Car accidents are a common occurrence on the roads of South Carolina. According to the South Carolina Department of Public Safety, there were over 141,000 traffic collisions in 2020, resulting in over 1,000 fatalities and tens of thousands of injuries. Being involved in a car accident can be a traumatic experience, but it’s important to know what to do if it happens to you. In this blog post, we’ll go over the steps you should take if you’re involved in a car accident in South Carolina.
Check for injuries
The first thing you should do after a car accident is to check yourself and your passengers for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately and ask for medical assistance. Even if no one appears to be injured, it’s still a good idea to get checked out by a healthcare professional, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
Move to a safe location
If possible, move your vehicle out of the way of traffic and onto the shoulder of the road. If you can’t move your car, turn on your hazard lights to warn other drivers of the accident.
Call the police
In South Carolina, you are required to report any car accident that results in injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000. Call the police and wait for them to arrive at the scene. When the police arrive, they will create an accident report, which will be useful when you file an insurance claim.
Exchange information
Exchange information with the other driver(s) involved in the accident. Be sure to get their name, contact information, driver’s license number, and insurance information. You should also take note of the make, model, and license plate number of their vehicle.
Document the accident
Take photos of the accident scene, including damage to both vehicles, any skid marks on the road, and any relevant street signs or landmarks. This documentation will be useful when you file an insurance claim.
Notify your insurance company
Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the accident. Be sure to provide them with all the information you gathered at the scene, including the other driver’s information and the police report.
Seek legal advice
If you were injured in the accident or if the other driver is disputing fault, it may be a good idea to seek legal advice. A personal injury lawyer can help you navigate the legal system and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
Keep track of medical expenses and other costs
If you or your passengers were injured in the accident, you may be eligible for compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs related to the accident. Keep track of all your medical bills, receipts, and other expenses related to the accident. This information will be useful when you file an insurance claim or if you decide to pursue legal action.
Be cautious when speaking with insurance adjusters
When you report the accident to your insurance company, you may be contacted by an insurance adjuster. Be cautious when speaking with the adjuster and don’t admit fault or sign any documents without consulting with a lawyer. Insurance companies may try to offer you a settlement that is less than what you are entitled to, so it’s important to have a lawyer review any settlement offers before accepting them.
Follow up with medical treatment
If you were injured in the accident, it’s important to follow up with any recommended medical treatment and attend all scheduled appointments. Failure to do so may hurt your chances of receiving compensation for your injuries.
Be patient
Dealing with the aftermath of a car accident can be a long and frustrating process. Be patient and don’t rush to settle your claim or accept any settlement offers without first consulting with a lawyer. A personal injury lawyer can help you understand your rights and ensure that you receive the compensation you’re entitled to.
Being involved in a car accident in South Carolina can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. By following these steps, you can protect yourself and ensure that you receive the compensation you’re entitled to. Remember to prioritize your safety and the safety of others, and don’t hesitate to reach out for help if you need it. With patience and diligence, you can recover from the accident and move forward with your life.
Christian & Christian Law is a personal injury law firm located in South Carolina that specializes in helping clients who have been involved in car accidents. We have years of experience in handling a variety of car accident cases and have helped numerous clients receive compensation for their injuries.
Here are a few ways that Christian & Christian Law can help you with your South Carolina car accident case:
Provide legal advice and guidance
After a car accident, you may be unsure of what steps to take or what your rights are. Christian & Christian Law can provide you with the legal advice and guidance you need to make informed decisions about your case. We can help you understand the legal process, the compensation you may be entitled to, and the steps you need to take to protect your rights.
Investigate the accident
To build a strong case, it’s important to thoroughly investigate the accident. Christian & Christian Law can investigate the accident scene, review the police report, and gather any additional evidence that may be necessary to prove your case. We can also interview witnesses, consult with experts, and gather any other information that may be useful in building your case.
Handle communication with insurance companies
Dealing with insurance companies can be a complicated and frustrating process. Christian & Christian Law can handle all communication with insurance companies on your behalf, including negotiating with adjusters and advocating for your rights. We can also help you avoid making mistakes that could hurt your case, such as admitting fault or signing documents without consulting with a lawyer.
Help you receive fair compensation
If you were injured in a car accident, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Christian & Christian Law can help you calculate the full extent of your damages and fight to ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries.
Represent you in court, if necessary
If your case goes to court, Christian & Christian Law can represent you in front of a judge and jury. We have years of experience in litigation and can use our knowledge and expertise to build a strong case on your behalf.
If you’ve been involved in a car accident in South Carolina, Christian & Christian Law can help. We have the legal knowledge and experience necessary to help you navigate the complicated legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case.