Car Accident Lawyer in Charlotte, NC
If you regularly travel via car, there is always the chance you could be in an accident. Even when you abide by the rules of the road and share the roadways safely with other drivers, there is no way to know if and when another driver will act negligently behind the wheel. If you have been harmed in a crash, a car accident lawyer from Edwards Injury Law can explain your legal rights and options.
Car accidents happen every day. While some result in property damage and minor injuries, others can be catastrophic. If you have been involved in a crash, it is essential to understand your options for legal recourse.
How Common Are Car Accidents in North Carolina?
According to the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV), the last reportable crashes in North Carolina was 285,074. Of those:
- While the majority of injuries and death occurred to drivers and passengers, motorcyclists, pedal cyclists, and pedestrians were also affected.
- Over two percent of crashes were directly tied to alcohol consumption.
While state governments and authorities have attempted to implement initiatives to reduce accident rates, numbers have been steadily climbing since 2014.
What Types of Injuries Do Crash Victims Sustain?
The severity of an accident victim’s injuries depends on numerous factors, including the type of crash, the speed at which the vehicles were traveling, their health status before the crash, and the types of cars involved. However, even minor injuries can result in serious setbacks–especially for someone who leads an active, busy life. If you were involved in a crash, you might have sustained one or more of the following injuries:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Whiplash
- Back Injuries
- Contusions and lacerations
- Sprains and strains
- Broken bones
- Internal injuries
- Soft tissue injuries
- Limb Loss and Amputation
- Post-traumatic stress disorder
To protect your rights after a crash and ensure you have the best chance at recovery, you must understand what steps you should take in the minutes, days, weeks, and months after the wreck.
What Should I Do After a Car Accident?
The moments after a car accident are likely to be disorienting. You may experience a significant range of emotions in a short period of time. If you have visible injuries, you may start to go into shock. In order to protect yourself and your future, the first step you should take is to call emergency services: request medical attention and the police. Once the police arrive, you can provide a statement of what you remember happening. Depending on your injuries, you may need to go to the hospital. It is better to be safe than sorry when it comes to injuries and trauma, so consider seeking an official diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment plan.
If you are injured but not incapacitated at the crash site, take photographs and videos of the area. Trade contact information with the other driver and, if possible, speak with witnesses. Any information you can collect at the scene will aid your lawyer in building your claim.
Once the dust has settled, it is time to get in touch with a car accident lawyer. The sooner you do so, the better your chances will be of pursuing a successful claim.
How Does Filing a Car Accident Injury Claim Work?
While every car accident and client is unique, there are certain steps you can expect when filing an injury claim. After you meet with your attorney, they will conduct an investigation to build a claim on the concept of negligence.
Once your attorney can prove the opposing party was negligent at the time of your crash, they can file the proper documentation with the insurance company to seek recovery. In most instances, insurance companies will attempt to settle. However, it is crucial to understand that adjusters are more focused on saving money than ensuring you recover. With an attorney by your side, you will not risk jeopardizing your claim or settling for less than you’re owed.
How Long Does a Car Accident Injury Claim Take?
Unfortunately, there is no way to determine just how long a given car accident claim will take to settle. It will likely take at least several months to reach a settlement agreement with the insurance company. However, if negotiations do not go your way, you will have the option to pursue further litigation via a lawsuit. While this will extend the life of your case, it may be the only way for you to be awarded the compensation you need to recover as fully as possible.
How Is Fault Determined for a Wreck in Charlotte, NC?
North Carolina is an at-fault state for car accidents. The driver responsible for the crash must pay damages to the other driver and passengers for medical care and property damage.
Your attorney will collect visual evidence, witness testimony, hospital bills, wage statements, police reports, surveillance footage, and other applicable receipts to build a strong claim on your behalf. With the proper evidence and case basis, you will be on your way to obtaining the compensation you need to move forward.
How Do I Know If I Have a Valid Injury Claim?
Civil claims and related laws can seem complex when you are flying blind. If you are uncertain about the validity of your claim, strongly consider working with a car accident lawyer from Edwards Injury Law. We are well-versed in North Carolina car accident laws, and we are prepared to help you determine the best path to a full and fair recovery.
How Will a Car Accident Lawyer Value My Claim?
When you file a car accident claim to seek compensation for your losses, you will work with your attorney to determine a fair valuation of your claim. There are different components involved in calculating what you are owed–including economic and non-economic damages.
Economic damages are based on calculable losses, like medical bills, lost wages, and property damage. Your lawyer can also consider future medical bills and lost earning capacity if your injuries will have long-term consequences. Remember to keep track of your expenses as you are recovering, so your attorney can be sure to include them in your claim.
Noneconomic damages are harder to calculate as they are based on personal losses. Examples include pain and suffering, mental anguish, loss of enjoyment of life, and loss of consortium. The more severe your injuries and losses, the more noneconomic compensation you may be eligible for.
Learn More About Your Rights From a Car Accident Lawyer
As a black-owned and veteran-owned law firm, Edwards Injury Law is no stranger to overcoming obstacles. If you have been involved in a crash, we’re ready to stand by your side and help you get your life back in order as quickly as possible.
We are dedicated to providing the best legal representation possible for all of our clients. We have a history of service and focus on utilizing the latest technology to support our clients and ensure they have the best chance at success. If you are ready to take control of your situation, contact us to schedule a case evaluation with us today. We also serve clients in Concord, Gastonia, and Huntersville.
Car Accident FAQs
What is the North Carolina statute of limitations for a car accident injury claim?
Should I go to urgent care after a car accident?
How are semi-truck accidents different from car crashes?
Is road rage legally “negligence” in a car accident?
I was injured by a driver on the job. What should I do next?
Are rideshare accidents common in Charlotte?
