A Guide to Police Reports in South Carolina After a Car Accident

The events surrounding a car accident are often quick and confusing for the victims. A collision can happen suddenly, and unfortunately, quick thinking and action are necessary to collect the evidence that will be essential for seeking compensation later.

This is why police reports are important in car accidents. They describe what the officer saw at the scene and can prove valuable for establishing liability.

Why Police Reports Matter

Police reports are official records of what happened during a given incident, written by someone who doesn't have a stake in the outcome. To insurance companies, judges, and juries, they’re the closest thing to an objective account that it’s possible to obtain.

These reports establish basic facts that might otherwise become arguments, such as when and where the accident happened, who was involved, the road and weather conditions at the time, and what officers saw when they arrived at the crash scene.

How to Get a Copy of Your Report

Most South Carolina car accident reports are ready within about 10 days after an accident, though it might take longer for complex cases. There are three ways to get your police report following a South Carolina car accident:

Online

Visit the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV) website and enter your personal information and accident details. This option isn't available for accidents that occurred before March 2012.

In Person

Fill out Form FR-50 (Request for Copy of Collision Report) and take it to any SCDMV branch office, along with a $6 report fee.

By Mail

Complete Form FR-50, make two copies, and mail them with a $6 check or money order to the following address: SCDMV Titles Mail-In Unit FR-50 PO Box 1498 Blythewood, SC 29016-0050.

What Is in a Police Report?

A typical police report includes the following information:

• Personal details of all involved parties and witnesses

• Vehicle and insurance information

• Accident scene observations (date, time, location, officer details, etc.)

• Officer's narrative and crash diagram

• Road and weather conditions

• Driver citations

The most important sections are the crash diagram and officer's description, which capture key details like traffic violations or driver behavior that could play a role in determining fault.

Impact on Insurance Claims and Lawsuits

Insurance adjusters treat police reports as the starting point for their investigation. If a report clearly states that the other driver was at fault, the insurance company is more likely to approve your claim without a fight.

The police report isn't technically admissible as evidence on its own in a lawsuit, but it can still shape the case in significant ways.

What if the Report Contains Errors?

Police reports sometimes contain mistakes. If you find factual errors (incorrect license plate numbers, wrong addresses, etc.), you can usually get them fixed by submitting a request to the agency that created the report.

For errors about who was at fault, amendments are rarely successful. Instead, you'll need to gather evidence that contradicts the report's conclusions. This is one reason why South Carolina car accident attorneys recommend gathering evidence at the scene if you're able to do so safely.

FAQ

How Long Do I Have to File a Police Report After a Car Accident in South Carolina?

If your car accident causes more than $1,000 in damage or injures someone, you’ll need to fill out a special form and send it to the SCDMV within 15 days.

Do I Need a Police Report to File an Insurance Claim?

While police reports aren’t required in every situation, insurers typically insist on seeing them. Having a report can simplify the claims process and speed up negotiations.

Can I Get a Police Report if the Accident Happened Years Ago?

You can request older police reports, but it might take longer to receive them. Contact the local law enforcement agency or DMV where the accident occurred and provide as much detail as possible, including the exact date and location of the accident.

Get Guidance After Your Accident

If you were injured or incurred significant losses in an auto accident, having experienced legal guidance can make all the difference. A qualified attorney can interpret the official police report, gather additional evidence, and build a strong case for the compensation you need.

Contact Clore Law to schedule a free case evaluation and protect your rights after a South Carolina car accident.