What to Do After a Car Accident in North Carolina

A car accident is one of the most traumatic events you can experience. Even the most ordinary trip to the grocery store can turn into a life-altering event in just a few moments. After a crash, there will be issues that you have to address. Maybe you were injured, and you now have medical bills. Perhaps your vehicle needs to be repaired. You could be wondering whether you or anyone else is legally responsible for the collision, and whether you should hire a car accident lawyer.

After ensuring your safety and initially being treated for your injuries, finding a good lawyer is one of the best courses of action you can take following a car accident. Contact Randall & Stump, Criminal Defense Attorneys if you’ve been involved in a crash in the Charlotte area. We understand the process of rebuilding your life while recovering from injuries you suffered during a crash. Our attorneys can work with you during every step of the process to provide the answers you need.

To schedule a free and confidential consultation of your case, contact us today at (980) 237-4579.

In North Carolina, You Must Stop After a Car Accident

North Carolina General Statute §20-166 requires that any driver stops after being involved in an accident that causes property damage, personal injury, or death. The law says you must stop in such a way that you’re blocking the least amount of traffic. You may not leave the scene until an officer has completed a full report.

After Stopping, Help Those Who Are Hurt

Unless you have medical training, it is not advised that you move anyone injured in a car accident. You should, however, provide such care as you reasonably can, and immediately call trained, emergency medical professional for those who require extensive treatment. You are generally not liable for actions you undertake in an effort to help someone, unless you act with wanton or intentional disregard for their safety.

Call a Police Officer to Report Injuries and Damages

North Carolina law requires you to notify the local police of any accident resulting in property damage, personal injury, or death. You are also required to report any incident in which an unattended vehicle incurs damage. If none of these situations have occurred, you’re not required to call the police.

Provide and Acquire Necessary Information

If you are involved in a car crash in North Carolina, you must provide the driver of the other vehicle with your:

• Name
• Address
• Contact information
• Insurance information
• Driver’s license number
• License plate number

Make sure to obtain the same information from the other driver. If the police were called, provide the officer with an accurate statement of what happened. Stick to the facts, and do not assign fault or admit any responsibility. Take note of all circumstances such as the weather, and any activities that were happening in your vicinity at the time of the accident. Identify and get the contact information of any witnesses to the crash. Their perspectives may provide important information.

See a Doctor As Soon As Possible After Your Crash

It’s important to remember that serious or long-lasting injuries may not be immediately apparent after an accident. Your adrenaline could cause you not to notice the pain. In addition, you may have suffered a minor injury that will grow into a major issue if left untreated. It is best to accept medical treatment at the scene if you suffered any injuries. If you do not, it is important that see a physician immediately after your collision, should pain start to set in after your adrenaline wears off. They will be able to assist you in your road to recovery and provide you with information about your well-being that could factor into your bodily injury claim, should it be determined that you were not at fault in the accident.

Call a Car Accident Lawyer at Our Firm Today

After you’ve addressed your health and have spoken to an officer, the next thing to do after a car accident is find an attorney. Contact Randall & Stump, Criminal Defense Attorneys for help after your car accident in the Charlotte area. Our lawyers can help with your insurance claim and answer any questions you have about liability and compensation. With years of experience helping clients after crashes, they’re ready to put their legal skills and knowledge to work for you. Call (980) 237-4579, or use the online form to schedule your free case evaluation with a car accident lawyer today.