Steps to Take After a Hit and Run Accident

South Carolina law is clear: all drivers involved in an accident must stop their vehicle and remain at the scene. Unfortunately, many drivers choose to flee after causing a crash. Hit-and-run accidents are more common than most people realize and can leave victims dealing with significant property damage, injuries, and uncertainty. Below, our car accident lawyer in Florence outlines the key steps to take after a hit-and-run collision in South Carolina.

Step 1: Call the Police (First Step)

Dial 911. In South Carolina, leaving the scene of an accident with property damage is a criminal offense, and police will treat it seriously, especially if the damage is significant. You should provide the police with all the details you can recall about the fleeing vehicle. Even seemingly simple things, such as color, make, model, partial plate, and direction of travel, can make a significant difference. The driver may still be tracked down.

Note: Medical needs are always a top priority. If you suffered any injury in a hit-and-run crash, you must see a doctor right away.

Step 2: Document Everything on the Scene

Do not waste time. Hit-and-run accident cases require a proactive approach. Take high-quality photos of your damaged vehicle, debris on the road, skid marks, and any nearby property damage. You should also look for traffic cameras, security cameras, or nearby businesses that may have captured the impact on video. Finally, try to obtain the contact information for any witnesses.

Step 3: Notify Your Insurance Company Right Away

You may have a claim through your own insurance policy. Indeed, that path is often the best approach in hit-and-run cases. South Carolina requires uninsured motorist (UM) coverage in every auto policy. Notably, this type of coverage applies to hit-and-run crashes. Of course, insurers do not just hand over money: You need to follow their procedures to the letter. A South Carolina accident lawyer can help you navigate a UM/UIM claim.

Step 4: Get a Professional Vehicle Damage Assessment

Significant damage means you can expect a substantial repair bill. In the worst cases, you may even face a total loss. With that in mind, you should have a trusted body shop or adjuster provide a detailed written estimate. You should be sure to keep every receipt, tow bill, and rental car invoice. The documentation is crucial for your claim. In South Carolina, a vehicle is considered a total loss when the cost of repairs (including parts and labor) equals or exceeds 75% of the vehicle’s fair market value.

Contact Our Florence, SC Car Accident Attorney Today

At The Law Office of D. Craig Brown, LLC, our Florence car accident lawyer has the skills and experience to handle hit-and-run accident claims. If you have any questions about a hit-and-run crash, please do not hesitate to contact us today for a free case review. With offices in Florence and Orangeburg, we handle hit-and-run accident injury cases throughout the region.