Story by Joel Berly
July 2, 2025
Accidents can be overwhelming, but knowing what to do next is critical for your safety, legal rights, and insurance claims. Here’s a quick guide to help you handle the aftermath of a car accident in Charleston:
Taking these steps promptly can protect your health, legal rights, and financial well-being after a car accident.
After an accident, your top priority should be ensuring everyone’s safety and getting help as quickly as possible. While the moments immediately following a crash can feel chaotic, staying calm and taking the right steps can help prevent further harm and protect everyone involved.
Start by checking yourself and your passengers for any signs of injury, such as bleeding, pain, or difficulty moving. If someone is hurt, avoid moving them unless there’s an immediate danger, like oncoming traffic or a fire.
If it’s safe to do so, try to move your car out of the road. Turn on your hazard lights, assess the traffic around you, and guide your vehicle to a safer spot – like the shoulder on a highway or a nearby parking lot on city streets. Once parked, engage your parking brake to keep the car stationary.
Before moving your car, take a moment to document the scene. Snap photos of the damage and how the vehicles are positioned. This can be crucial for insurance purposes later. If you can safely step out of your vehicle, move away from traffic and stay visible by using reflective triangles or flares, if you have them. However, if you’re on a busy road with heavy traffic, it might be safer to remain inside your car with your seatbelt fastened.
Keep in mind, leaving your damaged vehicle in a busy intersection or travel lane can cause additional accidents. In South Carolina, you could even be held responsible for any secondary crashes caused by your vehicle.
Once you’ve ensured everyone’s safety and documented the scene, call 911 to get emergency assistance on the way.
After securing the scene, contact 911 immediately if there are any injuries, fatalities, or significant property damage. South Carolina law requires reporting accidents involving these circumstances.
When speaking with the dispatcher, provide clear details about your location, what happened, how many vehicles are involved, and any visible injuries. This information helps emergency responders arrive prepared.
Stay at the scene until help arrives, and follow any instructions given by police or emergency personnel. Even if the accident seems minor, having an official police report can be invaluable when dealing with insurance claims or protecting your legal rights.
If you’re unsure whether your car is safe to drive, wait for the police to assess it. They can let you know if it’s okay to drive or if you’ll need a tow.
Once you’ve ensured everyone’s safety and contacted 911, your next step is to notify the local police to officially document the accident.
Involving the police isn’t just a smart move – it’s often legally required and essential for protecting your rights. Even minor accidents can benefit from an official report to establish a crucial record of what happened.
In South Carolina, you’re legally required to report any car accident that results in injuries, fatalities, or property damage of $1,000 or more. Considering today’s repair costs, even a small fender-bender could easily surpass that amount. According to the South Carolina Department of Public Safety, there were 143,426 motor vehicle collisions statewide in 2022.
If you’re unsure about the extent of the damage, it’s always safer to report the accident. Never agree to skip calling the police, even if someone else suggests it. Failing to report a serious accident can lead to severe consequences, including license suspension or even criminal charges for a hit-and-run.
When the officer arrives, provide your driver’s license, vehicle registration, and insurance information. Clearly explain the sequence of events, including the location, weather conditions, and any injuries or damages. If you have photos or witness contact details, share them with the officer. Stick to the facts and avoid making statements that could be interpreted as admitting fault.
A police report is an official, unbiased record of the accident. It includes critical details like the date, time, location, vehicle descriptions, witness accounts, and any citations issued. This document is essential for filing insurance claims and safeguarding your legal rights.
Insurance companies often rely heavily on police reports to determine fault and liability. Without one, it can be challenging to secure compensation for damages or injuries. Most insurers require a police report to process claims, even if the accident wasn’t your fault.
To get a copy of the report, visit the local police department, check their website for online request options, or ask your attorney for assistance. When speaking with the responding officer, ask how long it will take to process the report – it typically takes 3 to 7 days. If you don’t receive it within that timeframe, follow up. Keep in mind that some jurisdictions may charge a small fee for copies.
A police report can also be a valuable legal safeguard if a lawsuit arises. It contains objective details that can help establish fault or liability and may serve as evidence in court. This documentation can also protect you from false claims later on.
If you realize after leaving the scene that you should have reported the accident, contact the police as soon as possible to explain the situation. Reporting late is far better than not reporting at all, especially given South Carolina’s legal requirements.
