How to Get the Best Settlement From a Car Accident in Wilmington, NC?

If you have been injured in an accident, the first steps you take following the crash are crucial to ensure the fullest possible recovery. If you are wondering how to get the best settlement from a car accident in Wilmington, NC, one of the most important things you can do in this situation is hire a car accident lawyer to build your case. The right attorney can significantly increase your chances of maximizing your recovery.

How to Get the Best Settlement From a Car Accident in Wilmington, NC

Motor vehicle accidents are a leading cause of accidental injuries and deaths in North Carolina and throughout the United States each year. According to the National Safety Council, motor vehicle crashes accounted for 44,762 deaths and more than five million medically consulted injuries in the United States in 2023. Each state has unique rules for resolving car accident cases.

In North Carolina, all vehicle accident cases are resolved based on fault. This means that whoever caused the accident is liable for the resulting damages. If another driver injured you or a family member, you have the right to seek compensation for your medical expenses, vehicle repair costs, lost income, and the pain and suffering you experienced.

However, the actual legal process of claiming this compensation is likely to be more challenging than you expect. You must establish fault for the accident, calculate the full extent of your damages, navigate the auto insurance claim and settlement filing process, and build a personal injury case when insurance cannot fully cover your losses. If you hire a car accident lawyer, you have a better chance of securing as much compensation as North Carolina car accident law allows for your accident.

Recovering Compensation for Your Car Accident in Wilmington

The first challenge you face after a car accident is proving fault. The majority of car accidents throughout North Carolina happen because of driver negligence, such as moving violations, speeding, and distracted driving. However, accidents also commonly occur due to illegal misconduct, like reckless driving,  drunk driving. Your attorney can help you gather the evidence you need to prove liability.

Your first option for claiming compensation for your damages after a car accident in Wilmington will be to file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance carrier. North Carolina law requires all drivers to have auto insurance that meets minimum coverage requirements, and if you hire a car accident lawyer, you will be more likely to receive a fair settlement offer.

If you must file a personal injury case against the at-fault driver, you must present evidence that shows the defendant is more likely than not responsible for causing your claimed damages. A personal injury plaintiff in North Carolina has the right to claim compensation for any economic and non-economic damages the defendant caused, but they must prove that those damages are the direct result of the defendant’s actions.

Ultimately, your case could be worth more than you expect, but you need to hire a car accident lawyer if you want to have the greatest chance of maximizing your recovery. If you are unsure what to do after your accident and want to know how to get the best settlement from a car accident in Wilmington, NC, contact Christina Rivenbark & Associates today to learn how we can help with your case.

FAQs

Q: How Do You Prove Fault for a Car Accident in Wilmington?

A: You can prove fault for a car accident in Wilmington using different types of evidence that your attorney can obtain for you. They may obtain police reports, cell phone records, vehicle computer data, and testimony from eyewitnesses to help their client prove fault for the accident. You must establish fault before seeking compensation through auto insurance or a personal injury case.

Q: What Happens if I Share Fault for My Accident in Wilmington?

A: If you share fault for your accident in Wilmington, you will not be able to claim compensation for your damages from any other liable party due to North Carolina’s contributory negligence law. Under this law, a plaintiff is barred from recovery if they share any amount of fault with the defendant. If you are concerned about partial liability for your recent accident, you need to hire a car accident lawyer at your first opportunity so they can review the details of your case.

Q: What Damages Can I Claim in a Car Accident Case?

A: The damages you can claim in a car accident case can potentially include vehicle repair costs, medical expenses, lost income, and lost future earning capacity if you were permanently injured in the accident. You may also be able to recover compensation for your pain and suffering. Hire a car accident lawyer at your first opportunity after the accident to have a better chance of maximizing your compensation.

Q: What Happens if a Car Accident Is Fatal in Wilmington?

A: If a car accident is fatal in Wilmington, the family of the victim may have grounds to file a wrongful death claim against the driver who caused the accident. This type of personal injury case applies whenever a fatally injured victim could have filed a personal injury case if they had survived. Hire a car accident lawyer if you believe you have grounds to file a wrongful death case after a family member’s fatal accident in Wilmington.

Q: Why Should I Hire a Car Accident Lawyer?

A: You should hire a car accident lawyer because your case is likely to be more challenging to resolve than it appears at first. Even if liability for the accident is clear, claiming compensation and maximizing your recovery requires meeting strict filing deadlines, accurately calculating your damages, and being ready to address any disputes that arise with your claim. Your attorney can resolve these issues for you and help you maximize your compensation.

Get the Best Settlement From a Car Accident in Wilmington, NC

Car accidents can be life-changing in several ways. If you want to know how to get the best settlement from a car accident in Wilmington, NC, it is crucial that you hire a car accident lawyer you trust at your first opportunity after the accident. Christina Rivenbark & Associates has the skill and experience you need on your side in this situation, so contact us today and schedule a consultation to learn how we can help.