A Quick Reference Checklist of Important Information
  Stop
South Carolina law requires that you stop if you are the driver of a car that is involved in an accident. It is a violation of South Carolina law to leave the scene of an accident of someone is injured or property is damaged.
If someone is injured
You are required to give "reasonable assistance" to those who are injured. If you are physically able, get help immediately for any injured persons.

Call or send for help
Call or have someone call the police or South Carolina Highway Patrol. Call an ambulance to take any injured persons to a doctor or hospital. You may have to flag down a passing motorist and ask them to go for help.

Call the police
Even if the accident seems minor call the police. An official report can assist you later if a liability claim is made.

Cooperate with the police
Generally you should not agree to anything either in writing or verbally before checking with your attorney or insurance agent. You should cooperate with the police officer at the scene of the accident. Stick to the facts; do not give opinions. Do no admit anything even if you think you are wrong. You may later learn that you are not fault or that the other driver was also at fault. Later, if the facts show that you were clearly in the wrong, then you can admit your blame.

Exchange information
You must show your driver's license to the other driver when asked. The law requires that you give current information about your address, telephone number and driver's license number. Be prepared to give your license plate number, the information on your vehicle registration and the name and address of your insurance company. If the car is not yours, give the name and address of the owner as well.

Be sure to get the same information from the other driver. Copy down all of this information. In addition, ask for the names and addresses of any passengers in the car.

Identify witnesses
If there are witnesses to the accident, be sure to get names, addresses and telephone numbers. If they insist on leaving, ask them to tell you what they saw while you write down as much of each testimony as you can.

Remain at the scene
Unless your injuries make it necessary, do no leave the scene of the accident until the police have been called and you have exchanged information with the other driver.

Notify your insurance company
Be sure to contact your insurance company regarding your accident as soon as possible. Your failure to make a prompt and correct report could affect your rights.

Speak with your attorney and/or insurance agent before you admit to being at fault in the accident. Anything you say to the police or witnesses at the scene of the accident may be used against you later.