An Experienced Charlotte Car Accident Lawyer Shares 7 Common Types of Car Accidents in North Carolina

For many of us, cars are an indispensable part of life. They facilitate our commutes to work, trips to the grocery store, journeys to entertainment venues, and so much more. Yet, with the convenience of road travel in North Carolina comes the reality of car accidents.

According to the most recent statistics from the North Carolina Department of Transportation, a staggering 276,026 traffic crashes were reported in 2021 (compiled from crash data received prior to May 11, 2022). With these accidents, a tragic 114,722 people suffered injuries, and 1,783 North Carolinians’ lives were abruptly cut short.

These sobering statistics serve as a harsh reminder of the possibility of being involved in a car accident on North Carolina’s open roads. As an experienced Charlotte car accident lawyer, I've witnessed firsthand the trauma and disruption these accidents can cause to people's lives. 

We all know that accidents can happen whether you're behind the wheel or sitting in the passenger seat. Don't deal with the aftermath of a car accident alone. Contact Speaks Law Firm at (980) 237-6948 to schedule your FREE case review with our dedicated team. Who speaks for you? We do!

Continue reading to learn more about the seven most common types of car accidents in North Carolina and what else you need to know if you’ve been injured in one.

1. Rear-End Collisions

First on our list are rear-end collisions. Picture yourself in heavy traffic when the car behind you fails to stop in time and crashes into your rear bumper—a classic example of a rear-end collision. 

Rear-end collisions are often caused by distracted driving or tailgating and can lead to serious injuries, particularly whiplash. Generally, the driver at the back is considered at fault.

2. T-Bone or Side-Impact Collisions

T-Bone or side-impact collisions occur when the front of one vehicle collides with the side of another. Imagine an intersection where a car fails to stop at the sign and slams into the side of another vehicle—a typical instance of a T-Bone collision. 

These accidents often occur at intersections and can result in significant injuries due to the limited protection on the sides of vehicles.

3. Head-On Collisions

Head-on collisions are among the most dangerous types of accidents. Consider a scenario where a driver distracted by their smartphone veers into oncoming traffic, causing a head-on collision. 

These accidents often lead to severe or even fatal injuries and can be caused by distracted or drunk driving, wrong-way entry onto roads, and more.

4. Multi-Vehicle Collisions

Multi-vehicle collisions, often referred to as pile-ups, involve three or more vehicles. Picture a foggy morning on a highway where one car abruptly stops, triggering a chain reaction of crashes. 

Such accidents, often occurring on highways or in heavy fog conditions, can be particularly challenging from a legal standpoint, as determining fault can be complex.

5. Single Car Accidents

In single car accidents, only one vehicle is involved. Envision a driver swerving to avoid a deer but instead crashing into a tree—a typical single car accident scenario. These can occur for various reasons, such as poor weather conditions, animal crossings, or driver error. 

Dealing with insurance companies after a single car accident, though it may seem straightforward, can prove surprisingly complex. 

6. Hit and Run Accidents

A hit and run occurs when a party involved in the accident leaves the scene without stopping to identify themselves or offer aid to injured parties. Imagine parking your car outside a store, only to find it damaged upon your return, with no one to take responsibility. 

This instance is a common example of a hit and run accident. This is a criminal offense in North Carolina, and a knowledgeable car accident attorney can help you navigate these circumstances.

7. Rollover Accidents

Rollover accidents occur when a car flips over, often due to high speeds or an impact from another vehicle. 

One example is a high-speed chase where a car hits a curb and flips over. Rollover accidents can be extremely dangerous, resulting in serious injuries.

What to Do After a Car Accident

When an accident occurs, it's normal to feel upset or shaken. However, it's essential to keep your wits about you and follow the following steps:

• Ensure Safety First: Immediately after the accident, check for injuries. If anyone is injured, call for medical help. Move vehicles out of the flow of traffic if it's safe to do so.
• Report the Accident: Call the police, even for minor accidents. A police report is crucial when filing an insurance claim or a personal injury lawsuit.
• Exchange Information: Get the other driver's name, contact details, driver's license number, and insurance information. Remember to provide your details as well.
• Document the Accident: Use your phone to take pictures of the accident scene, vehicle damages, and any visible injuries. These can serve as important evidence in your car accident case.
• Identify Witnesses: If there were any witnesses to the accident, try to get their contact information. They could provide crucial testimony later on.

Car Accident Laws in North Carolina

In North Carolina, the law of "contributory negligence" is followed. If you're found even slightly at fault for the accident, you may be barred from recovering compensation. 

