Best Car Accident Lawyers in Jacksonville, NC

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number of the Jacksonville Police Department is 910 455-1472.

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

  To obtain a copy of a police report, there are a few options available to you. You can make a request through the mail by including a self-addressed, stamped envelope. Alternatively, you can visit the police department located at 206 North Marine Boulevard, Jacksonville, from Monday to Sunday, 8 AM to 12 AM. You need to pay $0.15 or $0.35 for color for each additional page if the police report exceeds three pages.

• How can a personal injury lawyer help you after a car accident in Jacksonville?

  A personal injury lawyer in Jacksonville can help you with a variety of matters such as communication management, where the law office will represent you in all calls and communication pertaining to your case. The law office can also handle the complete documentation of evidence, damages, and personal loss that will be filed in court. A lawyer will be negotiating on your behalf regarding the rightful compensation for your losses.

• How do you know if a Jacksonville car accident witness is credible?

  The credibility of a Jacksonville car accident witness' testimony will be based on a number of factors. First is if the witness is biased, has a personal interest in the case, or has a relationship with the victim. Second is if the testimony given is consistent. The third factor is the witness' demeanor if he or she can present calmly and collectedly. The last factor involves the corroboration of evidence from other eyewitnesses of the case.

• What is the statute of limitations for car accidents in Jacksonville?

  The statute of limitations for car accidents in Jacksonville and the entire state of North Carolina is three years from the time of the accident. This means that you generally have three years from the date of the accident or from the point at which you knew or should have known that you had a valid legal claim to file a lawsuit.

• Is Jacksonville in an at-fault state?

  North Carolina is an at-fault state, which means you can file claims against the other party who caused the accident in Jacksonville. At-fault parties will have to shoulder all applicable responsibilities, such as medical bills, non-economic damages, lost wages, and property damage. However, the state also applies a rule known as contributory negligence, where the victim's party loses all eligible claims if they contributed to the cause of the crash.

• What damages can you recover in a car accident case in Jacksonville?

  In North Carolina, you may recover damages for medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and non-economic damages such as pain and suffering. You can also file claims for punitive damages and potential loss of future income. It is recommended to hire a Jacksonville personal injury lawyer to guide you through the process and help you negotiate just compensation from insurance companies.

• 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.