After being in a car accident on South Carolina roads, you'll have many things to do to take care of the car accident problem. When you aren't sure how to handle a car accident, follow a simple set of steps during and after the car accident to help you manage this new set of problems.

Having a South Carolina car accident attorney on your side while you process your emotions, injuries, and new responsibilities can be a great help.

At the Scene of the Car Accident

When you are in the midst of this crisis, follow the standard set of procedures to handle a car accident.

Get medical attention immediately for yourself and other drivers. Call 9-1-1, and if there are injuries, this call will also help you file the police report.  Know that South Carolina Motor Vehicle Code § 56-5-1270 stipulates that you do not have to call the police if there are no injuries from the crash.

Collect the personal information of the other driver, including driver's license and insurance information. Document the entire scene if you can, including damage to all vehicles, traffic conditions, and the personal information of any witnesses.

After the Car Accident

After the car accident, when you are at home or recovering in the hospital, begin a file about the car accident. Keep all medical information in here, as well as any police reports.

Call your car insurance company to report the accident as soon as you can.

A car accident is a trauma in your life, particularly if you have been injured. Keep a log or what is known as a “pain journal” to keep track of everything going on with you emotionally and physically.

For your accident responsibilities, make sure that you handle all calls and respond to every communication quickly. Don't put anything on social media about the car accident or talk about it with anyone but the support system you trust.

Don't accept any offers to settle from any other party, including the insurance company, until you have gotten advice from a lawyer. It's okay to tell witnesses and the insurance company you are getting one or that you have one if you have a lawyer. If you don't, get one.

If there are any injuries to yourself, your passengers, or another driver, call a car accident lawyer for help. South Carolina Civil Code § 15-3-350 gives you a statute of limitations of three years from the date of your accident to collect damages civilly. It's something you'll want to consider seriously.

Contact a South Carolina Car Accident Attorney to Handle a Car Accident For You

There is a lot involved in a car accident, and you are going through a lot as well. You don't have to do this alone. Contact the Hopkins Law Firm at 843-314-4202 for a free review of your case,  and we'll handle your car accident problem for you and fight for you to get the compensation you deserve for your losses.

FAQ

Will I get compensation if the other driver does not have car insurance?

South Carolina is an at-fault state, and even if the other driver does not have insurance, they are still liable for the damages caused by the accident. Also, you are likely have uninsured motorist (UM) coverage through your insurance policy that will cover damages caused by someone with no insurance.

How do I pay my attorney if I can't go back to work?

Our law firm handles car accidents on a contingency fee basis, which means that you do not have to pay us unless you win. When you are awarded your settlement, our fee will be deducted from your settlement. If you can't go back to work, we may be able to recover damages in lost wages for you as well.

What compensation will I get with a lawyer that I can't get from my insurance company?

South Carolina law stipulates that you are entitled to compensation for all losses if the accident wasn't your fault. That includes medical, property damage, lost wages, mental anguish, and pain and suffering to start.