What should I do after a car accident?

Here are the steps you should take after a car accident: Assess injuries and move to a safe place, if possible, to avoid further harm. Call 911 to report the accident to the police and request emergency medical help. Document the accident scene as you wait for assistance with photos, videos, and written notes. Exchange information with other motorists involved and ask any witnesses for their contact information and their statements. Seek medical attention as soon as possible after leaving the scene of the accident. Even if emergency medical personnel examined you on the scene, this examination is focused on injuries that require emergency intervention. You need a more comprehensive exam to identify the full extent of the damage and begin putting together a treatment plan. Consult an experienced car accident lawyer in Charlotte, NC, for help understanding your legal rights and beginning the process of pursuing a claim for compensation. Notify your insurance company of the basic facts of the accident promptly, but be aware that discussing fault for the accident or your injuries at this time could be detrimental to your future claim. If you haven’t done so already, consider speaking to an attorney before notifying your insurer of the accident so you are aware of the potential pitfalls. Taking the right steps after a car accident will help you manage the situation more effectively and establish a strong foundation for your claim.

How long do I have to report a car accident to my insurer in NC?

While there isn’t a strict statutory deadline for reporting a car accident to your insurance company, it’s generally advisable to do so as soon as possible. Most insurance policies contain a provision requiring policyholders to promptly report an accident. Failing to notify your insurer in a timely manner could give them grounds to deny your claim. However, taking the time to consult with an attorney before you notify your insurer can be beneficial in preventing you from making common mistakes that could weaken your claim.

How long do I have to file a car accident injury claim in NC?

In North Carolina, the timeframe to file a car accident injury claim, also known as the statute of limitations, is generally three years from the date of the injury. If the accident results in a fatality, the deceased’s representatives have two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death lawsuit. Other exceptions may also apply. It’s crucial to be aware of all time limits that apply to your case because failing to file within the designated period typically bars you from pursuing legal remedies in court. Given the importance of these deadlines and the potential complexities, you should consult a knowledgeable attorney as soon as possible to ensure timely legal action.

How long does an insurance company have to settle a claim in NC?

In North Carolina, insurance companies are required by law to act promptly and in good faith when handling claims. Once a claim is filed, the insurance company generally has 30 days to acknowledge receipt of the claim. After receiving all the necessary documentation and information from the claimant, the insurer has a maximum of 40 days to either approve or deny the claim. If the claim is approved, payment should be made within 30 days of the agreement or the final court judgment. If the company requires more time to assess the claim, they must inform the claimant about the need for additional time and the reasons for the delay. Complex cases might extend beyond these timeframes. Claimants might have legal recourse if an insurance company fails to adhere to these timelines or acts in bad faith. If you believe the insurance company is not handling your claim appropriately, it’s time to seek legal advice.

What if the insurance company says I’m at fault?

Understanding the implications of partial fault in a car accident is crucial, particularly in states with stringent laws like North Carolina. Under the state’s contributory negligence rule, if you are found even slightly at fault for the accident, you could be barred from receiving any compensation from the other parties involved. Accurately determining fault for the accident is a critical aspect of your case, especially since the contributory negligence rule gives the insurance company an incentive to place at least some blame for the accident on you. If the insurance company is arguing or even suggesting that you share some fault for the accident, you need to retain an attorney right away to protect your ability to pursue compensation. Don’t try to argue the point with the insurance company. What might appear to be an innocuous comment or apology can significantly impact your case. Instead, direct all communications with the insurer to your lawyer. In addition to dealing with the insurance company, we will gather comprehensive evidence that supports your claim, including both the negligence of the at-fault driver and the extent of your injuries and other damages. Insurance companies often dispute claims that they see as potentially involving partial fault in an effort to minimize payouts. Our experience in dealing with insurance adjusters can be pivotal in protecting your interests and negotiating a fair settlement on your behalf.

