If you’ve been in a car accident, even if it was a minor one, you may be wondering if it’s worth hiring a lawyer. The answer to that question depends on several factors, including the severity of your injuries and the amount of damage to your vehicle.
At The Law Offices of Jason E. Taylor, our Greenville car accident attorneys have years of experience dealing with auto accident cases, and we know how to get results. No matter how minor the car accident is, we will help you through the legal process and ensure your rights are protected. Contact us today to schedule a free case evaluation.
How Common Are Car Accidents in Greenville, NC?
While Greenville is a relatively small city with just over 90,000 citizens, according to the North Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles, over 3,000 car accidents occurred in 2019.
Examples of Minor Car Accidents
Side-Swipe Accident
A sideswipe is a type of car accident that occurs when the side of one vehicle collides with the side of another. This type of accident can be caused by driver negligence, poor road conditions, or a driver hitting a parked car.
Rear-End Accident
When one car hits the back of another vehicle, it’s called a rear-end accident. Rear-end accidents often happen when one driver follows another too closely and doesn’t have time to stop when the car in front of them suddenly brakes.
Fender Benders
Also known as a low-speed impact, fender benders may not seem like a big deal. But these types of accidents can still cause serious injuries, such as whiplash or back pain.
Common Causes of Car Accidents in Greenville, NC
Driver Error
One of the most common causes of car accidents is driver error. This can include speeding, running a red light, and distracted driving.
Road Conditions
Poor road conditions can also cause car accidents. Icy roads, potholes, and construction zones can make it difficult for drivers to control their vehicles.
Weather Conditions
Inclement weather can also cause car accidents. Rain, snow, and fog can all make it difficult to see the road and make it more difficult to control your car.
Drunk Driving
If you’re injured in a car accident caused by a drunk driver, you may be able to file a lawsuit against the driver and the bar or restaurant that served them alcohol.
Common Car Accident Injuries
- Whiplash – One of the most common injuries in car accidents is whiplash, a neck injury caused by a forceful and sudden head movement. Whiplash can cause pain, stiffness, and loss of range of motion in the neck.
- Concussions – A concussion is another common injury in minor car accidents, one of the most common mild traumatic brain injuries that can cause dizziness, nausea, confusion, and loss of consciousness.
- Spinal Cord Injuries – The most common spinal cord injury in car accidents is a compression fracture when one or more vertebrae collapse. Spinal cord injuries can also cause paralysis, loss of sensation, and difficulty breathing.
- Head and Brain Injuries – Head and brain injuries are some of the most severe types of injuries that can occur in car accidents. Head injuries can range from mild concussions to traumatic brain injuries. Brain injuries can cause long-term problems, such as memory loss, cognitive impairment, and paralysis.
What Should I Do After a Minor Car Accident?
Call the Police
After a car accident, the first thing you should do is call the police. The police will report the accident, which can be used as evidence if you decide to file a lawsuit.
Get Medical Attention
If you’ve been injured in the accident, it’s important to get medical attention right away. Even if your injuries seem minor, getting checked out by a doctor is the best way to avoid long-term complications.
Collect Evidence
If you decide to file a lawsuit, you’ll need evidence to support your claim. Be sure to take pictures of the accident scene and get the contact information for any witnesses. You should also keep all medical records and bills related to your injuries.
Contact a Greenville Car Accident Lawyer
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, it’s important to speak with an attorney. A Greenville auto accident lawyer will help you negotiate with the insurance company and hold the negligent party accountable for your injuries. If you are in a North or South Carolina car accident, the Law Offices of Jason E. Taylor will help you file a lawsuit and get the compensation you deserve.
What Not to Do After a Minor Car Accident in Greenville
- Do not leave the scene of the accident.
- Do not admit fault.
- Do not speak to the other driver’s insurance company without an attorney.
- Do not sign any documents without speaking with an attorney first.
Hiring a lawyer is often a good idea after any car accident, but it’s especially important if you’ve been injured. A lawyer will inform you of your rights and ensure they are protected.
How Our Car Greenville Car Accident Lawyers Can Help You
If you’ve been in a car accident, it’s important to speak with an attorney. Our car accident lawyers in Greenville can help you with the following:
- Filing a Lawsuit
- Negotiating a Settlement
- Coordinating With Your Insurance Company
- Representing You in Court
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, don’t wait. Contact us today for a free consultation. We’ll help you determine if it’s worth filing a lawsuit.
Factors That Impact Your Car Accident Case
North Carolina’s Contributory Negligence Law
Under North Carolina’s contributory negligence law, if you are even partially at fault for an accident, you may be barred from receiving any compensation for your injuries.
For example, if you rear-end another car because you were following too closely, you may be found to be partially at fault for the accident. If the other driver sues you and is awarded damages, you may be required to pay some or all of those damages.
The Severity of Your Injuries
The severity of your injuries will play a major role in the outcome of your car accident case. If you’ve been seriously injured, you may be entitled to receive damages for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
The Type of Accident
If another driver’s negligence caused the accident, you may be able to file a lawsuit and receive compensation for your injuries. If a defect in the vehicle caused the accident, you may be able to file a product liability lawsuit against the manufacturer.
The Statute of Limitations
The statute of limitation for car accident claims is three years in North Carolina. This means that you must file a lawsuit within three years of the date of the accident or you will lose your right to sue.
How to Prove Fault in a Minor Car Accident Case
To prove fault in a minor car accident case, you will need to provide evidence that the other driver was negligent. This can be done by providing
- witness statements
- police reports
- photographs of the accident scene
Damages You Can Recover in a Minor Car Accident Claim in North Carolina
If you’ve been involved in a minor car accident, you may be entitled to receive compensation for the following:
Economic Damages
Economic damages are those that reimburse you for financial losses. This can include medical bills, lost wages, and property damage.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages are those that compensate you for non-financial losses. This can include pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
Punitive Damages
Punitive damages are those that are awarded to punish the defendant for their actions. They are not typically awarded in minor car accident cases.
An experienced car accident lawyer can help you recover the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.
How Long Does it Take to Settle a Car Accident Claim?
The amount of time it takes to settle a car accident claim will vary depending on the circumstances of the case. However, your lawyer will work diligently to negotiate a fair settlement as quickly as possible.
How Much Does it Cost to Hire a Lawyer After a Car Accident?
Most car accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means that you will not have to pay anything upfront. Instead, your lawyer will take a percentage of the settlement or verdict they recover on your behalf.
Can I Settle My Car Accident Claim Without a Lawyer?
You may be able to settle a car accident claim without a lawyer, but it is not recommended. However, an experienced car accident lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
Contact a Greenville Car Accident Attorney Today
Car accidents can be traumatic and confusing events. If you’ve been injured in a car accident, it’s important to speak with an attorney as soon as possible.
At The Law Offices of Jason E. Taylor, we help car accident victims of minor accidents, severe accidents, and even car accidents that result in wrongful death. Our attorneys serve car accident victims across North and South Carolina. We will explain your legal rights and options, help you file an insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit, and seek the compensation you deserve.
Contact our law firm today for a free consultation. We’ll review your case and advise you on the best course of action.
