Common Hit and Run Questions in South Carolina, Answered by an Attorney
January 31, 2026
Hit and run accidents are more common in South Carolina than many drivers realize. Whether the incident involves a parked car, a pedestrian, or another driver, leaving the scene can trigger serious legal and financial consequences.
Below are answers to the most common hit and run questions people ask in South Carolina, including felony vs misdemeanor charges, jail time, insurance coverage, and what actually happens after police get involved.
First things first, if you have been involved in a Hit and Run accident, contact an attorney immediately.
What Is Considered a Hit and Run in South Carolina?
A hit and run occurs when a driver is involved in a crash and fails to stop, identify themselves, or provide assistance as required by law.
This can include:
Hitting another vehicle
Striking a parked car
Colliding with a pedestrian or bicyclist
Causing property damage
Even minor accidents can qualify if the driver leaves without taking proper steps.
Is a Hit and Run a Felony in South Carolina?
It depends on the outcome of the accident.
In South Carolina:
Property damage only hit and runs are usually misdemeanors
Hit and run involving injury can be charged as a felony
Hit and run involving death is a serious felony with long prison exposure
The severity is based on harm caused, not whether the accident seemed minor at the time.
Is Hit and Run a Misdemeanor or a Felony?
Both are possible.
How Common Are Hit-and-Runs in South Carolina?
Prosecutors can also elevate charges if there are aggravating factors such as intoxication or prior offenses.
Can You Go to Jail for a Hit and Run in South Carolina?
Yes.
Even misdemeanor hit and run charges can carry jail time, especially if:
The damage is significant
The driver intentionally fled
The driver has a prior record
Felony hit and run convictions can result in years in prison, mandatory license revocation, and a permanent criminal record.
What Happens After a Hit and Run in South Carolina?
After a hit and run is reported, police typically:
Collect witness statements
Review surveillance footage
Analyze vehicle damage and paint transfer
Run license plate data and nearby camera feeds
Identify and interview the suspected driver
Many drivers are charged days or weeks later, not at the scene.
How Are Hit and Runs Investigated in South Carolina?
Law enforcement frequently uses:
Parking lot and traffic cameras
License plate readers
Witness photos or videos
Vehicle debris and paint analysis
Insurance records
Leaving the scene often becomes the strongest evidence against the driver once identification occurs.
What Should You Do After a Hit and Run Accident?
If you are involved in an accident:
Stop immediately
Check for injuries
Call law enforcement
Exchange information
Document the scene with photos
If you are the victim of a hit and run:
Call police as soon as possible
Take photos of damage
Look for witnesses or cameras
Contact your insurance provider
How Do You Report a Hit and Run in South Carolina?
A hit and run should be reported by:
Calling local law enforcement
Filing an official police report
Providing as much information as possible about the vehicle or driver
Delays in reporting can make investigations more difficult and impact insurance claims.
Does Insurance Cover a Hit and Run in South Carolina?
Insurance coverage depends on your policy.
Uninsured motorist coverage may apply if the driver is not identified
Collision coverage may cover vehicle damage
Liability insurance typically does not cover the at-fault driver’s own damages
Coverage issues are often disputed and fact-specific.
Will a Hit and Run Claim Raise Your Insurance Rates?
It can.
Even when you are not at fault, insurers may:
Increase premiums
Remove claim-free discounts
Adjust renewal pricing
Outcomes vary by insurer and policy type.
Can Hit and Run Charges Be Dropped?
Yes, but not automatically.
Charges may be reduced or dismissed if:
Evidence is weak
The driver did not know a collision occurred
Identification is unreliable
Legal defenses apply
These cases are highly fact-dependent.
Is There a Statute of Limitations for Hit and Run in South Carolina?
Yes, but it depends on the charge level.
Misdemeanor cases generally have shorter filing windows
Felony cases allow more time for prosecution
Waiting does not guarantee protection from charges.
Can You Be Charged for a Hit and Run on Private Property?
In many cases, yes.
Parking lots, apartment complexes, and private roads open to public use can still fall under hit and run laws. Whether the public had access often becomes a key legal issue.
Why Hit and Run Cases Are More Serious Than They Seem
Many people assume hit and run only applies to severe crashes. In reality:
Minor damage can still trigger criminal charges
Surveillance often identifies drivers later
Insurance consequences can be long-lasting
Criminal records follow drivers for years
What feels like a small mistake can escalate quickly.
When to Talk to a Lawyer
Immediately.
Early legal advice can protect your rights and prevent unnecessary damage.
