Should I Get an Attorney for a Car Accident?

If you’ve recently been in a serious car accident in North Carolina, you’ve probably learned that the pain and stress do not always end once the cars get cleared from the roadway. Instead, you’re facing high medical bills, expensive car repairs, and considerable time away from work. You might even be wondering, “Should I get an attorney for a car accident?”

The answer is likely yes, and the team at Kreger Brodish LLP is standing by to help. Don’t let the other driver pin the blame on you, and don’t accept pennies on the dollar from the insurance company. Instead, put us to work demanding the fair compensation you deserve while you focus on getting better.

How Common Are Car Accidents in North Carolina?

The North Carolina DMV reports over 284,000 crashes occurred statewide in one recent year. These crashes led to over 115,000 injuries and nearly 1,700 deaths. That’s about 780 crashes statewide every day, or about 32 crashes every hour. Some of the most common causes of North Carolina car accidents include:

Impaired Driving – Alcohol-related crashes accounted for a little over 4 percent of all crashes that year, over 22 percent of crash-related deaths, and 7 percent of crash-related injuries.
Speeding – Speed-related collisions accounted for roughly 5 percent of all crashes, over 23 percent of crash-related fatalities, and 7 percent of collision-related injuries.
Distracted Driving – Distracted drivers were a factor in just under 17 percent of all motor vehicle accidents, nearly 8 percent of traffic deaths, and over 16 percent of crash injuries.
Failure to Yield – Drivers who failed to yield the right-of-way when required contributed to about 15 percent of all crashes, roughly 10 percent of fatal collisions, and 21 percent of crashes with injuries.

Common Challenges Faced After a Car Accident

Injured drivers and passengers may face many challenges after a car accident, including:

Insurance Companies – Insurance adjusters often push low settlements or try to deny claims. Negotiating with insurers can be frustrating, especially for drivers and passengers recovering from severe injuries.
Medical Bills – Medical treatment after an accident can be expensive. Without a fair settlement, covering these bills can be overwhelming, especially for those whose injuries require ongoing care.
Lost Wages – Serious injuries can keep an accident victim out of work, and those missing paychecks can make it harder for them to keep up with regular expenses.
Property Damage – Repairing or replacing a damaged vehicle can be expensive. If the other driver’s insurance disputes liability or offers less than what’s needed, injured drivers may struggle to cover the damage.
Fault – Determining who caused an accident isn’t always straightforward. Gathering evidence, like witness statements and police reports, can take time and often requires legal help.
Paperwork – Accident claims involve a lot of paperwork, and missing deadlines or making mistakes could delay or hurt a legal case.
Emotional Stress – The trauma of an accident can lead to anxiety or depression, making it harder for injured drivers and passengers to deal with the legal and financial aspects of their recovery.

The Role of a Car Accident Attorney

Are you asking yourself, “Do I need an attorney for a car accident”? If so, consider that after an accident, you may face many challenges, from dealing with insurance companies to gathering the evidence needed to prove your case. An attorney can take on these responsibilities, allowing you to focus on your recovery while they handle the legal side of things.

First, a car accident attorney can gather the necessary evidence to prove fault and liability. This might include obtaining police reports, medical records, witness statements, and even hiring accident reconstruction experts if needed. They can build a strong case that shows how the accident happened and how it has affected your life.

Next, your attorney will negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf. Insurance adjusters often try to minimize payouts, but an experienced car accident attorney knows the tactics they use and can push back to help you demand a fair settlement. From financial losses like medical bills and property damage to subjective ones like pain and suffering, your lawyer will seek fair compensation for the full range of harm you’ve experienced.

If your case goes to court, an attorney can represent you during the trial, arguing on your behalf and guiding you through the legal system. With an experienced car accident lawyer by your side, you can feel confident someone is protecting your rights and that you’re in the best position to recover the money you need.

When Should You Consider Hiring an Attorney?

As for when to hire an attorney after a car accident, it’s nearly always a good idea to consult with one as soon as possible following the collision. You should seek immediate legal help if:

You’ve Suffered Severe Injuries – An experienced attorney can help you seek the money you need for medical expenses like surgery, hospitalizations, and long-term care.
There’s Disputed Liability – When the other driver’s insurance company disputes who caused the accident, a lawyer can help gather evidence to prove fault and protect your claim.
The Insurance Company Lowballs Your Claim – If the insurance company accepts their policyholder’s liability but tries to get you to accept less than you deserve, an attorney can negotiate on your behalf to pursue fair compensation.
Multiple Parties Are Involved – The more parties that might be at fault for an accident, the more complicated the legal claim will be. A lawyer can investigate the incident, determine all liable parties, and hold them responsible for compensating you fairly.
You Have Long-Term or Permanent Disabilities – If your injuries have left you with long-term or permanent disabilities, you’ll need a lawyer to calculate and fight for compensation that reflects the impact on your future income and quality of life.

Steps To Take After a Car Accident in Durham, NC

What you do in the weeks and months after a car accident can significantly affect your ability to recover compensation. After seeking medical care, here are the steps car accident victims should take to protect their rights:

Follow Medical Advice – It’s essential to follow your doctor’s recommendations and attend all follow-up appointments. This not only helps with your recovery but also creates a medical record to support your claim.
Gather Evidence – Collect any evidence related to the accident, such as photos of your injuries and the damaged vehicle, the contact info of any witnesses you spoke to, and medical documentation.
Document Your Recovery – Keep a detailed record of your injuries, medical treatments, and how the accident has impacted your life. Include how your pain impacts your life, missed workdays, and challenges with daily activities.
Notify Your Insurance Company – Report the accident to your insurance provider immediately. Be cautious when discussing the details, and avoid admitting fault or giving recorded statements without first consulting an attorney.
Avoid Social Media – Posting about the accident or your injuries on social media can harm your case. Insurance companies may use these posts to downplay your injuries.
Consult an Attorney – Before accepting any settlement offers, it’s wise to consult a Durham car accident lawyer. They can review your case and advise you on the best course of action.

Choosing the Right Attorney for Your Case

Choosing the right car accident attorney is an essential step in protecting your rights and securing fair compensation. You want a lawyer who has experience handling car accident cases and understands the specific challenges that come with these claims. An attorney who is familiar with local laws and has a history of successfully resolving car accident cases can help guide you through the process with confidence.

Communication skills are another vital factor to consider. You should choose a lawyer who takes the time to listen to your concerns and explains your options clearly. A good attorney will keep you informed about your case and be available to answer any questions you have along the way. This ensures that you know how your car accident claim is progressing and what to expect at each stage.

Finally, it’s also critical to find a personal injury attorney for a car accident who offers personalized attention to your case. Every accident is unique, and you deserve a lawyer who will tailor their approach to your specific needs. Look for an attorney who will fight for your best interests, whether that means negotiating a fair settlement or taking your case to court.

By carefully considering these factors, you can find the right attorney to help you move forward after your accident.

Deadline for Car Accident Lawsuits in North Carolina

Under North Carolina law, you typically have three years from the date of a car accident to file a lawsuit. However, we urge you to talk to a lawyer right away so they can preserve crucial evidence in your case. Waiting too long to speak to an attorney can jeopardize your case and make it harder to recover full compensation for your injuries.

Contact Our Durham NC Car Accident Attorneys for Help

The Durham car accident attorneys at Kreger Brodish LLP understand the challenges you’re facing after a collision and can protect your rights as you seek justice. Moreover, we won’t charge you a fee unless we win your case. Call us today or complete our contact form for a free consultation, and let’s fight for the money you deserve together.