law enforcement is involved, be sure to get the police report or ask how to obtain a copy. State Farm may ask for this report when you file your claim, as it provides a factual record of the incident.

5. List Any Immediate Damages or Injuries

• Track any immediate costs related to the accident, including initial medical bills, vehicle towing expenses, or urgent repairs. Documenting these expenses early can help ensure they are accounted for in your claim.

With all this information prepared, you’ll be ready to file your claim efficiently and provide State Farm with the full scope of details they need to process it accurately.

Reporting Your Accident to State Farm

With all your documentation in order, the next step is to officially report the accident to State Farm. Acting promptly ensures that your claim is processed without unnecessary delays. There are several ways to report your accident to State Farm, so you can choose the option that best suits your needs:

• Call State Farm’s 24/7 Claims Line: You can contact State Farm’s dedicated claims line by calling 800-SF-Claim (800) 732-5246 anytime, day or night to speak with a representative who can help initiate your claim.
• Use the State Farm Mobile App: Reporting through the mobile app is a convenient option if you prefer a digital approach. The app allows you to upload documents, photos, and other essential details directly.
• File Online via the State Farm Website: For those who prefer a desktop or laptop, the website’s claims portal also offers a straightforward way to report your accident.
• Visit a Local Agent: You can also go to a local State Farm office to speak in person with an agent who can help walk you through the claim submission process.

No matter the method you choose, only provide as much detail as needed about the accident to open the claim, including photos and documentation, to strengthen your claim and minimize delays. Do not go into details about your personal injuries, as anything you say may be used against you later.  At the early stages, we would suggest only saying they are seeking medical attention and indicate that you are not comfortable discussing specifics at this time.  Do not identify specific medical providers, as they may reach out to the doctors without you knowing.

South Carolina’s Fault Laws

South Carolina follows an at-fault system, which means the driver responsible for the accident is liable for damages. When filing a claim with State Farm, this factor can influence the process:

• Establishing Liability: The insurance adjuster will review evidence and determine fault. Providing comprehensive documentation, including photos and witness statements, can support your side of the story.
• Handling Disputes Over Fault: If there are disagreements regarding fault, a personal injury attorney can help advocate for your claim.

What Not to Say to State Farm

When speaking with State Farm, be mindful of certain statements that could affect your claim outcome.

• Avoid Admitting Fault: Even if you think you might have contributed to the accident, do not make any statements about fault. Fault will be determined based on evidence, and any admission could reduce your settlement or impact the claim’s outcome.
• Don’t Speculate on Injuries or Damage: Stick to facts and avoid guessing. Injuries can appear later, so mention that you’re still assessing their full extent.
• Don’t Say You’re “Okay”: Saying “I’m fine” or “I’m not hurt” can be misleading if injuries develop later. Instead, let the adjuster know that you’re seeking medical evaluation to fully understand your injuries.
• Avoid Estimating Repair Costs: Resist the urge to suggest repair or replacement costs unless you have professional estimates. State Farm will conduct its own assessment, and providing numbers without evidence could work against you.
• Don’t Say You Don’t Need a Lawyer: If the adjuster asks whether you’re working with an attorney, be cautious. Stating that you don’t plan to hire a Greenville personal injury lawyer may lead to lower settlement offers, as insurers often assume you’ll handle the claim alone. Adjusters will often misstate facts about legal fees and costs during their call, often saying that lawyers will take 50% or more of the settlement, which is not true.

Keeping these points in mind will help you protect your claim and avoid statements that could unintentionally weaken your position.

Documenting Your Injuries and Losses

To support your claim, maintain thorough records of any injuries, medical treatment, and related expenses:

• Medical Records: Seek medical attention after the accident, even if you feel fine. Injuries might appear later, and having medical records can substantiate your claim.
• Additional Expenses: Keep track of any expenses related to the accident, such as vehicle repairs, rental cars, and lost income from missed work. These can all contribute to the overall value of your claim.

What if Your Claim Is Denied

If State Farm denies your claim or offers a settlement that doesn’t cover your losses, you have options. Start by reviewing the denial letter for specific reasons, then consult with a Greenville car accident lawyer who can help negotiate or appeal for a fair settlement.

Facing a Lowball Offer or Denied Claim from State Farm After a South Carolina Car Accident?

If you’re facing a denied claim or a low settlement from State Farm, Hammack Law Firm can help. We’ll handle communications, gather evidence, and advocate for the compensation you need for medical bills, repairs, and lost income, letting you focus on recovery.

Timing is crucial. Acting quickly allows us to build a strong case, increasing your chances of a fair outcome. With our Greenville team, you’ll have experienced support without upfront fees—we only get paid if we recover compensation for you.

Let us handle the claim while you prioritize your recovery. If you’ve been searching online for a “car accident injury lawyer near me,” call Hammack Law Firm instead at (864) 326-3333(864) 326-3333 or complete our online form to schedule a free consultation today.

At Hammack Law Firm, our team is trained and experienced to win! We put the personal back in personal injury. 

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(864) 326-3333
https://hammacklawfirm.com/