Should I Call the Police for a Fender Bender?
After being in a car accident, it’s normal for survivors not to know the next steps to take to protect their physical health and legal rights. In South Carolina, you have to call 911 after specific types of motor vehicle accidents. Avoiding this step can be detrimental to the outcome of your future legal case. If you or someone you love was involved in a car crash, reach out to a personal injury attorney in Greenville, SC at Parham, Smith, & Archenhold, LLC, to discuss your legal rights and options.
When to Call 911 After a Car Accident in South Carolina
Every motor vehicle accident is unique, but it’s important to be aware of the general steps to take after a car crash in South Carolina. If you do or say the wrong thing, it can harm your future car accident case. After a fender bender, you need to report the crash if it caused any injury, death, or over $1,000 in property damage.
However, if the incident did not cause injuries or property damage over $1,000, you generally do not have to contact the police and can resolve the incident through your and the other party’s insurance companies.
What to Do After a Motor Vehicle Accident in Greenville, South Carolina
After any car accident, there are specific steps to take to preserve your safety and legal rights. Be sure to:
- Contact 911 if you or the other party is injured and needs medical treatment. Even if you feel okay physically, you may have internal injuries and not realize it until later on.
- Take photos of the car license plate numbers, position of the cars, property damage caused by the accident, damage to your vehicle and other personal belongings, skid marks, and your visible injuries. This evidence is crucial proof for your future legal case.
- Collect the contact and insurance information of the other driver involved in the incident. If the other driver refuses to cooperate, do not argue with them. It may make them reluctant to cooperate in your future car accident case. Instead, wait for the police to arrive at the crash site and explain the situation to them. They can gather the information on your behalf.
- Collect the contact information of anyone nearby who witnessed the accident. During this time, do not apologize to anyone or admit fault in the crash. If you do, it may be used against you later in your case.
- Contact an attorney to help you navigate the next steps in your car accident case.
Contact our Greenville Personal Injury Lawyers Today
Motor vehicle accidents can have devastating and lifelong consequences on survivors. When pursuing a legal case against the party that was responsible for your pain, you need the guidance of a legal professional. The personal injury attorneys at Parham, Smith, & Archenhold, LLC, have decades of experience assisting injured South Carolina residents during their most challenging times in life. Contact us today online or by calling 864-242-9008 to set up a meeting with one of our lawyers to discuss the unique details of your case.