What Should I Do After a Car Accident in South Carolina?

In the state of South Carolina, knowing the right steps to take after an accident can make all the difference in ensuring your safety, well-being, and legal rights are preserved after an automobile collision.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential actions to consider after a car accident in South Carolina.

Steps to Take Directly After Your Car Accident

Immediately following a car wreck, the ensuing events can feel like a blur, which is why it’s so critical to know what to do next in order to preserve your potential for a full financial recovery.

Here’s what you should do next:

Prioritize Your Safety and Health

Above all else, your safety and the safety of others involved is paramount. After an accident, move to a safe location and, if possible, assess yourself for injuries. If you or others are injured, call 911 immediately. Even if injuries seem minor, it’s still advisable to seek medical attention as some injuries may manifest later.

Contact Law Enforcement

In South Carolina, it’s mandatory to report any accident resulting in injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000 to law enforcement. When officers arrive, provide accurate information about the accident. Stick to the facts and avoid speculating or admitting fault.

Document the Scene

Use your smartphone or any available device to take pictures and videos of the accident scene. Capture the vehicles’ positions, damage, road conditions, and any relevant traffic signs. These visuals can serve as crucial evidence in case of disputes.

Exchange Information

After an accident, you should always exchange contact information, insurance, and driver’s license details with the other parties involved. Collect information from witnesses as well, as their accounts could provide valuable perspectives. Additionally, you should also be sure to record the name and badge number of responding officers.

Notify Your Insurance Company

Promptly inform your insurance company about the accident and provide them with accurate details. Avoid speculating on fault. Your insurance company will guide you through the claims process.

Seek Legal Counsel

If you or others suffered injuries, experienced significant property damage, or faced disagreements over fault, it’s wise to consult a personal injury attorney. An attorney can help protect your rights, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.

Watch Your Words

Avoid discussing the accident in detail with anyone other than law enforcement, your insurance company (and even then, it’s best to speak with an attorney first), and your attorney. Statements made to others, especially on social media or to insurance, can be used against you later.

Preserve Evidence

Keep all documents related to the accident, including medical records, repair estimates, and communications with insurance companies. These will be essential in building your case.

Stay Informed About South Carolina Laws

Understanding South Carolina’s laws regarding fault, insurance, and statutes of limitations can help you make informed decisions during the aftermath of an accident. Consulting a legal professional can provide clarity in this regard.

Remember, dealing with the aftermath of a car accident can be emotionally and physically taxing. It’s essential to take care of yourself and those around you. If you need guidance or legal assistance, reach out to experienced professionals who can navigate the complexities of South Carolina’s legal landscape while treating your well-being as a priority.

What Does It Mean If You’re At Fault?

If you were entirely at fault, your bodily injury liability and property damage liability insurance kicks in to cover the other driver’s medical bills and repairs.

PIP or MedPay insurance can help offset your out-of-pocket expenses. But if the other driver is to blame, their insurance will handle your medical bills and repairs.

If the fault is shared, however, South Carolina follows a comparative fault doctrine. This means even if you share some responsibility, you can still claim damages from the other driver’s insurance—unless you’re found to be 50% or more at fault, in which case your claim could be denied.

How to Read South Carolina Collision Reports

When it comes to the South Carolina traffic collision report (TR-310 form), officers often assign fault. But here’s the twist: their conclusion about fault is generally inadmissible in court. If you believe the officer erred in assigning blame, don’t fret. Our car wreck attorneys can help unravel the truth and prove the real cause of the accident.

Remember, while the legal steps are vital, your well-being is at the forefront. If you need assistance or legal guidance, lean on those who know the ropes.

What Are You Eligible to Receive Compensation for After a Car Accident?

In the aftermath of an accident, every step you take is a stride toward reclaiming your peace of mind. No two cases are identical, and it’s crucial to remember that insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts.

This is where our seasoned car accident attorneys step in to ensure you receive the full and fair settlement you deserve.

Potential recoveries encompass a range of aspects, including:

• Property Damage: Reimbursement for vehicle repair or replacement costs.
• Lost Wages and Future Earnings: Compensation for income lost due to time off work, as well as potential future earnings affected by the accident.
• Medical Expenses: Coverage for medical bills resulting from the accident, including treatments, therapies, and ongoing care.
• Physical Pain: Compensation for the physical suffering endured due to injuries sustained.
• Emotional Distress: Receiving reparation for the emotional toll and psychological distress caused by the accident.
• Quality of Life: Compensation for the loss of ability to enjoy life’s activities or a diminished quality of life.
• Punitive Damages: In cases of gross negligence or intentional misconduct, punitive damages may be sought to discourage similar behavior in the future.

It’s important to note that factors such as the severity of your injuries can influence your settlement. Insurance companies often operate with their bottom line in mind, which is why enlisting experienced legal representation can make a significant difference.

Our team is dedicated to advocating for your rights and ensuring you aren’t shortchanged. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey – we’re here to guide you every step of the way towards the compensation you rightly deserve.

Conclusion

In the aftermath of a car accident, the road to recovery can be complex and daunting. From dealing with insurance companies to understanding legal intricacies, the journey can quickly become overwhelming.

This is where the expertise of a dedicated car accident attorney shines through. By hiring an attorney, you’re not just getting a legal advocate— you’re gaining a partner who will fiercely protect your rights, navigate the legal maze, and secure the compensation you rightfully deserve.

So whether it’s negotiating with insurance giants or building a robust case, an attorney’s guidance can make all the difference in your pursuit of justice. Your recovery is too important to leave to chance—enlist the aid of an attorney and take confident steps toward reclaiming your peace of mind and securing the compensation you so rightfully deserve.