Best Car Accident Lawyers in High Point, NC

FAQs

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

  The High Point Police Department’s non-emergency contact number is 336-883-3224.

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

  You may access an accident report by running a search on this online database: https://p2c.highpointnc.gov/Accidents/Catalog. To obtain complete crash reports, qualified persons must go to the High Point Police Department and present valid identification.

• What should you do if you are involved in a car accident in High Point?

  Check to see if you or your companions are hurt. North Carolina law requires you to report a crash if there is an injury, death, or property damage worth more than $1,000. Wait for authorities to arrive by dialing 911, the High Point Police Department, or the Guilford County Sheriff's Office. If you are driving the vehicle, you must also exchange information with the other drivers, such as names, addresses, and contact information, as well as vehicle registration and driver's license numbers.

• Who is at fault in a car accident in High Point?

  Motorists who exhibit negligent or careless behavior may be found to be at fault in a car accident. If two or more drivers made mistakes that resulted in a High Point collision, they may be held jointly liable. Employers of on-the-job vehicle operators may be held liable as well. Their commercial liability insurance policies can be used to compensate claimants who have been injured.

• Why is determining fault in a High Point car accident important?

  Because North Carolina is a no-fault state, High Point car accident victims must demonstrate that none of their actions or decisions contributed to the crash. Regardless of their injuries, if they are found to be even 1% at fault for the accident, they will lose their right to seek compensation.

• Should one stay on the road or move their car after a High Point fender bender?

  According to North Carolina's Fender Bender Law, drivers in High Point who are involved in a minor crash in which no one is injured must move their vehicle to the road shoulder. This will help to reduce traffic congestion and the likelihood of secondary accidents. Motorists who fail to comply may face a $110 fine and court costs.

• What should you do if your insurance company makes a quick settlement offer after a car accident in High Point?

  Do not agree to quick settlement offers from insurance companies or sign any written statement on their behalf. Such offers are based on previous accidents rather than your specific circumstances, injuries, and losses. If you accept a settlement soon after an accident in High Point, you will lose the right to seek additional compensation if your injuries worsen or new ones are discovered. It is best to wait until you have fully recovered before consulting with an attorney.

• 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.