What to Do After a Car Accident in South Carolina: A Step-by-Step Legal Guide

By Trey Josephs • 06/17/2025

Getting into a car accident can be disorienting and frightening. Knowing what to do immediately afterward can make a big difference in your safety, your ability to recover damages, and your peace of mind. Here’s a step-by-step guide tailored for drivers in South Carolina.

Step 1: Prioritize Safety First, check yourself and others for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately. If the vehicles are drivable and no one is seriously injured, move them to a safe location to prevent further accidents.

Step 2: Call Law Enforcement Under South Carolina law, you must report accidents involving injury, death, or property damage over $1,000. Calling the police ensures there is an official accident report, which can be critical for your insurance claim and any potential legal case.

Step 3: Exchange Information Collect the following details from the other driver(s):

Name and contact info
Insurance details
Driver’s license number
Vehicle registration info

Also, gather contact information from any witnesses.

Step 4: Document the Scene Use your phone to take photos and videos of:

Vehicle damage
Road conditions
Traffic signs and signals
Any visible injuries
The overall scene, from multiple angles

Step 5: Seek Medical Attention Even if you feel fine, get a medical evaluation as soon as possible. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal trauma, may not show symptoms right away. Medical records will also support your injury claim.

Step 6: Notify Your Insurance Company Report the accident to your insurer as soon as possible. Stick to the facts and avoid speculating or admitting fault. Be cautious with what you say—your statements can impact your claim.

Step 7: Consult a South Carolina Car Accident Attorney Before accepting any settlement or speaking with the other party’s insurance adjuster, contact an experienced personal injury attorney. At Josephs Law Firm, PA, we can help you understand your rights, gather evidence, and maximize your compensation.

Local Resources for South Carolina Drivers:

South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (scdmvonline.com)
Local emergency rooms and urgent care centers in Columbia and surrounding areas
South Carolina Highway Patrol accident reports

Final Thoughts Accidents are stressful, but knowing what to do can help you regain control. Josephs Law Firm, PA is here to support you through every step of the legal process.