Once the police are on their way, it’s time to gather as much evidence as possible. Proper documentation strengthens your case, helps avoid disputes over fault, and ensures you have the materials needed for insurance claims or potential legal actions.
Use your smartphone to take clear photos of everything related to the accident. Start with wide-angle shots that capture the entire scene, including vehicle positions, traffic signs, and road conditions. Then, move closer to document specific details like dents, scratches, broken glass, or deployed airbags. Don’t forget to photograph license plates, visible VIN numbers, and any interior damage to your vehicle. If there are injuries, take pictures of those as well.
Additionally, focus on the road itself – skid marks, debris, potholes, or any hazardous conditions like construction zones can be important. Capture weather conditions too, such as rain, snow, or fog, and include street signs, traffic lights, and landmarks to clearly establish where the accident happened.
Calmly and professionally exchange information with the other driver. Avoid discussing fault or getting into arguments. Share and collect the following:
If the other driver can’t find their insurance card, suggest calling their insurance company on the spot to confirm their details. Also, make a note of the exact location of the accident, including street names and nearby landmarks, as this will be useful for the police report and your insurance claim.
Witnesses can play a key role in clarifying what happened, especially if there’s a dispute over fault. When it’s safe, approach anyone who saw the accident and ask for their contact information – name, phone number, and email address. Politely request a written statement or even a quick voice recording of their account.
Ask specific questions to get detailed observations, such as:
Double-check the details with witnesses to ensure accuracy. Their testimony could make a big difference in resolving any disputes later on.
It’s crucial to seek medical attention immediately after a car accident – even if you feel fine. This step is essential not only for your health but also for protecting your legal rights. Some injuries may not be immediately obvious but can become apparent hours or even days later.
After an accident, your body can go into overdrive, releasing adrenaline that can temporarily mask pain or injuries. This means that symptoms might not show up right away. Common delayed symptoms include headaches, dizziness, neck pain, and signs of concussion or whiplash, which often develop within 24–48 hours.
Whiplash, for instance, is one of the most common delayed-onset injuries, affecting more than 2 million Americans annually. Neck sprains and strains account for about one-third of crash injury claims, and approximately 12% of crash victims are diagnosed with whiplash. Other injuries that may take time to surface include concussions, soft tissue damage, internal bleeding, herniated discs, and even psychological trauma.
For example, a concussion might not cause noticeable headaches or confusion until the next day, while whiplash pain and stiffness often develop over a day or two. Be alert for symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, neck or back pain, numbness, difficulty concentrating, mood swings, or any unusual discomfort in the days following the accident. If these symptoms appear, don’t delay – visit a medical professional right away.
Keep detailed records of every medical visit. Request copies of treatment reports, diagnostic tests, and notes from specialists. These documents will be essential if you need to file an insurance or legal claim.
Additionally, consider maintaining a personal injury journal. Record your daily pain levels, activity restrictions, sleep issues, and emotional well-being. Save all receipts and bills related to your medical care, such as ambulance fees, emergency room charges, prescription costs, physical therapy sessions, and even transportation expenses for doctor visits.
Make sure to report all injuries to both your doctor and your auto insurance provider as soon as possible. Attending every scheduled appointment and following your treatment plan not only ensures proper care but also strengthens your case if you pursue compensation for your injuries.
Acting quickly to get medical care and keeping thorough documentation can prevent long-term complications and provide vital support if you decide to seek compensation. Once your health is stabilized and well-documented, it’s time to consider consulting a Charleston personal injury attorney to protect your rights.
Once your health is stable and your injuries are documented, it’s time to reach out to a personal injury attorney. Acting quickly can make a big difference in securing the compensation you deserve. In fact, it’s often recommended to contact a lawyer as soon as possible after a car accident. Below, we’ll break down when and why hiring an attorney is essential.
If you’ve been injured or are dealing with insurance or liability disputes, don’t wait to get legal help. While South Carolina law gives you three years from the date of your accident to file a personal injury lawsuit, starting sooner helps protect your rights and ensures that critical evidence is preserved.
Here are some situations where contacting a Charleston car accident lawyer immediately is crucial:
Studies show that accident victims who hire an attorney receive settlements that are, on average, 3.5 times higher than those who don’t.
When you’re dealing with liability issues, having experienced local counsel is invaluable. Berly Rouse Attorneys bring extensive knowledge of Charleston and South Carolina’s legal system, making them a strong choice for personal injury cases.
