Charlotte Car Accident Lawyer

Were you injured in a car accident in Charlotte caused by someone’s recklessness? The Charlotte car accident lawyers at DeMayo Law Offices will skillfully and aggressively pursue compensation on your behalf. We’ve successfully represented thousands of car accident victims, and when you work with us, you can feel confident that your case is in the best possible hands.

The harm that a car wreck inflicts can be far-reaching and long-term, especially if there are severe injuries involved. When you’re the victim of a car accident in North Carolina, it’s not just your physical health that’s at risk.

You may also suffer long-term emotional trauma and financial losses. Contact our Charlotte personal injury lawyers to schedule a free consultation today.

Types of Car Accidents We Handle in Charlotte

The personal injury attorneys at DeMayo Law offer experience in handling a variety of car accident claims, including:

• Accidents with underinsured or uninsured drivers: Our Charlotte uninsured or underinsured driver lawyers offer representation in cases involving accidents with drivers who have insufficient insurance coverage or are completely uninsured, handling the complexities of insurance claims and compensation recovery.
• Car and mechanical defects: Our firm’s Charlotte car mechanical defects lawyers represent clients involved in vehicle accidents resulting from mechanical defects, including issues with vehicle manufacturing or maintenance, and pursue claims against manufacturers, dealerships, or maintenance providers.
• Distracted driving and texting while driving: Our Charlotte distracted driving accident lawyers tackle wrecks caused by distracted driving, including texting while driving, focusing on proving the driver’s negligence and distraction at the time of the collision.
• Drugged driver accidents: Our Charlotte drugged driving accident lawyers represent victims of accidents involving drivers under the influence of drugs, addressing the unique legal challenges and liabilities associated with this form of driver negligence.
• Drunk driver accidents: Our Charlotte drunk driver accident lawyers handle alcohol-impaired collisions, addressing legal complexities, including the level of impairment determination, establishing negligence, dealing with potential criminal charges against the driver, and securing fair compensation for damages and injuries.
• Hit-and-run accidents: Our Charlotte hit-and-run car accident lawyers work to identify and hold accountable the at-fault drivers who flee the scene of your accident.
• Rear-end collisions: Our Charlotte rear-end accident lawyers address issues of fault, negligence, and the complex task of proving liability. We also ensure our clients receive just compensation for any injuries and damages sustained in these incidents.
• Speeding accidents: Our Charlotte speeding accident lawyers focus on establishing the speeding driver’s liability and will thoroughly address the extent of your damages and injuries.

For a free legal consultation with a car accident lawyer serving Charlotte, call (877) 333-1000

Most Common Causes of Car Accidents in Charlotte

Car accidents happen every day on North Carolina roads, but the circumstances that lead to them can vary greatly. One of the most common causes of car accidents today is distracted driving, which is technically any behavior that takes a driver’s attention off the road.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that every day, at least nine people are killed in the U.S. by a distracted driver.

Taking your eyes off the road for as little as five seconds to check a text at 55 mph is the equivalent of driving the length of an entire football field with your eyes closed, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

In addition to distracted driving, there are numerous other behaviors and conditions that commonly lead to serious or even fatal car crashes:

• Driving under the influence: Operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs significantly increases the risk of accidents.
• Speeding: Exceeding speed limits or driving too fast for conditions is a major contributing factor in many crashes.
• Aggressive driving: Behaviors such as improper lane changes, tailgating, and road rage can lead to dangerous situations.
• Unsafe lane changes: Changing lanes without proper signaling or checking for other vehicles can cause collisions.
• Failing to yield: Ignoring yield signs or failing to give way when required can lead to wrecks, especially at intersections.
• Tailgating: Following too closely reduces the time available to react and stop, increasing the risk of rear-end collisions.
• Running red lights: Disregarding traffic signals is a common cause of intersection crashes.
• Attempting to block cars trying to pass: This aggressive behavior can lead to high-speed collisions.
• Cutting in front of other drivers: Abruptly changing lanes or merging can cause rear-end or side-swipe accidents.
• Rear-end accidents: Often resulting from tailgating or distracted driving, rear-end collisions are a common type of crash.
• Fatigued driving: Driving while tired can impair reaction times and decision-making, similar to the effects of alcohol.
• Poor weather conditions: Rain, snow, fog, and ice can all lead to hazardous driving conditions and increased accident risks.
• Poor road maintenance: Potholes, unclear road markings, and other maintenance issues can contribute to accidents.
• Construction zones: Areas with ongoing road work often have altered traffic patterns and reduced lanes, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
• Vehicle defects: Malfunctions or failures in vehicle components, such as brakes or steering, can lead to loss of control and accidents.

