What to Do Immediately After a Car Accident in Charleston, SC

Car accidents can happen in the blink of an eye, leaving you shaken and unsure of what to do next. Taking the right steps immediately after a car accident in Charleston, South Carolina, can protect your health, ensure your safety, and strengthen any potential legal claims. Whether it is a minor fender bender or a serious collision, following these essential steps can make all the difference.

Step-by-Step Guide: What to Do After a Charleston Car Accident

Call 911 Immediately

The first thing to do after any car accident is to call 911. Reporting the accident ensures that emergency responders and law enforcement arrive at the scene to assist and document the incident. The responding officer will provide you with an FR-10, a South Carolina accident form containing critical information about the accident. This form is essential for insurance claims and legal proceedings.

Document the Scene

If you are physically able, gather as much information as possible at the accident scene:

• Take pictures of vehicle damage, skid marks, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
• Collect names and contact information from anyone who witnessed the accident.
• Exchange insurance information with the other driver or drivers involved.

This documentation can provide crucial evidence for your case and help your attorney prove liability.

Seek Medical Attention Promptly

Even if you feel fine immediately after the accident, it is essential to get checked by a medical professional. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal trauma, may not show symptoms right away. Insurance companies often argue against claims when there is a delay in seeking treatment. Protect yourself by visiting the emergency room or your primary care provider as soon as possible and keeping all medical records and follow-up care instructions. Prompt medical evaluation not only ensures your health but also strengthens your injury claim.

Avoid Talking to Insurance Adjusters Without an Attorney

Shortly after an accident, you may be contacted by an insurance adjuster from the at-fault driver’s company. Be cautious, as insurance companies often look for ways to minimize or deny your claim. Do not provide a recorded statement to the other party’s insurer or discuss fault or the extent of your injuries. Instead, contact a South Carolina car accident attorney to handle all communications with insurance companies on your behalf.

Frequently Asked Questions | Car Accidents in Charleston, SC

What should I do if I do not feel injured after the accident?

Even if you feel fine, you should still seek medical attention immediately. Some injuries, such as concussions or internal bleeding, may not show symptoms right away. Prompt medical evaluation ensures your health and provides documentation for potential claims.

How can I prove the other driver was at fault?

Fault is determined based on evidence such as police reports, including the FR-10 form in South Carolina, photographs of the accident scene, and witness statements. Taylor Anderson and his team can help gather and present this evidence effectively.

What is the purpose of the South Carolina FR-10 form?

The FR-10 is a document provided by the responding officer at the accident scene. It includes crucial details, such as the drivers involved and insurance information, which are necessary for filing insurance claims and building your case.

Should I speak to the other driver’s insurance company?

No, it is best to let your attorney handle all communication with the insurance company. Insurance adjusters often look for ways to reduce or deny claims, and providing a recorded statement can jeopardize your case.

How long do I have to file a car accident claim in South Carolina?

In South Carolina, the statute of limitations for car accident claims is three years. However, acting quickly to gather evidence and consult with an attorney is crucial for building a strong case.

Contact Taylor Anderson to Protect Your Rights After a Charleston Car Accident

Being involved in a car accident can be overwhelming, but taking the proper steps can protect your health, rights, and future. Taylor Anderson, a Charleston-based attorney with over 20 years of legal experience, is dedicated to helping accident victims navigate South Carolina’s complex legal system. With a Juris Doctor from the University of Georgia School of Law (cum laude), bar admissions in both South Carolina and Georgia, and recognition as a Martindale-Hubbell Preeminent Lawyer (2021-2023), Taylor Anderson is uniquely qualified to advocate for you.

Taylor Anderson will work to collect and preserve evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and secure the compensation you deserve. Schedule your free consultation today to ensure your rights are protected.

Posted on behalf of Taylor Anderson Law Firm