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Seeking Justice for Car Accident Victims in Charlotte, NC
Welcome to Charlotte, NC, a vibrant and dynamic city known for its thriving community and numerous attractions. While Charlotte offers an excellent quality of life, it is not immune to the risks of car accidents, particularly on certain highways and roads. Interstates such as I-77, I-85, and I-485, as well as busy routes, like Independence Boulevard and Wilkinson Boulevard, have witnessed their fair share of accidents. Sadly, Charlotte ranks #1 in North Carolina traffic crashes, with 30,057 non-fatal injuries sustained in car accidents from 2019-2021.
At George Sink, P.A. Injury Lawyers, we understand the challenges faced by those injured in these accidents and are here to provide dedicated representation. Our Charlotte car accident attorneys have extensive experience and commitment to our clients. Call us at (980) 999-9904 or contact us for a free, no-obligation case review today.
Charlotte Car Accidents Lawyer Near Me(980) 999-9904
What Should I Do Immediately After a Car Accident in Charlotte?
Experiencing a car accident can be a frightening and disorienting event, so it’s helpful to understand the steps you should take after one occurs. Here’s what to do after a car accident:
- First, ensure that you and any passengers are not injured. If anyone is, stay put and wait for assistance.
- Dial 911 to contact the Charlotte Police Department. Besides helping with any injuries, they can provide a report that could be pivotal for future legal claims.
- Exchange contact information with all parties involved and any witnesses present.
- Record the accident by taking pictures and videos of the scene, vehicles, and license plates.
- Contact your insurance company to initiate the claims process.
- Finally, contact our Charlotte car accident lawyers as soon as possible for a complimentary case evaluation.
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(980) 999-9904Why Hire a Charlotte Car Accident Attorney?
Although it is not obligatory to enlist the services of a lawyer for your injury claim, having a skilled attorney by your side can greatly enhance the prospects of your case. A knowledgeable Charlotte car accident lawyer can help with the following:
- Assess the value of your damages accurately
- Negotiate with the insurance company representing the party at fault
- Collect and organize vital evidence
- Inform you about legal time limits
- Advocate for maximum compensation to cover your losses
- Take your case to court if necessary
By seeking a legal consultation from our car accident lawyers in Charlotte, NC, you can gain a better understanding of the likelihood of receiving compensation and evaluate the necessity of legal representation for your case. A Charlotte auto accident attorney, well-versed in the local area, laws, and regulations, can provide invaluable assistance in ensuring you get the compensation you deserve. They will help you pursue reimbursement for medical expenses, lost income, and other damages stemming from the accident, all while safeguarding your rights as a victim.
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Give Us A Call »When Should I Contact a Car Accident Lawyer in Charlotte?
If you get hurt in a car accident, contacting a Charlotte car accident lawyer is important. There’s a deadline called the statute of limitations that determines the amount of time you have to take legal action after an accident, and it can be influenced by a number of different factors in your case.
Promptly contacting a car accident lawyer in Charlotte ensures that important evidence is preserved and people’s memories of what happened stay fresh. Acting fast reduces the risk of missing important deadlines that could affect your chances of getting compensation. Get a free, no-obligation case review with our accident lawyers in Charlotte, NC, today.
What Is the Statute of Limitations for a Car Accident in Charlotte?
The statute of limitations refers to the legal time limit set by the state for taking action after a car accident. However, the timeline for your particular case can be influenced by many different factors and situations. That’s why it’s important to contact a car accident lawyer in Charlotte, NC who can explain how this deadline may affect your specific legal claim.
What Are the Most Common Car Accident Injuries in Charlotte?
Here are some typical injuries that often occur in car accidents:
- Whiplash
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord injuries
- Cuts and bruises
- Mental and emotional trauma, like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Broken or fractured bones
- Burns
- Neck and back injuries, such as herniated discs
- Internal bleeding
- Knee injuries
Regardless of the specific injuries suffered in a car accident, an experienced Charlotte car accident lawyer can assist you in seeking compensation for the expenses related to your injuries.
Who Is Liable for My Injuries in a Car Accident in Charlotte?
In North Carolina, determining fault in car accidents is not always straightforward. State law operates under an at-fault system, meaning that the driver responsible for an accident is liable for damages.
Generally, the driver who acted negligently or violated traffic laws is considered at fault. However, it is important to note that fault determinations are ultimately made by the state courts or insurers, as stated in accident reports. This is due to a unique legal principle known as contributory negligence.
Contributory negligence in North Carolina prevents you from recovering damages if you are found to have any degree of fault in the accident. Therefore, seeking assistance from an experienced car accident attorney in Charlotte, NC, especially before providing any statements to insurance companies, is crucial if you are involved in an accident.
Who Pays My Medical Bills After a Car Accident in Charlotte, NC?