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Car Accident Lawyer Charlotte Nc

Car Accident Lawyer Charlotte, NC

Charlotte Auto Accident Attorney Offering Skilled Legal Support in Mecklenburg County, Wake County, Guilford County, and Throughout North Carolina

A car accident on the bustling streets of Charlotte, NC, can be life-altering. Amid the physical, emotional, and financial strains a motor vehicle crash can impose on the victim and their entire family, any help that can ease the stress you’re facing feels like a breath of fresh air. As an experienced car accident lawyer in Charlotte, NC, Schehr Law PLLC aims to support injured victims through the process of recovering full financial compensation for their losses. Our comprehensive legal services mean you can focus on healing while we handle the legal claim for you.

Unlike every other aspect of life after a serious car crash, getting legal help for an auto accident is easy. Schehr Law PLLC offers after-hours assistance by phone and email and 24/7 live call answering, so you can get help when you need it. Contact us today to get started with a free consultation.

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980-577-3186

Car Accident Injury Claims in Charlotte, NC

Victims injured in car accidents due to another party’s negligence can seek financial compensation for their injuries from an at-fault driver or another negligent party. However, there are specific laws and legal nuances that could affect your ability to recover monetary damages for your injuries and other losses. To ensure you fully understand your legal rights and the limitations and requirements that could affect them, you should consult a Charlotte auto accident attorney as soon as possible after a collision.

North Carolina’s Contributory Negligence Law

North Carolina follows the doctrine of contributory negligence. This rule means that if you are found even partially at fault for the car accident, you may be barred from recovering any compensation.

The cause of an auto accident can sometimes be complex. Because of the strict standards imposed by the doctrine of contributory negligence, claimants can have a difficult time obtaining the compensation that they deserve from a driver whose negligence caused the accident. In efforts to minimize payouts and preserve their profits, insurance companies may take advantage of this rule, seeking to unfairly place blame for the accident on the victim so that the contributory negligence doctrine prevents them from getting compensation to make them whole.

Although this rule can give rise to significant obstacles for injured auto accident victims, there’s still hope.

With the help of an experienced car accident lawyer in Charlotte, NC, you can build a strong case to prove the other party’s negligence and minimize any potential contributory negligence on your part. Schehr Law PLLC has experience helping clients overcome these challenges and recover financial compensation.

How Schehr Law Can Help You

Get the Compensation You Deserve

A Proven Track Record of Successful Personal Injury Cases
Dedicated to Giving Every Victim a Voice
Get Results That Give You What You Deserve

North Carolina’s Statute of Limitations

There is a time limit, called the statute of limitations, that individuals who want to file a claim should be aware of. Generally, you have three years from the date of the accident to initiate legal proceedings in North Carolina. However, there are exceptions to this rule that can affect how long you may have to move forward with your case.

Failing to meet this deadline can result in the loss of your right to pursue compensation. It’s essential to consult with a Charlotte auto accident attorney promptly to ensure your case meets all legal deadlines.

Auto Insurance in NC

In the event of a car accident, auto insurance policies pay out claims, including claims for personal injuries and related damages.

North Carolina law mandates that all drivers carry a minimum amount of liability insurance coverage. According to the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles, state insurance requirements (as updated in December 2023) include:

A minimum of $30,000 in bodily injury coverage for one person per accident
A minimum of $60,000 in bodily injury coverage for two or more people
At least $25,000 in property damage coverage
Uninsured motorist (UM) and underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage

The coverage available to you under all defendants you name in your claim, as well as your own coverage, affects your recovery. The state’s minimum bodily injury coverage requirements ensure that injured parties have access to some form of compensation after a car accident. If you are injured by a driver who lacks insurance or has insufficient coverage, the UM and UIM coverage you purchased as part of your auto insurance policy offer you an opportunity to recover compensation that might not otherwise be available.

Helping Auto Accident Victims Understand NC Laws

Having a thorough grasp of state car accident laws that are relevant to your claim can potentially help you obtain better results. The state’s contributory negligence law, statute of limitations, insurance requirements, and uninsured motorist coverage all play a significant role in the outcome of your case.

A Charlotte auto accident attorney at Schehr Law PLLC can help you understand the insurance coverage available to you and prepare a strong case to minimize or overcome any potential challenges arising out of state laws. Trust our team to guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and help you recover the compensation you deserve.