Charlotte Car Accident Lawyer Near Me (877) 333-1000

Common Injuries Suffered in Car Accidents

Depending on the type of car accident, the injuries a victim may end up suffering can be extensive. According to data collected by the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles in 2021, there were 276,026 traffic crashes in the state, accounting for 1,783 deaths and 114,722 injuries.

Tens of thousands of people are being injured on North Carolina roads, and these injuries can result in hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of medical bills alone. Car accident injuries can end up changing an individual’s entire life, and victims may not be able to afford the costs of their injuries without help from an experienced car accident attorney in Charlotte, NC.

Victims involved in serious car accidents may suffer from a variety of injuries, some of which can be severe or life-altering. Common injuries include:

• Traumatic brain injury(TBI): These injuries can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage, affecting cognitive functions, physical abilities, and emotional well-being.
• Concussion: Often resulting from a blow to the head, concussions can cause symptoms like headaches, dizziness, and memory problems and can have short-term and long-term effects.
• Paralysis: Serious spinal cord injuries can lead to partial or complete paralysis, significantly impacting a victim’s mobility and independence.
• Other head, neck, or spinal injuries: These can include whiplash, herniated discs, and other injuries that affect the neck and spine, potentially leading to chronic pain and disability.
• Chest and rib injuries: The impact of a car accident can cause broken ribs and other chest injuries, which can be extremely painful and may lead to complications like punctured lungs.
• Broken bones: Fractures are common in car accidents and can range from simple breaks that heal relatively quickly to complex fractures requiring surgical intervention.
• Dislocations: Joints may be dislocated in the force of a collision, leading to pain, mobility issues, and the need for medical treatment or physical therapy.
• Lacerations: Sharp objects or broken glass in car accidents can cause cuts and lacerations, which may be superficial or deep enough to damage underlying tissues.
• Organ damage: The force of a car accident can cause internal organs to be bruised or damaged, leading to serious medical conditions that require immediate attention.
• Internal bleeding: This can be a life-threatening condition following a car accident, often requiring emergency medical treatment to prevent severe complications.
• Wrongful death: In the most tragic cases, car accidents can result in fatalities, leaving families to cope with the loss of a loved one and the legal implications of a wrongful death claim.

Recovering from these injuries often involves extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and, in some cases, long-term care.

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North Carolina Car Accident Laws

Understanding the car accident laws in North Carolina is essential for both residents and visitors, especially if involved in a car accident. Here are some key legal aspects to be aware of:

Liability Car Insurance Limits

In North Carolina, all drivers are legally required to carry car insurance. The minimum coverage includes $50,000 for bodily injury per person, $100,000 for bodily injury per accident if multiple people are injured, and $50,000 for property damage.

Contributory Negligence Rule

North Carolina adheres to the contributory negligence doctrine. Under this rule, if an injured party is found to have any degree of fault in the accident, they are barred from collecting financial compensation from the liable party. 

This can significantly impact car accident claims, as even minimal fault on the part of the injured party can prevent them from receiving compensation. Our car accident lawyers in Charlotte, NC, can help you understand liability. 

Car Accident Statute of Limitations in Charlotte

For personal injury claims arising from a car accident, the injured individual must file a lawsuit within three years from the accident date. Failing to file within this timeframe may result in the loss of the right to sue.

Wrongful Death Claim Statute of Limitations

In cases where a car accident results in a fatality, the statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death lawsuit is two years. This shorter time frame compared to personal injury claims makes it crucial for the deceased’s representatives to act promptly.

These laws play a critical role in how car accident claims are handled in North Carolina, affecting everything from insurance claims to court proceedings. Anyone involved in a car accident in Charlotte, NC, needs to be aware of these laws to ensure their rights are protected and they take the appropriate legal actions within the specified time limits.

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What Are the Damages Available for Injuries?

There is no specific amount that every driver involved in a car accident can expect to recover. The damages that are available for the victims of serious car or motor vehicle accidents vary based on several factors, including the specific circumstances of the accident, who was involved, and the severity of the injuries suffered.

Compensation an individual recovers could depend on whether they have a skilled auto accident attorney in Charlotte, NC, working on their behalf. Insurance companies tend to pay out smaller sums when individuals represent themselves, as opposed to when an attorney negotiates with an insurance company.

While no two car accident cases are ever alike, there are general guidelines that dictate what types of damages a victim may be able to recover following an accident.

Typically, a victim may pursue compensation for the following:

• Current medical expenses
• Future medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Loss of future income
• Bodily injury
• Pain and suffering
• Property damage

North Carolina does not cap the amount of damages an individual may recover from a personal injury claim. To calculate what you may be entitled to in the way of fair compensation after a serious car wreck, contact the Charlotte car accident lawyers at DeMayo Law Offices for more information.

