Car Accident Lawyer in Greenville NC

Being injured in a car accident can upend your life, leaving you with medical expenses, missed work, and significant stress. The car accident lawyers at Ward and Smith are here to provide the legal support you need to pursue compensation and hold negligent drivers accountable. Our team is committed to helping you recover physically, emotionally, and financially. Call us today at (919) 827-8475 for a free consultation and learn how we can assist with your case.

What to Do Immediately Following a Car Accident in Greenville

Car accidents can happen in an instant, often leaving those involved unsure of what to do next. Whether it’s a minor fender bender or a serious collision, the actions you take immediately after the crash can significantly impact your health, safety, and any potential legal claims. If you’re involved in an accident in Greenville or anywhere in North Carolina, knowing the right steps to take can make a difference.

Check Yourself and Others for Injuries

Your first priority should always be safety. If you’re able to move, check yourself for injuries. Then, if it’s safe to do so, check on any passengers in your vehicle. If someone is seriously injured, avoid moving them unless there’s an immediate danger like fire or smoke. Call 911 right away and wait for emergency responders.

In many accidents, injuries like whiplash or concussions may not be immediately obvious. Even if you feel fine, it’s a good idea to seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Get to a Safe Location

If your vehicle is drivable and it’s safe to move, pull off the road to avoid blocking traffic. Use hazard lights to alert other drivers. If the accident happened in a busy intersection or on a highway near Greenville, getting out of the flow of traffic is essential for your safety.

If you can’t move your car, stay inside with your seatbelt fastened until help arrives, especially if you’re on a high-speed road.

Call Law Enforcement

In North Carolina, you’re legally required to report a car accident if there are injuries, deaths, or significant property damage. Calling the police ensures there’s an official report, which can be a key piece of evidence if you file an insurance claim or pursue legal action.

When the officer arrives, provide clear and honest information. Avoid guessing or speculating. Let the officer document the scene and talk to witnesses. Once the report is complete, ask for the responding officer’s name and the report number. You’ll need this for your records.

Exchange Information with the Other Driver

After ensuring everyone is safe and emergency services have been called, exchange information with the other driver. Be polite but limit your conversation to what’s necessary.

Collect the following details:

Name, phone number, and address
Driver’s license number
License plate number
Insurance company and policy number
Make, model, and year of the vehicle

If there are any witnesses nearby, ask for their names and contact details as well. Their statements may be helpful later.

Document the Accident Scene

Use your phone to take photos of the vehicles, road conditions, skid marks, traffic signs, and any visible injuries. Capture wide shots of the scene and close-ups of damage to both cars.

Take notes about what happened, including the time, weather, traffic conditions, and any details that might be important. Memory can fade quickly, so writing everything down while it’s fresh is a smart move.

If you notice any surveillance cameras on nearby businesses or intersections, make a note of them. Footage could be useful in proving what occurred.

Avoid Admitting Fault

Even if you think you may have caused the accident, do not admit fault at the scene. There may be factors you’re not aware of, and fault is often determined after a thorough investigation.

Saying “I’m sorry” or taking responsibility could later be used against you in a personal injury claim. Stick to the facts when speaking to police, the other driver, and witnesses.

Notify Your Insurance Company

Let your insurance provider know about the accident as soon as possible. Most companies have a deadline for reporting claims. Be factual in your description, and don’t make any assumptions about who was at fault.

Keep in mind that anything you say can affect your claim. If you’re unsure about what to say, consider speaking with a personal injury attorney before giving a recorded statement.

Seek Medical Attention Promptly

Even if you feel fine after the accident, some injuries don’t show symptoms right away. Getting checked by a medical professional not only protects your health but also creates a record of your injuries, which can be crucial if you decide to file a claim.

Follow your doctor’s recommendations and attend all follow-up appointments. Gaps in treatment or delayed care can weaken your case if you pursue compensation later.

Protect Your Legal Rights

After an accident, especially one involving injuries, it’s wise to consult a personal injury attorney. In Greenville, an experienced lawyer can help you understand your options, deal with insurance companies, and pursue compensation for your losses.

Working with an attorney early in the process helps preserve evidence, file necessary documents on time, and avoid costly mistakes.

Be Cautious with Insurance Adjusters

Insurance adjusters may reach out soon after the accident. Their goal is often to settle quickly and for as little money as possible. Be cautious about what you share. You’re not obligated to accept the first offer, and you don’t need to sign anything without reviewing it carefully.

Before agreeing to a settlement, it’s important to understand the full extent of your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. Once you accept an offer, you typically can’t go back and ask for more.

Keep Records of Everything

Start a file with all your accident-related documents. This should include:

Police reports
Medical records and bills
Photos of the accident
Contact information for everyone involved
Any communication with insurance companies
Receipts for expenses related to the accident (such as towing or car rentals)

Staying organized can make a big difference in the outcome of your claim.

Stand Strong with a Greenville Car Accident Attorney

No one plans to be in a car accident, but being prepared can help you stay calm and take the right steps. If you’ve been injured in a collision in Greenville or the surrounding area, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. A personal injury attorney can help you navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve. The car accident attorneys at Ward and Smith are here to provide the guidance and support you need to seek justice and fair compensation. Don’t let someone else’s negligence derail your future—call us today at (919) 827-8475 for a free consultation and let us help you take the first steps toward recovery.