Car accidents can be distressing and overwhelming experiences, even more so when you’re not at fault. Whether it’s a minor fender-bender or a more serious collision, knowing what to do in the aftermath is crucial for your safety and well-being. In Myrtle, like anywhere else, there are specific steps you should take to protect yourself and your interests. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what to do after a car accident in Myrtle that’s not your fault.It’s also advisable to consider consulting with a Myrtle Beach personal injury lawyer to understand your legal options and ensure you receive fair compensation for any damages or injuries sustained.
Stay Calm and Assess the Situation:
- After a car accident, it’s natural to feel panicked or shaken. However, try to remain calm and assess the situation.
- Check yourself and others involved for injuries. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately.
Move to a Safe Location:
- If the accident is minor and it’s safe to do so, move your vehicle to the side of the road to avoid blocking traffic and prevent further accidents.
- Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
Exchange Information:
- Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver(s) involved in the accident. Key details to collect include names, addresses, phone numbers, driver’s license numbers, license plate numbers, and insurance policy details.
- It’s also helpful to gather contact information from any witnesses present at the scene.
Document the Scene:
- Take photographs of the accident scene, including the vehicles involved, any visible damage, road conditions, traffic signs, and signals.
- Make notes about the sequence of events leading up to the accident while they’re still fresh in your mind.
Contact Law Enforcement:
- In Myrtle, it’s essential to report any car accident to the police, regardless of its severity.
- Call the non-emergency number for the Myrtle Beach Police Department or dial 911 if there are injuries or significant property damage.
Seek Medical Attention:
- Even if you don’t feel injured immediately after the accident, it’s crucial to seek medical attention.
- Some injuries, such as whiplash or internal injuries, may not manifest symptoms until hours or days later. Documenting your injuries is essential for insurance claims.
Notify Your Insurance Company:
- Contact your insurance provider as soon as possible to report the accident and initiate the claims process.
- Provide your insurer with accurate and detailed information about the accident and cooperate fully with their investigation.
Consult with a Legal Professional:
- If you’ve been involved in a car accident that wasn’t your fault, consider consulting with a Conway Personal Injury Lawyer in Myrtle.
- An experienced attorney can help protect your rights, navigate the complexities of insurance claims, and pursue compensation for damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Follow Up and Keep Records:
- Keep track of all medical treatment and expenses related to the accident, including doctor’s visits, prescriptions, and therapy sessions.
- Maintain a record of communication with insurance companies, law enforcement, medical providers, and any legal professionals involved in your case.
Know Your Rights:
- Familiarize yourself with South Carolina’s laws regarding car accidents and insurance claims.
- Remember that you have the right to seek fair compensation for your losses and damages if you’ve been injured due to another driver’s negligence.
Contact our Seasoned Myrtle Beach Car Accident Lawyer
Contact our Myrtle Beach Car Accident lawyer to know about the legal aspects of your case, so you can focus all your energy on healing.