In 2018, more than 20 million people visited Myrtle Beach, and tourism numbers have been growing in recent years. Many of these visitors are from out of state. A 2019 report from the Myrtle Beach Area Convention & Visitors Bureau reported that more than 80 percent of vacationers in the Grand Strand live outside of South Carolina. While it’s exciting to know that others want to share in the beauty and fun of Myrtle Beach, citizens also face challenges in hosting so many people unfamiliar to the area. Traffic accidents are one such issue. Drivers do not know the roads; they may be fatigued after a long drive; or they may be impaired after a night out. What should South Carolina residents do if they suffer injuries in a crash with an out-of-state driver?
South Carolina State Laws Concerning Traffic Accidents
In any accident situation, those involved are typically bound by the laws where the crash took place. South Carolina is a fault state, which means that the driver who caused the accident and injuries is responsible for providing compensation for any damages related to the crash. Additionally, South Carolina follows the rules of modified comparative negligence, which stipulates that the victim should obtain compensation equal to the other driver’s degree of fault, as long as the other driver was more than 50 percent responsible for the crash.
It is possible that the driver who caused your crash lives in a state that follows similar rules, but there are different laws governing injury claims in different states. Regardless, when the accident occurs in South Carolina, South Carolina law will apply.
Protecting Your Rights After a Crash
An accident that happens while a driver is on a vacation is still an accident. The injuries are just as real, and victims deserve compensation. So, it’s important to follow a few critical steps if you are involved in any traffic crash:
Seek Medical Care
Even if you think your injuries are minor or that you are not injured at all, it’s best to get checked by a medical professional. Some injuries are not apparent immediately, and only an experienced provider can fully and accurately assess your health.Call The Police
File an official report with law enforcement regarding any car accident. This police report can provide important information and critical opinions that are valuable to both insurance and legal claims.Retain Evidence
Hold onto any evidence related to your accident. If possible, take photos of the accident scene and surrounding areas, write down names and contact information for witnesses, and keep any receipts or documents related to medical care.Discuss Your Case With An Attorney
While some small claims can be resolved without an attorney, if you’ve suffered serious injuries, consult an attorney to ensure that you fully understand your rights. An experienced lawyer can provide the information you need and offer guidance to help you recover as fully as possible.Most insurance policies cover drivers when they travel out of state on vacation. However, when the driver who caused your injuries heads back home, you may feel like you have few options. But it is possible to hold that careless driver accountable, and an experienced attorney can help you get the fair compensation you deserve.
Have You Been Injured In A Myrtle Beach, South Carolina Car Accident?
If you've been injured in a car accident you should speak with a car accident lawyer as soon as possible. Contact us online or call our Myrtle Beach office directly at 843.488.3165 to schedule your consultation. We are also able to meet clients at our Charleston, Conway, Florence, Myrtle Beach, Murrells Inlet, Mt. Pleasant, North Myrtle Beach or North Charleston office locations.