Types of Car Accidents an Attorney at Schehr Law PLLC Handles

Car accidents on North Carolina roads often cause victims physical, emotional, and financial distress. The different types of collisions are unique in important aspects, such as their implications for determining fault and the injuries they are likely to cause.

You can count on Schehr Law PLLC’s car accident lawyer in Charlotte, NC, to assist you with any type of car crash, drawing upon our firm’s extensive experience dealing with a full range of motor vehicle accidents.

The types of collisions our team handles on a regular basis include the following.

Rear-End Collisions

Rear-end collisions typically occur when a vehicle hits the car in front of it. These common accidents often result from distracted driving, sudden stops, or tailgating.

Injuries from a rear-end accident range from whiplash to more severe harm, depending on the force of the impact. If you’ve been hurt in a rear-end collision, seek legal advice from a car accident lawyer in Charlotte, NC, to understand your rights and potential compensation.

Side-Impact Collisions

Also known as T-bone accidents, side-impact collisions happen when the side of one vehicle is struck by the front or rear of another vehicle, often at an intersection. Side-impact collisions can cause significant injuries, with the less protective structure on the sides of vehicles contributing to victims’ vulnerability.

Head-On Collisions

Head-on collisions are among the deadliest types of car accidents. They occur when the fronts of two vehicles strike each other.

Negligent driving behaviors such as wrong-way driving, distracted driving, and driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs often cause head-on collisions.

The injuries sustained can be life-altering, catastrophic, and, in some tragic circumstances, deadly. For families navigating the aftermath of the serious injuries caused by head-on collisions, legal support is crucial.

Single-Vehicle Accidents

Single-vehicle accidents involve only one vehicle. A number of factors can cause or contribute to these crashes, including:

Weather conditions
Road conditions
Mechanical vehicle failures
Driver error

Determining liability for single-vehicle accidents can be surprisingly complex, so seeking advice from a car accident lawyer in Charlotte, NC, is advisable. Injured passengers may be able to seek compensation through the driver's insurance company. If another party’s negligence caused the crash, as may occur in instances of vehicle malfunctions or hazardous road conditions arising out of another entity’s negligence, the driver harmed in a single-vehicle crash may also have legal recourse.

Multi-Vehicle Pile-Ups

Multi-vehicle pile-ups are chaotic crashes that typically occur on busy roads or highways. A single incident can trigger a chain reaction that ends with multiple vehicles colliding.

The complexity of these accidents makes it challenging to determine liability, and the involvement of multiple potential defendants, claimants, insurers, and policies only make these matters more complicated. Legal assistance from a seasoned Charlotte auto accident attorney is essential in navigating scenarios involving multi-vehicle accident claims.

Rollovers

Rollover accidents are particularly dangerous and can result in severe injuries or fatalities.

Common causes of rollover accidents include:

Sharp turns, especially when taken at high speeds
Collisions with other vehicles or fixed objects
Tripping, or hitting a curb, guardrail, or median with one side of the vehicle at a high speed

Understanding the cause of a rollover is vital for legal claims, because you need to identify a defendant from whom you could seek compensation and establish their negligence.

Hit and Run Accidents

Hit and run accidents encompass crashes of any kind in which a driver leaves the scene without providing contact information or aiding the injured. These incidents require immediate legal attention to protect your rights and seek justice.

Common Car Accident Injuries

The potential injuries that can result from car accidents vary in severity, from minor bruises to life-threatening conditions. As an experienced car accident lawyer in Charlotte, NC, an attorney at Schehr Law PLLC can help you navigate the unique challenges each distinct type of car accident injury causes.

Whiplash and Neck Injuries

One of the most common injuries resulting from car accidents, especially rear-end collisions, is whiplash. The rapid back-and-forth movement of the neck that results from the force of the collision can lead to strained muscles and ligaments. Symptoms of whiplash may include:

Neck pain
Stiffness
Headaches
Chronic pain
Cervical spine injuries

Severe cases of whiplash can be debilitating, but an attorney can help you pursue financial compensation so that you can afford the treatment you need to get better.

