What To Do After a Car Accident in Charlotte, NC?

Whether you’re trying to prepare in advance or have recently been involved in a Charlotte car accident, like many others, you may be asking, “What to do after a car accident in Charlotte, NC?” If so, below is a step-by-step guide to handling a car accident situation in Charlotte.

What to Do After a Car Accident in Charlotte, NC?

To begin with, the one thing you should never do after a car accident in Charlotte is leave the scene. Always stop and check for other parties who may be injured and were involved in the accident. If there are injuries, if you believe anyone is hurt, or if you are hurt, call 911. If you are unable to call 911, ask someone else to call.

1. Report the Accident

Only if and when it is safe to do so, you should move your vehicle off the road to a safer place and turn on your hazards. If the damage seems to be excessive or if there are any injuries that resulted from the accident, you may be required to report the accident. You may report the accident by calling 911 or the non-emergency number for the area. Remain at the scene until the police arrive and have finished their official report.

2. Do Not Leave the Scene

It is illegal to leave the scene of an accident in North Carolina. NC State § 20-166 car accident laws establish a duty for all drivers involved in a crash to stop their vehicle. If there is damage to property and/or injuries, drivers are to remain on scene until a police investigation has been conducted. Failure to remain can result in the revocation of driving privileges for one to two years.

3. Gather Evidence

It is important to gather as much evidence as possible if and when it is safe to do so. Take pictures of the crash scene and any vehicles involved, including your own, their license plates, and any damage. Make a note of the weather conditions and traffic signs situated around the roadways where the accident occurred. Get as much information from witnesses and other drivers as possible, including contact and insurance information.

4. Don’t Deny Medical Attention

You may not feel like you have any injuries right after your car accident. Sometimes, adrenaline can mask the pain, or the injuries may not show up until later. This is common with concussions and whiplash. If you end up needing to file a personal injury claim, evidence of a prompt medical examination and attention can fortify your case as well as ensure your well-being.

5. Report the Incident to Your Insurance Provider

Call your insurance provider and inform them of the accident as soon as you can. Only disclose facts regarding the events of the accident, and do not implicate your own fault or the fault of another driver.

6. Hire a Car Accident Lawyer

Consulting a personal injury lawyer is always advisable after an accident to determine if you need to hire a Charlotte car accident lawyer to represent your case. In most cases, you need legal representation. This is especially important if you were injured and wish to pursue damages, or if there is a possibility you were at fault for other drivers’ injuries.

Why Choose Us?

When you choose a car accident attorney from DAS Law Group, P.A., you are getting the advantage of an established and experienced Charlotte personal injury law firm. Our highly esteemed team has handled countless Charlotte car accident cases. We are confident we can provide the resources necessary to investigate the crash if the fault is disputed. In addition, we are prepared to negotiate a worthwhile settlement with the insurance providers for you or litigate on your behalf if necessary.

Mecklenburg County had the highest number of traffic fatalities in a five-year study from 2017 to 2021. The county also had the highest number of alcohol-related fatalities, speeding-related fatalities, and unrestrained passenger fatalities. Charlotte and Mecklenburg County are arguably among the most hazardous areas to drive in the state, particularly when navigating intersections like Charlotte’s Arrowood Road and Arrowpoint Boulevard.

FAQs About Car Accidents

What to Do After a Car Accident in Charlotte?

After a car accident in Charlotte, you should stop your vehicle. Check all parties for injuries and call 911 if there are any injuries. Report the crash and move your car to a safe place if possible. Collect evidence at the scene of the crash, and get a medical examination as soon as possible. Report the accident to your insurance company and seek legal counsel.

What Not to Say After an Accident?

Following an accident, you should never admit fault or place blame on another driver. Avoid saying things like ‘I’m sorry,’ as it could be taken as an admission of responsibility for the accident. Rather say something factual like, ‘This is unfortunate. Are you okay?’ Make sure whatever you say is within earshot of your passengers or other witnesses or involved drivers.

Do Insurance Adjusters Try to Lowball?

Yes, insurance adjusters may try to lowball plaintiffs in their settlement claims. In fact, the first offer they present is typically the lowest offer they may pay. They do this in hopes that the claimant unknowingly accepts the offer when, in fact, they could negotiate for a higher settlement amount. A personal injury lawyer is a great resource for negotiating with insurance adjusters to get the highest settlement award possible.

How Long After an Accident Can You Still Make a Claim?

According to North Carolina General Statute §1-52 (16), in North Carolina, the statute of limitations for a personal injury claim, such as a car accident injury claim, is three years. This is three years from the date of the accident, which is when the injury occurred or the damages became most apparent. This includes motorcycle crash injuries, truck injuries, and passenger vehicle injuries.

Contact a Reputable Personal Injury Attorney in Charlotte

If you are still on the fence about what to do after a car accident in Charlotte, NC, DAS Law Group, P.A. can answer your questions and give you the legal advice you need to optimize your personal injury claim. Connect with us online or give us a call to discuss your case.