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(864) 582-0416 (864) 582-0416 Being involved in a car wreck can be disorienting, upsetting, and stressful. However, knowing how to handle the situation and remaining calm can help you keep those involved safe while protecting your legal rights. Understanding the best actions to take following a collision can also help ensure your insurance or injury claim progresses smoothly.
If you have questions about what steps to take after a Spartanburg car accident, an experienced car accident attorney at Holland & Usry can help. Contact our office today to schedule a FREE case review.
There are several steps drivers should take following a vehicle accident in Spartanburg, including:
The first step following an accident is to stop the vehicle where it is safe to do so and turn on the hazard lights. If the area is busy, move out of the flow of traffic to prevent additional collisions. Drivers should then assess themselves and other passengers for injuries and call for help if necessary. It is important not to move anybody with serious injuries unless they are in immediate danger, for example, if the car is on fire.
Drivers should never leave the scene of an accident, as police officers could consider it a hit-and-run, which has serious criminal consequences. An exception would be if the driver needs to move an injured person to safety, but they should inform the other drivers involved before doing so.
The next step is to report the accident to law enforcement, particularly if there are injuries, significant property damage, or disputes with other drivers. A police officer’s accident report is an official document that is essential to an insurance claim or personal injury case should it move into civil court.
Next, drivers should exchange details with the other motorists involved in the collision, including:
If there are witnesses, drivers should obtain their contact information as well. They should then begin gathering documents to support their claim, such as photos or videos of vehicle damage and the accident scene, which could include skid marks or relevant traffic signs.
Insurance companies usually require drivers to report an accident within 24 hours following the collision, so it is important to notify them as soon as possible. While drivers should provide general details, they should avoid discussing settlement amounts or giving a recorded statement before speaking with an experienced attorney.
Even if drivers feel fine and do not suffer injuries that require immediate medical attention, they should still have a doctor examine them soon after the accident. This is because some injuries, such as whiplash or concussion, may take time to appear.
In addition to police reports, correspondence, and repair estimates, medical records and bills are important to support an insurance claim. Our knowledgeable legal team can advise on the necessary documentation and answer any questions about the claims process.
In Spartanburg, all drivers have a duty to report an accident after a vehicle collision and should follow the correct procedure to do so. This is important not only for an insurance claim or court case but also to avoid receiving any penalties.
When reporting an accident, drivers must provide their name, license information, and proof of automobile insurance. Failure to comply with reporting requirements could lead to misdemeanor charges and driver’s license suspension.
Understanding what steps to take after a Spartanburg car accident is essential to protect your rights in the aftermath. At Holland & Usry, we can help you throughout the process and ensure you have everything you need to obtain a just settlement.
If you have sustained injuries in a vehicle collision, contact our office today to schedule your FREE case review.