Back Injuries

Back injuries due to car accidents range from mild back strains to serious spinal cord injuries. Herniated discs occur when the force of the crash causes the cushioning discs between the spinal vertebrae to rupture or shift, leading to pain, numbness, or weakness.

Severe cases of spinal cord damage can lead to partial or complete paralysis.

Head Injuries and Traumatic Brain Injuries

Head injuries, including traumatic brain injuries (TBIsI), are particularly concerning due to their ability to affect victims’ functioning in numerous and significant ways. They can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage.

Among the numerous symptoms of TBI are:

Headaches
Confusion
Memory problems
Cognitive and physical impairments, which may be long-term issues

A brain injury can occur even if the car crash does not cause a direct blow to the head because the force of an accident can cause the brain to move violently within the skull.

Broken Bones and Fractures

The impact of a car crash can easily break or fracture bones. Common fractures in car accidents include:

Broken arms
Broken legs
Broken ribs
Broken hips

Bone fractures can be serious and, at times, medically complicated matters. The broken bone may damage nearby organs or cause internal bleeding. The bone will often need to be set in a cast, immobilizing it for weeks and, in turn, affecting the victim’s mobility and daily life. Particularly serious breaks might require surgery or long-term rehabilitation.

Internal Injuries

Internal injuries include internal bleeding, organ damage, and ruptured blood vessels. Although less apparent than many other types of injuries, internal injuries can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention. Even after initial treatment, internal damage can have long-lasting health implications, so it’s important that victims explore all avenues for compensation.

Psychological Injuries

Don’t overlook the psychological impact of car accidents. Many victims experience emotional distress, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and depression following an accident. These conditions can be just as debilitating as physical injuries, and, like physical injuries, these conditions can be managed to improve victims’ quality of life.

How Schehr Law PLLC Can Help

At Schehr Law PLLC, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial burdens these injuries can impose. We’ll work tirelessly to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Our approach is rooted in a deep understanding of Charlotte’s traffic laws and an unwavering commitment to the people we serve. As your Charlotte auto accident attorney, we’re prepared to:

Evaluate the facts of your case to identify potential defendants and causes of action
Conduct a fact-finding investigation to gather evidence of the at-fault motorist’s negligence
Begin preparing your claim for financial compensation
Handle all legal aspects of the case, from filing claims paperwork and legal documents to ensuring all legal deadlines are met
Interact with the insurance company on your behalf
Represent you in legal proceedings
Use our negotiation skills to attempt to reach a settlement agreement with the insurance company that will fairly compensate you for all of your damages
Take your case to trial to fight for the full compensation you deserve if an appropriate settlement agreement can’t be reached

Schehr Law PLLC isn’t just your legal counsel. We’re your advocates and allies, here to provide comprehensive support throughout the aftermath of a car accident.

Why Choose Schehr Law PLLC

With Schehr Law PLLC on your side, you’ll never feel alone as you navigate the aftermath of an accident and the path toward financial compensation. Car wreck victims across North Carolina choose us as their Charlotte auto accident attorney for our track record of success and our client-focused service.

A History of Successful Cases

Since attorney M. Christopher Schehr founded Schehr Law PLLC in 2020, we have recovered more than $4 million for our injured clients. Our successes include compensation in excess of $800,000 for the victim of a car accident involving a DoorDash delivery vehicle.

Each car accident claim is unique, and so is the value of its potential settlement or award. What’s certain is that Schehr Law PLLC has a track record of pursuing the maximum compensation available to our clients. Through skilled case preparation and aggressive legal representation, we work to maximize your settlement or award.

A Commitment to Caring for Our Clients

Although the settlement or award Schehr Law PLLC recovers for you matters, your case is more than a number or a dollar sign. You need legal representation right now, but you also need so much more: compassion, empathy, and reassurance that there’s hope for improvement.
We know the challenges our clients face: dealing with insurance companies, understanding the intricacies of liability, and seeking fair compensation. We strive to shoulder these burdens for you, offering a guiding hand through each step of the legal process. Our team is here to provide the comprehensive support you need to get through this ordeal.

