What Should You Do After A Car Accident?
A car accident of any severity can be terrifying and cloud your judgment. We have found that many South Carolina residents and visitors panic after an auto accident and fail to take the necessary actions to protect their health and best interests.
Serving South Carolina’s injured since 1999, we understand what you should do after a motor vehicle accident. If you are involved in a collision, follow the steps below and call Chandler Law Firm at 843-448-HELP (4357) to discuss your case during a free initial case consultation.
Seven Key Steps After An Accident
Always first seek emergency medical attention if required. Otherwise, we recommend following the steps listed below:
- Call the police. While you are only legally required to notify the police of an accident in the case of injury or death, we recommend always calling the police after an accident. Some serious injuries, including head and spine injuries, are not immediately apparent. You will need an official police report if you decide to file a personal injury claim later on.
- Take pictures. Document damage to either vehicle, visible injuries and any environmental factors that contributed to the accident.
- Record the other party’s information. Write down the other driver’s name, address, phone number and insurance information. You may ask to take a picture of his or her driver’s license.
- Talk to accident witnesses. If other drivers or pedestrians witnessed the accident, ask for their names and contact information in case they later need to verify your account of the accident.
- Seek medical attention. If you did not require emergency medical attention, undergo a thorough medical examination soon after the accident. Ask the doctor for a copy of the report.
- Keep a detailed accident folder. Maintain a folder of medical bills, repair bills, the police report, lost wages and any other information relevant to your accident. This can be useful for both insurance and personal injury claims.
- Speak with an attorney. Do not speak with an insurance agent without first speaking with an experienced auto accident attorney. Insurance providers look for opportunities to minimize or reject claims. A skilled lawyer can tell you what you should or should not say to protect your case.
The circumstances surrounding each accident differ. Speak with an attorney to learn what actions to take given your unique situation.
Contact Our Experienced Legal Team
If you are involved in a motor vehicle accident due to a distracted, drunk or otherwise negligent driver, Chandler Law Firm can carefully analyze your case and advise you on your best next steps.
Call our Myrtle Beach office at 843-448-HELP (4357) to schedule a free initial case consultation. You may also contact our firm online. Cases are accepted on a contingency basis. You do not pay us unless we secure compensation on your behalf.