North Carolina Auto Injury Lawyer
A serious wreck can change everything in seconds. If you were hit on I-95 near Roanoke Rapids, rear-ended on US-301 through Halifax, or injured in a rural road collision headed toward Enfield or Littleton, talk with a Halifax car accident lawyer who knows local roads, local insurers, and North Carolina law. As an experienced auto accident attorney in Halifax NC, Franklin L. Jones Jr. helps crash victims pursue medical costs, lost income, and the full compensation they’re due.
Steps to Take After a Car Accident in North Carolina
A crash is disorienting. These actions can help protect your health and your injury claim:
- Call 911 so law enforcement documents the scene and medical help is dispatched.
- Exchange driver, insurance, and vehicle information; take photos of vehicles, road conditions, skid marks, and injuries.
- Avoid admitting fault or making statements like “I’m sorry,” which insurers can use against you.
- Get medical attention immediately—even minor aches can worsen, and records are vital evidence.
Call a
car crash injury lawyer
before speaking to any insurance adjusters or giving recorded statements.
Dealing with Insurance Companies
The at-fault driver’s insurance adjuster may call within days, but remember—they’re not on your side. Adjusters often push for recorded statements or offer low settlements before you know the full cost of your injuries. We handle all communications with insurers, ensuring they don’t pressure you into accepting less than you deserve. Franklin L. Jones Jr. negotiates firmly and builds strong claims backed by evidence.
Common Car Accident Injuries & Compensation
We have experience with a wide range of crash injuries, including:
- Whiplash and neck injuries
- Broken bones and fractures
- Concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Back, spine, and disc injuries
- Cuts, scarring, and soft tissue injuries
Compensation may include:
- Medical expenses (ER visits, surgery, therapy)
- Lost wages and future income
- Pain and suffering / emotional distress
- Vehicle damage or replacement costs
- Long-term rehabilitation or disability-related expenses
North Carolina Auto Accident Laws to Know
North Carolina’s contributory negligence rule means if you’re found even 1% at fault for the crash, you could be barred from recovering damages. Insurance companies use this rule aggressively, but we know how to counter claims of partial fault through witness statements, accident reconstructions, and careful evidence gathering.
Other key laws:
- Statute of Limitations: You generally have 3 years from the date of the crash to file a lawsuit (2 years for wrongful death).
- Insurance Minimums: NC drivers must carry liability insurance, but policy limits are often low. We explore every coverage option, including your own UM/UIM coverage for uninsured or underinsured drivers.
Car Accident Claims
How do I know if I have a valid car accident claim?
If another driver’s negligence caused your injuries or losses, you likely have a claim. We offer free evaluations to review the facts.
What if the other driver has no insurance or fled the scene?
You may still recover under your own uninsured motorist (UM) coverage. We file these claims and push back if your insurer resists payment.
How long do car accident cases take to settle?
It depends on your recovery time and the insurer’s cooperation. Some cases resolve in a few months; others take longer if litigation is needed.
The insurance company says I was partly at fault—can I still recover?
Not if they prove it in court (due to contributory negligence), but insurers often overstate fault. We gather evidence to challenge their claims.
What is my car accident case worth?
There’s no set formula. We evaluate your medical bills, lost income, pain, and long-term effects to pursue every dollar you’re entitled to.