If you or a family member has been injured in a car accident in Charlotte, you probably have concerns about your medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and other losses. Bradford Law can help. We are committed to protecting the rights of personal injury victims in Charlotte and throughout North Carolina.
Our experienced car accident attorney will evaluate your case, explain your rights, and explore your options. Trust our legal team to provide you with powerful representation and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a no-cost consultation.
Common Causes of a Car Accident in Charlotte, NC
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), driver errors are the leading cause of car accidents, including:
- Distracted driving
- Speeding
- Improper turning
- Driving under the influence (DUI)
- Aggressive driving
- Driver fatigue
- Running red lights and stop signs
- Reckless driving
Despite these common mistakes, you must be able to prove the other driver was at-fault or negligent. That is where Bradford Law comes in. We know how to prove the necessary elements of negligence:
- The other driver owed you a duty of care
- The other driver breached that duty
- The actions of the other driver caused the accident
- The accident directly caused your injuries and monetary losses
All drivers in North Carolina have a duty to operate their vehicles safely and avoid causing injuries to others. By conducting a thorough investigation, we will work to prove the other driver was at-fault, hold them accountable, and help you obtain meaningful compensation.
How Is Fault Determined In a Car Accident In NC?
North Carolina is an at-fault state for insurance purposes, which means you can recover damages from the driver who caused the accident. You should know that North Carolina follows the doctrine of contributory negligence so you cannot recover damages if you were partially at fault for the car accident. However, the burden of proof is on the defendant. Our legal team is well-versed in the applicable negligence laws and will work to prove the other driver was fully responsible for the accident.
Types of Car Accident Injuries
Depending on the severity of the impact, a car crash can result in all types of injuries such as:
- Cuts and bruises
- Lacerations
- Fractures and broken bones
- Head and neck injuries
- Whiplash
- Spinal cord injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Airbag burns
What Should I Do After Suffering a Car Accident in Charlotte, NC?
After suffering a car accident in Charlotte, NC, you might want to follow these steps, including contacting an injury lawyer if needed:
- Ensure Safety: First, move to a safe location if possible and check for injuries.
- Call 911: Dial emergency services to report the accident and request medical assistance if needed.
- Exchange Information: Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver(s) involved.
- Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any injuries.
- Notify Insurance: Contact your insurance company to report the accident and start the claims process.
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, see a doctor as some injuries may not manifest immediately.
- Consult an Attorney: If the accident resulted in serious injuries or disputes, consider contacting a personal injury attorney. They can help protect your rights, evaluate potential legal claims, and guide you through the process.
- File a Police Report: If law enforcement hasn’t already, file a report for documentation.
- Follow-up: Keep records of medical treatment, repairs, and communication with the insurance company.
- Stay Informed: Be aware of your rights and responsibilities, and consult legal counsel if you encounter challenges in the process.
Why Choose Our Car Accident Attorneys?
At Bradford Law, we have an impressive track record of success in handling car accident claims throughout Charlotte, having recovered millions of dollars in damages for our clients. We consult with knowledgeable and respected experts to assist with your case. Trauma doctors, chiropractors, forensics engineers, mechanics, and collision reconstructionists lend their expertise to help us obtain the best possible results for you. You can depend on us to treat your claim with care and diligence and handle all the details, including:
- Investigating the accident
- Identifying and interviewing witnesses
- Collecting evidence
- Consulting with experts
- Taking over communications with the insurance companies
Our car accident attorneys know that insurance companies are focused on their bottom line and put profits ahead of injury victims. We are keenly aware that insurers often deny claims or attempt to pay as little as possible. We will leverage our willingness to take them to court along with our sharp negotiating skills and demand full payment of your claims. If the insurance company fails to make a fair and just settlement offer, we will take your case to trial. Rest assured, we will fight to protect your rights in and out of the courtroom.
Recoverable Damages in a Charlotte Car Accident
In a successful personal injury claim, you can recover economic and non-economic damages, such as:
- Medical expenses
- Rehabilitative costs
- Lost wages
- Loss of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Permanent disability/disfigurement
- Loss of consortium
- Attorney’s fees and court costs
In some cases, other parties may be held liable for the car accident that caused your injuries. If the accident resulted from defects in the road, a curb, or a median, you might have a valid claim against the city, county, or state agency responsible for highway maintenance. Also, if a mechanical defect was the cause, we can bring a product liability lawsuit against the automaker or distributor. No matter the cause of the car accident that resulted in your injuries, we will fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.
How Much Can I Expect to Receive For My Damages?
The amount you can expect to receive for your damages in a car accident in Charlotte depends on various factors. Insurance companies typically consider the extent of your injuries, property damage, medical bills, lost wages, and liability. North Carolina follows a “fault” insurance system, meaning the at-fault party’s insurance should cover your damages. However, it’s crucial to consult with a personal injury attorney who can assess your case, negotiate with the insurance companies, and potentially pursue legal action if necessary. The final compensation amount can vary widely, so it’s essential to seek professional guidance to ensure you receive fair compensation.
How Long Do I Have To File A Car Accident Claim?
The time limit to file a claim after a car accident in Charlotte, NC, varies depending on the type of claim. For personal injury claims, you generally have three years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. However, it’s advisable to initiate the claims process as soon as possible to ensure a smoother and more effective resolution. For property damage claims, the timeframe may vary depending on your insurance policy, but it’s typically within a reasonable timeframe after the accident. To protect your rights and maximize your chances of a successful claim, it’s essential to consult with an attorney who can provide guidance specific to your situation.
Contact Our Experienced Charlotte, North Carolina Car Accident Attorney
Being injured in a car accident is frightening, but don’t be overwhelmed. It is essential to speak to an attorney immediately following a car accident to ensure the preservation of your rights. Turn to Bradford Law for the compassionate representation you need and deserve. Because we understand your physical, emotional, and financial burdens, we will charge no attorneys’ fees until we win compensation for you. Contact our office today to consult with our capable car accident lawyer.
Bradford Law helps injured victims throughout Charlotte who have suffered from car accidents involving reckless driving, speeding, hit-and-run, and rear-end scenarios.
