How to File a Car Accident Claim in North Carolina

In the aftermath of a serious car crash, you may be left facing the high costs of vehicle repairs or replacement, while suffering severe injuries that require ongoing medical care and treatment. If another person was to blame for your car accident, you should be entitled to pursue compensation to cover these and other costs.

The following provides important information on what to do after an accident, and the steps to take to file a car accident insurance claim in N.C.

What You Do After an Accident Is Important

The latest statistics from the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) indicate more than 220,000 car accidents occur throughout the state each year, injuring more than 100,000 drivers and their passengers. North Carolina does require all drivers to carry insurance, and in the event of an accident, the responsible driver can be held liable for any damages that result.

When an accident occurs, it is important to do the following:

• Notify law enforcement immediately.
• Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver.
• Obtain contract information from any witnesses to the accident.
• If it can be done safely, take photographs of the accident scene and the vehicles involved in the accident.
• Get medical care, even if you think your injuries are minor.

Be careful to avoid admitting any liability for the accident at the scene. If you are determined to be even partially responsible, it could impact your ability to get compensation through an insurance claim.

Filing an Insurance Claim

After an accident, you should consult with an experienced attorney who can manage communications with the other driver’s insurance company.  The following are additional steps in filing a car accident insurance claim:

• An insurance claims representative will be assigned to your case. Your claims representative will want to get your version of the accident and how it occurred. Be aware that any statements you make can and will be used against you to dispute or deny your claim. That’s why it is so important to have an attorney on your side from the beginning.
• An insurance adjuster will investigate the accident. He or she will attempt to determine who was at fault and the extent of the damages involved. Your attorney will also conduct an independent investigation of the crash.
• Your claim will either be accepted or denied. If your claim is accepted, your attorney can assist you in resolving the property damage claim related to your vehicle.  At the appropriate time, your attorney will submit a settlement demand to the at-fault party’s insurance company regarding your personal injury claim, including documentation of your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages and pain and suffering.  If the claim cannot be settled or is denied, you will have the option of pursuing your claim in court.  Your attorney can help you navigate this process from start to finish.

Know that once you accept a settlement, you will be forfeiting your rights to any future compensation. To protect yourself, you should always speak with an experienced car accident attorney before making any statements or signing any documents.

Contact Us Today for Help

If you or someone you care about has been involved in an accident, contact Warren & Kallianos PLLC today. We provide the aggressive legal representation to help you pursue the full and fair compensation you are entitled to under the law.  We handle cases in Charlotte, the surrounding areas and throughout the state.  Call or contact our office online today to learn how we can help you.