Statesville Car Accident Lawyer

Experienced Car Accident Attorney in Statesville, NC

Car accidents can be terrifying ordeals that range from minor inconveniences to life-altering catastrophes. Regardless of how damaging your accident was, it’s important to do what you can to seek accountability from the individual who ultimately caused the accident. Pursuing a personal injury claim on your own can be difficult, and there’s nothing wrong with having the right kind of help. A Statesville car accident lawyer can be a tremendous asset to have.

The legal team at Ralston Benton Byerley & Moore, PLLC understands what may be at stake for you in a car accident case. North Carolina’s car accident laws may be difficult to navigate on your own without experienced help. A Statesville car accident attorney can assist you in building a strong case and pursuing accountability. Our firm can bring years of combined experience to your case, giving you much-needed guidance and an opportunity to be compensated.

Car Accidents in Statesville

If you are in a car accident in Statesville, the EMTs are most likely going to take you to the nearest medical facility equipped to handle your situation. That location is likely Iredell Memorial Hospital on Brookdale Drive. If your injuries are minor and don’t require an emergency room, you may want to go to Iredell Urgent Care on East Broad Street at your own pace.

It’s important to keep in mind that there were over 308,000 reported traffic crashes throughout the state in 2023 alone. In 2024, there were 1,622 fatal crashes and 73,293 crashes that resulted in non-fatal injuries. Car accidents are not rare occurrences. They happen all the time, all around the world. If it happens to you, you need to be prepared to handle the aftermath and protect your future accident claim.

What to Do After a Car Accident

The actions you take after a car accident are going to influence your accident claim, as well as the police report and insurance investigation. It’s vital that you do what you can to keep a level head, document as much as you can, and take the proper steps to protect yourself. Here are some of the most important things you can do after a car accident:

• Keep yourself together. While this may seem obvious, it might be much harder to keep yourself together after a bad car accident. Take a moment to assess your situation. Take some deep breaths and look around. It may take a few minutes for you to get your bearings after such a traumatic event.
• Check yourself for injuries. Once you’ve calmed yourself, you should immediately start checking yourself and any passengers for injuries, as you may be in a state of shock. Look for blood, swelling, bruising, protrusions, and red spots. If you feel pain but can’t find an injury, tell the EMTs as soon as they arrive. The injury may be internal.
• Call 911. Get EMTs and police officers to the accident scene as quickly as you can. When they arrive, let the EMTs check you out more thoroughly and don’t get in their way. When the police ask for your statement, don’t admit fault for the accident. Don’t even apologize for what happened. Accepting responsibility in any way can seriously derail your chances of seeking compensation in an accident claim.
• Don’t flee. The worst thing you could do for yourself at this time is try to flee the scene. North Carolina state law prohibits drivers from leaving the scene of an accident without speaking to the police and reporting it. If you try to leave, you could be charged with a felony hit-and-run, which can result in jail time and hefty fines.
• Exchange information. You and the other driver need to exchange contact information. Give them your name, address, phone number, driver’s license number, and the information of your insurance provider. Get the same info from them.
• Document the scene. When the police have cleared the scene, you can start documenting it for your accident claim. Take plenty of photos of your injuries, the damage done to your car, any posted signs, and the conditions of the road. Speak with any witnesses who may be willing to provide you with a statement.
• See a lawyer. When the dust has settled, you should hire a car accident lawyer to represent you and help you build a solid, quality personal injury case.

FAQs

What Is the Fender Bender Law in North Carolina?

The fender bender law in North Carolina requires drivers involved in minor, non-injury crashes to safely move their vehicles out of the road and report the accident to law enforcement. If the vehicle cannot be moved, exit the vehicle and stand safely away from it. You are legally required to report the accident if it involves an injury, a fatality, or at least $1,000 in property damage. Whatever you do, don’t flee.

How Long After an Accident Can You File a Claim in North Carolina?

Generally, you have three years after an accident to file a claim in North Carolina, as that’s the standard statute of limitations for car accidents. You get three years to establish grounds for your claim, gather evidence that supports it, build a substantial case, and speak with a car accident lawyer about filing said case.

Is North Carolina a No-Fault State for Car Accidents?

No, North Carolina is an at-fault state when it comes to car accidents. This means that the driver who is found to be legally responsible for causing the accident is also responsible for reimbursing the other driver’s damages, including medical expenses and vehicle repairs. You can file a claim directly with the other driver’s insurance company.

Do Police Officers Determine Who Is At Fault in a Car Accident in North Carolina?

No, police officers do not determine fault in a car accident in North Carolina. They do not have the authority to make that determination. The final decision regarding fault in a car accident is made by the courts and the insurance companies whose clients are involved. Police reports are often contributing factors.

Hire a Car Accident Lawyer Today

At Ralston Benton Byerley & Moore, PLLC, we can help you build a strong car accident case. Contact us to speak with a team member.