New Bern Car Accident Lawyer
After a car accident in New Bern, navigating the legal process can be overwhelming. At Ward and Smith, our experienced car accident lawyers are dedicated to helping you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve. Whether you’re dealing with medical bills, lost wages, or insurance disputes, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us today at (252) 421-5281 for a free consultation and let us help you take the first step toward recovery.
Critical Steps to Take After a Car Accident to Protect Your Rights
A car accident can be a traumatic experience, leaving you in shock and unsure of what to do next. However, the actions you take immediately after the crash can significantly impact your ability to protect your legal rights and pursue compensation for any damages or injuries. Here’s a guide to the most important steps you should take following a car accident to safeguard your rights.
Prioritize Safety and Seek Medical Attention
Your health and safety should be your top priority after any car accident. If you’re able to do so, move yourself and your vehicle out of harm’s way, preferably to the side of the road. This helps prevent further accidents from occurring. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
If anyone involved in the accident is injured, call emergency services immediately. Even if you feel fine, it’s crucial to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Some injuries, such as whiplash or internal injuries, may not be immediately apparent but can cause long-term harm if untreated. Getting medical care also ensures that your injuries are documented, which is critical if you need to file a claim later.
Call the Police
Even if the accident seems minor, it’s essential to contact the police. A police report provides an official account of the accident, which can be invaluable if you’re dealing with insurance companies or considering legal action. The responding officers will document the scene, take statements from both drivers, and issue any necessary citations.
The police report will include important details like the time and location of the accident, road conditions, and witness statements. Make sure to request a copy of the report for your records.
Exchange Information with Other Drivers
After ensuring that everyone is safe and the authorities have been contacted, exchange information with the other driver(s) involved in the accident. Be sure to gather the following details:
- Full name and contact information
- Driver’s license number
- Insurance company and policy number
- Vehicle make, model, and license plate number
Avoid discussing fault with the other driver. Anything you say in the immediate aftermath of the accident could be used against you later. Simply exchange information and wait for the authorities to arrive.
Document the Scene
Gathering evidence at the scene of the accident is essential to protecting your rights. Use your phone to take photos or videos of the following:
- Damage to all vehicles: Capture the extent of the damage from multiple angles.
- The accident scene: Include skid marks, debris, and road conditions, as well as any nearby signs, traffic lights, or landmarks.
- Injuries: Photograph any visible injuries sustained by you or your passengers.
- License plates and vehicle identification: Ensure you have clear images of the other driver’s license plate and vehicle.
- Traffic conditions: Document the flow of traffic, weather conditions, and visibility.
This documentation can be vital when negotiating with insurance companies or if your case goes to court.
Collect Witness Information
If there were any witnesses to the accident, ask for their contact information. Eyewitnesses can provide independent accounts of what happened, which can strengthen your claim if there’s a dispute about who was at fault.
Make sure to collect their names, phone numbers, and email addresses. If possible, ask them to provide a written statement or record their version of events on your phone.
Avoid Admitting Fault
It’s natural to want to apologize after an accident, especially if you’re shaken up. However, it’s important to avoid admitting fault, even indirectly. Statements like “I’m sorry” or “I didn’t see you” could be used against you during insurance claims or legal proceedings.
Instead, stick to the facts when talking to the police and the other driver. Let the authorities and insurance companies determine fault based on evidence and witness statements.
Report the Accident to Your Insurance Company
After you’ve left the scene, it’s crucial to report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Most insurance policies require prompt notification of any accidents, regardless of fault. Provide them with the details of the accident, including the police report number and contact information for the other driver.
When speaking to your insurance company, provide factual information and avoid speculating about the cause of the accident or admitting fault. Your insurance company will conduct its own investigation to determine liability.
Keep Track of Medical Records and Expenses
If you sustained injuries in the accident, keep detailed records of your medical treatment. This includes:
- Doctor visits and diagnoses
- Medical bills and receipts
- Prescription medications
- Physical therapy or rehabilitation services
- Time off work due to injuries
These records will be essential for calculating the full extent of your damages when filing a claim for compensation.
Consult with a Personal Injury Lawyer
Even if the accident seems straightforward, consulting with an experienced personal injury lawyer can help ensure that your rights are fully protected. An attorney can guide you through the claims process, help gather evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.
Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, and a lawyer can help ensure that you receive fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. They can also advise you on whether pursuing legal action is necessary if the insurance settlement offer is insufficient.
Understand the Statute of Limitations
In North Carolina, there is a statute of limitations that restricts how long you have to file a lawsuit after a car accident. The statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally three years from the date of the accident. Failing to file within this time frame can result in losing your right to pursue compensation, so it’s crucial to be aware of this deadline.
Protecting your legal rights after a car accident requires prompt action, careful documentation, and understanding your options. By following these steps, you can preserve vital evidence, avoid legal missteps, and ensure that your claim is handled fairly. Consulting with a personal injury attorney in New Bern can also provide the support and guidance needed to navigate the complexities of the claims process and seek the compensation you deserve.
How to Find the Right Legal Team
After being involved in a car accident, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the right attorney to represent you. A skilled and experienced car accident attorney can guide you through the complex claims process, negotiate with insurance companies, and help secure the compensation you deserve. However, not all attorneys are the same, and selecting the right one can make a big difference in the outcome of your case.
