Documentation to Gather After a Car Accident in South Carolina

The South Carolina Department of Public Safety (SCDPS) reports that tens of thousands of people are hurt in motor vehicle collisions in our state each year. Were you one of them? You must know how to protect your rights and your interests. You need all relevant documentation after a traffic collision. Our car accident lawyers in Orangeburg and Florence can provide an overview of the documentation that you need after a crash in South Carolina.

Get the Official Police Accident Report

All injury crashes in South Carolina should be reported to law enforcement. After any collision in South Carolina, obtaining the official police report is essential. It is a key form of documentation. While the contents of a police report can vary, it will usually include contact details, insurance information, and statements from witnesses. It serves as critical evidence for insurance claims and potential legal action. Our legal team can help you track down a copy of the police report after a crash.

Crash Scene Photos and Vehicle Damage Documentation

Visual evidence can be very compelling in an accident. Crash scene photos preserve evidence that may disappear quickly. With that in mind, you should do your best to take clear pictures of all vehicles, the roadway, debris, weather conditions, and any visible injuries. You should include close-up and wide shots to show context. As a general rule, the more pictures you take of a car crash, the better. If you have duplicate photos, you can delete them after your car accident claim has been fully resolved.

Your Written Statement and Post-Crash Timeline

As soon as possible after the crash, you should try to write a detailed personal account of what happened. Among other things, you should include the time, location, road conditions, and every observation you remember. It is also best to note whether you heard screeching tires, saw traffic signals change, or noticed another driver’s distracted behavior. A written record created soon after the incident carries strong credibility because it reflects unaltered recollections.

Medical Records, Bills, and Treatment Notes

Finally, you must seek medical treatment after a car accident in South Carolina. Medical records are key to any car accident injury claim. Even if injuries seem minor, you should always seek prompt medical care after a collision. Medical records document the diagnosis, treatment plan, and prognosis for all accident-related injuries. Comprehensive medical records can help connect the crash directly to your physical harm.

Our Florence or Orangeburg, SC, Attorneys Can Help

D. Craig Brown has dedicated auto accident attorneys standing by, ready to protect your rights. Have questions about car accident documentation? We are more than happy to help. Contact us now or schedule an online case review. With offices in Florence and Orangeburg, we handle motor vehicle accident claims throughout South Carolina.