Understanding the legal implications of being at fault for an accident is important. North Carolina follows a contributory negligence doctrine, which means if you are even partially at fault for an accident, you may not recover damages.
At The Law Offices of Jason E. Taylor, our Greenville car accident lawyers 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.
Is North Carolina an At-Fault State?
North Carolina is an at-fault state, which means that the driver at fault for an accident is responsible for damages. If you are involved in an accident, you should contact a car accident attorney to help you with your case.
What Are the Penalties For Being At Fault in a Car Accident?
If you are found to be at fault, you may be responsible for the other driver’s damages. The penalties that you will face if you are at fault for a car accident will depend on the severity of the accident and any injuries or property damage that occurred. In addition, you may face driver’s license suspension, increased insurance rates, and other administrative penalties.
It is important to note that you have the right to a jury trial if the other driver sues you. This means that a jury will determine who was at fault for the accident.
If you have been involved in a car accident, it is important to contact an experienced attorney as soon as possible. They can help you navigate the insurance claims process and protect your rights. Contact us today for a free consultation.
What to Do After a Car Accident
Get to a Safe Place
After a car accident, it is important to get to a safe place away from traffic. Once you are in a safe place, call the police to investigate the accident and file a report.
File an Accident Report
After a car accident, you will need to file a report with the police. This report will include information about the accident and any damage or injuries that occurred. It is important to be as accurate as possible when filing this report, as it can be used in court if necessary.
Seek Medical Treatment
If you have been injured in a car accident, it is important to seek medical treatment as soon as possible. Even if you do not think that you are seriously injured, it is always best to be examined by a medical professional.
Exchange Information With the Drivers Involved
It is also important to exchange information with the other driver. This includes your name, address, phone number, insurance company, and policy number. You should also get the other driver’s name, address, phone number, insurance company, and policy number.
Collect Evidence from the Accident Scene
This evidence can include photos of the damage, witness statements, and your own personal account of what happened. This evidence can be used to help prove who was at fault for the accident.
Contact Your Insurance Company
You should also report the accident to your insurer. They will likely want to investigate the accident themselves. It is important to cooperate with their investigation and provide them with any information they request.
Contact a Greenville Car Accident Attorney
If you have been involved in a car accident, contact an experienced Greenville auto accident lawyer for help. They can investigate the accident, negotiate with insurance companies, and protect your rights. Contact us today for a free consultation.
North Carolina Auto Insurance Requirements
In North Carolina, all drivers are required to have liability insurance. This means that if you are at fault for an accident, the other driver can sue you for damages. Your liability insurance will cover these damages up to the limits of your policy.
It is important to note that your liability insurance will not cover any damage to your own vehicle or injuries that you sustain in the accident.
What Should I Tell My Insurance Company After a Car Accident?
You should always notify your insurance company after a car accident, even if you are not at fault. Your insurance company will need to know about the accident so that they can begin their own investigation.
You should give your insurance company basic information about the accident, such as when and where it occurred. You should also let them know whether or not you were injured and, if so, the extent of your injuries.
What Should I Not Tell My Insurance Company After a Car Accident?
There are some things that you should not tell your insurance company after a car accident. For example, you should not admit fault for the accident. Even if you think you may be at fault, it is best to wait until the investigation is complete before you make any admissions.
You should also avoid giving a recorded statement to your insurance company. These statements can be used against you, and it is best to wait until you have spoken with an attorney before giving one.
How Do Car Insurance Companies Determine Fault?
After a car accident, the insurance companies will investigate who was at fault. They will look at the police report, as well as any evidence from the scene of the accident. They will also speak to witnesses and review any available video footage.
Once the insurance companies have determined who was at fault, they will begin the claims process. If you were not at fault, your insurance company will work to get you compensated for your damages. However, you may not receive any compensation if you are at fault.
Dealing With Insurance Adjusters After a Car Accident
The insurance adjuster is the person who will determine how much your damages are worth and whether or not you are eligible for compensation.
It is important to be careful when dealing with insurance adjusters, as they may try to take advantage of you. Many adjusters are only interested in paying out the minimum amount of compensation possible.
Will My Insurance Pay If I am At Fault for a Car Accident?
If you are at fault for a car accident, your insurance company will likely pay for the other driver’s vehicle damages. However, it is important to speak with your insurer to determine your policy limits and what is covered.
Can I Recover Damages For Myself?
If you are found to be at fault for a car accident, you will not be able to recover damages for your vehicle. However, if you have collision coverage on your insurance policy, your insurance company will pay to have your vehicle repaired. If the cost of repairs exceeds the value of your car, your insurance company will declare it a total loss and will pay you the value of your vehicle.
Will My Car Insurance Rates Increase If I’m At-Fault For the Car Accident?
If you are at fault for a car accident, your insurance rates will likely increase. How much they will increase will depend on various factors, including the severity of the accident and any damage or injuries that occurred. In some cases, your rates may only go up slightly. However, if the accident was severe or resulted in injuries, your rates could go up significantly.
Determining Fault in Greenville Car Accidents
The fault for an automobile accident is determined by reviewing evidence from the crash. Evidence commonly used in a car accident claim 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
Contributory Negligence in North Carolina
Contributory negligence can significantly impact car accident cases in North Carolina. If you are found to be even partially at fault for an accident, you may not be able to recover any damages from the other driver. This can leave you responsible for your own medical bills, property damage, and lost wages.
What Damages Are You Responsible for If You Cause a Car Accident in Greenville?
If you are at fault for a car accident, you may be responsible for the other drivers:
- Medical Bills – Their medical expenses may include hospital bills, doctor’s visits, and prescription costs.
- Property damage can include damage to their vehicle or any damaged personal property.
- Lost wages – If the other driver cannot work because of the accident, you may be required to pay for their lost wages. This can include the time they miss from work and any future earnings lost.
- Pain and suffering – The other driver may be entitled to compensation for their pain and suffering. This can include both physical and emotional pain.
It is important to speak with an attorney about your case to ensure that you know all potential damages that you may be required to pay.
Common Car Accident Injuries
Car accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, from minor to catastrophic. Some of the most common car accident injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Neck injuries
- Back injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Broken bones
- Burns
- Lacerations
Benefits of Hiring an Auto Accident Lawyer in Greenville
If you are at fault for a North or South Carolina auto accident, it is important to hire an attorney. Even if you think that the accident was minor and that you don’t need help, hiring an attorney can be beneficial.
An experienced lawyer will be able to guide you through the legal process and help protect your rights. They will also negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf.
Contact a Greenville Car Accident Lawyer Today
Even if you are at fault for the accident, it is important to contact a lawyer for your car accident case. Our Greenville car accident lawyers are well versed in the laws that apply to North and South Carolina car accidents. 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 initial consultation and learn more about what we can do to help you. We will answer your questions and explain all of your legal options.
