A car accident in Sumter happens fast, and the hours afterward are confusing. Whether the crash was on Broad Street, Wesmark Boulevard, Pinewood Road or US-76/378, the steps you take at the scene and in the following days can protect your health and your claim.
At the scene
- Check for injuries and call 911. If anyone is hurt, or the vehicles cannot be moved safely, call for help. The Sumter Police Department, Sumter County Sheriff’s Office or South Carolina Highway Patrol will respond depending on location and prepare a collision report.
- Move to safety if you can. Turn on hazard lights and get out of traffic when it is safe to do so.
- Exchange information. Get the other driver’s name, phone number, license, insurance company and policy number, and the vehicle’s plate.
- Document everything. Photograph all vehicles, the road, traffic signals, skid marks and any visible injuries. Get names and numbers of witnesses.
- Keep your comments brief. Be polite, but do not apologize or guess about fault.
Get medical care the same day
Neck, back and head injuries often do not show symptoms right away. Get evaluated at Prisma Health Tuomey Hospital, an urgent care or your own doctor, and follow the treatment plan. Gaps in treatment are one of the first things an insurance adjuster points to when reducing a claim.
How insurance works in South Carolina
South Carolina is an at-fault state. The driver who caused the crash, through their liability insurer, is responsible for the other party’s damages. Every driver must carry at least $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, $25,000 for property damage, and matching uninsured motorist coverage.
Those minimums are often not enough for a serious injury. Your own underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage may pay the difference, and it can sometimes be stacked. Review your declarations page or let an attorney review it with you.
Dealing with the insurance companies
- Report the crash to your own insurer promptly, as your policy requires
- You are not required to give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurer, and it is usually wise to speak with a lawyer first
- Do not sign medical authorizations or releases without understanding what they cover
- Be cautious about early settlement offers made before the full extent of your injuries is known
Keep a file
Save the collision report number, medical records and bills, repair estimates, rental receipts and pay stubs showing missed work. A simple journal of pain, limitations and missed activities is useful evidence as well.
Watch the deadline
Most South Carolina car accident claims must be filed within three years, and claims involving a government vehicle can have shorter deadlines. See our guide to the South Carolina personal injury statute of limitations.
Talk with a Sumter auto accident attorney
Attorney John S. Keffer has represented injured drivers and passengers in Sumter since 1999. Learn more about our auto accident practice, including car, truck and motorcycle crashes, or schedule a consultation. Call (803) 774-1004.
South Carolina’s auto insurance requirements are in Title 38, Chapter 77 of the South Carolina Code.
Car Accident FAQs
Should I call the police after a minor car accident?
Yes. A police report creates an official record of the car accident, which helps with insurance claims and any later dispute about fault.
How long do I have to file a car accident claim?
Most car accident lawsuits in South Carolina must be filed within three years, and claims involving a government vehicle can have shorter deadlines.
Do I need a lawyer after a car accident?
Not for every car accident. If you were injured, missed work or the insurer is disputing fault, a lawyer can help protect the value of your claim.
This article is general information about South Carolina law, not legal advice for your situation.
