What to Do After a Car Accident in South Carolina
Knowing what to Do After a Car Accident can be stressful and confusing. Here at Strom Law Firm, we understand the legal challenges that might arise and have prepared this guide to assist you in navigating the aftermath of such an incident in South Carolina.
Car accidents are scary for everyone involved–even witnesses. It may be hard to think straight following a crash, especially if you’ve sustained a head injury. Navigating legal and insurance systems can be difficult. Thankfully, you can hire a South Carolina car accident attorney to help.
Let’s explore what to do after a car accident, including how to dispute a car accident fault and put yourself in a good position should a lawsuit occur.
Immediate Steps After a Car Accident: What to Do After a Car Accident
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Check for Injuries: First, ensure everyone involved is safe. If there are injuries, call 911 immediately for medical help.
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Move to Safety: If possible, move your vehicle out of traffic to avoid further accidents.
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Call the Police: Even for minor accidents, a police report can be crucial for insurance claims and legal proceedings.
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Exchange Information: Gather contact, insurance, and vehicle details from all parties involved.
- Get the contact information for all witnesses.
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Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries.
Legal Steps Following the Accident: What to Do After a Car Accident
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Do Not Admit Fault: Avoid discussing fault or liability at the scene. Let the legal professionals handle this.
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Notify Your Insurance Company: Report the accident to your insurance provider, but be cautious about giving detailed statements until you’ve consulted with a lawyer.
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Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, some injuries might not be immediately apparent.
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Consult with a Lawyer: Contacting a lawyer from Strom Law Firm can help protect your rights and guide you through the legal maze.
Frequently Asked Questions about what to Do After a Car Accident
Q: Should I call the police after a minor car accident?
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Yes, for all accidents, even if they seem minor, having a police report can be invaluable for insurance claims and potential legal issues.
Q: What information should I collect at the accident scene?
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Collect names, contact details, insurance information, vehicle details, and witness statements, if possible.
Q: Can I still claim damages if I’m partly at fault?
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South Carolina operates under a modified comparative negligence rule, under which you can still recover damages if you are less than 50% at fault.
Q: What if the other driver doesn’t have insurance?
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You might still have coverage through your insurance if you have uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.
Q: How long do I have to file a claim after a car accident in South Carolina?
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Generally, you have three years from the accident date to file a personal injury lawsuit.
Protecting Your Rights
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Legal Representation: Our attorneys at Strom Law Firm can represent you, ensuring your rights are protected throughout the legal process.
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Evidence Collection: We’ll help gather all necessary evidence, including medical records, police reports, and more.
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Negotiation: We’ll negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf to ensure you receive fair compensation.
- Fight your ticket: If you were issued any citations at the scene of your accident, you should contest them.
- Stay Off of Social Media: Keep any information about the accident off of your social media accounts.
Why Choose Strom Law Firm?
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Experience: With years in handling personal injury cases, we understand the nuances of car accident claims.
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Client Commitment: We’re dedicated to providing personalized service, focusing on client needs and case outcomes.
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Accessibility: Serving clients across South Carolina, we ensure legal support is never too far away.
Contact Us
Don’t navigate this alone if you’ve been in a car accident. Contact Strom Law Firm for a consultation on how we can help you. We are located at Barrister Hall in Columbia.
