Best Car Accident Lawyers in Apex

FAQs

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

  You can reach (919) 362-8661 to report non-emergency situations in Apex.

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

  Accident reports can be obtained in person at the Apex Police Department, 205 Saunders Street, Apex, NC 27502. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. In addition, reports are available online at https://p2c.apexnc.org/ and via email by contacting the Records Office at records@apexnc.org.

• Who can you sue for car accidents in Apex?

  If you have been injured in a car accident in Apex, you can sue other drivers for reckless, intoxicated, or distracted driving. Pedestrians and bicyclists may also be held accountable if they cause serious traffic accidents by failing to follow road rules. You can also sue government entities if you were involved in a car accident caused by poor road conditions and inadequate signage.

• Can Uber or Lyft passengers seek compensation for car accidents in Apex?

  Yes. If a rideshare passenger is injured in a car accident in Apex, the $1,000,000 policy covers their injury claims. In cases where the rideshare driver did not cause the accident, the underinsured motorist coverage can also pay the at-fault driver's liability policy. If the Uber or Lyft driver was not at fault, passengers are entitled to up to $1,000,000.00 in compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

• How can you get your car repaired following a collision in Apex?

  If you can prove that the other driver caused the collision, then the at-fault driver's property damage liability insurance will cover the cost of repairing your vehicle. You may also utilize your own collision coverage regardless of fault. You have the right to choose the auto repair shop, but if the insurer discovers a cheaper shop, you can anticipate a reduction in the repair payment.

• Can you seek compensation if you were partially at fault in a car accident in Apex?

  No, Apex adheres to North Carolina's contributory negligence rules, which means that even if you were only 1% at fault and the other driver was 99% at fault, you may lose your right to compensation. This is one of the reasons why people who have been in a car accident in the metro area are encouraged to work with lawyers to prove that they were not at fault.

• How much time do you have in Apex to file a car accident lawsuit?

  If you were injured in an Apex car accident, you have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, if people were killed, representatives must file within two years of the victim's death. Furthermore, the statute of limitations differs for car accidents involving minors and government entities.

• 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.