A hit-and-run accident happens when a driver leaves the scene of an accident before sharing information or helping injured people. When they happen, it’s important to know what to do to most improve your chances of making a financial recovery for your damages. First, move to safety, call 911, and get medical care. If possible, document the vehicle description, any plate information (even partial), witnesses, and nearby camera locations before evidence disappears. Notify your insurer and ask how uninsured motorist coverage may apply when the driver cannot be identified. Finally, you likely need a car accident lawyer experienced in performing in-depth investigations into similar type accidents.
Confirm It Is a Hit-and-Run and Report It Correctly
South Carolina law generally requires drivers involved in certain crashes to stop, provide identifying information, and render reasonable aid when someone is injured. If a driver leaves instead, it may be treated as a hit-and-run. The duties to stop, give information, and render aid are set out in S.C. Code §§ 56-5-1210 and 56-5-1230.
Do These 6 Things at The Scene Before You Leave
If you can do so safely, complete as many of these steps as possible. Do not chase the other vehicle.
- Move out of traffic, turn on hazard lights, and check for injuries.
- Call 911 and request law enforcement and medical assistance.
- Write down the vehicle description and direction of travel. Include unique damage or stickers.
- Record any plate information. Even a partial plate helps.
- Take photos and video of the scene, damage, debris, and visible injuries.
- Collect witness contact information and note nearby cameras and exact addresses.
Get Same-Day Medical Care to Create a Clear Injury Timeline
Adrenaline can mask injuries. A same-day evaluation protects your health and creates records that connect your symptoms to the crash. Follow the treatment plan and keep copies of discharge instructions, bills, prescriptions, and missed-work documentation.
Preserve Evidence FAST: Video, Witnesses, and Vehicle Condition
Security video may be overwritten quickly. Within the first 24 to 48 hours, identify the businesses or residences with cameras and ask that footage be preserved. Also keep your vehicle in its post-crash condition until the insurer documents the damage.
Why Uninsured Motorist Coverage is Often The Path Forward
When a driver cannot be identified, your own policy may become the primary source of recovery. South Carolina requires uninsured motorist coverage, and the South Carolina Department of Insurance explains that it can apply when a hit-and-run driver causes injury or property damage. See: South Carolina Department of Insurance guidance.
Expect the insurer to ask for a report number, photos, medical records, and repair estimates. Keeping those items organized can reduce delays.
Avoid These 4 Claim-Killers That Insurers Look For
- No police report or delayed reporting
- Delayed medical evaluation
- Missing witness or camera information
- Recorded statements given before you understand the full scope of injuries and treatment
What to Do Next If The Driver is Not Found
You can still move the claim forward by building clean documentation and staying consistent.
- Get the police report as soon as it is available and keep the incident number handy.
- Save every bill, receipt, and repair estimate in one place, including mileage to treatment.
- Track symptoms and daily limitations in a short journal to show real-life impact.
- Ask your insurer, in writing, how uninsured motorist coverage is being handled and what documents are needed next.
- Consult an attorney sooner rather than later
Talk With An Attorney Early If You Were Injured
Hit-and-run car accidents present the unique challenge of not immediately knowing who the defendant will be in a lawsuit. These types of cases turn on time-sensitive evidence and investigation, as well as insurance coverage details. If you were injured, it’s highly recommended that you consult with a car accident attorney soon after the crash. In hit-and-run accidents, attorneys can make all the difference in preserving key evidence, coordinating the claim, and pushing back if an insurer delays or undervalues what you are dealing with.