You never expected your day to end in a crash. But now you're dealing with car accident injuries, mounting medical bills, and a flurry of calls from insurance companies. If you’re unsure what to do next, you're not alone. Many accident victims in Myrtle Beach face the same confusion after a wreck—and taking the right steps early can make all the difference in your car accident claim.
Here’s a clear, step-by-step guide to help you file your car accident claim in South Carolina and protect your right to fair compensation.
Step 1: Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Even if your injuries seem minor, get checked out by a medical professional. Some car accident injuries—like whiplash, internal bleeding, or concussions—may not appear right away. Visiting the emergency room or your primary care doctor creates vital medical records that can support your car accident case later on.
Delaying treatment can not only make your injuries worse but also give the insurance company an excuse to question the severity of your condition.
Step 2: Report the Crash and Get the Police Report
Always call the police after a car wreck in Myrtle Beach, especially if there are injuries or property damage. The responding officer will create a traffic collision report that documents the accident scene, driver’s license numbers, witness statements, and initial fault assessments.
This accident report is a critical piece of evidence when filing a car accident claim with the at fault driver’s insurance company—or your own insurance provider if needed.
Step 3: Document Everything at the Accident Scene
If you're able, gather information at the scene. Take photos of vehicle damage, skid marks, the intersection, and any visible injuries. Get names and contact details for other drivers, passengers, and witnesses.
Avoid admitting fault or making statements to insurance adjusters at this stage. Stick to the facts, and let your legal team handle the details when it’s time to build your personal injury lawsuit.
Step 4: Notify Your Insurance Company
Contact your own insurance company as soon as possible to report the car accident. Most auto insurance policies require timely notification to remain valid. Be brief and factual. You do not need to give a recorded statement or discuss fault at this stage—especially if you're still receiving medical treatment.
Let them know you're seeking medical attention and plan to file a claim once more information is available.
Step 5: File a Claim with the At Fault Driver’s Insurance Company
Once you’ve gathered the accident report, medical records, and property damage estimates, you can file a car accident claim with the at fault driver’s insurance company. This starts the official claims process—but it’s also where many personal injury cases hit roadblocks.
Insurance companies are trained to minimize payouts. They may question your injuries, request a recorded statement, or offer a quick settlement that won’t cover your full medical expenses or lost wages.
Step 6: Understand What Compensation You Can Seek
In South Carolina, accident victims may be entitled to several types of financial compensation:
- Medical bills and ongoing medical expenses
- Lost income or reduced earning capacity
- Property damage to your vehicle
- Emotional distress or pain and suffering
- Costs of physical therapy and rehabilitation
In more serious injuries or fatal crashes, a personal injury lawyer can also help file a car accident lawsuit seeking maximum compensation under South Carolina law.
Step 7: Know When to Call a Myrtle Beach Car Accident Lawyer
You are not required to hire a lawyer to file a car accident claim—but it can make a major difference in the outcome. An experienced car accident attorney can help you gather evidence, deal with insurance adjusters, and negotiate for a fair settlement. They’ll also handle legal action if your claim is denied or delayed.
If your injuries are severe, your case involves disputed liability, or the insurance company won’t offer fair compensation, legal representation can protect your rights.
Step 8: Keep Track of Your Recovery and Records
Keep copies of everything related to your accident: medical bills, test results, treatment notes, prescription receipts, lost work days, and communication with the insurance companies. These documents will be key to proving the full impact of your injuries when it’s time to negotiate or litigate your claim.
Your legal team will use this information to calculate damages and secure compensation that reflects your actual financial and physical losses.
Get Help from Morris Law Accident and Injury Lawyers, LLC
If you've been in a car accident in Myrtle Beach and need help filing your claim, Morris Law Accident and Injury Lawyers, LLC is here for you. Our experienced car accident attorneys handle the claims process from start to finish—so you can focus on healing, not paperwork. Call today for a free consultation and find out how we can help you seek fair compensation for your injuries, lost wages, and medical expenses.
FAQs: Filing a Car Accident Claim in Myrtle Beach
Do I have to report every car accident to the police?
Yes. In South Carolina, any crash involving injury, death, or property damage must be reported to law enforcement.
What if the at fault driver doesn’t have insurance?
You may be able to file a claim through your own uninsured motorist coverage, which is required under South Carolina law.
How long do I have to file a car accident lawsuit?
In South Carolina, you typically have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit.
Should I accept the first settlement offer from the insurance company?
Not without legal guidance. These offers often don’t cover the full cost of medical treatment, lost income, or pain and suffering.
What if I was partially at fault?
South Carolina follows modified comparative negligence rules. You can still recover compensation if you were less than 51% responsible, though your amount may be reduced.
