Car Accident Cases in Charlotte: Why Legal Representation Matters

According to the NC Department of Transportation, there are an average of 18,000 car crashes a year in Mecklenburg County, North Carolina, with the average cost per crash coming in at over $72,000. The aftermath of these accidents often involves complex legal procedures that are challenging for most people to navigate alone. This is where the expertise of a dedicated Charlotte car accident lawyer becomes invaluable.

Understanding the complexities of car accident cases and the maze of steps involved in the legal process is not easy, especially when you're recovering and trying to heal from an accident. Having proper legal representation to guide you and fight for your rights can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

Understanding Car Accidents in Charlotte

On average, there is an accident near Charlotte every 12 minutes, some of which led to severe injuries and fatalities. These accidents are caused by a variety of factors including distracted driving, speeding, and driving under the influence.

Distracted driving involves any activity that diverts a driver's attention from the primary task of driving. These distractions can range from taking your eyes off the road to daydreaming and not noticing what is happening around you. The most significant source of distraction is your phone. Texting, checking social media or even looking down at the directions on your GPS can have huge consequences. At 55 mph, a car travels almost 81 feet every second. An impressive amount of road can be covered in just a few seconds and if your eyes are focused on your phone instead of the road, there are many opportunities for accidents to occur.

Drive thrus are convenient, but consuming food or drinks while driving requires you to take your hands off the wheel and eyes off the road momentarily, posing a significant risk for the same reasons listed above. Sometimes, even without an explicit activity causing distraction, a driver's mind may not be fully concentrated on driving. A long stretch of highway can cause you to daydream or get lost in thought and lose perspective on what is happening around you on the road.

The consequences of these severe car accidents can lead to physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial burden. Medical bills can pile up, and time away from work can cause loss of income. All these challenges further emphasize the necessity of having knowledgeable legal representation to help you navigate these difficult times.

The Legal Aspect of Car Accidents

North Carolina's car accident laws are based on personal injury law and the principle of 'contributory negligence.' This principle means that if you're found even slightly at fault for the accident, you might not receive any compensation. This can be a devastating consequence for a victim that can often be avoided with the support and counsel of an experienced Charlotte car accident lawyer.

The steps that need to be completed after an accident, such as filing reports and insurance claims, can be complex and confusing. Moreover, insurance companies often try to minimize their payout, leaving you with less than what you deserve. It is in these situations that a car accident lawyer can advocate for your rights and help you understand the legal intricacies involved.

The Role of a Car Accident Lawyer

A car accident lawyer is a professional who understands the legal aspects of car accidents. They can guide you through the legal processes, help gather evidence, deal with insurance companies and their adjusters, coordinate expert testimony, and ensure you receive fair compensation for your losses and the trauma that they caused.

Without legal representation, you might find yourself at a significant disadvantage when negotiating with insurance companies or other parties involved in the accident. A car accident lawyer can level the playing field, guaranteeing that your interests are well represented. They can also take your case to court if necessary, fighting for your rights every step of the way.

Selecting a lawyer for your car accident case is an important decision. Consider factors such as experience, success rate, reviews from past clients, and their understanding of local laws. It's also crucial that your lawyer communicates effectively and transparently with you.

Local knowledge can make a significant difference in your case. A lawyer who is familiar with Charlotte's traffic laws, local court procedures, and has relationships with local law enforcement and court officials can provide you with an advantage. Choosing an experienced local Charlotte car accident law firm can increase your chances of a successful outcome.

It's crucial to remember that your choice of lawyer can significantly impact your case. So, choose wisely, opt for local expertise, and ensure your lawyer is dedicated to fighting for your rights and the compensation you deserve. Take your time to learn a little bit about the firm you will trust to represent you, as it can be very difficult or even impossible to switch to a new car accident attorney partway through your case. 

Clients

Our client injured her hands in a car accident when she was hit from behind. Her injuries limited her ability to play the piano. We were able to resolve the case immediately prior to filing a lawsuit for 100% of the defendant’s insurance coverage ($317,000).

Another client,  a husband and wife, were injured in a car accident when they were struck by a drunk driver. While the husband received minimal medical care, the wife was treated for many months. Initially the car insurance refused to pay. We resolved the case for 100% of the defendant’s insurance coverage immediately prior to filing a lawsuit ($235,000).

Navigating a car accident case in Charlotte can be challenging. From understanding the local laws to dealing with insurance companies, each step can be a hurdle. But with the right legal representation, you can overcome these challenges and ensure your rights are protected. If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident near Charlotte, don't hesitate to seek legal help. For more information and assistance, please feel free to reach out to us at Rosensteel Fleishman, Car Accident & Injury Lawyers. Our dedicated team of experienced car accident lawyers in Charlotte is here to guide you every step of the way.