Curtis Dayson | Updated On: March 6, 2025 | Uncategorized
Being involved in a hit-and-run accident is a stressful and overwhelming experience. Not only do you have to deal with the physical and emotional trauma of the crash, but you also have the added complication of the other driver fleeing the scene. In South Carolina, hit-and-run accidents are unfortunately common, but there are steps you can take to protect yourself, your health, and your legal rights. Here’s what you need to know about handling a hit-and-run accident in Charleston or Columbia, SC.
1. Stay Calm and Assess Your Situation
The first and most important thing is to stay calm. A hit-and-run can leave you feeling shaken, but focusing on your immediate well-being is essential. Ensure you’re safe and check if others involved in the accident need medical attention. If possible, move your vehicle out of traffic to avoid further danger.
Once you’re in a safe position, take stock of the situation and begin to assess any physical and emotional injuries. Even if you don’t feel badly hurt, seeking medical attention after an accident is always a good idea.
2. Call the Police Immediately
In South Carolina, you must legally report any accident involving injury or significant property damage to the police. This is even more crucial in hit-and-run cases, where the driver responsible has fled the scene.
By calling the police, you ensure that an official report is made, which can be crucial for your insurance claim and any legal proceedings. The police will document the scene, gather any evidence, and potentially collect eyewitness statements that could help identify the hit-and-run driver. Be sure to provide the police with as much information as you can, including:
- The time and location of the accident
- The make, model, and color of the vehicle (if you saw the car before it fled)
- Any identifying features such as license plate numbers, bumper stickers, or damage to the vehicle
- Information about the scene that could help (such as road conditions or nearby landmarks)
3. Gather Evidence at the Scene
While the police will investigate the hit-and-run, you should also do your best to gather evidence at the scene. Take photos of your vehicle, any damage, and the surrounding area: document skid marks, debris, or other visible signs of the crash. Look around for security cameras or nearby businesses that might have captured footage of the accident.
Even if the other driver fled, their vehicle may have been damaged during the crash, which can help you track them down later. Get their contact information if there are any witnesses, as they can provide valuable testimony.
4. Notify Your Insurance Company
As soon as possible after the accident, notify your insurance company about the hit-and-run. In South Carolina, your insurance policy may have provisions that cover hit-and-run accidents, especially if you carry uninsured motorist coverage. This type of coverage can help pay for medical bills, car repairs, and even lost wages resulting from the accident.
Be prepared to provide your insurer with the details of the accident, including the police report, photos, and any witness statements. Ensure you’re transparent about the hit-and-run circumstances and your efforts to identify the fleeing driver. The sooner you report the accident to your insurance company, the better.
5. Consider Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage
South Carolina law does not require drivers to have uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage, but it’s highly recommended. This type of coverage will protect you if you’re in an accident with a driver who either doesn’t have insurance or doesn’t have enough insurance to cover your damages. In hit-and-run cases, if the at-fault driver is never identified, your uninsured motorist coverage will typically kick in to cover your damages.
If you don’t have this coverage or are unsure about what your policy includes, it’s important to discuss your options with your insurance company. If you haven’t purchased it, consider adding this coverage for future incidents.
6. Contact an Experienced Lawyer
Dealing with the aftermath of a hit-and-run accident can be complex, and having an experienced personal injury lawyer on your side can make all the difference. A lawyer can help:
- Investigate the accident and determine who was at fault
- Navigate the complex insurance claims process, especially if the other driver is unidentified
- Help you understand your rights and ensure you’re fully compensated for your injuries and damages
- Take legal action if necessary to pursue a claim against the responsible party
Hit-and-run cases can be tricky, but with an experienced hit-and-run accident attorney, you’ll have someone who understands the intricacies of personal injury law in South Carolina and can help you maximize your recovery.
7. Keep Track of Your Injuries and Expenses
After a hit-and-run accident, keeping detailed records of your injuries, treatments, and related expenses is essential. This includes:
- Doctor’s visits and treatments
- Prescription medications and medical bills
- Any lost wages due to your injuries
- Transportation costs for medical appointments
These records will be invaluable when you pursue a claim with your insurance company or in court. Document any pain or limitations you’re experiencing and journal how the accident affects your daily life.
8. Consider Your Legal Options
In some cases, the at-fault driver in a hit-and-run accident may be identified after further investigation. If this happens, you may have the option to pursue compensation through a personal injury lawsuit against the driver. If caught, you can hold them financially responsible for your damages.
If the driver is never located, your lawyer may help you pursue other legal avenues, such as claims under your uninsured motorist policy or through third-party liability claims (if other parties contributed to the accident, like an improperly maintained road).
9. Stay Patient and Trust the Process
Hit-and-run cases can take time, especially if the police must track down the fleeing driver or if insurance companies drag their feet. However, it’s crucial to stay patient throughout the process. Trust that you have legal options, and with the proper representation, you can work toward getting the compensation you deserve.
Conclusion: Taking Action After a Hit-and-Run Accident in South Carolina
If you’ve been the victim of a hit-and-run accident in Charleston or Columbia, SC, know that you don’t have to handle the aftermath alone. Taking the proper steps immediately after the accident—seeking medical care, documenting the scene, and contacting the authorities—can make a big difference in protecting your rights and ability to recover damages.
The complexities of hit-and-run cases require an experienced lawyer who can deal with the legal and insurance challenges involved. Working with a dedicated hit-and-run accident attorney can increase your chances of a favorable outcome, whether through your insurance policy or a legal claim.
Contact Us for a Free Consultation
If you’ve been in a hit-and-run accident in South Carolina, our team at Dayson Shalabi Burkett, LLC is here to help. We specialize in personal injury cases and will fight for your rights. Call (843) 388-3368 or contact us to schedule a free consultation. Don’t wait—let us help you get the compensation you deserve.