Being involved in a car accident is stressful and can turn your day upside down. While dealing with the shock and adrenaline, one of the most important things you can do is file a car accident report. In South Carolina, knowing how and when to file a report can make a big difference, especially when protecting your rights and navigating the aftermath smoothly.
In this blog, our Charleston car accident lawyers will walk you through the process so you’re prepared if the unexpected happens.
When Should You File a Car Accident Report?
In South Carolina, you need to file a car crash report under certain conditions:
- Someone is hurt: If anyone is injured, you should report the accident immediately.
- There’s significant damage: If the damage to any vehicle or property seems to be over $1,000, it’s time to file a report.
- The other driver doesn’t have insurance: If you find out the other driver is uninsured, make sure you report it to protect yourself.
Even if the accident doesn’t fit these scenarios, filing a report can still be a good idea. That way, you create an official record of what happened, which can be helpful later.
Steps to File a Car Accident Report in South Carolina
- Call the Police: If someone is hurt or the damage is severe, call 911 immediately. When the police arrive, they’ll document everything, gather information from everyone involved, and create an official report. This report can be a lifesaver when dealing with insurance or legal matters later.
- Collect Information at the Scene: While waiting for the police, try to gather as much information as possible. This includes:
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- Names and contact details of everyone involved
- License plate numbers
- Insurance details
- Names and contact information of any witnesses
- Photos of the scene, including the damage and any injuries
Having this info on hand will make filing the report and dealing with insurance much easier.
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- File a Report with the DMV: If the police don’t come to the scene, you must file a “Traffic Collision Report” (Form FR-309) with the South Carolina DMV within 15 days. This is a must if the accident meets the reporting criteria. You can download Form FR-309 from the DMV website, fill it out with all the details, and send it to the address provided on the form.
- Let Your Insurance Company Know: After you’ve filed the report, contact your insurance company as soon as possible. Share the accident details and provide a copy of the report if you have one. Your insurer will guide you through the claims process, helping you get the coverage you need for repairs and medical bills.
- Keep Everything Organized: Make sure to keep copies of everything—police reports, Form FR-309, and any communication with your insurance company. Having these documents handy can be incredibly useful if you need to refer back to them or if any issues come up later.
Why Filing a Car Accident Report is Important
Filing a car accident report isn’t just a box to check—it’s an essential step in protecting yourself. An official report helps create a clear record of what happened, which can be crucial when dealing with insurance claims, figuring out who’s at fault, and handling legal issues.
Proving what happened can be much tougher without a report, which might make it harder to get the compensation you need.
Need Help After an Accident? Contact a Charleston Car Accident Attorney at Phipps Law Firm
Dealing with the aftermath of car accidents can feel overwhelming, especially when juggling injuries, damage, and insurance claims. If you’re unsure how to file a report or need help with your claim, Phipps Law Firm is here to help.
Our Charleston car accident lawyer team understands the ins and outs of car accident cases and can help guide you through the legal process, protecting your rights every step of the way. Contact us today for a consultation, and let us help you get back on your feet.
