Car wrecks are scary and confusing. At the moment, it is hard to know what to do. That is why it helps to be prepared, especially here in Charleston, where busy roads and tourist traffic can make crashes more stressful.
Whether it is a fender-bender on King Street or a serious wreck on I-26, this guide will help you handle it the right way.
Here is a simple list of dos and don’ts for Charleston locals who have just been in a wreck.
✅ DO: Check for Injuries After a Car Accident
First, see if you or anyone else is hurt. Call 911 if anyone is injured, even if the injury seems small. Do not try to move anyone unless they are in danger. Help is on the way.
✅ DO: Get to a Safe Spot After a Car Wreck
If your car still works, move it to the side of the road or a nearby parking lot. Turn on your hazard lights. If it’s too damaged to move, stay put and wait for police or help.
✅ DO: Call the Police When You Get in an Accident
Even for a minor crash, you will need a report. In Charleston, you can call 911 or the non-emergency number (843-743-7200) if no one is hurt. The officer will file a report, that report can help with insurance and legal issues later.
✅ DO: Take Photos of the Accident Scene
Grab your phone and snap pictures of:
- Both vehicles
- Damage to each car
- Skid marks or road signs
- License plates
- Any injuries
Photos can protect you if there is a dispute.
✅ DO: Exchange Information With the Other Driver
Trade the following with the other driver:
- Full name
- Phone number
- License plate
- Insurance company and policy number
Stay calm. Be polite. But do not admit fault, even if you think you caused the wreck.
✅ DO: Talk to Witnesses After a Car Accident
If someone nearby saw the crash, ask for their name and number. Their version of what happened can help later, especially if the other driver’s story changes.
✅ DO: Get Checked by a Doctor After a Car Accident
Even if you feel fine, see a doctor within 24 – 48 hours. Some injuries, like whiplash, show up late. A medical record also helps link your injury to the crash if you file a claim.
✅ DO: Call Your Insurance After a Car Accident
Call your insurance company as soon as you can. Give them the basic facts, not opinions. Let them handle the details.
✅ DO: Speak With a Charleston Car Accident Lawyer
If you are hurt, the damage is serious, or the other driver would not cooperate, call a local personal injury lawyer. Many offer free consultations. They’ll let you know if you have a case, and protect you from bad insurance deals.
✅ DO: Save Everything After a Car Wreck
Keep all crash – related info in one place:
- Police report
- Photos
- Medical bills
- Repair receipts
- Notes about pain or missed work
Being organized makes the process smoother.
❌ DON’T: Leave the Scene in South Carolina (Hit and Run Risk)
Even if the damage seems small, do not drive off. In South Carolina, leaving the scene of an accident can get you in legal trouble.
❌ DON’T: Admit Fault
You might feel like saying it, but do not. It can be seen as admitting fault, even if you did not cause the crash. Just focus on staying calm and gathering info.
❌ DON’T Skip the Police After a Car Accident
Without a report, you may struggle to file a claim. If there’s more than $1,000 in damage or someone is hurt, the law says you must report it.
❌ DON’T Talk to the Other Driver’s Insurance Without Lawyer
They may try to get a recorded statement. You do not have to give one. In fact, you should not, not without a lawyer.
❌ DON’T Post the Accident on Social Media
Insurance companies may check your posts. What you say online can be used against you. Keep the details private.
❌ DON’T Accept the First Insurance Offer
If the other driver’s insurance offers quick money, do not rush. Once you accept, you can’t ask for more, even if you find out you’re badly hurt or the car needs more repairs.
❌ DON’T Delay Medical Care After a Wreck
If you wait too long, the insurance company might say your injury is not related to the crash. Always get checked out, just in case.
❌ DON’T Assume You’re Fine
Your neck or back might feel okay now, but injuries often take a day or two to show up. Play it safe.
❌ DON’T Go Through a Car Accident Alone
If things feel messy or unfair, call a Charleston attorney. They can deal with the stress while you focus on healing.
Final Thoughts: What to Do After a Car Accident in South Carolina
Car crashes are hard, but you do not have to guess your way through. If you follow these dos and don’ts, you will protect yourself, your health, and your rights.
Save this list. Share it with your family. And if you ever find yourself in a wreck, you will be ready.
Don’t wait. If you’re hurt, overwhelmed, or not sure what to do next, talk to a local car accident lawyer. We offer a free case review and can walk you through your options. Get the help you need before you make a mistake that could cost you.
Disclaimer – This blog is for general information only. It is not legal advice. Every case is different. If you have been in a wreck, speak with a licensed attorney in South Carolina to get advice for your specific situation.