North Charleston Car Accident Lawyer: What to Do After a Crash in South Carolina

Car accidents can flip your life upside down in seconds. One minute you’re heading down Rivers Avenue or merging onto I-26, and the next you’re dealing with damage, injuries, and insurance calls you didn’t ask for. If you’ve been hit in North Charleston, knowing the right steps — and your rights under South Carolina law — can protect your health and your claim.

Below is a practical guide from Doughty Law to help you steady the situation and avoid common mistakes that cost people money later.

1) Get Safe and Call 911

Safety comes first. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately. Even if injuries feel “minor,” adrenaline hides pain, and a police report becomes a key piece of evidence later. South Carolina drivers must report crashes that involve injury, death, or significant property damage.

2) Document Everything at the Scene

If you can do so safely, gather:

• Photos/video of vehicle damage, skid marks, debris, traffic lights, and weather
• The other driver’s license, plate, and insurance info
• Witness names and numbers
• A quick voice memo of what happened while your memory is fresh

These details often matter more than people realize once insurers start debating fault.

3) Get Medical Care Right Away

Go to urgent care, the ER, or your primary doctor as soon as possible. Delaying treatment gives the insurance company room to argue your injuries weren’t caused by the crash. Keep a folder of:

• ER/doctor notes
• Imaging results
• Prescriptions
• Follow-up visits
• Out-of-pocket costs

4) Be Careful What You Say to Insurance

Expect a call within a day or two. The adjuster may sound friendly — but their job is to minimize payouts. Tips:

• Don’t guess about injuries or speed
• Don’t say “I’m fine” if you’re not sure
• Don’t sign anything quickly
• Don’t accept a settlement before you understand your full medical outlook

5) Understand South Carolina Fault Rules

South Carolina uses modified comparative negligence. That means you can recover damages only if you’re less than 51% at fault — and your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault.

Example:

• If a jury says your damages are $100,000, but you were 20% at fault, you recover $80,000.
• If you’re 51% or more at fault, you recover nothing.

This is why early investigation and evidence matter.

6) Don’t Miss the Deadline

In most SC car accident injury cases, you have three years from the date of the crash to file a lawsuit. Waiting too long can permanently bar your claim — even if liability is obvious.

7) When a Lawyer Can Help Most

Call a lawyer if you’re dealing with:

• Injuries requiring ongoing care
• A totaled car or major repairs
• A crash involving a commercial vehicle
• A dispute about who caused the wreck
• Pressure to settle quickly
• Uninsured/underinsured drivers

Doughty Law helps accident victims in North Charleston fight for full compensation — not lowball offers.

Talk to Doughty Law Today

If you were hurt in a North Charleston car accident, you don’t have to handle the insurance company alone. Doughty Law can review your case, explain your options, and pursue the recovery you deserve. Call today to schedule a consultation.