If you are involved in a car accident in Concord, North Carolina, there are a few things that you need to know. First and foremost, it is important to understand the state’s laws regarding fault in car accidents. If you are determined to be at fault for the accident, there may be consequences.

At The Law Offices of Jason E. Taylor, our Concord car accident attorneys have years of experience helping car accident victims get the compensation they deserve. If you have questions about your rights when at fault for an accident, contact us today for a free consultation.

Fault in North Carolina

In North Carolina, the driver who was negligent or violated a traffic law is typically at fault for the collision.

Contributory Negligence in Concord, North Carolina

North Carolina is one of very few states that follows the contributory negligence doctrine. Under this law, you cannot recover damages if you are even one percent at fault for the accident.

For example, let’s say you are involved in a car accident. The police report finds that both you and the other driver were at fault for the accident, each contributing 50% to the cause of the accident. Under North Carolina’s rule of contributory negligence, you will not be able to recover any damages from the other driver. If you are involved in an accident, it is important to seek the help of an experienced car accident attorney.

Is North Carolina an At-Fault State?

North Carolina is an at-fault state when it comes to responsibility for a collision. If you are at fault for the accident, you are responsible for the damages you caused. If you are involved in an accident, you should contact a car accident lawyer to help you with your case. Our lawyers are well-versed in car accident law, and we’re to help you through your claim.

What Happens If I’m At-Fault For a Car Accident in Concord, NC?

If you are at fault for a car accident in Concord, NC, you may be held liable for damages incurred by others involved in the collision. This includes property damage, medical bills, and lost wages. The other driver may also sue you.

How is Fault Determined for Car Accident Claims in Concord, NC?

Fault for a motor vehicle accident in Concord is typically determined by reviewing evidence from the wreck. This may include:

• Police Report
• Witness statements
• Photos of the accident scene and damage to vehicles
• Video footage, if available
• Data from car accident reconstruction experts
• Medical records

Insurance Requirements in North Carolina

In North Carolina, all drivers are required to have liability and uninsured motorist car insurance. Liability coverage protects drivers and passengers against injuries and property damage caused by negligent drivers up to their policy limits.  Uninsured motorist coverage is exactly what it sounds like.  It applies if the at-fault driver does not have insurance.

If you are involved in an accident and do not have insurance, you may be sued by the other driver. If you have insurance, but the other driver suffers damages exceeding your policy limit, they may sue you for the difference.

It is important to have as much insurance coverage as you can afford to protect yourself in case of an accident. The law in North Carolina only requires that drivers carry $30,000 in coverage.  In some cases, that may not even cover the emergency room visit.  

What Damages Will My Insurance Company Cover If I Cause a Car Accident in Concord, NC?

If you are at fault for a car accident in Concord, the damages you are liable for will depend on the accident’s severity. If the accident was minor and there was only property damage, you may only be responsible for repairing or replacing the damaged property.

However, if the accident was more serious and caused injuries, whether severe or minor, you may be responsible for their:

• Medical Bills
• Lost Wages
• Pain and Suffering
• Property damage
• Lost wages

It is important to speak with a Concord car accident lawyer about your case to ensure that you know all potential damages that you may be responsible for.

How Can I Recover Damages For My Vehicle?

If your vehicle was damaged in an accident that you were at fault for, you might be able to recover the cost of repairs through collision coverage on your insurance policy. If the cost of repairs exceeds the value of your car, your insurance company may declare it a total loss and will pay you the fair market value of your vehicle as it was immediately before the crash.

Will My Car Insurance Rates Increase If I’m At Fault For the Car Accident?

Your car insurance rates may increase if you are at fault for the accident. The amount that your rates will go up will depend on your insurance company, your driving history and the accident’s severity.  Some insurance companies will not increase your rates if the damage to the vehicles is under a specific threshold amount.  

Dealing with the Aftermath of a Car Accident in Concord, North Carolina

No one ever wants to be in a car accident. However, if you find yourself in this situation, it is important to know what to do. The first step is to seek medical treatment, even if you don’t think that you are injured. It is always best to get checked out by a doctor.

The next step is to call the police and have them file a report. This will document the accident and be used as evidence in your case. It is also important to take pictures of the accident scene and the vehicles involved and get the contact information of any witnesses. Their testimony may be crucial to your case. 

The most important step is to contact an experienced car accident attorney. Personal injury attorneys can help you understand your rights and options and fight to get you the compensation you deserve. Do not try to handle the case on your own.

Contact the Concord Car Accident Lawyers at The Law Offices of Jason E. Taylor Today

Even if you are at fault for a car accident, it is important to contact a car accident attorney for your case. Our auto accident attorneys have extensive experience with all types of personal injury claims. We are not afraid to take on insurance companies to help you obtain fair compensation. We value the attorney-client relationship and will work tirelessly to protect your rights.

Contact The Law Offices of Jason E. Taylor today for your free consultation and learn more about what we can do to help you. We will answer your questions and explain all of your legal options.