1. Prioritize Your Safety First

2. Call Local Law Enforcement

Many people don’t call local law enforcement authorities in minor accidents. Reporting the crash is essential, no matter how minor or little damage is done to the cars. An official police report provides the necessary documentation for insurance claims and could help with potential legal actions. .

3. Exchange Information

Be sure to collect all necessary information from the other driver(s), including the following: 

• Full name and contact information 
• Driver’s license number and issuing state 
• Insurance company name and policy number 
• Vehicle make, model, and license plate number. Be sure to gather any contact information of witnesses who may have seen the accident. 

4. Document the Scene of the Accident

One thing that may be very helpful in any situation is to be sure you document the accident scene. Take photos of the following: 

• Accident scene 
• Vehicle Damage to your and the other driver’s car 
• Skid marks 
• Road conditions 
• Any injuries to yourself and the other occupants in the car 
• If you have a dash cam, be sure to save it to show who was at fault 

5. Notify Your Insurance Company

Be sure to report the accident to your insurance company is very important, and we encourage you to do it as soon as possible. Most insurance companies have 24/7 claim lines or mobile apps to make the process seamless. Even if the accident is not your fault, reporting it in a timely manner helps protect your rights.

6. Seek Medical Attention

If you felt that you didn’t need medical attention at the accident scene, we recommend you still get checked out. You may feel fine initially; however, some injuries, like whiplash or concussions, may not show right away. When you visit a doctor or an urgent care facility, be sure to document if you should have any injuries.

7. Be Cautious About What You Say

Before you admit that you’re at fault at the accident scene, we recommend that you avoid saying it casually out loud. When speaking with the law enforcement officer, the other driver(s), and even insurance representatives, stick to the facts. Liability can be very complicated, especially when different state laws are involved.

8. Understand the Impact of Different State Laws

This part can be deceiving for many, as each state has laws regarding fault, insurance coverage, and filing deadlines (also known as statutes of limitations). South Carolina may have different rules than North Carolina or Florida. That’s why we recommend you consult with a knowledgeable attorney, which is crucial if you’re involved in an out-of-state accident.

9. Consult an Experienced Attorney

At Harmon & Felts, we guide visitors and residents through the legal process and work tirelessly to seek the compensation they deserve. We understand the importance of helping those who may have been injured or believe they weren’t at fault for the accident that happened. Our experienced South Carolina personal injury attorneys know the laws of South Carolina and the differences between out-of-state laws.