Best Car Accident Lawyers in Wake Forest

FAQs

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

  You can contact 919-554-6150 for non-emergency situations in Wake Forest

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

  You can obtain a copy of crash reports through the Wake Forest Police Department's online services portal: https://p2c.wakeforestnc.gov/AccidentDetail.aspx.

• Should one contact law enforcement after figuring in a car accident in Wake Forest?

  State law requires a driver involved in a collision in Wake Forest to contact a law enforcement agency immediately if there is injury, death, or property damage of $500 or more. Failure to do so constitutes a misdemeanor. To navigate the legal process after being involved in a car accident in Wake Forest, it is advisable to hire a lawyer as soon as possible.

• Whose insurance pays for the damages incurred in a car accident in Wake Forest?

  In most cases, the injured driver in a car accident in Wake Forest receives monetary compensation from the at-fault driver's insurance company. If the responsible party doesn't own the car they are driving, the policy will still cover the damages since liability insurance in North Carolina is for the vehicle and not its owner. If the at-fault driver is unwilling to cooperate or if the settlement offered is inadequate, it is best to hire a Wake Forest car accident lawyer.

• Is Wake Forest located in a no-fault state?

  Wake Forest is located in North Carolina, which is not a no-fault state for car accident claims. This means the party who caused the accident is liable for the damages incurred. However, rules regarding contributory negligence show that if the plaintiff was even slightly responsible for the accident, they could lose their right to just compensation.

• How long do you have to file a car accident lawsuit in Wake Forest?

  If you were injured in a car accident in Wake Forest, you generally have three years from the date of the incident to file a claim. If you do not pursue legal action within the deadline, your case may be dismissed even if it is very strong. Thus, it is crucial to contact a Wake Forest car accident attorney to assist you with your case.

• Are witnesses necessary to prove fault in a car accident in Wake Forest?

  Written and oral statements by witnesses are important to prove a party's fault in car accident cases in Wake Forest. Additionally, one can prove someone's responsibility through police reports and visual evidence, such as video footage and photographs of the plaintiff's injuries. Records of medical tests, treatment, prescriptions, and bills are also relevant pieces of evidence.

• 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.