Asheville Car Accident Lawyers

George Sink, P.A. Injury Lawyers can help you find the justice you're looking for in Asheville, NC.

Seeking Justice for Car Accident Victims in Asheville, NC

Welcome to Asheville, NC, a vibrant city nestled in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and thriving arts scene, Asheville offers a diverse range of attractions for both residents and visitors. From exploring the historic Biltmore Estate to strolling through the vibrant downtown area filled with art galleries, breweries, and farm-to-table restaurants, there is always something exciting to discover in Asheville.

Unfortunately, amidst the charm and allure of this city, car accidents can happen. With hectic local roads like I-240, I-26, and the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, accidents occur all too frequently, causing injuries and disruption in people’s lives. According to statistics from the North Carolina Department of Transportation, Asheville ranked #11 in total number of car crashes in 2021.

That’s where George Sink, P.A. Injury Lawyers come in. Our dedicated team of car accident attorneys in Asheville, NC, understands the challenges you may be facing after an accident, and we are here to assist you every step of the way. We have a deep understanding of Asheville laws and regulations surrounding car accidents, and we have successfully represented numerous clients in their pursuit of justice and fair compensation. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll that a car accident can have on your life, and we are dedicated to helping you navigate the legal process with ease and confidence. Call our Asheville car accident attorneys at (828) 900-5257 and get a free, no-obligation case review today.

Asheville Car Accidents Lawyer Near Me(888) 612-7001

Find Out More About Your Asheville Car Accident Case

What Should You Do Immediately After a Car Accident in Asheville?

Experiencing a car collision can be a terrifying and disorienting occurrence, so it’s helpful to understand the necessary actions to take after one occurs. Here’s a guide on what to do after a car accident:

• Firstly, ensure your safety and the safety of any passengers by checking for injuries. If anyone is injured, remain in place and await assistance.
• Call 911 to contact the Asheville Police Department. They can assist with injuries and provide a report that may be crucial for future legal claims.
• Exchange contact information with all involved parties and any witnesses present.
• Document the accident by capturing photographs and videos of the scene, vehicles, and license plates.
• Get in touch with your insurance company to initiate the claims process.
• Lastly, contact our Asheville car accident attorneys as soon as possible for a complimentary evaluation of your case.

Why Hire an Asheville Car Accident Attorney?

While it is not mandatory to hire a lawyer for your personal injury claim, having our skilled Asheville car accident lawyers by your side can significantly improve the chances of success in your case. A knowledgeable car accident lawyer in Asheville, NC, can offer assistance in the following ways:

1. Accurately assessing the value of your damages.
2. Negotiating with the insurance company representing the at-fault party.
3. Gathering and organizing essential evidence.
4. Informing you about legal time limits and requirements.
5. Advocating for maximum compensation to cover your losses.
6. Taking your case to court if needed.

By seeking a legal consultation from our car accident lawyers in Asheville, NC, you can get a better understanding of the likelihood of receiving compensation and determine the necessity of legal representation for your specific case. We are familiar with the local area, its laws, and regulations, and can provide invaluable assistance in pursuing reimbursement for medical expenses, lost income, and other damages resulting from the accident, all while safeguarding your rights.

When Should You Contact a Car Accident Lawyer in Asheville?

It is crucial to reach out to an Asheville car accident lawyer if you sustain injuries in a car collision. The statute of limitations sets a deadline for initiating legal proceedings after an accident, and various factors in your case can influence it.

Timely contact with a car accident lawyer in Asheville guarantees the preservation of crucial evidence and ensures that witnesses’ recollections of the incident remain vivid. Taking swift action minimizes the possibility of missing important deadlines that could impact your ability to seek compensation. Contact our accident lawyers in Asheville, NC, today for a complimentary and obligation-free case evaluation.

What Is the Statute of Limitations for a Car Accident in Asheville?

The statute of limitations is the timeframe established by the state within which legal action must be initiated following a car accident. However, the specific timeline for your case can be impacted by various factors and circumstances. This underscores the significance of consulting with a car accident lawyer in Asheville, NC, who can provide insight into how this deadline might impact your unique legal claim.

