Statesville Car Accident Lawyer
Car Accident Attorney In Statesville, NC
Trust a Statesville car accident lawyer from Grimes Yeoman, PLLC, to help you secure compensation for car accident damages. No matter if you’ve been in a catastrophic injury on Turnersburg Highway or a fender bender on Broad Street, we can handle communication with insurers and aggressively advocate for your rights.
Car Accident Laws in North Carolina
In 2022, North Carolina reported over 115,000 people injured in vehicle accidents in 284,157 crashes, according to North Carolina Department of Transportation data. The state also reported 1,630 traffic accident fatalities that year.
To build a strong accident claim, it’s important to fully understand the complex car accident laws in North Carolina. One of the few states with contributory negligence rules, North Carolina bars individuals from recovering compensation if they were even partially at fault for the accident; however, there are exceptions to this rule. This rule can benefit insurance companies, which use it to deny claims. That’s why it’s so important to hire a car accident lawyer after an accident.
If you’ve been in a car accident in North Carolina, it’s your duty to report the accident involving injury, death, or property damage. The crash report helps establish liability and is a key piece of evidence.
North Carolina residents have three years to file an accident claim for injuries and two years to file for a wrongful death case. Failing to file on time can mean you lose the right to receive any compensation. The state requires drivers to carry minimum liability coverage. Some of the damages that may be recovered include:
- Emergency medical treatment
- Physical therapy
- Hospitalization and surgery
- Loss of earning capacity and wages
- Suffering and pain
- Emotional trauma
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
- Property damage
- Punitive damages in cases of reckless conduct
What to Do After a Car Accident in Statesville
How you handle the aftermath of a car accident can significantly impact your ability to receive compensation. The first step is to call 911 or the Statesville Police Department at 704-878-3406. For serious property damage or injury accidents, North Carolina requires these to be reported.
Then, seek medical care. Some injuries, such as concussions and internal bleeding, may not present symptoms right away. Take photos of any injuries sustained. It’s also a good idea to document the accident scene, if possible. Gather the names and contact information from all involved, including their insurance information. If witnesses are present, you can also get their information.
Avoid speaking with the insurance company until you speak with a skilled attorney who can advise you on what to say. Grimes Yeoman, PLLC, can investigate the accident and build a compelling case to secure the compensation you need to recover.
The Process of Handling Car Accident Cases
Grimes Yeoman, PLLC, approaches each case with compassion and a deep understanding of North Carolina car accident laws. We begin with a thorough investigation of the accident. During this phase, we gather accident reports, medical records, and video footage. We also interview witnesses and work with accident reconstruction professionals.
Our team handles correspondence with insurance companies. You won’t have to worry about making recorded statements or being trapped into saying something that could be interpreted as an admission of fault.
We account for full and fair damages. This includes both immediate and long-term medical care costs, future income losses, and the overall impact on your life.
Most car accident cases resolve before going to trial. But, if necessary, we’re ready to defend your case in court.
Why Choose Us?
Grimes Yeoman, PLLC, is committed to delivering powerful legal representation for Statesville car accident victims and those in the surrounding area. Our attorneys have a strong track record in handling car accident cases. We’re known for crafting individualized strategies built around each client’s goals.
Insurance companies often attempt to devalue claims due to their high cost. We create a trial-ready case and fight to pursue justice for our clients.
FAQs
Who Pays for Car Damage in North Carolina?
In North Carolina, the at-fault driver’s liability insurance generally pays for car repairs, rental cars, car replacement, and other property damage. This is in the case of a clear fault. If the at-fault driver is uninsured or the responsibility is disputed, you may use your own insurance to cover damages. To protect your claim, gather as much evidence as possible, including pictures, police reports, and witness statements.
What Is the New Insurance Law in North Carolina?
North Carolina’s most recent updates to insurance laws involved increasing minimum limits. This changed the previous requirements from $30,000 per person and $60,000 per accident to $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident. All new policies must also have underinsured motorist coverage. The state remains fault-based. Contact Grimes Yeoman, PLLC, to understand how this may affect your claim.
Is it Better to Go Through My Insurance or Theirs?
Whether it’s better to go through your insurance or the other driver’s insurance depends on fault and cooperation. If the fault is disputed or the other driver is uninsured, your insurer may provide quicker coverage. They can then pursue reimbursement through subrogation. It’s important to determine fault with strong evidence and avoid making any statements that could be interpreted as an admission of fault.
How Do Insurers Determine Who Was at Fault?
Insurers review police reports, statements from drivers and any witnesses to the accident, and investigate vehicle damage. They may also use accident reconstruction data. Adjusters also analyze skid marks, weather conditions, and vehicle positioning. Insurers look closely at evidence because if you were also at fault, the insurer will argue you cannot receive damages from the other party.
Hire a Car Accident Lawyer
After a devastating accident, you shouldn’t have to manage insurance adjusters, paperwork, and medical bills alone. The Statesville car accident lawyers of Grimes Yeoman, PLLC, offer personalized counsel, aggressive representation, and compassionate support throughout your case. We can help you better understand your rights and legal options. Schedule a consultation today and let us help you get the justice and compensation you deserve after an accident.
