Were you recently involved in a South Carolina car wreck? If so, you might be wondering whether you need a police accident report and what steps you can take to get it. Here’s what you need to know about South Carolina’s accident reporting requirements and how you can get a crash report when necessary.
How Can I Request a Copy of the Police Accident Report by Mail?
To request a copy of a police accident report by mail, fill out the Request for Copy of Collision Report (Form FR-50) with as much information as possible. The FR-50 is a two-page document because the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV) requires two copies of the report. Remember to complete and sign both pages of the form.
Next, write a check or money order for $6, made out to the SCDMV. The Department will not accept cash by mail. Mail the two copies of the form and your payment to the following address:
SCDMV
Titles Mail-in Unit FR-50
PO Box 1498
Blythewood, SC 29016-0050
How Can I Request a Copy of the Report in Person?
You may also request a copy of a police accident report in person. First, complete the Form FR-50 as thoroughly as possible. Make sure to sign both pages of the form. Then, visit any SCDMV branch office with the completed form. You can find an SCDMV branch near you on the Department’s website. Once you arrive at the branch, pay the $6 research fee by cash, card, check, or money order.
How Can I Request a Copy Online?
To request a copy of a police accident report online, visit the SCDMV’s collision report request page. Next, enter your personal information to authenticate your request. You will need either your driver’s license number, beginner permit number, ID number, or customer number. You must also provide your date of birth and Social Security number. Then, enter information to identify the crash.
If you have an out-of-state license or do not know your customer number, you will need to contact the SCDMV. In these cases, you might not be able to request a report online, but you can still get one through the mail or in person at any SCDMV branch office.
What Is the FR-10 Form?
In South Carolina, an FR-10 form is a green document that the police provide at the scene of a traffic accident. This form documents essential information about the crash, including details about the drivers involved, the vehicles, and each party’s insurance information. The police officer who responds to the scene should fill out the form and give it to you right after the collision.
The FR-10 form provides an official record of the accident that you can use to report the incident to your insurance company. Your insurance company must complete this form and return it to the SCDMV within 15 days of the wreck, no matter who was at fault. If the police do not respond to the accident scene and you do not receive an FR-10, you might need to complete a Traffic Collision Report (Form FR-309).
Why Is It Important to Get a Copy of the Police Accident Report?
Getting a copy of the police accident report is important for a few reasons:
- Crash details – The report contains detailed information about the accident, including when and where the collision occurred and the drivers who were involved. This information can help you accurately remember the incident.
- Law enforcement notes – The report will also contain the police officer’s observations and any statements from witnesses, which can support your case if there are disputes about what happened.
- Claim requirements – Insurance companies often require copies of police accident reports to process claims. Having this report can speed up the claims process and allow you to pursue the compensation you deserve.
How Can My Attorney Use the Collision Report?
Your attorney can use the collision report to bolster your injury claim in several ways. For example, they can examine the accident details the report contains, including the date, time, location, and drivers involved, to build a clear timeline of events. They can also review statements from witnesses and the police officer’s observations to extract valuable information that supports your version of events.
The information from the police car accident report can be particularly helpful if disputes arise over who was at fault. Additionally, some crash reports contain information about any traffic violations or charges filed. Your lawyer can use these details to strengthen your case, negotiate with insurance companies, and seek the fair compensation you deserve.
Do I Have to Report a Car Accident in South Carolina?
In South Carolina, you must report a car accident if it results in injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000. If you aren’t sure whether the crash meets these criteria, you should still report it just in case anyone’s injuries or property damage are worse than they initially appear.
When you notify the police of a collision, they should come to the scene, investigate, and create an official accident report. This report includes important details about the accident, such as when and where it happened, who was involved, a description of the scene, and any contributing factors. It provides each party with the information their insurance companies need to process any resulting claims.
You are required to call the police when an accident results in injuries or death. If the police are not called, you must submit a report yourself when property damage is worth $1,000 or more. You will need to provide a written report and proof of your liability insurance to the SCDMV within 15 days of the collision.
Failing to report a qualifying accident can lead to legal consequences, including fines and penalties. Not reporting a crash can also complicate insurance claims and make it difficult to recover appropriate compensation for your injuries and related losses.
Contact a South Carolina Car Accident Lawyer
If you need help after a South Carolina car accident, contact McKinney, Tucker & Lemel, LLC for an initial consultation. Our experienced attorneys are ready to assist you with your case and demand the compensation you are owed. Call us today to discuss your situation and learn how we can help you.