If you were injured in a car accident in Charlotte, you may be taken to or advised to visit a medical center like Carolinas Medical Center or Novant Health Presbyterian Medical Center to assess your injuries. Getting the bill after these visits can be a shock, and you may wonder who pays the medical bills in a car accident.
If 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 mandated to have a minimum level of bodily liability coverage in their car insurance ($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, the insurance company will not immediately pay these medical bills. It usually takes weeks, months, or even longer to reach a settlement (or obtain a verdict if the case goes to trial). Meanwhile, you are still 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 reimburse them from any future settlement.
Additionally, if you have optional MedPay auto insurance coverage in North Carolina, it may cover certain out-of-pocket healthcare costs like deductibles or copays, as well as other medical expenses for you and other occupants of your vehicle.
What Happens if You Don’t Have Car Insurance in a Car Accident in Charlotte?
In North Carolina, it is mandatory for all drivers to have liability and uninsured motorist coverage insurance. The minimum coverage required is $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, which can lead to fines and even imprisonment.
If you are in an accident without insurance, it is crucial not to lie or present a fake insurance card. Engaging in dishonesty will only worsen the situation for you. Instead, calmly inform the other driver and, if applicable, the police that you do not have insurance.
Start by documenting your injuries and any property damage to both your vehicle and the other driver’s vehicle. Remember, fault in an accident is not determined by insurance coverage but by who is responsible for causing the crash. If the other driver admits fault, such as rear-ending you, their insurance company should be responsible for any bodily injury or property damage they caused, regardless of your insurance status. Additionally, if witnesses are present, make sure to gather their statements for the police officer regarding the cause of the accident.
If you were involved in a car accident without insurance, it is vital to seek the assistance of an experienced personal injury attorney to guide you through your case.
What if the At-Fault Party Doesn’t Have Car Insurance?
If you were involved in an accident with an uninsured driver, you still have legal options. North Carolina has specific laws in place to address this scenario. Uninsured motorist coverage, also known as UM insurance, offers protection and financial support to individuals who have experienced an accident with an uninsured driver. Under North Carolina state law, all auto insurance policies must include uninsured motorist coverage unless the insured explicitly rejects it in writing.
UM coverage is designed to assist victims who have been hit by an uninsured driver or are involved in an accident where the at-fault party doesn’t have car insurance. It is worth noting that uninsured motorist coverage also applies to hit-and-run incidents, where the responsible party either leaves 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.
What Damages Can I Pursue After a Charlotte Car Accident?
The damages awarded in your case can vary depending on your specific circumstances, and it’s possible that you may have experienced additional losses beyond those listed. We will provide you with detailed information regarding this matter.
If we can establish a clear link between the accident and other damages, it may be possible to secure further compensation that is not explicitly mentioned in the provided list. In cases involving car accidents, our clients commonly receive compensation for the following damages:
- Pain and suffering experienced as a result of the accident
- Medical expenses and costs related to treatment
- Ongoing care expenses as determined by medical professionals
- Lost wages during the recovery period
- Reduced earning capacity in the event that you are unable to return to your previous occupation
- Out-of-pocket expenses directly related to the accident
- Repairs or replacement of your vehicle
What Is the Average Settlement for a Car Accident in Charlotte?
Unfortunately, determining an accurate average settlement amount for car accidents in North Carolina is not possible. This is primarily due to the unique nature of each car accident case and the significant impact the severity of injuries has on the final settlement offered during negotiations.
It is important to recognize that every case is distinct, and while we have achieved successful results for our previous clients, we cannot guarantee the same level of compensation for your specific situation. However, rest assured that we are committed to diligently pursuing the maximum recoverable damages on your behalf. Here are a few examples of our past case results:
- A total recovery of $4.1 million for a family who was struck by a truck.
- A total recovery of $3 million for the family of a victim involved in a moped accident.
- A total recovery of $2.5 million for two clients injured in a collision on the highway.
- A compensation of $1.7 million for a client who sustained injuries in an accident caused by another car.
- A total recovery of $1 million for a group of four individuals injured in an automobile collision.
- A compensation of $957,865 for a family injured by a driver who was distracted.
These examples demonstrate the successful outcomes we have achieved in the past, but it is important to remember that the specific circumstances of your case will greatly influence the potential settlement amount.
How Long Does It Take To Settle a Car Accident Case in Charlotte?
Resolving a car accident case can take anywhere from a few months to several years, particularly in complex situations. There are instances where pursuing a quick settlement with the insurance company of the at-fault driver proves to be the most advantageous approach. When two parties reach an out-of-court settlement, the defendant responsible for the accident agrees to compensate the victim. By settling outside of court, the parties avoid going through a trial. Settlements can occur before the plaintiff officially files a lawsuit or at any stage during the trial process. Opting for a settlement prior to trial can be advantageous as it helps both parties evade the financial burden and emotional strain associated with a potentially long trial.
