How To Protect Your Rights After A Car Accident
After suffering injuries in a car accident, significant damages and losses might follow. Because of this, it can be hard to cope after a car crash. Fortunately, if you were in a South Carolina car accident and another party’s negligence caused your accident, you may have the right to file a claim against the negligent party and recover compensation. For example, if a negligent driver caused your crash, you may be eligible to file a claim against them. You may also be eligible to file a claim against the car manufacturer if your accident happened because of a defect in your car. And after filing a claim against a negligent party, you can recover compensation not only for economic damages like medical expenses but also for non-economic damages like pain and suffering. You can also recover compensation even if you were partially at fault for your accident since South Carolina is a comparative negligence state, not a contributory negligence state.
If you were involved in a car crash, it is crucial that you take steps to protect your rights. Below, we highlight some steps you can take to protect your rights after a South Carolina car accident.
Exchange Information
After a car accident, you need to speak with the other driver you believe is responsible for your accident. You want to ensure you gather some crucial information from the other driver that may be helpful in pursuing compensation. For example, you want to ensure you ask for the following;
- the other driver’s insurance company’s information
- the other driver’s contact information
- the other driver’s license
- the other driver’s full names
- the license plate number
Report the Accident to Authorities
Ensure you report your accident to the police. This step can help you when you file your compensation claim, as the police report can serve as beneficial evidence. For example, the police report may contain a favorable officer’s opinion on who or what caused the accident.
Seek Medical Attention
It is imperative to get prompt medical treatment after a car crash. If you are not rushed to the emergency room after your accident, ensure you see a doctor as soon as possible after leaving the crash site. If you delay seeking medical attention, it may adversely affect your health and compensation claim. For example, if you delay seeking medical treatment, the insurance company may argue that you suffered your injuries in a different incident. They may also argue that your injuries are not as severe as you claim.
Note: Not only is it crucial that you seek prompt medical attention after a car accident, but it is also vital to keep doctor’s appointments and follow your doctor’s orders pertaining to treatment. You risk losing out on recovering the compensation you deserve if you don’t keep appointments and follow your doctor’s orders.
Retain a Skilled Attorney
Finally, hire a skilled attorney if you want to protect your rights after a car crash. Who better to help you protect your rights than someone who understands the underhanded tactics insurance companies try to use to limit or escape liability?
Contact the Gus Anastopoulo Law Firm
If you’ve suffered injuries in a South Carolina car accident, contact our skilled and dedicated Charleston car accident lawyer at the Gus Anastopoulo Law firm today to schedule a free consultation.
