One moment you’re driving through Myrtle Beach traffic. The next, you’ve been hit—and the other driver is gone. A hit and run accident is more than just a car crash. It’s a shock to the system, emotionally and physically. The car is damaged. You may be injured. And the at fault driver has left you behind to deal with the aftermath.
South Carolina law protects hit and run accident victims, but these cases often come with challenges. Without a known driver, you’re forced to lean on your own insurance company—and they may not offer the fair compensation you need. You deserve legal guidance from someone who knows how to handle car accident claims like this.
What Counts as a Hit and Run in South Carolina
A hit and run happens when a driver causes an accident and leaves the scene without stopping to exchange information or check on the injured party. It doesn’t matter whether the crash involved another car, a pedestrian, or a parked vehicle. If the other driver fled, it’s a hit and run—and a criminal offense under South Carolina law.
These accidents often occur in Myrtle Beach, SC due to distracted driving, high traffic volumes, or drivers without insurance. They may also happen in parking lots, near tourist destinations, or during frequent lane merges on local roads.
What to Do After a Hit and Run Accident in Myrtle Beach
If you're the victim of a hit and run:
- Seek medical attention immediately. Your health comes first, even if you think your injuries are minor.
- Call the police. A police report documents the accident scene, and the officer may gather details like the license plate number or witness accounts.
- Take photos and gather evidence. If you can, note the time, location, direction the car fled, and damage to your vehicle.
- Report the crash to your insurance company. Let them know it was a hit and run accident and that you plan to file a car accident claim under your policy.
Your Insurance Options After a Hit and Run
If the other driver isn’t identified, your own uninsured motorist coverage will likely come into play. South Carolina law requires this coverage as part of every auto insurance policy. It can help cover:
- Medical bills and medical expenses
- Lost wages and long-term financial burden
- Property damage and repair costs
- Pain, suffering, and emotional trauma
But filing a claim with your own insurance company is not always straightforward. Insurance adjusters are still trained to minimize payouts, even if you’re the insured. Having an experienced car accident attorney on your side helps protect your rights.
Why Legal Representation Matters in Hit and Run Cases
Hit and run accident cases are often more complex than other motor vehicle accidents. You may need to gather security camera footage, track witness statements, and work with local authorities to identify the liable party.
Even if the other driver is never found, your legal team can help you pursue financial recovery through your own policy. We’ll handle the legal process, speak to the insurance company on your behalf, and fight to recover compensation that fully reflects your medical care, lost income, and long-term needs.
In some car accident cases, punitive damages may also apply—especially if the at fault driver is found and their behavior was reckless or intentionally harmful.
Get Help from Morris Law Accident and Injury Lawyers, LLC
If you were the victim of a hit and run car accident in Myrtle Beach, you don’t have to face the legal process alone. Morris Law Accident and Injury Lawyers, LLC has helped accident victims throughout South Carolina recover compensation when the other driver fled the scene. Our experienced lawyers understand how to work with insurance companies, gather evidence, and fight for the financial recovery you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation with a car accident lawyer who knows how to handle hit and run cases the right way.
FAQs: Myrtle Beach Hit-and-Run Car Accident Lawyer
What if the hit and run driver is never found?
You can still file a car accident claim under your own uninsured motorist coverage. South Carolina law allows this even when the at fault driver remains unidentified.
Can I recover compensation for medical bills and lost wages?
Yes. You may be entitled to financial compensation for medical expenses, lost income, property damage, and emotional distress—through your own insurance or, if found, the other driver’s insurance company.
Do I need a car accident lawyer for a hit and run?
Yes. These cases are complex and often involve challenging insurance negotiations. A lawyer can protect your rights and help you receive fair compensation.
How soon should I file a police report?
Immediately. A prompt report helps preserve evidence, increases the chance of identifying the hit and run driver, and supports your insurance claim.
What happens if the at fault driver is caught later?
If the driver is found, your legal team can pursue a personal injury lawsuit or demand additional compensation through their insurance policy.