What Are the Most Common Car Accident Injuries in Asheville?

Seeking compensation for the expenses related to your injuries is crucial, regardless of the specific injuries sustained in a car accident. An experienced car accident lawyer in Asheville, NC, can provide valuable assistance in this process.

Here are some common injuries often seen in car accidents:

• Whiplash
• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• Spinal cord injuries
• Cuts and bruises
• Mental and emotional trauma, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Broken or fractured bones
• Burns
• Neck and back injuries, including herniated discs
• Internal bleeding
• Knee injuries

By working with our skilled Asheville car accident lawyers, you can pursue the compensation you deserve for the expenses and injuries associated with your injuries.

Who Is Liable for Your Injuries in a Car Accident in Asheville?

Assigning fault in car accidents can be a complex process in North Carolina. The state operates under an at-fault system, which holds the driver responsible for the accident liable for damages.

Typically, the driver who demonstrates negligence or violates traffic laws is considered at fault. However, it’s important to understand that fault determinations are ultimately made by the state courts or insurers based on accident reports. This is due to the unique legal principle of contributory negligence.

Contributory negligence in North Carolina can hinder your ability to recover damages if you are found to have any level of fault in the accident. Therefore, it is vital to seek guidance from an experienced car accident attorney in Asheville, NC, especially before providing any statements to insurance companies, if you find yourself involved in an accident.

Who Pays Your Medical Bills After a Car Accident in Asheville, NC?

If you have suffered injuries in a car accident in Asheville, it is likely that you will be taken to or advised to visit a medical center such as Mission Hospital or Asheville Speciality Hospital to assess your injuries. The medical bills from these visits can be surprising, leading to questions about who is responsible for paying them in a car accident.

When you sustain injuries in a car accident caused by someone else’s negligence, the responsible driver is legally obligated to cover your medical expenses. In North Carolina, drivers are required to have a minimum bodily liability coverage in their car insurance policy ($30,000 per person and $60,000 per accident) to address the medical costs of the injured party when they are at fault for the accident.

However, it’s important to note that the insurance company will not immediately pay these medical bills. It often takes weeks, months, or even longer to reach a settlement (or obtain a verdict if the case goes to trial). In the meantime, you are responsible for paying your medical bills as they arise.

To ensure timely payment to doctors, hospitals, ambulance services, and other medical providers, you may need to submit your medical expenses to your own health insurance company first (or Medicare or Medicaid if applicable) and later seek reimbursement from any future settlement.

Moreover, if you have optional MedPay auto insurance coverage in North Carolina, it may cover certain out-of-pocket healthcare costs such as deductibles or copays, as well as other medical expenses for you and other occupants of your vehicle.

What Damages Can You Pursue After an Asheville Car Accident?

In North Carolina, all drivers are legally required to have liability and uninsured motorist coverage insurance. The minimum coverage mandated includes $30,000 for bodily injury per person, $60,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 for property damage.

Driving without insurance in North Carolina is considered a misdemeanor offense, which can result in fines and potential imprisonment.

If you find yourself in an accident without insurance, it is crucial to refrain from lying or presenting a fake insurance card. Engaging in dishonesty will only worsen your situation. Instead, calmly inform the other driver and, if applicable, the police that you do not possess insurance.

Begin by documenting your injuries and any property damage to both your vehicle and the other driver’s vehicle. Remember, fault in an accident is determined by who is responsible for causing the collision, not by insurance coverage. If the other driver admits fault, such as rear-ending your vehicle, their insurance company should be liable for any bodily injury or property damage they caused, regardless of your insurance status. Additionally, if there are witnesses present, make sure to gather their statements regarding the cause of the accident for the police officer.

If you were involved in a car accident without insurance, it is vital to seek the guidance of an experienced personal injury attorney who can provide assistance and guidance throughout your case.

What Is the Average Settlement for a Car Accident in Asheville?

Determining an exact average settlement amount for car accidents in North Carolina is not entirely feasible due to the unique nature of each case and the substantial impact of injury severity on final settlement negotiations.

