North Carolina Car Accident Laws 2024 Explained

Car accidents happen every day, and if another driver is responsible for injuring you or a loved one in an accident, it’s vital to know the North Carolina car accident laws that apply to your situation. You are likely eligible to claim compensation for your damages but doing so and successfully recovering compensation may be more challenging than you initially expect. The right attorney on your side can have a tremendous positive influence on your case.

Important State Car Accident Laws

In the state, the fault rule applies to all vehicle accidents. This means that liability for any resulting damages from a vehicle accident will fall to whoever caused the accident. If you were hurt in an accident that you believe another driver caused, you will need to prove fault before you can recover any compensation for the damages you suffered. You must also prove the other party is entirely at fault for the accident.

The fault rule for vehicle accidents also means that state law requires every driver to have auto insurance. This insurance must include bodily injury liability coverage as well as property damage liability coverage that meets the state’s minimum coverage requirements. While not strictly required by law, drivers are strongly encouraged to also purchase uninsured motorist coverage with their policies.

If you have this type of insurance and an uninsured driver causes an accident with you, it will allow you to claim against your own policy for some initial recovery from your damages, and it would be unlikely to lead to any increased insurance premiums. Every driver should fully understand the details of their auto insurance policy so they can be sure that they meet the state’s minimum coverage requirements and will know what to expect if they have an accident.

Understanding Contributory Fault

One state law that may appear as a bar to recovery after some accidents is the state’s contributory negligence statute. Under this rule, a plaintiff cannot claim compensation for their damages if they are partially responsible for causing those damages. If you have any concerns that you bear partial liability or if the at-fault driver has accused you of causing the accident, you will need an experienced attorney on your side to resolve such issues.

Finding Legal Counsel for a Car Accident Case

While not strictly required, it is strongly advised that a car accident victim seek out an attorney to help them navigate their recovery process following any type of accident in the state. The right attorney can help you understand the North Carolina car accident laws that apply to your situation and determine your optimal path to recovery.

Ultimately, many complications can arise with any car accident case, and legal counsel you trust will be an invaluable asset no matter what your case entails. Christina Rivenbark & Associates can provide comprehensive legal representation in the aftermath of your car accident in the state, and we have helped many past clients recover from these accidents successfully. Contact us if you have questions about the state’s car accident laws.

FAQs

Q: How Is Fault Determined in a Car Accident?

A: In a North Carolina car accident, the fault is determined using various forms of evidence that show how the accident happened and which driver is responsible for causing it. North Carolina’s car accident laws dictate that liability for resulting damages falls to whichever driver caused the accident. Note that if you intend to file a car accident case, you must prove the other driver is entirely responsible for causing it and that you do not bear any partial liability.

Q: What Is Contributory Negligence in a Car Accident Case?

A: In a car accident case, contributory negligence indicates that a plaintiff is partially liable for causing damages. Under the state’s contributory negligence rule, the plaintiff would be unable to claim any compensation for their damages if they are found partially at fault, even if their fault is minimal. If you have any concerns that you are partially liable for your recent accident, consult an experienced attorney right away.

Q: How Soon Should I Contact an Attorney After a Car Accident?

A: You should contact an attorney as quickly as possible after a car accident. Once you have received medical care for your injuries, it’s a good idea to reach out to legal counsel you trust at your first opportunity. This will ensure your attorney can immediately begin investigating the details of your case and that you can meet the statutory deadlines for pursuing your recovery. There are deadlines for auto insurance claims as well as personal injury suits.

Q: How Much Compensation Can I Claim for a Car Accident?

A: The amount of compensation you can claim for a car accident in the state will depend on the severity of your damages. You have the right to seek full compensation for any economic losses you suffered as well as financial compensation for the pain and suffering you experienced. Your attorney can help you estimate the full potential value of your claim and determine the optimal path to securing compensation for your damages.

Q: Do I Need to Hire a Lawyer After a Car Accident?

A: You do not necessarily need to hire a lawyer after a car accident in the state, but doing so will dramatically improve your chances of success with any recovery efforts you attempt. You will be more likely to not only win your case but also maximize your total compensation. A good attorney can build the foundation of your case, make sure you meet all applicable filing deadlines, and uncover the extent of the compensation you are eligible to claim.

The team at Christina Rivenbark & Associates has more than 30 years of professional experience helping injured clients recover from all types of vehicle accidents throughout the state. We can explain the North Carolina car accident laws that apply to your case and help you navigate the recovery process efficiently. Contact our team today to schedule a free consultation to learn how we can help with your case.