The local authorities are on the lookout for a vehicle involved in a fatal collision between a car and a pedestrian that occurred early on the morning of Saturday, July 1, 2023. A section of the King Street Extension close to Discher Street was shut down for several hours on Saturday by Charleston Police in response to this devastating incident. The Charleston County Coroner's Office confirmed the deceased as 55-year-old Wilburn Clarence Sims, a resident of Charleston, on July 3rd.
The tragic event took place in the early hours of Saturday, with law enforcement officials reaching the site around 7:20 a.m.
Regrettably, neither the driver nor the vehicle were present at the location by the time the police arrived, as mentioned in a press statement. Law enforcement officers are on the lookout for a silver-colored sedan believed to have damage on its front-passenger side, which aligns with the nature of a collision with a pedestrian, the statement further disclosed.
The identification of the victim in the hit-and-run will be withheld until released by the Charleston County Coroner's Office.
Steps to Take After Getting Hit by a Car in Downtown Charleston
Being involved in a car accident can be a stressful and disorienting experience, particularly if you're in a bustling downtown area like Charleston. Here are essential steps to take immediately after such an incident:
- Ensure Safety: Your immediate safety is paramount. If you can, move to a safe location, away from moving traffic.
- Call 911: Report the accident to the police immediately. They will document the incident, which will be crucial for insurance and potentially legal proceedings.
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, it's important to get medical attention. Some injuries might not be immediately apparent and could have delayed symptoms.
- Collect Information: Try to gather as much information as possible about the accident. This includes the other driver's details (license, contact, and insurance information), photos of the scene, and contact details of any witnesses.
- Notify Your Insurance Company: Report the incident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide them with all the collected information and cooperate fully.
- Consult with a Lawyer: Especially if there are injuries involved, it's prudent to consult with a personal injury lawyer. They can guide you through the process and help protect your rights.
