A car accident is never planned, but what you do afterward can make a major difference in your health, your finances, and your legal claim. At Thomas Creech Law Offices, we help injured victims following serious car accidents in Greenville, SC, and throughout the Upstate.
With traffic continuing to increase across Upstate South Carolina, accidents are becoming more common. Even a seemingly minor collision can result in significant injuries, mounting medical bills, lost wages, and long-term pain. Knowing the right steps to take after a crash can protect both your recovery and your case.
1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Your health comes first — always.
Even if you believe your injuries are minor, symptoms like pain, dizziness, stiffness, numbness, or headaches can appear hours or days later. Prompt medical treatment:
- Protects your physical health
- Creates documentation linking your injuries to the crash
- Prevents the insurance company from arguing your injuries were unrelated
If you are seriously injured and unable to act on your own, a trusted family member can help arrange medical care and contact an attorney on your behalf. Our firm can meet with you at home or, if necessary, at the hospital.
2. Document the Scene and Vehicle Damage
If you are physically able, take photos at the scene of the accident. If not, ask a friend or family member to do so as soon as possible.
Photograph:
- All vehicle damage (close-up and wide-angle shots)
- The accident scene
- Skid marks, debris, and road conditions
- Visible injuries
Strong photographic evidence can significantly strengthen your claim.
3. Keep Copies of All Police Reports
If law enforcement responds to the crash, request a copy of the police report. Keep any paperwork given to you at the scene or at the hospital. Provide these documents to your attorney as soon as possible.
South Carolina has specific legal requirements for reporting car accidents. If your crash caused injuries, death, or more than $1,000 in property damage, you must either have law enforcement report it or complete and submit the required collision report to the South Carolina DMV within a short timeframe. Official police reports and DMV collision reports provide important documentation for your insurance claim and any future legal case
4. Notify Your Insurance Company
You should promptly report the accident to your insurance company. However, stick to the basic facts:
- Date
- Time
- Location
Avoid giving recorded statements or detailed descriptions of your injuries before speaking with an attorney. Insurance companies often look for ways to minimize payouts.
5. Let Health Insurance Handle Initial Medical Bills
In most cases, your medical providers should bill your health insurance first. Your health insurer may later seek reimbursement from any settlement you receive. As an experienced personal injury attorney, we can help coordinate this process and ensure everything is handled properly.
Why Hiring a Greenville Car Accident Lawyer Matters
After a wreck, you are dealing with more than just vehicle repairs. You may be facing:
- Ongoing medical treatment
- Lost income
- Insurance disputes
- Long-term physical limitations
- Financial uncertainty
Having a knowledgeable attorney involved early can help protect your rights and prevent costly mistakes. At Thomas Creech Law Offices, we handle the legal complexities so you can focus on healing.
Injured in a Car Accident in Greenville, SC?
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident in Greenville, SC or the surrounding Upstate area, don’t try to handle the insurance companies alone.
Contact Thomas Creech Law Offices today for a free consultation. We are here to help you protect your health, your finances, and your future.