It is crucial to understand that every case is distinct, and while we have achieved favorable results for our previous clients, we cannot guarantee the same level of compensation for your specific situation. However, be assured that we are fully dedicated to vigorously pursuing the maximum recoverable damages on your behalf. Here are a few examples of our previous case results:

• A total recovery of $4.1 million for a family involved in a collision with a truck.
• A total recovery of $3 million for the family of a victim in a moped accident.
• A total recovery of $2.5 million for two clients injured in a highway collision.
• Compensation of $1.7 million for a client injured in an accident caused by another vehicle.
• A total recovery of $1 million for a group of four individuals injured in an automobile collision.
• Compensation of $957,865 for a family injured by a distracted driver.

These examples demonstrate successful outcomes we have achieved in the past. However, it is essential to bear in mind that the specific circumstances of your case will significantly influence the potential settlement amount.

How Long Does It Take To Settle a Car Accident Case in Asheville?

Resolving a car accident case can take anywhere from a few months to several years, especially if the situation is complicated. Sometimes, it’s best to reach a quick settlement with the insurance company of the driver responsible for the accident. In an out-of-court settlement, the person at fault agrees to compensate the victim without going to trial. This can happen before a lawsuit is filed or at any stage during the trial process. Choosing a settlement before trial can be beneficial because it avoids the financial burden and emotional stress of a potentially lengthy trial.

However, it’s important to remember that you should not give a statement or accept a settlement without talking to an Asheville car accident lawyer. Insurance companies may try to offer a lower amount in the settlement, and once you accept it, you can’t change your mind. It’s crucial to consult with our accident lawyers in Asheville, NC, to understand the possible timeline for your case and ensure you receive fair compensation.

What Happens if You Don’t Have Car Insurance in a Car Accident in Asheville?

In North Carolina, all drivers must have liability and uninsured motorist coverage insurance. The minimum coverage amounts are $30,000 for bodily injury per person, $60,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 for property damage.

Driving without insurance in North Carolina is considered a misdemeanor offense, which means you can face fines and even imprisonment.

If you are in an accident without insurance, it’s important not to lie or provide a fake insurance card. Being dishonest will only make things worse. Instead, calmly inform the other driver and, if applicable, the police that you don’t have insurance.

Start by documenting your injuries and any damage to your vehicle and the other driver’s vehicle. Remember, fault in an accident is determined by who caused the crash, not by insurance coverage. If the other driver admits fault, like rear-ending you, their insurance company should be responsible for any bodily injury or property damage they caused, regardless of your insurance status. If there are witnesses, make sure to gather their statements for the police officer about the cause of the accident.

If you were involved in a car accident without insurance, you must seek help from an experienced personal injury attorney who can guide you through your case.

What Happens if the At-Fault Party Doesn’t Have Car Insurance?

If you find yourself in an accident with an uninsured driver, there are legal options available to you. In North Carolina, specific laws are in place to address this situation. Uninsured motorist coverage, or UM insurance, provides protection and financial assistance to individuals who are involved in an accident with an uninsured driver. According to North Carolina state law, all auto insurance policies must include uninsured motorist coverage unless the insured explicitly rejects it in writing.

UM coverage is intended to help victims who are hit by an uninsured driver or are involved in an accident where the at-fault party doesn’t have car insurance. It’s important to note that uninsured motorist coverage also applies to hit-and-run incidents, where the responsible party either flees the scene or remains unidentified. By having uninsured motorist coverage, you can have peace of mind knowing that you are still eligible for compensation for injuries and damages, even if the other driver doesn’t have insurance.

How Do You Get a Temporary Rental Car After an Accident?

After your car accident, it’s likely that you’ll need to arrange for a rental car. Whether you can get reimbursement or financial coverage for the rental car expenses will depend on who is responsible for the accident.

If another driver caused the accident, you can seek compensation for the rental car fees from their insurance. To do this, you’ll need to contact the at-fault driver’s auto insurance provider. Reach out to them after the accident and ask for coverage or reimbursement for the costs of renting a vehicle while your car is being repaired.

