Short Answer: Do I Have to Report a Car Accident to the DMV in South Carolina? In most cases, yes!
Being involved in a car accident can be overwhelming. Between potential injuries, vehicle damage, and confusion at the accident scene, drivers often wonder what steps to take first. In South Carolina, one of the most common questions after a crash is: Do I have to report the accident to the Department of Motor Vehicles?
The answer depends on whether law enforcement officers investigate the crash, how much property damage occurred, and whether you’ll need to file a required accident report form. Understanding South Carolina reporting laws is critical because failing to comply can affect your driver’s license, your insurance claim, and even future insurance premiums.
South Carolina Accident Reporting Basics
South Carolina law requires that any automobile accident involving personal injury, death, or property damage of $1,000 or more be reported.
- If law enforcement responds, officers will file the police report and generate official Collision Reports for the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles.
- If no officer responds, the drivers involved must file a Traffic Collision Report with the DMV themselves.
Whether you are in a minor auto accident or a serious crash like head-on collisions, compliance with reporting laws ensures your legal and insurance responsibilities are properly handled.
Required Forms
FR-10 Form (Insurance Verification Form)
- Issued by the police department at the accident scene.
- Confirms your liability insurance coverage at the time of the crash.
- Must be completed by your insurance company or insurance providers and returned to the DMV within 15 days.
FR-309 or FR-50 (Traffic Collision Report)
- Needed when no officer files the report.
- Submitted to the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV).
- Can be obtained from the South Carolina DMV website, an SCDMV branch office, or directly through the mail.
In some cases, the DMV may also request supporting documents like medical records, medical liens, or proof of automobile insurance.
When Law Enforcement Responds
When law enforcement reports the crash:
- They file the official auto accident report.
- You must work with your insurance adjuster to complete the insurance verification form (FR-10).
- The DMV will be automatically notified through the officer’s law enforcement reports.
This means you don’t usually need to submit a separate Traffic Collision Report unless directed.
When Police Do Not Respond
If you decide not to call the South Carolina Highway Patrol, the Rock Hill Police Department, or other local officers to the accident scene, you must complete the accident report form yourself.
You have 15 days to submit it to the DMV. The South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles requires this document to track car accident reports and confirm liability auto insurance coverage.
Why Accident Reporting Matters
Insurance and Liability
Your insurance company requires proof of reporting before processing an insurance claim or personal injury claim. If you fail to file, your insurance adjuster may deny coverage for vehicle repairs, medical care, or medical bills.
Legal Obligations
Failure to report can result in suspension of your driver’s license by the Department of Motor Vehicles. Even Uninsured Drivers are expected to comply with these requirements.
Protecting Rights
A properly filed accident report protects you from disputes about driver error, vehicle equipment defects, or personal information recorded incorrectly at the accident scene.
Personal Injury and Medical Care
Accidents that involve personal injury require immediate medical attention. Even if injuries appear minor, timely medical care is essential for both recovery and documenting your personal injury claim.
Hospitals, doctors, and medical personnel will also create medical records that can support your case if compensation is needed. These documents, combined with the police report, are important for proving responsibility.
Insurance Responsibilities
In South Carolina, every driver must carry liability auto insurance. After an automobile accident, your insurer will handle:
- Insurance claim processing
- Negotiating with other insurance providers
- Covering costs for vehicle repairs and medical bills
Your insurance company will require your cooperation, including providing the police report, the Traffic Collision Report, and sometimes an SR-1 Accident Report Form if damages are significant.
Getting a Copy of Reports
Drivers can obtain official car accident reports or a Request for Copy of Collision Report through:
- The South Carolina DMV website
- An SCDMV branch office
- The investigating police department
Online services also allow for a collision report online request. These records may be required by your insurance company, a personal injury lawyer, or during a personal injury claim.
Legal Help After a Crash
Accidents can leave car accident victims struggling with medical care, lost wages, and disputes over insurance claim payments. Many choose to work with a car accident lawyer or personal injury lawyer to navigate the process.
Firms like The Louthian Firm Accident & Injury Lawyers in South Carolina note that having representation can make it easier to deal with insurance adjusters, confirm compliance with reporting laws, and handle disputes involving automobile insurance and insurance premiums.
Final Thought
In South Carolina, you are legally required to report a car accident that causes personal injury, death, or property damage of $1,000 or more. If law enforcement officers respond, they will complete the police report and issue an insurance verification form. If no officer responds, you must file a Traffic Collision Report directly with the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles.
At Ted Law Firm, Following the proper steps ensures your insurance claim is processed, your driver’s license remains valid, and your rights are protected. We serve families across Aiken, Anderson, Charleston, Columbia, Greenville, Myrtle Beach, North Augusta and Orangeburg. Whether you are working with your insurance company, an insurance adjuster, or even a personal injury lawyer, timely compliance with South Carolina DMV reporting laws makes the process smoother and protects you from unnecessary penalties. Contact us today for a free consultation