Contact a Car Accident Lawyer in Charlotte, NC, at Schehr Law PLLC Today for a Free Case Review

Don’t navigate North Carolina’s complex car accident laws alone. Having the right legal representation can make all the difference not only in the compensation you end up receiving but also in the toll the legal process takes on you.

For help from a car accident lawyer in Charlotte, NC, contact us online or call us today.

Frequently Asked Questions About Car Accident Claims in Charlotte and Throughout North Carolina

Here are the steps you should take after a car accident:
Assess injuries and move to a safe place, if possible, to avoid further harm.
Call 911 to report the accident to the police and request emergency medical help.
Document the accident scene as you wait for assistance with photos, videos, and written notes.
Exchange information with other motorists involved and ask any witnesses for their contact information and their statements.
Seek medical attention as soon as possible after leaving the scene of the accident. Even if emergency medical personnel examined you on the scene, this examination is focused on injuries that require emergency intervention. You need a more comprehensive exam to identify the full extent of the damage and begin putting together a treatment plan.
Consult an experienced car accident lawyer in Charlotte, NC, for help understanding your legal rights and beginning the process of pursuing a claim for compensation.
Notify your insurance company of the basic facts of the accident promptly, but be aware that discussing fault for the accident or your injuries at this time could be detrimental to your future claim. If you haven’t done so already, consider speaking to an attorney before notifying your insurer of the accident so you are aware of the potential pitfalls.
Taking the right steps after a car accident will help you manage the situation more effectively and establish a strong foundation for your claim.
While there isn’t a strict statutory deadline for reporting a car accident to your insurance company, it’s generally advisable to do so as soon as possible. Most insurance policies contain a provision requiring policyholders to promptly report an accident. Failing to notify your insurer in a timely manner could give them grounds to deny your claim. However, taking the time to consult with an attorney before you notify your insurer can be beneficial in preventing you from making common mistakes that could weaken your claim.
In North Carolina, the timeframe to file a car accident injury claim, also known as the statute of limitations, is generally three years from the date of the injury.
If the accident results in a fatality, the deceased’s representatives have two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death lawsuit.
Other exceptions may also apply. It’s crucial to be aware of all time limits that apply to your case because failing to file within the designated period typically bars you from pursuing legal remedies in court.
Given the importance of these deadlines and the potential complexities, you should consult a knowledgeable attorney as soon as possible to ensure timely legal action.
In North Carolina, insurance companies are required by law to act promptly and in good faith when handling claims. Once a claim is filed, the insurance company generally has 30 days to acknowledge receipt of the claim. After receiving all the necessary documentation and information from the claimant, the insurer has a maximum of 40 days to either approve or deny the claim.
If the claim is approved, payment should be made within 30 days of the agreement or the final court judgment. If the company requires more time to assess the claim, they must inform the claimant about the need for additional time and the reasons for the delay. Complex cases might extend beyond these timeframes.
Claimants might have legal recourse if an insurance company fails to adhere to these timelines or acts in bad faith. If you believe the insurance company is not handling your claim appropriately, it’s time to seek legal advice.
Understanding the implications of partial fault in a car accident is crucial, particularly in states with stringent laws like North Carolina. Under the state’s contributory negligence rule, if you are found even slightly at fault for the accident, you could be barred from receiving any compensation from the other parties involved. Accurately determining fault for the accident is a critical aspect of your case, especially since the contributory negligence rule gives the insurance company an incentive to place at least some blame for the accident on you.
If the insurance company is arguing or even suggesting that you share some fault for the accident, you need to retain an attorney right away to protect your ability to pursue compensation. Don’t try to argue the point with the insurance company. What might appear to be an innocuous comment or apology can significantly impact your case. Instead, direct all communications with the insurer to your lawyer.
In addition to dealing with the insurance company, we will gather comprehensive evidence that supports your claim, including both the negligence of the at-fault driver and the extent of your injuries and other damages.
Insurance companies often dispute claims that they see as potentially involving partial fault in an effort to minimize payouts. Our experience in dealing with insurance adjusters can be pivotal in protecting your interests and negotiating a fair settlement on your behalf.