Best Car Accident Lawyers in Raleigh

FAQs

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

  (919) 996-3335 is the non-emergency contact number in Raleigh.

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

  Raleigh police department headquarters is in 6716 Six Forks Rd, Raleigh, NC 27615, USA. Its records counter provides car crash reports free of charge. A temporary report copy can also be printed immediately after submission through their online reporting system at http://crc.raleighpd.org/

  Source: http://crc.raleighpd.org/

• What to do after a car accident in Raleigh, NC?

  ◉ Pull the vehicle to a safe location. Even if the individual is a victim or a negligent party of the accident because the Raleigh police officers will deem them hit-and-run drivers if they fail to stop. ◉ Call the Raleigh police department non-emergency number at (919) 831-6311. ◉ Obtain evidence. Take photographs of the damages and the accident scene, which includes weather and road conditions. ◉ Be cooperative. Exchange contact details, but do not claim any responsibility. ◉ Talk to a Raleigh car accident lawyer immediately.

• What is the statute of limitations for car accident claims in Raleigh, North Carolina?

  Raleigh car accident victims have three years from the date of the accident to file a claim. However, if a car accident leads to the death of a loved one, the statute of limitations is two years. Several cases are also different - minor children injured in a car accident need to file their claims no later than three years after they turn 18, and plaintiffs who seek relief against government employees must file with the Industrial Commission within three years after the accident if their claim is denied.

• Who is at fault in a car collision in Raleigh, NC?

  It depends on the situation, the accident can be attributed to many factors, including distracted drivers, government agencies that have designed the highways incorrectly, and auto manufacturers that have made the vehicle defective. North Carolina, however, still follows the contributory negligence law, which stipulates that plaintiffs are required to prove their guilt to recover damages, even if they are partially at fault. To determine fault and liability and assist victims in pursuing compensation, some Raleigh auto accident attorneys collaborate with financial experts and reconstructionists.

• If an individual is not at-fault, how will they pursue compensation in Raleigh?

  North Carolina has three ways to file a car accident claim and obtain compensation. These are: ◉ File a claim with the victims’ own car insurance company, which will reimburse the at-fault driver’s insurance company. ◉ File a third-party insurance claim directly with the at-fault driver’s insurance agencies. ◉ File a personal injury lawsuit against the liable driver.

• How to maximize compensation with insurance companies in Raleigh?

  Raleigh car accident attorneys carefully review the victim's insurance coverage, including auto, underinsured and uninsured motorist, and commercial insurance policies. They also negotiate settlements to obtain the actual cash value of the victim's damaged cars.

• 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.