Burgaw Rental Car Accident Lawyer

Burgaw Rental Car Accident Attorney

Being involved in a car accident can be a frustrating, complicated, and sometimes devastating experience. Matters can be made even worse and even more complicated when there is a rental car involved. In these circumstances, it can become challenging to determine fault and coordinate with the insurance companies. An experienced Burgaw rental car accident lawyer can help those who find themselves in this unique situation.

Determining Fault

North Carolina is considered an at-fault state, meaning that the responsible driver is held liable to pay for any damages or injuries incurred. This is also true for accidents that involve rental cars. If a rental car is involved in an accident on the road, and it is determined that the driver of the rental car was at fault, that driver will be held financially liable for all damages.

The factor of the rental car can add an extra layer to the accident. North Carolina state law requires all drivers to carry the minimum liability insurance coverage. However, injuries that result from the negligence of a rental car driver may not be fully covered under the minimum liability insurance.

It is not uncommon for drivers to forego purchasing rental car insurance when they get a rental car. An experienced accident lawyer can help investigate the accident and determine if the at-fault driver purchased the additional rental car insurance coverage. This additional insurance can often be used to cover personal injuries and damages that occur from accidents.

Contributory Negligence

North Carolina practices contributory negligence when it comes to car accidents. This means that if it is found that you contributed to the car accident, you may not be eligible to receive any compensation.

For example, if you rent a car and Driver A runs into you, causing an accident with severe damages and personal injuries, and it is found or proven that you contributed to the cause of the accident through any form of negligence on your own part, then you may not be eligible to seek compensation.

Rental Car Company

If you were involved in a car accident while driving a rental car, it is possible that the rental car company will charge you for the damages and repairs to the car, even if you were not at fault. This is especially true if you did not purchase the additional rental car collision coverage. Rental car companies often seek payment immediately and upfront. This means that you could be forced to pay these costs out of pocket and then request reimbursement later.

Due to the complexities that can surround rental cars, it is important to consult with a qualified accident attorney who is experienced in car accidents that involve rental cars. Insurance companies play a large role in personal injury cases, and it can be troubling at times to communicate with them. An accident attorney can help you talk through your different options and design an approach that is suited to your unique situation.

FAQs About Burgaw Rental, CA Car Accident Laws

Who Pays for the Rental Car After an Accident in North Carolina?

Under North Carolina state law, it is often the at-fault driver who is responsible for any damages related to an accident. This also includes any rental car related to the accident. Compensation is typically awarded through the at-fault driver’s insurance company. Oftentimes, the victim has to contact the at-fault driver’s insurance with a rental car request. The insurance company will typically not provide payment for the rental car without prompting.

What Is the Average Car Accident Settlement in North Carolina?

Each car accident is unique and contains certain details and situations that can influence the amount of the settlement awarded. It can depend on the personal injury, property damage, and possible punitive damages that occurred. Other factors can include lost wages, loss of mobility, and emotional distress damages.

Car accident settlements in North Carolina can range anywhere from $7,000 for minor injuries to $600,000 for serious injuries, depending on the case. An experienced accident attorney can help fight for the maximum possible settlement for your case.

How Much Can Someone Sue for a Car Accident in NC?

The amount that you can sue for a car accident in Burgaw, North Carolina is not capped at any dollar amount. North Carolina state law does not cap the economic and non-economic damages available. Generally, you are eligible to sue for up to the amount that you can prove you were injured. North Carolina state law does limit punitive damages at the greater of three times the proven compensatory damages or $250,000.

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

North Carolina is considered an at-fault state. This means that the driver proven to be at fault will bear the primary responsibility for payment of associated personal injury costs, damages, and possible punitive damages. It should be noted that North Carolina is one of the few states that practices contributory negligence. This means that if a driver contributed in any way to their own damages, then they may not be eligible to receive compensation for their injuries.

Contact a Burgaw Rental Car Accident Attorney

An accident involving a rental car can cause a significant amount of stress and confusion for all parties involved. The accident can become even more stressful and serious if there are any injuries. It is extremely important that those who are injured receive the proper medical attention they need immediately following the crash. Rental car accidents can be unique situations, and they often require the help of an experienced accident lawyer to sort through the available legal options.

Christina Rivenbark & Associates has over thirty years of experience defending the rights of those who have been seriously injured in automobile accidents. Whether it is an accident involving a commercial vehicle, a rental car, or a standard vehicle, our legal team possesses the knowledge and experience to deliver satisfactory results to individuals in the Burgaw area. Contact our Burgaw office for the dedication and assistance with your case that you deserve.