Best Car Accident Lawyers in Asheville

FAQs

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

  The Asheville Police Department is reachable at 828-252-1110 for non-emergencies.

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

  The Asheville Police Department Records Unit is reachable at (828) 259-5870 and is located at 100 Court Plaza.

• Why should a car accident victim in Asheville get a lawyer instead of going solo?

  It is better for a car accident victim in Asheville to get a lawyer because they are trained and equipped to gather evidence and determine which ones are convincing and admissible in court. Experienced car accident attorneys have knowledge of insurance industry practices and how to counter lowball offers. They can also remove the strain of complying with procedural matters, such as forms and deadlines, and can let a claimant recover from their injuries at peace.

• Are you prevented from recovering any compensation if you were partly at fault for a car accident in Asheville?

  If you are partly at fault for a car accident in Asheville, you are completely prevented from receiving compensation because North Carolina follows strict contributory negligence principles. Unlike more lenient states that allow partial recovery, a plaintiff in Asheville must come to court with completely clean hands. Thus, it is vital to never admit fault and consult with a lawyer immediately.

• If you are short on funds, is it still advisable to retain a car accident lawyer in Asheville?

  It is still advisable for you to retain a car accident lawyer in Asheville because you have the option of finding one who is paid on a contingency basis. A common practice in the personal injury field is to demand no upfront professional fees from the client and to instead ask for a cut of the court's award or the negotiated settlement.

• If someone has lost a loved one in a car crash in Asheville, what are the damages they may recover?

  Plaintiffs who have lost a loved one in Asheville due to a car accident may file a wrongful death claim and, as heirs, may recover compensation under North Carolina's intestate succession laws. The sums recoverable cover the pain and suffering experienced by the deceased, funeral costs, medical expenses, loss of companionship, and the value of the services rendered by the victim.

• How long do you have to pursue legal action in Asheville for a car accident?

  In Asheville, you must file a car accident claim in court within three years of the incident's date. This applies to lawsuits to recover damages from bodily harm and the loss or deterioration of property, but if these two events happened at different times, the three-year period counts from the date of the earlier event.

• 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.