Best Car Accident Lawyers in Burlington

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Burlington, North Carolina?

  336-229-3500 is Burlington Police Department's non-emergency contact number.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Burlington, North Carolina?

  To request for a copy of the police report, contact the Records Section at 336-229-3521 or email policerec@burlingtonnc.gov.

• What are the common causes of car accidents in Burlington?

  The common causes of car accidents in Burlington are speeding, ignoring a stop sign or traffic light, distracted or drowsy driving, and driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Drivers also tend not to give way to traffic, not use a turn or change lanes signal before making a turn, follow too closely or tailgate, and maneuver in a risky or unlawful manner.

• What is the deadline to file a car accident lawsuit in Burlington?

  If someone has been injured in a Burlington car accident, they must file a lawsuit within a certain timeframe to claim damages. Specifically, the suing party must file the lawsuit in the proper court within three years of the accident date or two years if the crash resulted in death. If the deadline is missed, the injured party or family of the deceased is unable to file a lawsuit to claim damages for that particular collision.

• Can you collect damages if you are partially at fault in a car accident in Burlington?

  No, according to the "contributory" doctrine of negligence law used in North Carolina, drivers who are even partially to blame for an accident cannot collect damages. In fact, the driver who is at blame will have to compensate the other parties who are not at fault. If you have been involved in a car accident, contact a Burlington car accident lawyer to help review your case.

• What are the common injuries from car crashes in Burlington?

  Some of the common injuries from car accidents in Burlington are the following:

  • back and neck pain
  • damage to the spinal cord and paralysis
  • burn wounds
  • damage to the brain and concussions
  • damage to internal organs
  • missing limbs
  • broken bones
  • herniated discs and compressed vertebrae

  Motorists are advised to drive carefully in order to avoid these injuries.

• What factors are considered when determining who is responsible for a Burlington car accident?

  A Burlington car accident lawyer will investigate various factors to determine who is responsible for an accident. These include examining the actions of other drivers involved, such as reckless or distracted driving. They will also look at whether government entities played a role, such as if poorly maintained roads or inadequate signage contributed to the accident. In some cases, pedestrians or bicyclists who acted negligently may also be at fault.

• How do I choose a car accident lawyer?

  To select a car accident lawyer, consider the lawyer's experience, focus, and reputation. While nearly any attorney can negotiate with insurers for a settlement, not all attorneys have amassed experience litigating a claim in a court of law. Choose an attorney with a background that includes car accident claimants; it's helpful if the attorney is focused on personal injury law. Lastly, read reviews from previous clients to get a feel for the attorney's helpfulness and responsiveness to clients. The best lawyer for your case is one that you feel comfortable and confident working with.

• What steps should I take after a car accident?

  Immediately following a car accident, get out of traffic as soon as possible and dial 9-1-1. Exchange car insurance information with any other involved drivers and get a police report as soon as possible. Be truthful about what happened, even if you are at fault, but stick to reporting the facts of the accident without offering an opinion on who is to blame. If possible, take photos of your car, other cars at the scene, and the scene itself.

• (When) Do I need a lawyer after a car accident?

  Start working with a car accident lawyer as soon as possible following your car accident (some attorneys even make hospital visits). By reaching out for legal help early on, you avoid some of the pitfalls of trying to handle your claim on your own. Your attorney can also get the ball rolling on reimbursement for your medical bills and lost wages while awaiting the outcome of your claim.

• How long after a car accident can you claim an injury?

  The length of time you can file a claim for an injury following a car accident is governed by the statute of limitations in your state. Although it varies, most states set the statute of limitations for injured parties to seek compensatory damages at three years following the accident or three years after you discover your injuries. In cases where children are injured, the statute of limitations may be longer.

• What do I do after a car accident that I'm not responsible for?

  After an accident that's not your fault, seek immediate medical help if you are injured. Once it's safe to do so, obtain the other driver's contact and insurance information, any statements from witnesses, and photos of the scene. Obtain a police report and contact your insurer and the at-fault party's insurer. If you are injured, schedule a consultation with a car accident attorney to discuss your legal options.

• What happens if someone sues you after a car accident?

  If you have car insurance in force at the time of the accident, your insurance is contractually bound to represent you on any claims that arise, indemnifying you against loss up to the limits of your policy. You can help your insurance company by cooperating fully. If the plaintiff in any lawsuit obtains a judgment above your policy limits, then you can be held personally responsible for any damages awarded.

• What/how much can I expect from a car accident settlement?

  According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average bodily injury claim in 2018 was $15,785. The amount of any particular car accident settlement hinges primarily on the severity of the injuries sustained as a result and whether or not any partial or total permanent disability was caused by the accident. Claims that involve broken bones or nerve damage likely settle for more than claims where soft tissue injuries are present.

• How do I arrange a rental car after an accident?

  To arrange a rental car after an accident, first consider whether your insurance or the other party's insurance will be paying for the rental. If another driver is found to be at-fault for the accident, that driver's insurance may pay the costs. If you are responsible, your insurance may pay if your policy covers such expenses. Speak with your insurance adjuster to determine if you have benefits available.

• How long does it take for car insurance to go back down after an accident?

  Post-accident rate spikes can last anywhere from three to five years, depending on your insurer. However, if damages incurred during the accident are less than $2,000, your rate may not go up at all. Three years is typical for collision and property damage claims. Five years is not uncommon in accidents involving bodily injury claims, DUI or DWI, reckless driving, or serious violations at the time of the accident.

• How to settle a car accident claim without a lawyer?

  To negotiate a car accident settlement without a lawyer, you'll have to prove that the other party was to blame for your damages. Gather evidence at the scene to support your claim, including witness statements and photos. Seek medical treatment for your injuries immediately. Notify the other driver's insurer of your intent to file a claim. If you reside in a no-fault state, you will need to use your personal injury protection (PIP) benefits first before filing a claim against the other party for medical expenses and bodily injury. Be prepared with medical records, police reports, receipts for out-of-pocket accident-related costs, and proof of lost income due to the accident before beginning negotiations.