What to Expect Following Your Accident

A car accident can be an extremely confusing event. With so many things going on, people coming and going, and injuries to deal with, the situation can become overly stressful. After an accident, it is vital to speak with a personal injury attorney who is on your side during these challenging times.   

My firm — Robert Louis Armstrong Personal Injury Attorney — can provide you with the support you need after a car accident. I have the resources and knowledge to assist you in pursuing your deserved compensation. I proudly serve clients in Wilmington and throughout North Carolina, including New Hanover County, Pender County, Brunswick County, and Onslow County. 

What Is the Personal Injury Claims Process in North Carolina? 

In North Carolina, there are various issues to consider when filing a personal injury claim. 

• North Carolina is an at-fault state. As an at-fault state, the party responsible for a car accident must cover the expenses and damages related to the accident, including personal injury claims. Please bear in mind that fault is based on negligence. Consequently, the party responsible for negligence is liable for the accident. Accident victims can file personal injury claims against the responsible party’s insurance. 

When filing a personal injury claim following an accident, the process requires careful attention to the following: 

• File the claim as soon as possible. Accident victims should file personal injury claims as soon as possible. However, accident victims should not jump at the first offer. Bear in mind that the first offer is always a lowball one. 

• Once the file has been filed, insurers investigate the accident to determine fault. The investigation process may involve written or recorded statements. 

• Documenting the accident is crucial. Accident victims must prove the extent of their injuries. Additionally, documentation such as medical history, emergency room reports, hospital bills, police reports, footage, witness testimony, and accident scene photos help build a solid case. 

• Above all, please remember that enlisting the services of a professional personal injury attorney is critical. A personal injury attorney helps accident victims prove the other party’s negligence and determine the best course of action. 

Getting the Car Repaired 

Seeking fair compensation involves getting the car repaired. Here’s what accident victims can expect: 

• Insurers conduct an investigation to determine fault. The at-fault party will be held liable for material damages caused to vehicles involved in the wreck. 

• Then, the insurance company assesses the damages. An adjuster reviews damages as evaluated by a body shop. Please note that estimates may be amended once vehicle disassembly occurs due to unforeseen repairs or parts needed. 

• Also, insurers pay body shops directly. Claimants should not expect to receive a payment to cover vehicle repairs. 

In some instances, it may be possible for insurers to issue payment for car repairs directly to claimants. However, this situation can be difficult if car repairs exceed the insurance payout. As a result, additional costs would need to be covered out of pocket. 

Seeking Medical Treatment  

Getting medical treatment following a car accident is crucial. Here are the reasons why: 

• Seeking medical treatment is crucial even if there are no apparent symptoms. Injuries may take days or weeks to manifest. Therefore, getting checked out as soon as possible is crucial. 

• Documenting medical treatment helps prove the extent of injuries. In particular, getting an official medical diagnosis proves the victim’s personal injury claim. 

• Please remember that insurance companies will do everything possible to skip personal injury payout or reduce payouts as much as possible. Specifically, insurance companies use any delays in seeking medical treatment to allege injuries are not significant. Moreover, insurers may claim that delayed medical attention demonstrates that no medical interventions are needed. 

In some instances, seeking a second medical opinion can be useful to corroborate an initial injury diagnosis. 

Recovering Expenses 

A personal injury claim focuses on recovering expenses of medical bills resulting from the accident and car repairs. Here are some key considerations: 

• A professional personal injury or car accident attorney can negotiate with insurers to get fair compensation. If an agreement cannot be reached, an experienced attorney can file a lawsuit. Also, a lawsuit can be filed when an insurer fails to meet fair compensation.  

• In no-fault states, each individual’s insurance policy covers damages and personal injuries. However, there may be situations where a victim’s insurance is insufficient to cover extensive injuries and long-term care needs. Consequently, victims can file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver, not the insurer, to seek fair compensation for material damages and personal injuries.  

Talking to a trusted personal injury attorney is the first step in getting fair compensation. Attorneys and clients can discuss options and fair compensation expectations. Facing a personal injury claim without professional legal counsel can undermine victims’ right to fair compensation. 

Getting the Right Legal Counsel You Deserve 

At Robert Louis Armstrong Personal Injury Attorney, I believe in accident victims’ right to fair compensation. That is why I go the extra mile to help clients get the compensation they deserve.  

Contact my firm today to get the clear legal direction you need in your case. Each member of my team is prepared to support you every step of the way.