Can You File a Car Accident Claim Without a Police Report in South Carolina?

When a car accident occurs, the immediate aftermath is often filled with confusion and potential chaos. During this critical time, accident victims must gather as much information as possible to support their claims. While contacting the police is recommended, various circumstances can prevent you from obtaining a police report.

By understanding the South Carolina legal landscape and the alternatives available, you can empower yourself to pursue a successful claim, even without a police report.

Filing a Police Report After a Car Accident in South Carolina

In South Carolina, a police report is a crucial document that provides an official car accident record. The report is prepared by law enforcement officers who respond to the accident scene. It contains essential details that can significantly influence the outcome of a car accident claim. Here are a few key elements typically included in a police report in South Carolina:

• Accident Information: The report will outline the accident's date, time, and location, as well as the names and contact information of the parties involved.
• Witness Statements: Statements from witnesses present at the scene are often included, providing additional perspectives and supporting evidence.
• Diagrams and Photographs: The report can feature diagrams illustrating the accident scene and photographs documenting car damage and any visible injuries.
• Officer's Observations: The responding officer may provide their observations regarding the cause of the accident, including any traffic violations or negligent behavior.

Contact Your Insurance Company

After an accident, one of the primary things you should do is call your insurance company to report the incident. Even without a police report, your insurance provider must know about the collision to handle your claim properly.

When you call, be prepared to provide details about what happened, including:

• The date, time, and location of the accident.
• The other driver's name, contact information, license plate number, and insurance details.
• Descriptions of the cars involved (make, model, year, color).
• The extent of damage to your car.

Your insurance company will open a claim and send an adjuster to inspect your car. They can help determine fault and handle the other driver's insurance company on your behalf. While a police report can be helpful, your insurance provider has experience investigating accidents and can make a liability decision without one.

Damages You Can Claim After a Car Accident

Even without a police report, you can file a claim for damages after a car accident in South Carolina. The at-fault driver's insurer is responsible for compensating you for certain losses, including:

• Pain and Suffering
• Lost Wages
• Medical Expenses
• Property Damage

Contact Our Charleston Car Accident Lawyers Today

While a police report is valuable in supporting a car accident claim in South Carolina, understanding the alternatives and taking appropriate actions can enable you to pursue a successful claim.

If you have been in a car accident in South Carolina, contacting a personal injury lawyer should be one of your top priorities. At Lesemann & Associates, our Charleston car accident attorneys can help you recover damages after an accident. Call us now or fill out our online contact form to get started.