Car crashes are relatively inconvenient experiences. Instead of reaching their destination as intended, they end up waiting by the side of the road for police officers to file a report. They may have to hire a tow truck to move their vehicle and might require medical care after that.
A crash can completely disrupt someone’s day, which makes the thought of bypassing the reporting process seem very appealing. If the other driver involved in a crash proposes handling the matter privately, the driver not at fault for the collision might agree to their proposal. However, failing to report a collision can be a major mistake for those involved in a South Carolina wreck.
The law requires a report
The first and arguably most important reason to file a crash report is to remain compliant with South Carolina statutes. Existing regulations make it mandatory to report a collision that involves injury, death or substantial property damage expenses.
The threshold for property damage warranting a crash report is $1,000 or more in repair costs. Most collisions can easily result in a thousand dollars or more in damage to the vehicles involved. In some cases, the state can suspend a driver’s license if their failure to report a collision comes to light. Other times, they could face hit-and-run charges. The other driver may also control the narrative on the official record.
Reporting facilitates the pursuit of compensation
A crash report doesn’t just help ensure that a driver complies with South Carolina traffic statutes. It also protects their right to seek compensation later. When the state establishes that the other driver is at fault, a motorist can file an insurance claim or possibly even a personal injury lawsuit seeking compensation. They can hold the other driver accountable for causing the crash more easily when a police report affirms their claim that the motorist in control of the other vehicle was to blame for the wreck.
Even if it feels inconvenient, filing a police report after a car crash is usually a good decision. Knowing what steps to take can help an individual protect themselves from legal and financial consequences after a collision.