What to Do After a Car Accident in Moncks Corner, SC

If you’ve been in a car accident in Moncks Corner, the steps you take immediately after can significantly impact your ability to recover compensation. Berkeley County roads, including Highway 52 and Highway 17A, see frequent collisions due to heavy traffic, rural intersections, and limited lighting in many areas.

Steps to Take Immediately After a Moncks Corner Car Accident

Your safety comes first. Move to a safe location if possible and call 911 right away. South Carolina law requires you to report any accident involving injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000. The Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office or Moncks Corner Police Department will respond and create an official accident report that becomes critical evidence for your claim.

While waiting for law enforcement, document everything you can. Take photos of vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signs, and any visible injuries. Exchange insurance and contact information with all drivers involved. If there are witnesses, get their names and phone numbers. This evidence can make or break your case when dealing with insurance companies after a car accident.

Common Causes of Car Accidents in Moncks Corner

Moncks Corner’s mix of rural highways and growing suburban traffic creates unique accident risks. Highway 52 carries heavy commuter traffic between Moncks Corner and Charleston, especially during morning and evening rush hours. The intersection density along Highway 17A through town creates frequent rear-end and T-bone collisions.

Distracted driving remains the leading cause of accidents in Berkeley County. Drivers checking phones while navigating unfamiliar rural roads or construction zones are particularly dangerous. Speeding on long straight stretches of highway, running stop signs at rural intersections, and impaired driving also contribute to serious accidents in the area.

• Rear-end collisions on Highway 52 during rush hour commutes to Charleston
• T-bone crashes at uncontrolled rural intersections throughout Berkeley County
• Single-vehicle accidents on poorly lit country roads
• Multi-vehicle pileups during severe weather on highway corridors

Understanding South Carolina’s Car Accident Laws

South Carolina follows a modified comparative negligence system. This means you can still recover compensation even if you were partially at fault for the accident, as long as your fault doesn’t exceed 50%. However, your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault. Understanding how to prove fault in a car accident is essential to maximizing your settlement.

The statute of limitations for personal injury claims in South Carolina is three years from the date of the accident. While this may seem like plenty of time, evidence disappears quickly. Surveillance footage gets deleted, witnesses forget details, and vehicle damage gets repaired. The sooner you contact an attorney, the stronger your case will be.

Dealing with Insurance Companies After a Moncks Corner Accident

Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts. After a car accident in Moncks Corner, you’ll likely receive a call from the at-fault driver’s insurance company within days. They may seem friendly, but their goal is to settle your claim for as little as possible. They’ll ask for recorded statements, request broad medical authorizations, and push early settlement offers before you know the full extent of your injuries.

Never accept the first settlement offer without consulting an attorney. Initial offers rarely account for ongoing medical treatment, lost wages, pain and suffering, or future medical needs. Understanding how to maximize your car accident settlement requires patience and experienced legal guidance.

Why Choose Crantford Meehan for Your Moncks Corner Car Accident Case

Crantford Meehan has represented injured people throughout the Lowcountry since 1995. Our attorneys, Jerry Meehan and William Crantford, are graduates of Gerry Spence’s Trial Lawyers College and understand how to build compelling cases for accident victims in Berkeley County and surrounding areas.

We handle car accident cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win. With offices in Charleston, Summerville, and Florence, we’re accessible to Moncks Corner residents and offer free consultations 24 hours a day. If you’ve been injured in a car accident, contact us today for a free case evaluation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Car Accidents in Moncks Corner

How long do I have to file a car accident claim in South Carolina?

You have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, acting quickly preserves evidence and strengthens your case. Contact an attorney as soon as possible after your accident.

What if the other driver doesn’t have insurance?

South Carolina has a high rate of uninsured motorists. If the at-fault driver lacks insurance, you may be able to recover compensation through your own uninsured motorist coverage. An experienced attorney can help you explore all available options.

Should I see a doctor even if I feel fine after the accident?

Yes. Many serious injuries, including traumatic brain injuries and soft tissue damage, don’t show symptoms immediately. Seeing a doctor within 72 hours of your accident creates a medical record linking your injuries to the crash, which is critical for your claim.

How much is my Moncks Corner car accident case worth?

Every case is different. The value depends on the severity of your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and the impact on your quality of life. Contact Crantford Meehan for a free consultation to discuss your specific situation.