What Should I Do After a Car Accident in Charleston? A Practical Guide for South Carolina Drivers

Quick Summary: Immediate Steps After a Car Accident

• Ensure safety first: Move to a safe location if possible and check for injuries.
• Call 911: Report the accident, even for seemingly minor collisions.
• Document the scene: Take photos, gather witness names, and exchange information.
• Avoid giving statements to insurance companies before speaking with an attorney.

Car accidents are stressful and overwhelming, especially on Charleston’s busy roads and highways. Knowing what to do in the minutes, hours, and days that follow can make a major difference in protecting your health, your rights, and your potential injury claim.

At Jung Disability and Injury Advocates, based in Mount Pleasant and serving the greater Charleston area, we help individuals navigate complex South Carolina personal injury and auto accident claims. Here’s what every driver should know after a crash.

1. Ensure Safety and Call 911

South Carolina law requires drivers to report accidents involving injuries, death, or significant property damage. Calling 911 ensures that law enforcement and medical responders arrive quickly and that an official accident report is created—an essential piece of evidence for your claim.

2. Document the Scene Thoroughly

If you’re able, collect as much information as possible:

• Photos of vehicle damage, road conditions, and injuries
• Names and contact information of witnesses
• Insurance and driver details for all parties involved

A well-documented accident scene can strengthen your case considerably.

3. Seek Medical Care Immediately

Even if you feel “fine,” injuries like concussions, soft tissue damage, and internal trauma may not appear right away. Getting checked by a medical professional protects both your health and your claim.

4. Be Cautious When Speaking With Insurance Companies

South Carolina insurers may ask for recorded statements or try to settle quickly. These early offers often undervalue your claim. Politely decline to provide statements until you’ve spoken with an attorney. Your lawyer can help prevent missteps that could reduce your compensation.

5. Understand South Carolina’s At-Fault System

South Carolina follows an at-fault system, meaning the driver who caused the accident is financially responsible for resulting damages. This includes:

• Medical bills
• Vehicle repairs or replacement
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering

The state also applies modified comparative negligence. You can recover compensation as long as you are not more than 50% responsible for the crash—but your award is reduced by your percentage of fault. Strong legal representation helps ensure insurers don’t assign you more fault than appropriate.

6. How an Attorney Protects Your Rights

Working with an experienced Charleston auto accident attorney provides critical support by:

• Investigating the collision and determining fault
• Communicating with insurance companies on your behalf
• Preserving evidence, medical records, and witness statements
• Pursuing full compensation for your losses
• Representing you in negotiations or litigation

Our team at Jung Disability and Injury Advocates brings more than 30 years of experience advocating for injured South Carolinians. We provide straightforward guidance and help you understand every step of the process.

Learn more about auto accident claims here: https://www.jungdisabilitylaw.com/auto-accident

Schedule a Free Consultation

If you were injured in a car accident in Charleston or the surrounding Lowcountry, we are here to help. Contact Jung Disability and Injury Advocates today to schedule a free injury consultation and discuss your legal options.