However, it is important to remember that you should not provide a statement or accept a settlement before talking with a Charlotte car accident lawyer. They may lowball your settlement, and once you accept an offer, you can’t take it back. Talk to our accident lawyers in Charlotte, NC to learn more about the possible time frame for your claim.
How Do I Get a Temporary Rental Car After an Accident?
It is likely that you will need to visit the nearby offices of Enterprise or National to secure a rental car following your car accident. The availability of reimbursement or financial coverage for the expenses incurred for a rental car after your vehicle has been damaged in a car accident will largely depend on the responsible party for the crash.
If another driver caused the accident, you can seek compensation for rental car fees from the at-fault driver. Typically, this process involves contacting the at-fault driver’s auto insurance provider. After the accident, you can reach out to the insurer and request coverage or reimbursement for the costs of renting a vehicle while your car is undergoing repairs.
It is important to note that many insurance companies only cover rental car expenses for a limited period, usually up to 30 days following the accident, even if your car requires a longer repair duration. Additionally, certain insurance policies may impose a daily or overall cap on the reimbursement provided for a rental car. For instance, an insurer might only offer reimbursement of up to $30 per day for rental car fees and/or up to a maximum of $900 in total reimbursement, despite the potentially higher costs associated with renting a car.
It’s important to be aware that insurance companies may try to offer you the smallest and most inexpensive rental car option available. However, if you have filed a claim, they should provide you with a rental car that is comparable to the one you were driving prior to the accident. If you encounter this situation, we recommend contacting our car accident lawyers in Charlotte, NC. They can assist you in negotiating a more suitable rental car arrangement on your behalf.
What if I’m in an Accident in a Rental Car in Charlotte?
It is essential to have a clear understanding of your insurance coverage options in the event of an accident while driving a rental car. Generally, there are three main insurance options available when renting a car:
- Your personal auto insurance: Rental car companies usually require you to have insurance, and your existing auto insurance policy may extend coverage to rental car accidents. Prior to renting a car, it is advisable to verify with your insurance provider if your policy includes rental vehicles. If not, you may consider purchasing additional coverage through the rental company.
- Insurance provided by the rental car company: When reserving a rental car, the company may offer optional additional coverage, which can provide supplementary protection in case of an accident.
- Credit card rental insurance: Certain 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. Therefore, it is 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 bear legal responsibility for the damages. The costs should be covered by your insurance, whether it is your personal auto insurance or the insurance provided by the rental car company. Conversely, if another driver is at fault, they are accountable for the damages under North Carolina law. In such cases, the rental company will collaborate with the insurance company of the at-fault driver. However, it is 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 will 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 is important to be aware that insurance companies may attempt to evade liability, so engaging the services of a Charlotte car accident lawyer can be advantageous in navigating the process.
What Causes Most Charlotte Car Accidents?
Determining the exact causes of car accidents in Charlotte, NC can be complex, but certain common factors contribute to many incidents. The biggest cause is distracted driving, which includes activities such as texting, talking on the phone, or using electronic devices while operating a vehicle. Speeding is another prevalent factor that leads to accidents, as drivers exceeding the speed limit have reduced control over their vehicles. Additionally, impaired driving, particularly driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, remains a major concern.
Statistics from the North Carolina Department of Transportation reveal that in 2021 alone, there were 58,623 reported crashes in Mecklenburg County, which encompasses Charlotte. Of these crashes, 15,716 were attributed to distracted driving, 11,456 resulted from speeding, and 3,336 involved impaired driving. These figures emphasize the importance of promoting safe driving behaviors to reduce the occurrence of car accidents in Charlotte.
Our Charlotte Car Accident Lawyers Are Ready To Serve Your Case
Car accidents are terrifying events that can change your life instantly. Being aware of the specific highways and roads in Charlotte that are prone to car accidents is crucial for residents and visitors alike. If you find yourself injured in an accident on interstates like I-77, I-85, or I-485, or on busy routes such as Independence Boulevard and Wilkinson Boulevard, seeking the assistance of a car accident lawyer in Charlotte is essential.
At George Sink, P.A. Injury Lawyers, we empathize with the fear and uncertainty you might experience after a car accident. Our priority is to obtain compensation that helps you move on from this difficult time. With over four decades of practice, we have resolved over 40,000 cases and have the expertise to represent your case. Let our Charlotte car accident lawyers assist you in securing the compensation you deserve. Call us at (980) 999-9904 or contact us for a free, no-obligation case review today.
Types of Car Accident Cases We Handle in Charlotte
Our Charlotte car accident attorneys specialize in all types of car accident cases, including:
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