"At Berly Rouse, our experienced Charleston personal injury lawyers fight for the rights of injury victims, helping them secure compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering."
The firm takes the stress off your shoulders by managing every aspect of your case. Their team investigates the accident, calculates damages, negotiates with insurers, and, if necessary, prepares for trial. With their deep understanding of local courts and insurance company tactics, they offer a significant advantage.
Berly Rouse Attorneys handle a wide range of motor vehicle accident cases, including rear-end collisions, T-bone crashes, sideswipes, and multi-car pileups. They also specialize in trucking accidents.
"We push back against insurers and fight for the compensation you deserve."
While most cases – about 95% – are resolved through settlements, having attorneys who are ready to go to trial gives you leverage during negotiations. Berly Rouse Attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you only pay if they win your case. This fee structure ensures they’re fully invested in achieving the best outcome for you.
Gregory Rouse, one of the firm’s founding members, focuses on helping individuals who have been harmed and need legal assistance to move forward. His commitment to personal injury cases means you’ll be working with someone who understands the physical, emotional, and financial toll that accidents can take on victims and their families.
If you’re involved in a car accident in Charleston, taking the right steps promptly can safeguard your health, safety, and legal rights. In 2022 alone, Charleston County reported over 14,000 traffic accidents, with more than 3,000 serious injuries across South Carolina. These numbers highlight the importance of being prepared.
Acting quickly is crucial. Skid marks fade, witnesses’ memories blur, and surveillance footage can disappear. The longer you wait, the harder it becomes to build a strong case for the compensation you deserve.
Start by seeking medical attention immediately, even if you feel fine. Injuries can sometimes take time to show symptoms, and delaying treatment can weaken your claim. Your medical records will serve as critical evidence to support your case.
Understanding legal deadlines is equally important. South Carolina law allows three years to file a personal injury lawsuit, but claims involving government entities must be filed within two years. Missing these deadlines can result in losing your right to seek compensation.
Dealing with insurance companies can feel overwhelming, especially while recovering from an accident. Insurance adjusters often act to protect their company’s interests – not yours. Having an experienced attorney on your side ensures someone is advocating for you while you focus on healing.
Additionally, don’t forget to file required forms, such as the FR-10, within the necessary deadlines to avoid complications with your claim.
If you’ve been injured in a Charleston car accident, consider reaching out to Berly Rouse Attorneys for a free consultation. They specialize in handling cases like motor vehicle collisions and personal injury claims on a contingency basis. With fatal crashes in Charleston County rising by 12%, having knowledgeable local representation can make all the difference.
If the other driver refuses to provide their information after a car accident in Charleston, remain calm and contact the police right away to report the incident. Avoid engaging in arguments or discussing who is at fault.
While waiting for the police to arrive, focus on collecting evidence. Snap photos of the accident scene, any damage to the vehicles, and any visible injuries. If there are witnesses, kindly ask for their names and contact details. Once the authorities are on the scene, share the facts of what happened and allow them to take it from there.
Even if you felt perfectly fine right after a car accident, it’s crucial to pay attention to any symptoms that might show up later. Don’t delay – see a doctor right away to assess your condition. Injuries like whiplash or concussions often don’t become noticeable until hours or even days after the incident. Make sure to keep thorough records of every medical appointment, treatment, and expense. These documents can be critical if you need to pursue a claim.
It’s still possible to seek compensation for injuries that surface later, but quick action is essential. Speaking with a legal expert can help safeguard your rights and ensure you’re covered for medical expenses, including any treatments, medications, or rehabilitation, even if the symptoms appeared well after the accident.
Getting in touch with a personal injury attorney soon after a car accident is crucial for safeguarding your rights and ensuring you get the compensation you’re entitled to. A skilled attorney can navigate the legal process on your behalf, collect important evidence, and help you steer clear of errors that might weaken your case.
They’ll also take on the task of negotiating with insurance companies, making sure you’re not pressured into settling for less than what you’re owed. While they handle the legal complexities, you can focus on your recovery, knowing they’re working to secure compensation for your medical expenses, lost income, and other losses.
If you need experienced legal representation in Charleston, South Carolina, contact Berly Rouse. Our team is ready to help you achieve the best possible outcome. Visit our offices or call today to schedule a consultation to discuss your case.
At Berly Rouse, we’re proud to be a leading law firm in Charleston, SC, committed to serving our community with integrity, dedication, and legal excellence. Let us put our experience to work for you.
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