Story by Joel Berly
December 5, 2024
Car accidents happen suddenly, and even the most careful drivers can be involved. In 2022, there was one injury collision every 15.4 minutes and one fatal crash every 8.6 hours in South Carolina. Charleston County had the highest total traffic collisions that year, with over 16,000 accidents.
Whether it’s a minor fender bender or a more serious crash, knowing what to do after a car accident in Charleston can help you protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome.
Learn the steps to take after a collision and how our experienced motor vehicle collision attorneys at Berly Rouse can help you seek maximum compensation.
Your priority after an accident should be making sure everyone is safe. Move your vehicle out of traffic to avoid secondary accidents if you can. Don’t forget to turn on your hazard lights, and if you have road flares or warning triangles, set them up to warn other drivers.
Once you’re safe, call the police, even if the accident seems minor. State 56-5-1270 requires a report to be filed if the accident results in bodily injury, death, or $1,000 or more in property damage on Form FR-309. After the report is filed, get a copy for your records. When the police arrive, cooperate fully but avoid admitting fault. Even casual statements like ‘I’m sorry’ can complicate your ability to recover compensation later, as the full picture of the accident might not be apparent until a thorough investigation has been conducted.
Even if you feel fine, seeking medical attention as soon as possible after a car accident is important. Injuries like head trauma, whiplash, and internal damage sometimes don’t show up for hours or days but can become serious if left untreated.
Prompt medical care is also essential for your car accident case. Documentation such as medical records, treatment logs, or prescriptions can connect your injuries to the accident, demonstrate their seriousness, and help you seek compensation for medical expenses in an insurance or legal claim.
Often, car accident claims rely on evidence gathered at the crash site to determine liability. If you’re able, collect the following evidence while you’re still at the scene:
If you’re unable to gather this evidence due to your injuries, a skilled car crash attorney can help. At Berly Rouse, we will investigate the collision, contact witnesses, and work with experts to reconstruct what occurred. This allows us to build a strong claim on your behalf while you focus on recovery.
When notifying your insurance company, provide the necessary details, but be careful not to admit fault or downplay your injuries. It’s often best to consult with a personal injury lawyer before giving a detailed statement to the insurance company. Our team will handle all communications with insurers, protecting your rights during this vulnerable time.
Insurance companies may offer an early settlement to resolve the case quickly. While this may seem convenient, it’s important not to accept any settlement offer without consulting a qualified car accident attorney.
Early offers typically don’t cover the full extent of medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. An attorney can evaluate the offer and negotiate for a fairer amount that reflects the actual value of your claim.
If you’ve been injured or involved in a serious accident, working with a local Charleston car accident lawyer who understands South Carolina’s specific laws is crucial. At Berly Rouse, we bring decades of experience handling Charleston cases like yours, and our track record speaks for itself.
We know the local courts, understand the nuances of South Carolina car accident laws and have successfully helped countless clients navigate complex insurance claims and lawsuits. Whether it’s recovering compensation for lost wages, medical expenses, or pain and suffering, we’ll fight to ensure you get the maximum compensation possible.
South Carolina has a statute of limitations for personal injury cases, which means you have a limited time to file a claim after a car accident. For motor vehicle collisions, the standard timeline is three years from the accident date.
The sooner you act, the better your chances of preserving evidence and building a solid case. Waiting too long can jeopardize your ability to recover compensation for injuries and other losses.
The aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with injuries and insurance companies. Taking the proper steps with assistance from our experienced Charleston car accident attorneys at Berly Rouse can help you pursue a fair settlement for your losses.
Reach out to our team today for a free case evaluation. We can help you receive the financial support you need to rebuild your life after a collision.
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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