If you have ever been in a car accident, the experience can be emotional. Whether it is a minor fender-bender or a more serious collision, we should all take accidents seriously. If you browse through our website, it won’t take long to see how often car accidents happen here in South Carolina. Unfortunately, some accidents may also end in fatalities.
Do you know what to do if you are involved in a car accident? How you respond after the initial moments can play a critical role in receiving compensation if necessary. One of the first steps is to stay calm. Although emotions may be at their peak, stick to the facts when talking about the situation. Do not admit fault for the accident.
If you are involved in an accident, don’t fall for these missteps:
Leaving the scene of an accident Did you know that it is a crime in South Carolina if you leave the scene of an accident too early? The law requires that you stop if a crash causes property damage, injury, or death. If your accident checks any of these boxes, the law requires that you stop. You may only leave if law enforcement gives you an OK to go or if you are transported to a hospital for medical care.
1. Leaving out law enforcement
No matter how minor your accident may feel, it is best to always call law enforcement. Start by calling 911 to see if you need medical attention. The police can be the first post-accident witnesses to provide a police report. Law enforcement must be called for injuries, deaths, and property damage, so you must obey the law.
2. Leaving without photos
For accidents, a picture can be worth so much more when it is time to discuss the severity of an accident or injury. Take pictures of the scene before your car is moved or towed. We encourage you to get at least four exterior shots, interior shots, and shots of the surrounding scene. Remember to take photos of both cars and focus on the details. Remember to take photos of glass, debris, skid marks, and more.
3. Leaving out the details
Are you paying attention to the surroundings of the accidents? Now is the time to take notes. You may need them in the future. Think about your actions as the driver. Did you obey the traffic laws? Now, consider the other driver. Did you notice anything that concerned you about their behavior? From intoxicated driving to speeding, each of these details matters.
4. Leaving out a lawyer
If you realize that you need a lawyer after an accident, don’t ignore the recommendation. An experienced lawyer can help you make the right steps after your accident to help you receive the proper compensation. Contact our experienced accident lawyers today to avoid missteps. We discourage you from handling legal matters without representation.
For a full list of other post-accident recommendations, visit our website. We also share handy items to keep in your car in case an accident becomes a part of your day.
Contact Our South Carolina Car Accident Lawyers Today
A car accident can leave a lasting impact. We’re here to help. If you are hurt in a car accident, we can provide support for a wide range of cases. Contact the experienced car accident attorneys at Jebaily Law Firm today for help with rear-end collisions, T-bone collisions, sideswipe accidents, head-on crashes, and rollovers. Reach out now for a free, no-obligation consultation.