Defining Bodily Injury and Property Damage

When involved in a car accident where another party is at fault, you are entitled to seek compensation for both bodily injury and property damage through the at-fault driver’s liability car insurance, up to the limits of their policy. Here’s a breakdown of what each type of claim covers:

Bodily Injury

This type of claim allows you to seek compensation for the physical and emotional impact of the accident. Covered aspects include:

• Lost wages and lost future earnings: Compensation for income lost due to the inability to work immediately following the accident and potential future earnings lost due to the long-term effects of the injuries.
• Past and future medical bills: Covers all medical expenses incurred as a result of the accident, including future medical care.
• Prescription medications: Reimbursement for medications prescribed for treatment related to the injuries sustained in the accident.
• Pain and suffering: This encompasses a wide range of conditions, including:
  • Physical pain endured as a result of the accident.
  • Emotional or mental injuries, such as depression, anxiety, or PTSD.
  • Inconveniences and the negative impact on your daily life, like canceling vacations or missing time with family.

Property Damage

This claim type covers damages to your vehicle and other personal property. It includes:

• Depreciation in your vehicle‘s value: Compensation for the loss in value of your vehicle as a result of the crash.
• Repair costs: This covers the expenses for repairing the damages to your vehicle.
• Total loss compensation: If your car is deemed a total loss, you can receive compensation equivalent to its fair market value.
• Loss of use of the vehicle: Compensation for the time you are unable to use your vehicle due to repairs or while searching for a replacement.
• Damaged equipment or tools: This covers the cost of repairing or replacing equipment or tools that were in the vehicle and damaged in the crash.
• Damaged electronics: Compensation for cell phones or other electronic devices damaged in the accident.
• Additional personal property: This covers other personal items that were damaged in the car at the time of the accident.

Understanding these categories and what they cover is crucial in ensuring you receive fair compensation for all the damages and losses incurred due to the car accident.

What You Do After an Accident Can Affect the Outcome of Your Case

If you’ve been injured in a DHL truck accident in Monroe, NC, it’s essential to take the right steps to protect your health and legal rights. Here’s what to do both at the scene of the crash and afterward.

At the Scene of the Accident

1. Move to Safety and Call 911
   Your safety comes first. If possible, move to a secure location away from traffic and call 911 to report the accident. Even if the damage appears minor, having law enforcement on-site ensures that the crash is documented in a police report, which is crucial for determining fault.
2. Seek Medical Attention
   When first responders arrive, let them evaluate your condition and treat any injuries. If they recommend further medical care, follow their advice. Even if you don’t think you’re seriously hurt, remember that some injuries may not show symptoms immediately. 

Accepting care ensures your health is prioritized and establishes a clear link between the accident and your injuries.

1. Notify Your Insurance Provider
   Call your insurance company from the scene to report the accident. Provide them with basic details, such as the location, the vehicles involved, and whether there are injuries. Keep your account factual and avoid speculating about fault. This call fulfills your policy requirements and ensures coverage for immediate needs, like towing services.
2. Document the Scene
   If it’s safe to do so, take photos or videos of the accident scene. These visuals can serve as valuable evidence later. Capture details such as:
   • Damage to all vehicles involved
   • Road conditions, skid marks, or debris
   • Traffic signs or signals nearby
   • Visible injuries to yourself or passengers
3. Exchange Basic Information
   Collect essential details from the DHL truck driver, including:
   • Their name and contact information
   • The truck’s license plate number
   • Insurance carrier and policy number

After Leaving the Scene

1. Contact a DHL Truck Accident Lawyer in Monroe, NC
   Reach out to an experienced DHL truck accident attorney in Monroe, NC, as soon as possible. The lawyers at DeMayo Law Offices will handle every aspect of your case, from gathering evidence to dealing with the insurance companies. Their expertise ensures your rights are protected while you focus on recovering.
2. Follow Up with Medical Care
   Even if you received treatment at the scene, visit a doctor or urgent care facility as soon as possible. Prompt medical evaluation can uncover injuries that may not have been immediately apparent, such as internal damage or soft tissue injuries.
3. Keep Any Relevant Documents
   Your lawyer will collect most of the necessary records, however, you should keep copies of medical bills, accident-related receipts, and any correspondence from insurance companies. This will help your attorney build a comprehensive case for compensation.

Things You Should Avoid Doing After a Crash

All of the steps above are crucial after sustaining an injury in a car accident; however, it’s equally important to avoid doing some things.

Admitting Fault

Your Charlotte car attorney should contact the insurance companies on your behalf. However, if you do need to speak to an insurance adjuster, it’s important that you don’t tell them or anyone else that you contributed to the accident. If contributory negligence exists, you could miss out on receiving compensation.

Agreeing to Give a Recorded Statement to the At-Fault Driver’s Insurance Company

It’s not a legal requirement. Only the policyholder must do so. If your insurance carrier requests a recorded statement, you will have to give one, but be sure to consult with a Charlotte car accident law firm first to ensure you don’t say the wrong thing.

