First and foremost, check to seee if everyone is okay — yourself, your passengers, and anyone in the other vehicle. Do the right thing. Show concern for everyone involved. More often than not, you’ll be rewarded for being decent and responsible.

12: Move Your Vehicle If You Can

If your vehicle is still drivable, move it to a safe location off the road. I understand that in some cases the car may be totaled or inoperable — but if it’s possible, get it out of traffic. Years ago, I had a client who was injured while standing next to their disabled car left in the roadway. It was a terrible situation. Accidents often happen in dangerous intersections, and oncoming cars might not see you in time. Staying near a disabled vehicle on the road is risky.

#2: Always Call the Police

Regardless of how minor the damage seems or whether anyone appears injured, always call the police. It’s the right thing to do, and more importantly, it creates an official record of the incident.

Why is this important? Because sometimes people aren’t honest. They might give you incorrect personal or insurance information — not out of malice necessarily, but simply because they’re driving someone else’s car or don’t know their coverage details. If there’s no police report, and the other person’s insurance denies liability later, you may have to rely on your own insurance and pay your deductible.

Calling the police isn’t about suing anyone — it’s about protecting yourself with documentation.

#3: Take Pictures — Lots of Them

While you’re waiting for the officer to arrive, take as many photos as possible. I’ve never had a client say, “I wish I had taken fewer pictures.” Document the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries — but only if you can do so safely, without stepping into the roadway or putting yourself at risk.

Sometimes, because of how vehicles are positioned, you won’t be able to take detailed pictures until your car is towed to a shop or lot. In that case, your attorney can help gather those later — but do your best to capture what you can on the scene. Almost everyone has a smartphone these days, so use it.

#4: Get Witness Information

If a Good Samaritan stops to check on everyone and saw the accident happen, try to get their name and contact information. Often, witnesses leave before the police arrive, and their account of what happened could be helpful later — especially if there’s a dispute about who was at fault.

#5: Don’t Be Afraid to Get Medical Help

If you’re injured — get treated. This isn’t about being macho; it’s about taking care of your health. If you truly don’t need medical attention, that’s fine. But if you’re hurt, don’t downplay it. Be specific. Instead of just saying, “I’m hurting,” tell the doctor exactly where: “My shoulder hurts,” or “I’m having pain in my arm.” The more specific you are, the better they can treat you and document your injuries.

And that, folks, is what you need to do if you’re involved in a car accident in South Carolina.

Stay safe, and remember — protecting yourself starts with doing the right things from the moment the crash happens.