It’s important to know that many insurance companies only cover rental car expenses for a limited period, typically up to 30 days after the accident, even if your car takes longer to repair. Additionally, some insurance policies may have daily or overall limits on the reimbursement for a rental car. For example, an insurer might only offer up to $30 per day for rental car fees and/or a maximum of $900 in total reimbursement, even if the actual rental costs are higher.

Remember that insurance companies may try to offer you the smallest and least expensive rental car option available. However, if you’ve filed a claim, they should provide you with a rental car that is comparable to your own car before the accident. If you encounter any issues, we recommend contacting our car accident lawyers in Asheville, NC. They can help you negotiate a more suitable rental car arrangement on your behalf.

What if You Are in an Accident in a Rental Car in Asheville?

Understanding your insurance coverage options in the event of an accident while driving a rental car is crucial. Typically, there are three main insurance options available when renting a car:

1. Personal auto insurance: Rental car companies usually require insurance, and your existing auto insurance policy may extend coverage to rental car accidents. It’s important to check with your insurance provider before renting a car to confirm if your policy includes rental vehicles. If not, you may consider purchasing additional coverage through the rental company.
2. Rental car company insurance: When reserving a rental car, the company may offer additional coverage options that provide extra protection in case of an accident.
3. Credit card rental insurance: Some credit cards offer car rental insurance when used for renting a car. This coverage typically includes damages to the rental car but often excludes liability coverage. So, it’s important to ensure you have liability coverage through your auto insurance or rental car insurance.

If you are at fault in an accident involving a rental car, you are responsible for the damages. The costs should be covered by your insurance, whether it’s your personal auto insurance or the insurance provided by the rental car company. On the other hand, if another driver is at fault, they are responsible for the damages according to North Carolina law. In such cases, the rental company will work with the insurance company of the at-fault driver. However, it’s possible that you may receive a charge from the rental company before the case is settled.

If you are charged by the rental company, you’ll need to seek compensation from the insurance company of the at-fault driver, which should reimburse you for the charges imposed by the rental company. It’s important to note that insurance companies may try to avoid liability, so having the assistance of an Asheville car accident lawyer can be helpful in navigating the process.

What Causes Most Asheville Car Accidents?

Statistics from the North Carolina Department of Transportation show that the most prevalent cause of car accidents is speeding, followed by distracted driving and failure to yield. Plus, the Asheville area is mountainous, with changeable weather conditions like snow, fog, and heavy rain. And with abundant wildlife in the area, deer are also a common road hazard. To mitigate these risks, drivers in Asheville should prioritize staying focused, adhering to speed limits, driving sober, yielding appropriately, maintaining safe distances, avoiding aggressive behaviors, and adapting to weather conditions.

Our Asheville Car Accident Lawyers Are Ready To Serve Your Case

Asheville, NC is a remarkable city with beauty and a vibrant community. However, car accidents happen all too frequently on local roads such as I-240, I-26, and the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway. If you’ve been injured in a car accident, George Sink, P.A. Injury Lawyers is here to help.

Our experienced team of car accident attorneys in Asheville, NC, understands the challenges you may face after an accident and is dedicated to protecting your rights. We will fight for the compensation you deserve, handling everything from investigating the accident to negotiating with insurance companies. We aim to alleviate the burden on your shoulders and secure the maximum compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Call our Asheville car accident attorneys at (828) 900-5257 or get a free, no-obligation case review today.

Types of Car Accident Cases We Handle in Asheville

Our Asheville car accident attorneys specialize in all types of car accident cases, including:

Car Diminished Value Claims Distracted/Texting While Driving Drowsy Driving DUI/Drunk driver accidents Fatal Car Accident Head-On Collision High-Speed Crash Hit and Run Passenger Injuries

Pedestrian Accident Rear-end Accident Rental Car Accident Rideshare Accidents Road Rage Accident Rollover Accident Teen Driver Accident Unsafe Lane Change Accident Wrong Way Driver Accident