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Involved in an Auto Accident? Here’s what you should do.
First Things First
Automotive accidents are the leading cause for action in not only criminal courts, but in civil courts as well. More often than not, motorists are unaware of their rights and responsibilities when it comes to being a party to an auto accident. While auto accidents are common occurrences, many drivers are unaware of the legal process and legal rights they have. This article will provide tips and information regarding auto accidents in the state of North Carolina to better educate our drivers. Whether you are a well-seasoned driver or brand new, this article will provide reminders and useful information for all.
First and foremost, while operating an automobile in the state of North Carolina, the following must be present in the vehicle;
- Vehicle registration (current)
- Insurance card (current and active)
These are imperative when involved in an auto accident and must be within reach. The inability to provide current registration and/or current insurance information can complicate the accident reporting process for all parties involved.
In the case of an auto accident, these additional items can be beneficial to have on hand;
- Pen and paper or something to take notes on
- Camera and/or phone with camera ability
Steps You Should Take
In the next few paragraphs, you will be informed of the proper and effective several steps to take during avehicle accident in North Carolina.
Always remember to STOP after being an involved party to an auto accident in North Carolina. Per NC law, you must immediately stop at the site of the accident causing any death, personal injury, or property damage; remain at the accident site; and if possible, move vehicle(s) to avoid hindering traffic. It is in your best interest as a motorist involved in an auto accident to remain on the scene (if uninjured) until medical help arrives and/or an officer excuses you.
CALL for law enforcement and/or medical attention. As per NC law, any motorist involved in an auto accident resulting in death, personal injury, or property damage, must call or quickly communicate to law enforcement there has been an accident.
While calling local law enforcement, assessing INJURIES to all parties involved is also vital. If you are uninjured, relaying the severity of others’ injuries to emergency response teams will prove beneficial. Realistic assistance to the injured is helpful, but remember not to move the seriously injured until medical assistance arrives.
If you are INJURED, whether severe or minor, it is in your best interest to be seen by a medical professional. If you need immediate assistance due to severe injuries, typically EMS is called and you are given medical assistance on site and/or transported to a medical facility. Remember, injuries may not always be apparent, therefore seeing a doctor is recommended.
Important Information
Exchanging personal and insurance information is extremely important after an auto accident. If all parties are uninjured, it is simply an act of switching insurance cards to obtain the pertinent information. This is where your pen and paper will come in handy, as well as your camera. You can jot down the information of the other party or easily take a photo. If you are involved in an accident where you are unable to identify the other party involved, your best bet is to contact local law enforcement. This holds true if you damage a utility pole, guardrail, or any other fixed objects with your automobile, as well.
Always make sure to DOCUMENT the damage to your automobile and get in contact with your insurance agent. If you are not seriously injured, this is the time to take PHOTOS and/or NOTES. Photos are the best way to document the damage for your insurance company, as a representative is not typically at the site of the incident. Not only are photos and notes beneficial to your insurance company, they are also personally useful.
After taking your photos and notes, you will need to notify your insurance company and/or agent. The sooner you are able to relay the information to your insurance company, the sooner the claim will be processed. Make sure you are as thorough as possible when reporting the accident and any injuries to your insurance company; refer to any notes and photos as needed. Once your accident is reported to your insurance company, typically an adjuster will contact you for any further information.
The Other Driver’s Insurance and License
Per NC law, all owners of a motorizedautomobile must be licensed in North Carolina, the automobile must be registered, and the owner must obtain proper liability insurance for the registered automobile. If the driver who caused your accident did not have a valid driver’s license, did not have proper vehicle registration, or did not have automobile insurance coverage, then your ability to file an insurance claim could be affected. Therefore, you should contact an attorney to determine how best to file an insurance claim.
If you are hit by an uninsured/underinsured motorist, your insurance company will most likely still allow for coverage. Check with your local insurance agent for limits and coverage options available to best suit you.
At some point the local law enforcement officer will ask you for a STATEMENT, assuming you are able to recount the events and are not seriously injured. NC law requires all parties involved to give their personal information including license number, occupant information, and vehicle information of the automobile you were driving. Keep in mind, you are not required to admit fault, only the facts of the accident. If you are unsure or have questions regarding how or what to include in your statement, it is best to consult a licensed North Carolina attorney.
If you are involved in an auto accident in North Carolina, you are not required to make PAYMENTS in any form, at the time of the incident. As a party to the accident, if you choose to make any payments to opposing parties, these payments are made at personal risk. Consult with the law enforcement officer at the scene if payments are being requested at the time of the accident.
Lastly, if you have any questions or concerns about your rights, responsibilities, or any legal matters, contact a local licensed North Carolina Attorney.
For more information, feel free to look through our North Carolina Personal Injury FAQs.
Call Kreger Law Firm at (888) 820-5885 to speak to a North Carolina Personal Injury Lawyer today