If you’re hit by a car in North Carolina…
Being hit by a car as a pedestrian is a traumatic and overwhelming experience. In North Carolina, the legal system can present some difficult challenges for injured pedestrians seeking compensation. If you or a loved one has been struck by a vehicle, hiring an attorney is essential to protecting your rights and securing the compensation you deserve.
North Carolina’s Contributory Negligence Law Can Bar Your Claim
North Carolina is one of the few states that still follows the strict doctrine of contributory negligence. Under this rule, if you are found even 1% at fault for the accident, you may be completely barred from recovering any compensation. Insurance companies often try to use this law to deny claims, arguing that the pedestrian was partially responsible. An experienced attorney can help mitigate this risk and potentially fight back against these tactics if the facts are right.
Insurance Companies Will Try to Minimize or Deny Your Claim
Insurance adjusters are trained to protect their company’s bottom line—not your best interests. They may attempt to get you to make statements that could be used against you or offer a quick, lowball settlement that doesn’t fully cover your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. A personal injury attorney will handle all communications with the insurance company, negotiate on your behalf, and ensure you receive fair compensation.
Proving Liability Requires a Strong Legal Strategy
Determining liability in a pedestrian accident case can be complex. An attorney can gather critical evidence such as:
- Witness statements
- Police reports
- Accident reconstruction analysis
Without legal representation, you may not have access to these resources, making it harder to prove the driver’s negligence.
You May Be Entitled to More Compensation Than You Realize
Pedestrian accident victims often suffer severe injuries that require extensive medical treatment. An attorney can help you recover compensation for:
- Medical bills (past and future)
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
If a loved one was fatally injured, an attorney can also pursue a wrongful death claim on behalf of the family, but it’s even more important to act quickly on that due to the shortened statute of limitations on those cases.
Time Is Limited – Act Quickly
In North Carolina, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally three years from the date of the accident. However, waiting too long to seek legal help can hurt your case, as evidence may disappear and witnesses’ memories may fade. Contacting an attorney as soon as possible ensures your case is handled properly from the start.
Contact Jeffrey Allen Howard, Attorney at Law, PLLC
As a solo practitioner, I am dedicated to providing personalized, attentive representation for injury victims. If you’ve been hit by a car as a pedestrian in North Carolina, don’t face the legal battle alone. Call me today for a free consultation, and let’s discuss how I can help you get the justice and compensation you deserve. Call me at 919-929-2992.
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