One minute you’re driving home, walking across a parking lot, or shopping for groceries. The next minute, you’re in pain, overwhelmed, and wondering what just happened. Medical bills are already piling up, and you’re not even sure who’s responsible, or what your rights are.
This is where a trusted Charleston personal injury attorney can make all the difference. At the Law Office of Sean M. Wilson, clients are guided through each step of the legal process with clarity and care, allowing them to focus on healing while we focus on protecting their future.
If you’re hurt, you don’t have time to waste. Here’s what you need to do right now.
Step 1: Get Medical Attention Immediately
Even if your injuries seem “minor,” always get checked by a doctor. You may experience immediate symptoms, and prompt medical attention may provide pain relief and keep your injuries from worsening. Additionally, a medical provider may find hidden injuries such as traumatic brain injuries or internal bleeding, even if symptoms don’t show up right away.
Prompt medical attention also creates important documentation for your legal claim. Insurance companies look for reasons to deny claims. A delayed diagnosis gives them an excuse to question the severity or cause of your injuries. Therefore, medical records from soon after the accident become essential to your recovery.
Step 2: Document the Accident and Your Injuries
Gathering evidence early is critical for building a strong claim. Some of the evidence you may want to collect includes:
- Photos and videos. Capture the scene, injuries, damaged vehicles, and any hazardous conditions (e.g., wet floors or poor lighting) that may have contributed to the accident.
- Witness information. Get names, phone numbers, and brief statements from anyone who saw what happened.
- Police or incident reports. If law enforcement responds, request a copy of the report when it is completed. If you were injured at a business, ask for their internal incident report.
In the days and weeks following the accident, you should also keep a daily pain journal. Track how the injury affects your sleep, movement, mood, and ability to work or care for family.
Additionally, keep receipts and records related to your accident injuries and expenses.
Step 3: Don’t Talk to Insurance Adjusters Alone
Insurance adjusters may seem helpful, but their goal is to pay as little as possible. Accordingly, it’s essential that you:
- Don’t give recorded statements. They can use your words against you later.
- Don’t accept early settlement offers. These are often far below what your case is worth.
- Don’t speculate about your injuries. Let medical records speak for themselves.
Instead, refer all communication to your attorney. They’ll ensure your rights are protected.
Step 4: Contact a Charleston Personal Injury Attorney
The sooner you speak to a lawyer, the stronger your case will be.
A personal injury attorney can:
- Investigate the accident and determine liability
- Preserve crucial evidence before it disappears
- Calculate your full damages, including future medical care and lost earning potential
- Handle all communication with insurers and other parties
- Fight for the maximum compensation allowed under South Carolina law
In short, your lawyer will handle all aspects of your legal claim so that you can concentrate on your physical recovery with as little stress as possible.
Step 5: Avoid These Common Mistakes
Many injury victims unknowingly hurt their own cases. You can protect your rights by NOT:
- Waiting too long to get help. The statute of limitations in South Carolina is generally three years, but some cases require much faster action.
- Posting on social media. Even an innocent photo can be twisted to imply you're not as hurt as you claim.
- Skipping doctor appointments. Gaps in treatment suggest your injuries aren’t serious, or that you're not trying to recover.
- Handling the case on your own. Insurance companies have lawyers. You should, too.
When you’re dealing with a serious injury, timing isn’t just important; it’s everything. The actions you take (or don’t take) in the hours and days after your accident can directly affect your:
- Health and recovery
- Eligibility for compensation
- Ability to prove fault
- Legal deadlines (statutes of limitations)
Failing to act promptly could weaken your case or result in the loss of compensation you deserve.