Withholding Medical Insurance Information From Your Doctors

A majority of liability insurance claims take time, and if you haven’t given any of your medical providers a payment method, they could end up sending your bills to collections. Ultimately, if the car insurance company decides to compensate you for your treatment, you can submit the bills your medical insurance paid for reimbursement.

Signing Anything Unless Unless You Have Reviewed it With Your Attorney

Insurance companies don’t care about claimants. They only care about saving money by trying to find ways to deny a claim or provide a low settlement. If you sign any documents without knowing what they are, you could sign away your rights to the maximum settlement available. Give all forms you receive from the insurance adjuster to your Charlotte car accident lawyer to review first.

What Is the Cost of a Car Accident Attorney in Charlotte, NC?

Following a serious car accident, there is a lot for a victim to digest. There are medical bills to pay for and missing paychecks because of time away from work due to injuries. How can someone afford to pay for everything when it hits all at once?

Car accident victims rarely think they have the money to hire an attorney to help them recover compensation for their injuries. Most people assume that taking the first offer an insurance company makes is the best option because at least it’s money that can help, even if it doesn’t fully cover everything.

Our Charlotte car accident attorneys work on a contingency basis, so there is no fee unless you win. We aim to provide exceptional service and obtain the maximum compensation for your injuries. 

Dedicated to Helping Our Clients Recover

At DeMayo Law Offices, we understand the heavy toll a serious car accident can take on your well-being. The physical pain and emotional trauma you’re experiencing can affect every area of your life. You might not be able to work and worry about supporting your family.

If your injuries are permanent, you might wonder what your future will hold. During this difficult time, you deserve financial compensation for your losses, and we are committed to helping you pursue it.

Since you already incurred enough expenses, we won’t add any additional costs to your plate. Our Charlotte car accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. That means there are no legal fees unless we recover a settlement or favorable jury verdict. If you don’t win your case, you won’t owe us anything.

Charlotte Car Crash Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

If you’ve suffered serious injuries in a car crash, you likely have legal questions about your rights and options. We’re ready to answer all of your questions at your free case review. Meanwhile, the following information may provide answers to some of your immediate questions.

Do Insurance Companies Give Fair Settlement Offers?

When dealing with an insurance company, it is important to remember that it is, first and foremost, a business. An insurer’s primary interest is to protect its profits, so it will try to settle your case for as little money as possible.

Because of this, it’s important to have an attorney on your side. Our experienced car accident lawyers in Charlotte, NC, will understand what a fair settlement for your case looks like and will fight on your behalf to get the settlement you deserve.

How Long Will My Case Take to Settle?

The amount of time it takes to settle a case depends on the nature of the accident. The circumstances of the accident are important, and a full investigation may be required to solidify liability. If the accident is complicated or a commercial vehicle was responsible, these factors may extend the timeline for resolving a case.

The time it takes to resolve a case may also depend on an insurance company’s willingness to negotiate the terms of a reasonable settlement. If the insurance adjuster does not want to offer a fair settlement, it may be time to take the company to court.

There are a variety of factors that may impact how long a case can take. An experienced car accident law firm in Charlotte will be able to review the circumstances of your case in a free initial consultation and then give you a better idea of what to expect as far as how long your case will take to resolve.

What if I Am Partially At Fault?

If you are partially at fault in a car crash in North Carolina, the state’s adherence to the “contributory negligence” rule has significant implications for your ability to recover compensation. Under this regulation, if a driver shares any portion of fault for causing an auto accident, then they are completely barred from recovering any form of compensation.

This rule governs not only the decisions that judges make in court but also guides how insurance adjusters evaluate car insurance claims. However, there are no hard and fast rules for allocating fault; sometimes, it simply comes down to one’s ability to negotiate.

This is why having an attorney on your side following a car crash in Charlotte is so important. Our attorneys will be able to review the circumstances of your case and determine, from the evidence, what your best course of action will be. Our North Carolina law firm offers a free initial consultation in order to review your case, so there is no risk to you.

Contact a Charlotte Car Accident Lawyer Today

At DeMayo Law Offices, Your North Carolina Law Firm™, we have over 250 years of combined experience in the practice of law. We represent clients just like you, and we’ll fight tenaciously for justice in your case. We use aggressive tactics to settle car accident claims before they get taken to trial.

For those we are unable to resolve, our Charlotte personal injury lawyers have the knowledge and skills to file a lawsuit and advocate for our clients in court.

You should work with a law firm that cares about you and the outcome of your case. Our legal team will treat you with respect and always be available to assist you. You will be a priority to us, and we’ll be sure to treat you as such.

Contact us today if you or a loved one was a victim of a Charlotte car accident. We’ll explain how we can pursue the monetary compensation you need to get back on your feet.

Call or text (877) 333-1000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form