If you’ve been in a crash, it helps to know what comes next. A car accident lawyer in Laurens, SC can guide you through the mess — but first, here are seven clear steps your lawyer will follow (and what you should do right away). I’ll keep this simple and practical, and point out a few local spots that matter if you’re dealing with police reports, court filings, or medical care.

1. Make sure everyone’s safe and call 911

First things first: move to a safe place if you can, check for injuries, and call 911. If police respond, the Laurens Police Department often handles the crash report in town — their station is on West Laurens Street. 

2. Get medical care and document injuries

Even if you feel okay, get checked by a medical professional. Hospitals like the regional hospital serving the area are nearby if you need them; getting prompt medical records is crucial for any claim.

3. Preserve evidence at the scene

Take photos of damage, vehicle positions, skid marks, traffic signs, and the scene. Write down what you remember while it’s fresh. Your attorney uses this early evidence to build your case.

4. Obtain the police report and official records

Your lawyer will get the official crash report and other records from the responding agency. For anything filed at the county level — like court paperwork later on — Laurens County’s courthouse and clerk of court are the places to watch: the courthouse sits at the Hillcrest Square area, where many county records are kept.

5. Notify your insurer (but don’t overshare)

Report the accident to your insurer with basic facts. Don’t accept quick blame or give recorded statements without consulting your lawyer — insurers may look for ways to minimize payouts.

6. Your lawyer investigates & preserves records

Now the real work begins: your attorney requests medical records, traffic camera footage, dashcam clips, and the police report. They may visit the scene, talk to witnesses, and work with accident reconstruction experts when needed. If the case involves local filings, your lawyer is prepared to work with the Laurens County Clerk’s office and, if necessary, file in the county courthouse.

7. Negotiation — and litigation if needed

Most car crash cases settle. Your lawyer negotiates with insurers using the collected evidence. If negotiations stall, your attorney files the case in the proper court and represents you at hearings — often at the downtown courthouse near the public square.

Why a lawyer matters

A lawyer knows what evidence matters, how to preserve it, and how to translate injuries and bills into fair compensation. They also handle deadlines, paperwork, and the courtroom steps so you can focus on recovering. When police, hospitals, and court records are involved — like those in Laurens — that local familiarity matters.