The state operates under a "fault" system for car insurance, which means the driver responsible for causing the car accident is liable for any resulting harm.

Further, North Carolina law mandates that you report a car accident to the police if it resulted in injury or death or if total property damage amounts to $1,000 or more.

How to Deal With Insurance Companies After an Accident

After a car accident, dealing with insurance companies can be tricky. Remember that insurance adjusters' primary goal is to save the insurance company money. As a result, they might try to offer a lower settlement than what you’re entitled to receive for your injuries.

Here are some tips to handle insurance companies:

• Don't Admit Fault: Even if you think you might be partially at fault, never admit this to the insurance adjuster. Fault is a complex legal matter best left for a car accident attorney to handle.
• Don't Accept the First Offer: Insurance companies often start with a low settlement offer. It's often wise to refuse the first offer and negotiate for a better settlement.
• Get Legal Representation: An experienced car accident attorney can handle negotiations, ensure you understand your rights, and work to secure the maximum compensation for your claim.

Types of Common Injuries in Car Accidents

Car accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor bruises to severe traumatic conditions. Here are a few common injuries:

• Whiplash: This is a neck injury due to forceful, rapid back-and-forth movement of the neck, like the cracking of a whip. Whiplash is common in rear-end car accidents.
• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): TBIs can range from a mild concussion to serious brain damage. They occur when a sudden trauma, like a jolt or blow to the head, causes damage to the brain.
• Fractures: Broken bones are common in car accidents, with fractures often occurring in the arms, legs, ribs, and collarbone.

In all cases, seeking medical attention immediately after an accident is crucial, even if you don't think you're seriously injured. 

Some injuries may not be apparent immediately but could have long-term implications. Your medical records will be crucial evidence should you file a personal injury claim.

The Impact of Car Accidents on Mental Health

Car accidents are not only physically traumatic but can also take a heavy toll on your mental health. After your accident, you might experience psychological effects that can linger long after your physical injuries have healed.

1. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): After experiencing a car accident, you might develop PTSD, a condition usually associated with combat veterans but also common among accident survivors.

   Symptoms can include recurring flashbacks of the accident, nightmares, emotional numbness, and an intense, ongoing fear of driving or riding in vehicles.

2. Anxiety and Depression: Feelings of anxiety and depression are common following a traumatic event like a car accident. You might experience constant worry, fear, a lack of interest in previously enjoyed activities, or a pervasive feeling of sadness. These conditions can greatly affect your daily life and overall well-being.
3. Phobias and Fear of Driving: Some people may develop a specific phobia related to driving or riding in a car after an accident, known as vehophobia. This fear can limit your ability to travel, affecting your lifestyle, job opportunities, and social connections.
4. Seeking Help: If you're experiencing any of these symptoms after a car accident, it's critical to seek professional help.
   Mental health professionals can provide a range of treatments, including therapy and medication, that can greatly improve your quality of life. Remember, it's okay to ask for help, as mental health struggles are just as real as physical injuries.
5. Legal Considerations: In the context of a personal injury claim, mental and emotional distress can often be factored into the damages sought after an accident.

Never hesitate to reach out to a medical professional if you're struggling, and remember, an experienced car accident attorney can fight for your right to compensation for these often overlooked damages.

Preventing Car Accidents: Safety Tips

Preventing car accidents starts with practicing safe driving habits. While you cannot control the actions of other drivers, you can take steps to protect yourself and others on the road. Here are some safety tips:

• Avoid Distractions: Distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents. Keep your attention on the road at all times. This means no texting, unnecessary phone use, or any activity that takes your eyes off the road.
• Drive Defensively: Anticipate potential hazards and the actions of other drivers. This includes maintaining a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you and being aware of your surroundings.
• Follow Traffic Rules: Observe speed limits, stop signs, traffic lights, and road markings. These rules are designed to maintain order and safety on the roads.
• Stay Sober: Drunk driving is a serious crime and a major cause of accidents. If you plan to drink, arrange for a designated driver, a taxi, or a rideshare service.
• Regular Maintenance: Keep your vehicle in good condition. Regular maintenance checks ensure your car functions optimally, preventing accidents due to mechanical failures.

Remember, while following these safety tips can reduce your risk of being in an accident, it can't eliminate it entirely. If you find yourself involved in a car accident despite your best efforts, knowing what to do next is essential. 

Consult with an experienced car crash lawyer to guide you through the legal process and help you recover just compensation for your injuries.

The Role of an Experienced Car Accident Lawyer

Determining Liability and Proving Fault

One of the essential tasks of a car accident attorney is to determine liability and prove fault. This involves analyzing the accident report, police reports, witness statements, and any available video footage. 

