Best Car Accident Lawyers in Winston Salem, NC

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency phone number for the Winston-Salem Police Department is 336-773-7700

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

  You can get a copy of your crash report in multiple ways.

  • Online: by searching for your crash report on the Winston-Salem Police Department eCrash Database
  • Phone: by calling the Winston-Salem Police Records Division at 336-773-7922
  • In-Person: by visiting the Vivian H. Burke Public Safety Center, Records Division, and asking the front desk about getting a copy of your accident report.

• When is it required to report a car accident in Winston-Salem, NC?

  Car accidents in Winston-Salem must be reported to the authorities if it involves an injury, death, or property damages amounting to $1,000 and up. This is according to the North Carolina General Statutes section 20-4.01. While not all car accidents are required to be reported, it is best to ensure that a police report has been made to serve as evidence should you need to claim damages in the future.

• How can you get compensated for your personal injury in Winston-Salem, NC, if the hit-and-run driver can’t be found?

  Hit-and-run victims may still be able to get compensation for their damages even if the driver at fault remains missing by claiming against their own insurance policy under the uninsured/underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage. If the victim was injured in a hit-and-run while riding someone else’s car, the victim could also claim under the registered car owner’s UIM coverage.

• What should you avoid doing after getting in a car accident in Winston-Salem, NC?

  Getting in a car accident may leave you in shock and saying or doing things that may negatively impact your future claim for damages. Here are some common mistakes car accident victims in Winston-Salem must avoid:

  • Admitting fault or apologizing
  • Saying you’re uninjured
  • Refusing medical attention on the scene
  • Not seeing your own doctor for a follow-up medical exam and treatment
  • Taking cash from the party at fault or accepting the insurance company’s first offer
  • Talking to the insurance companies (yours and the at-fault diver's) without consulting a car accident lawyer first

• Are car accidents common in Winston-Salem, NC?

  The North Carolina Crash Facts report released by the DMV shows that Winston-Salem had a total of 7,683 crashes and 23 fatalities. The city is part of the Piedmont Triad, a popular destination with multiple highways passing through. Motorists are advised to especially observe safe driving on these roads in the Triad area:

  • I-40 through Guilford County
  • I-40 through Forsyth County
  • U.S. 52
  • U.S. 421

• What if you were partly at fault for a car accident in Winston-Salem NC?

  North Carolina is one of the very few states that adhere to the pure contributory negligence rule. Under this rule, the injured party is not eligible for compensation if they are found to be partly at fault for the accident. This is why you must not admit fault or act apologetically to the other motorist involved, the police, or the insurance provider. It is advised that you work with an experienced car accident lawyer in Winston-Salem to navigate the state’s car accident laws.

• 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.