Why You Should Hire a North Carolina Law Firm for Your Car Accident Case

Car accidents are not only emotionally, physically, and financially draining events, but they can also lead to complex legal situations. Dealing with insurance companies, understanding legalities, and negotiating settlements can be overwhelming, especially when recovering from an accident. In such circumstances, hiring a law firm with an in-depth understanding of North Carolina personal injury laws becomes crucial for protecting your rights and getting the compensation you deserve.

North Carolina is an 'at-fault' state, meaning the driver responsible for the accident is responsible for covering the resulting costs. This sounds like a simple “you break it, you bought it” scenario where the person who caused the accident is responsible for the damages. But car accidents are often not straightforward. Each driver may feel like the other was at fault. Things happen in an instant and witnesses as well as people’s own recollections may not get all the details right. The insurance adjusters will attempt to determine who is at fault, and they always want that to be the person who is not their client so that they don’t have to pay out on a claim.

Furthermore, North Carolina follows a 'contributory negligence' law, which can block people from recovering damages if they are even slightly at fault. Understanding the nuances to these laws is the only way to navigate your case successfully. For instance, a slight error in presenting your case might result in being classified as having contributed in some way to the accident, leaving you without any compensation.

The Role of an Attorney in Car Accident Cases

An attorney plays a pivotal role in car accident cases. They are able to interpret the law, handle paperwork, meet deadlines, and negotiate with insurance companies to secure the best possible settlement. Hiring a North Carolina law firm amplifies these benefits because the local firms are well-versed in the nuances of the laws, they maintain connections with local court personnel and experts, and they have experience dealing with local insurance company adjusters. You also want to have a lawyer with an office that is convenient for you to get to, as you will likely have to meet with them or provide documentation at various times throughout the process.

To find a reputable law firm, you can use various sources like the NC bar association, online reviews, and referrals from friends or family. It's vital to consider the firm's success record with  car accident situations like yours, their reputation, and their communication style. It may seem like every personal injury lawyer is the same, but many people have been disappointed to learn the hard way that all lawyers do not have the same skills when it comes to fighting for your rights and the compensation you deserve. It can be very difficult to switch to a new law firm partway through a settlement claim, so choosing the right North Carolina personal injury law firm from the beginning can make or break your entire experience. Trust your instincts when you speak to the attorneys, do they make you feel comfortable and are you confident that they can represent you to other lawyers and the insurance companies?  If not, keep looking until you find a personal injury lawyer that does make you feel secure and confident in their abilities.

Once you have chosen a lawyer, the process includes an initial consultation to discuss your case, negotiation of fees, and signing a representation agreement. After this, your lawyer will handle all the aspects of your case and report back to you on a regular basis.

Most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee. A contingency fee basis is a payment arrangement that allows clients to receive legal services without paying upfront. Instead, attorneys are paid a percentage of the settlement or award that the client receives at the end of the case. This means if the lawyer does not win the case, they do not receive any payment. This arrangement is common in cases such as personal injury, medical malpractice, and car accidents. It is important to understand that if an attorney does not feel that they can win your case, they aren’t likely to take it, as they are paying upfront costs and will not be able to make that money back if they can’t successfully reach a settlement in the case.

Car accident cases can involve a multitude of costs. These costs can be straightforward, such as filing fees, but often involve more complex expenses. Obtaining medical records, for instance, is a critical step in demonstrating the extent of injuries and proving damages. These records can cost several hundred dollars, depending on the medical treatment's length and complexity. Hiring expert witnesses is another significant expense. These professionals provide their expert opinion to substantiate the facts of your case. For instance, in a car accident case, a medical expert could testify about your injuries, while a traffic accident reconstruction expert could clarify how the accident occurred. These expert witnesses often charge hefty fees for their time.

Why Splitting a Settlement with a Lawyer Can Be More Beneficial Than Fighting a Case Alone

Although the idea of splitting your settlement with a lawyer may initially seem less appealing than tackling the case alone, the benefits often far outweigh the costs.

First, an experienced car accident lawyer in Charlotte has the knowledge to navigate the legal system, which can be complicated and confusing for the layperson, especially one that is dealing with injuries or the death of a loved one. They can guide you through the legal process, everything from filing the claim to negotiating with insurance companies and, if necessary, to representing you in court.

Second, attorneys have resources and networks to effectively and efficiently build your case. They can access expert witnesses, gather evidence, and obtain necessary records to substantiate your claim. They know where to search and who to call to find the experts they need to substantiate your claims. If you navigate this alone, you will spend countless hours looking for these experts, contacting them, meeting with them, and making sure they have a good reputation and the expertise you need.

Lastly, studies show that individuals who hire attorneys generally receive larger settlements, even after the attorney's fees are deducted. This is due to their negotiation skills and ability to effectively argue for the maximum compensation possible. So, while a contingency fee means that you will share a portion of your settlement with your attorney, the value they bring to your case can often lead to a larger settlement and less stress for you. The expertise, resources, and negotiation skills of an experienced lawyer can significantly enhance your chances of securing the compensation you deserve.

Car accidents are traumatic, but you don’t have to navigate them alone. Contact Rosensteel Fleishman Car Accident and Injury Lawyers today at 704-714-1450 for a free consultation about your case. Our experienced car accidents attorneys are here to listen and help you decide on how to move forward with your case.