Wilmington, NC Car Accident Attorney
Over 30 Years Strong, and We’re Just Getting Started
In the blink of an eye, your life can change. An ignored red light or a poorly designed tire can change the trajectory of your day in an instant, resulting in a severe car crash, costly damage, and painful injuries. If the worst should happen, the crash might even mean the death of a loved one.
If you or someone you love was injured in a car accident, your next step can be crucial to the outcome of your case. Our experienced attorneys at CR Legal Team are here to help, and we are passionate about advocating for the wrongfully injured. If you were involved in a crash, we can listen to your story, assess the situation, and create a legal strategy to help you obtain the compensation you need to recover and move forward.
Why CR Legal Team?
At CR Legal Team, we stand up for our clients. Since the establishment of our firm in 1989, we’ve fought zealously to hold negligent companies and individuals responsible for their dangerous actions, all on behalf of our clients. To date, we have recovered more than $500 million for injured clients, and our firm has more than 5,000 five-star reviews. To work with a caring, knowledgeable team, we encourage you to reach out to CR Legal Team without delay.
Call (866) 691-0607 today to get in touch with our Wilmington car accident lawyers.
Your Trusted Partner in Wilmington Car Accident Cases
No matter the type of car accident you've been involved in, we're here to assist you. Our areas of expertise include:
- Drunk Driving Accidents: We hold negligent drivers accountable for the harm caused by their impaired actions.
- Distracted Driving Accidents: We fight for victims of accidents caused by drivers who were distracted by texting, eating, or other activities.
- Pedestrian Accidents: We represent pedestrians injured in accidents with vehicles.
- Multi-Vehicle Accidents: We handle complex cases involving multiple vehicles and parties.
- Truck Accidents: We have extensive experience in representing victims of truck accidents, including those involving commercial trucks and semi-trailers.
- Motorcycle Accidents: We understand the unique challenges faced by motorcycle accident victims and advocate for their rights.
Common Car Accident Injuries
Depending on the nature of your crash, you might suffer any combination of injuries. Even seemingly minor injuries, like a concussion, whiplash, or a sprain, can have a lasting impact on your health, your finances, and your career. To protect your future, the best thing you can do is see a doctor for a thorough examination after a crash.
Common car accident injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal injuries
- Whiplash
- Bruises
- Broken bones
- Bone fractures
- Internal injuries
- Burns
- Road rash
- Sprains or strains
Additionally, the trauma of a particularly violent car accident might lead to anxiety issues, or PTSD, or post-traumatic stress disorder. These types of conditions can be debilitating and may require time away from work, counseling, and medication. To ensure you receive the medical care you need, we encourage you to discuss your concerns with our attorneys. We’ll work hard to ensure you receive everything you need during the recovery process.
Who is Liable for My Car Accident Injuries in North Carolina?
North Carolina is an at-fault state, meaning the driver responsible for causing a car accident is liable for the resulting damages. If another driver's negligence led to your accident, their insurance company will be responsible for your injuries and property damage.
Factors Considered in Determining Fault
When determining fault in a car accident, courts consider various factors, including:
- Speeding: Exceeding the posted speed limit.
- Distracted driving: Using a cell phone, eating, or other distractions.
- Driving under the influence: Operating a vehicle while intoxicated.
- Failure to yield: Not yielding the right of way.
- Improper lane change: Changing lanes without signaling or safely.
- Tailgating: Following too closely behind another vehicle.
Comparative Negligence in North Carolina Car Accidents
Comparative negligence is a legal doctrine that apportions liability between a plaintiff and defendant based on each party's percentage of fault in causing an accident. Even if you're partially to blame, you can still recover damages, but your award will be reduced in proportion to your fault.
North Carolina follows a modified comparative negligence system. This means you can recover damages as long as your fault is not greater than the defendant's fault. However, if your fault is equal to or greater than the defendant's, you cannot recover any damages.
- Example: If you're 20% at fault for a car accident and the defendant is 80% at fault, you can recover 80% of your damages.
If you've been injured in a car crash, it's crucial to consult with our qualified Wilmington, NC auto accident attorney. We can help you understand your legal rights, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
How Can A Car Accident Attorney Help Me?
Some people might think they’re better off without an attorney, but that is rarely the case. If you weren’t injured in your crash, or if your injuries are very minor, you might be able to get on without a legal advisor.
That said, if you were injured in a crash, an experienced attorney can help with the following:
- Identifying the liable party
- Filing an insurance claim
- Negotiating with the insurance companies
- Investigating the circumstances of the crash
- Ensuring you receive proper medical care
- Pursuing legal action against the negligent party, if necessary
Car Accident Statute of Limitations in Wilmington, NC
In North Carolina, including Wilmington, the statute of limitations for most car accident cases is three years from the date of the accident. This means you have three years to file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver.
How Long Does a Car Accident Case Take in NC?
The timeframe for a car accident case in North Carolina can vary significantly. It depends on several factors, including:
- Complexity of the case: Accidents with multiple vehicles, serious injuries, or disputed liability can take longer to resolve.
- Insurance company negotiations: The insurance companies involved may require time to investigate and negotiate a settlement.
- Whether a lawsuit is filed: If a lawsuit is necessary, the case could take several months or even years to go to trial.
In general, many car accident cases in North Carolina are resolved within 6-12 months. However, more complex cases may take longer.
What Should I Do if the Other Driver Is Uninsured?
If you're involved in an accident with an uninsured driver, here's what you should do:
- Stay Calm and Check for Injuries: Ensure everyone is safe. Call emergency services if needed.
- Call the Police: Even if it's a minor accident, file a police report. This documentation can help you with your insurance claim.
- Do Not Accept Cash Offers: The uninsured driver might offer to pay you directly. It's best not to accept this as it can complicate things later.
- Exchange Information: Get the other driver's contact details and take note of their vehicle information (make, model, license plate number). Mention in your notes that they don’t have insurance.
- Document the Scene: Take pictures of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. Get witness information if possible.
- Contact Your Insurance Company: If you have uninsured motorist coverage, it will help cover your damages. Report the accident to your insurer as soon as possible.
- Consider Legal Action: If the uninsured driver is at fault and your insurance doesn’t cover all your costs, you may need to take legal action against the driver personally.
- Seek Medical Attention: If you have injuries, see a doctor even if they seem minor.
Potential Compensation Available in a Car Accident
In a car accident case, you may be eligible for various types of compensation to cover your losses. These can include:
-
Medical Expenses
- Past medical bills (doctor's visits, hospital stays, surgeries)
- Future medical expenses (anticipated treatments, rehabilitation)
- Lost Wages: Income you missed while unable to work due to your injuries
- Loss of Earning Capacity: If your injuries prevent you from earning as much in the future
- Pain and Suffering: Physical and emotional pain caused by the accident
- Property Damage: Costs to repair or replace your damaged vehicle
At CR Legal Team, We Stand Up For You
Following a car accident in Wilmington, NC, you need to act quickly to discover your next step. Our firm can work with you to identify the culprit, handle insurance matters, and hold the appropriate party responsible for the damages you suffered. We have a history of success with a variety of accident cases, and we know what to do if your case is particularly challenging or complex. Most importantly, each of our team members truly cares about what we do. We are committed to our clients, our community, and to doing what’s right. If you have a case, we want to hear from you.
Call (866) 691-0607 today to schedule a free consultation with our Wilmington car accident lawyers.