Look for Experience in Car Accident Cases
When searching for an attorney, one of the first things you should consider is their experience with car accident cases. A personal injury attorney with a strong focus on car accidents will be familiar with the laws and legal strategies needed to build a strong case.
Look for an attorney who has successfully handled cases similar to yours, especially in your state. Car accident laws can vary, and an attorney with local experience will understand the specifics of North Carolina’s laws, such as the statute of limitations and the state’s contributory negligence rules. Their familiarity with local courts and insurance practices can also be beneficial to your case.
Check Their Track Record
Experience alone is not enough—you also want an attorney with a proven track record of success. Ask about their history of settlements and verdicts. Have they secured fair compensation for their clients? Do they have experience in both negotiating settlements and going to trial when necessary?
While most car accident claims are settled out of court, there are times when going to trial is unavoidable. An attorney with trial experience and a track record of successful outcomes will be better equipped to handle your case if it reaches that point.
Seek Recommendations and Read Reviews
A great way to find a qualified car accident attorney is by seeking recommendations from friends, family, or colleagues who have worked with personal injury attorneys in the past. Word-of-mouth referrals can provide insight into the attorney’s communication style, work ethic, and overall success rate.
Online reviews are another valuable tool for finding the right attorney. Look for testimonials on the attorney’s website, but also check third-party review sites like Google or Avvo for unbiased feedback from previous clients. Pay attention to comments about the attorney’s responsiveness, professionalism, and ability to deliver results.
Assess Their Communication Style
Effective communication is essential when working with an attorney. From your initial consultation to the resolution of your case, you want to feel confident that your lawyer is listening to your concerns, keeping you informed, and answering your questions promptly.
During your first meeting with a prospective attorney, pay attention to how they communicate. Do they explain legal concepts clearly? Do they take the time to listen to your situation and provide thoughtful advice? You should feel comfortable discussing your case with them, knowing they are fully engaged and committed to helping you.
An attorney who is too busy to return calls, emails, or provide updates in a timely manner may not be the right fit for you, especially if you have concerns about your case or need reassurance throughout the process.
Understand Their Fee Structure
Most car accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, which means they only get paid if they win your case. This fee is typically a percentage of the settlement or court award, so it’s important to understand how much your attorney will take from your compensation if your case is successful.
Before hiring an attorney, ask about their fee structure and any additional costs you may be responsible for. While contingency fees are standard in personal injury cases, some attorneys may charge for out-of-pocket expenses like court filing fees, expert witnesses, and medical record requests. Make sure you have a clear understanding of all potential costs before signing any agreement.
Ask About Their Availability and Caseload
A personal injury attorney’s availability can significantly impact the attention your case receives. Some attorneys take on too many cases at once, which can lead to delays or lack of focus on individual claims. You want an attorney who has the time and resources to dedicate to your case.
During your initial consultation, ask about their current caseload and who will be handling your case. Will you have direct access to the attorney, or will your case be managed primarily by paralegals or junior attorneys? Knowing who will be working on your case and how often you’ll be updated is critical to ensuring your claim receives the attention it deserves.
Schedule a Free Consultation
Most personal injury attorneys offer free consultations, which provide an excellent opportunity to assess whether they are the right fit for your case. During this meeting, you can ask about their experience, track record, and approach to handling car accident claims.
Be prepared to share details about your accident, including any medical treatment you’ve received and your financial losses. The attorney will likely ask questions to evaluate the strength of your case and determine whether it’s worth pursuing.
Use the consultation to get a feel for the attorney’s personality and communication style. Do they seem genuinely interested in helping you? Are they focused on your case, or do they seem distracted? The right attorney will make you feel comfortable, supported, and confident in their ability to handle your case.
Verify Their Credentials
Before making your final decision, take the time to verify the attorney’s credentials. Check with your state’s bar association to ensure they are licensed to practice in your state and have no history of disciplinary actions. You can also look for any professional memberships or affiliations with organizations like the North Carolina Advocates for Justice or the American Association for Justice, which can indicate their dedication to personal injury law.
Trust Your Instincts
Ultimately, choosing the right car accident attorney comes down to finding someone you trust and feel comfortable working with. While reviews, credentials, and experience are important, your personal connection with the attorney is just as crucial. Trust your instincts when deciding who to hire. If you feel confident in their ability to represent you, that’s a good sign you’ve found the right attorney for your needs.
Selecting the right car accident attorney is essential to protecting your legal rights and securing fair compensation. By researching their experience, track record, communication style, and availability, you can make an informed decision about who will best represent your interests. A knowledgeable and dedicated attorney in New Bern can provide the support you need during this challenging time and help you navigate the complexities of your car accident claim.
Your Trusted Car Accident Attorney in New Bern
Navigating the aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Ward and Smith, our dedicated car accident attorneys are here to guide you through every step of the legal process, from filing your claim to securing the compensation you need. We understand the challenges you’re facing and are committed to providing the support and expertise you deserve. Call us at (252) 421-5281 for a free consultation and let us help you get the justice and relief you need to move forward.