In South Carolina, a hit-and-run occurs when a driver involved in an accident fails to stop at the crash scene to provide contact details, including vehicle registration, and does not offer reasonable assistance like medical assistance if someone is injured. This behavior violates the driver’s legal duty and is considered a criminal offense that can lead to criminal penalties and even felony charges.
The South Carolina Department of Public Safety reports that hit-and-run incidents are unfortunately common, particularly in busy areas such as Charleston, Greenville, and Columbia. Police officers and law enforcement agencies take these auto accidents seriously, as fleeing the scene can increase the financial burdens on accident victims and complicate the process of obtaining fair compensation.
Do You Have a Case After a Hit-and-Run?
Even if the driver at fault flees the scene, accident victims may still have a valid accident claim and can seek maximum compensation through various options, including:
- Uninsured motorist coverage (UM): South Carolina requires every auto insurance policy to have this protection, which covers damages when the responsible driver cannot be identified or is uninsured.
- Underinsured motorist coverage (UIM): If the at-fault driver is later found but lacks sufficient insurance, your UIM policy can help cover additional costs. This type of coverage is optional but highly advisable.
- Filing a civil lawsuit: If the liable driver is identified, you can pursue a claim for damages in court. In some cases, punitive damages may be awarded due to the reckless nature of fleeing the accident.
What to Do After a Hit-and-Run Accident
- Call 911 immediately and report the accident to law enforcement. Provide as many details as possible about the other vehicle, including make, model, color, license plate, and direction of travel.
- Document the scene thoroughly with photos and videos of your vehicle damage, skid marks, and any visible injuries.
- Seek medical assistance promptly, even if your injuries seem minor, as some physical injuries may not be immediately apparent.
- Notify your auto insurance company and review your insurance coverage. Be cautious about what you say to insurance adjusters; consulting with experienced accident attorneys can provide vital legal guidance.
Why You Need Experienced Legal Counsel
Insurance providers may attempt to minimize your claim or deny coverage based on technicalities. An experienced legal team specializing in auto accidents can help you navigate the complexities of the claims process, negotiate with the insurance provider, and ensure you receive fair settlement or financial compensation for your injuries and losses.
Statute of Limitations and Legal Consequences
South Carolina law gives you three years from the accident date to file a personal injury lawsuit. Missing this deadline can forfeit your right to compensation. Additionally, hit-and-run drivers face severe penalties, including license suspension, prison time, and criminal record consequences such as third-degree felony or second-degree felony charges, depending on the severity of the incident.
Call to Action
If you are an injury victim of a hit-and-run car accident in South Carolina, don’t navigate this difficult situation alone. Contact Ted Law Firm for compassionate, experienced representation. We will help you gather evidence, file your accident claim, and pursue the maximum compensation you deserve. We proudly serve injury victims in Aiken, Anderson, Columbia, Myrtle Beach, North Augusta, Orangeburg, and Summerville. If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s reckless or criminal behavior, our experienced attorneys are here to help you seek justice and recover the compensation you deserve. Let Ted Law Firm help you file a successful claim for emotional damages.
