Best Car Accident Lawyers in Salisbury

FAQs

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

  For non-emergency concerns or incidents, you can contact the Salisbury Police Department at (704) 638-5333.

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

  To request a copy of your crash report, go to www.ncdot.gov and download the Crash Report Request Form (TR-67A). Complete the form and mail it to the address indicated on the form along with a money order or check for $5.50 payable to NCDMV.

  You can also submit the form and payment in person to the address below. Go to the door labeled “Vehicle Registration.”

  Raleigh Central Services/License Plate Agency 4121 New Bern Ave. Raleigh, NC 27616

• What type of damages can car accident victims claim in Salisbury, NC?

  Victims of auto accidents in Salisbury may claim economic and non-economic damages. Medical bills, lost income, long-term treatment, and car repairs are some economic damages available. Non-economic damages include pain and suffering and loss of enjoyment of life. Families who have lost a loved one in a car crash can make a wrongful death claim for burial and funeral expenses, and loss of companionship.

• What is the statute of limitations in Salisbury, NC, for you filing car accident claims?

  Car accident-related personal injury claims must be filed within three years from the date of the crash. For car crashes resulting in death, the wrongful death claim needs to be filed within two years of the victim’s passing, as indicated in NC General Statutes Section 1-53. Exceptions are given in cases where the presence of negligence or personal injury was discovered at a later date.

• Can you hold an alcohol vendor in Salisbury, NC, liable for your car accident?

  Yes, you can sue the alcohol vendor if their excess serving of alcohol contributed to your car accident. Dram shop law is indicated in North Carolina General Statutes Section 18B-305. This law holds commercial vendors and individuals, licensed or unlicensed, liable for injuries caused by someone they served with alcohol. Filing a dram shop claim may be complex. Consult a car accident lawyer in Salisbury who is experienced in local dram shop procedures.

• Is dash cam footage admissible evidence for car accident cases in Salisbury, NC?

  Yes, you can use dash cam videos as proof for your insurance claim or accident lawsuit in Salisbury. Take note that police officers can’t take your dash cam. They can simply watch the footage and then return the camera to you. It is recommended that you secure the dash cam and preserve the original video file.

• Can you recover damages if you were partly at fault for a car accident in Salisbury, NC?

  Under North Carolina’s contributory negligence system, parties found to be partially liable for the accident are not eligible to recover compensation for their damages. Insurance companies and car accident defendants take advantage of this system to avoid paying damages. It is advised that you do not admit fault or act apologetically after a car crash. A Salisbury car accident lawyer can help you fight accusations of contributory negligence.

• 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.