In some cases, an attorney might collaborate with accident reconstruction experts to establish a clear picture of what happened.

Managing Communications with Insurance Companies

Communicating and negotiating with insurance companies can be challenging for someone unfamiliar with the process. 

A car accident lawyer can manage these communications, protecting your interests and ensuring the insurance company doesn't take advantage of you.

Pursuing Compensation

Whether you're dealing with medical bills, lost wages, or property damage, an experienced car accident attorney can guide you through the process of pursuing compensation. 

They can gather medical evidence, calculate the total financial impact of the accident, and negotiate with the insurance company or the party at fault to ensure you get the financial recovery you’re entitled to receive.

Why Timely Legal Action is Crucial

Statute of Limitations

Every state has a statute of limitations that limits the time you have to file a lawsuit after a car accident. In North Carolina, this timeframe is generally three years for personal injury and two years for wrongful death claims. 

An experienced car accident attorney can ensure all the necessary actions are taken within this timeframe to protect your rights.

Evidence Preservation

As time passes, evidence can get lost or become less reliable. For instance, witness memories can fade, and physical evidence at the accident scene may disappear. 

Involving a lawyer as soon as possible after the accident can be beneficial to gather and preserve critical evidence.

Insurance Company Tactics

Insurance companies often try to resolve claims as quickly and inexpensively as possible. This could involve offering a quick settlement before fully understanding the extent of your injuries and damages. An experienced car crash lawyer can help you avoid falling into these traps.

Choosing the Right Car Accident Lawyer

Experience and Results

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a car accident attorney is their experience and results. You want a lawyer who is not just an experienced attorney but specifically an experienced car accident attorney. 

Your attorney should have a deep understanding of motor vehicle accident laws, personal injury claims, and how to handle insurance companies.

Reputation and Reviews

Look at the law firm's reputation and the reviews of the car accident attorneys who work there. This will give you a sense of their success rate, approach to cases, and level of customer service. 

Look for lawyers known for their dedication to their clients and ability to secure favorable settlements or verdicts.

Communication and Comfort Level

When you meet with a prospective car accident lawyer, pay attention to their communication style and how comfortable you feel with them. 

Your attorney should be able to explain complex legal terms in a way that you can understand, answer your questions promptly, and make you feel confident in their abilities. After all, this is the person who will represent your interests and help you navigate the claims process.

Finding yourself in a car accident is an undeniably stressful experience. However, this challenging journey becomes significantly more manageable with a skilled and empathetic attorney by your side. Remember, the right car accident lawyer doesn't merely provide legal assistance; they guide you, support you, and work diligently to protect your interests.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What happens if I admitted fault in a car accident before I spoke with an attorney?
A: Admitting fault before consulting an attorney can complicate your case, as determining liability involves assessing many factors. However, an experienced attorney can still help strategize the best path forward, even if you've admitted fault prematurely.

Q: How much does a car accident lawyer cost?
A: Most car accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means they only get paid if they successfully recover compensation on your behalf. The exact percentage can vary, but it's typically around one-third of the recovery amount.

Q: Do I need a lawyer for a minor car accident?
A: Even in minor accidents, it's often beneficial to consult with a lawyer. They can help you understand your rights, deal with insurance companies, and ensure you receive fair compensation for your damages.

Q: What if the other driver doesn't have insurance?
A: If the other driver doesn't have insurance or doesn't have enough to cover your damages, you may need to file a claim with your own insurance company under your uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage. 

Q: How is fault determined in a car accident?
A: Determining fault involves analyzing the details of the accident, including reviewing the police report, witness statements, and any available video footage. In some cases, accident reconstruction experts may be involved.

Secure Your Compensation with Speaks Law Firm – Charlotte's Experienced Personal Injury Attorneys

Navigating the aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming, but you don't have to face it alone. At Speaks Law Firm, we're committed to protecting your rights and ensuring you obtain the appropriate compensation if you’ve been injured in a car accident.

Our experienced Charlotte personal injury attorneys are well-versed in North Carolina's car accident laws. We have a solid track record of helping individuals like you affected by these unfortunate incidents.

Let Speaks Law Firm bear the weight of your case so you can concentrate on your recovery. We'll meticulously manage your claim, fight for your rights, and stay committed to your cause every step of the way.

Contact us today at (980) 237-6948 or complete our online form to schedule your FREE case review with one of our dedicated personal injury lawyers.  Whenever you ask, "Who will speak for me?" Remember, the answer is clear – Speaks Law Firm!