Car Accident Lawyers

North Carolina Lawyers Representing People Injured in Car Accidents

Navigating the aftermath of a car accident in North Carolina requires a legal partner who understands the unique intricacies of our state laws. Blue LLP’s lawyers represent victims of car accidents across North Carolina, offering the legal expertise, compassionate support, and unwavering advocacy injured people need during the most challenging time of their lives.

Our lawyers have successfully handled severe car accident cases throughout North Carolina. Contact us right away if you have suffered a major injury in a car accident. 

Death or Serious Injury by Vehicle: Wrongful Death and Personal Injury Claims Following a Serious Car Accident

Car accidents involving death or serious injury are devastating events that can irrevocably alter the lives of those involved. When these accidents occur due to illegal or negligent actions by a driver, legal avenues are available to seek justice and compensation. Below, we delve into the legal implications, emotional impacts, and potential paths for recourse for victims and their families.

Criminal Charges: Death or Serious Injury by Vehicle

North Carolina law defines several criminal offenses related to car accidents caused by illegal driving behaviors:

Misdemeanor Death by Vehicle:
Occurs when a driver violates a traffic law and unintentionally causes the death of another person.

Felony Death by Vehicle:
Charged when an accident resulting in death is caused by a driver operating under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Felony Serious Injury by Vehicle:
Applies when a driver, while impaired, causes serious bodily harm to another person.

These criminal charges serve as a mechanism to hold drivers accountable for their actions. However, they do not address the financial and emotional toll these accidents impose on victims and their families.

The Emotional and Financial Impact of Serious Car Accidents

The aftermath of a serious car accident is often overwhelming for victims and their loved ones. Losing a loved one or suffering a life-altering injury brings immense emotional and psychological pain, which may last a lifetime. Families are left grappling with:

Emotional trauma: The shock of losing a loved one or coping with a severe injury can lead to long-term psychological challenges, including depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Financial strain: Unexpected expenses such as medical bills, funeral costs, and the loss of income from a primary earner can create a significant financial burden. These costs often compound over time, especially if ongoing medical care or rehabilitation is required.
In addition to these challenges, families often face a difficult adjustment period where roles and responsibilities shift, especially if the injured person was a primary caregiver or breadwinner. These changes can lead to feelings of frustration, guilt, and helplessness, adding to the emotional burden.

Civil Claims: Seeking Justice and Compensation

In addition to criminal charges, North Carolina law provides victims and their families with the right to seek compensation through civil claims. These claims are separate from criminal proceedings and can help alleviate the financial burden caused by the accident. The two main types of claims are:

Personal Injury Claims:
Victims of serious injuries can seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages resulting from the accident. These claims also often account for future expenses, including long-term rehabilitation, medical devices, and home modifications needed to accommodate injuries.

Wrongful Death Claims:
Families who have lost a loved one may pursue compensation for funeral costs, loss of income, and loss of companionship. Additionally, wrongful death claims may address the emotional pain and suffering experienced by surviving family members. These claims aim to provide a sense of justice and financial stability in the wake of a tragic loss.
Elements of a Successful Civil Claim

For a civil claim to be successful, certain elements must be established:

Duty of Care: The at-fault driver owed a duty of care to others on the road to operate their vehicle responsibly.

Breach of Duty: The driver violated this duty by engaging in negligent or illegal behavior, such as speeding, distracted driving, or driving under the influence.

Causation: The driver’s actions directly caused the accident and resulting injuries or death.

Damages: The victim or their family suffered measurable harm, such as medical expenses, lost wages, or emotional trauma.
By working with experienced legal counsel, victims and their families can gather the necessary evidence to support these elements and strengthen their case.

Statute of Limitations

It is crucial to act promptly when considering a civil claim, as North Carolina law imposes strict deadlines:

Personal Injury Claims: Must be filed within three years from the date of the accident.

Wrongful Death Claims: Must be filed within two years from the date of the victim’s death.
Failing to file within these timeframes may result in losing the right to pursue compensation. This makes it essential to consult with a qualified attorney as soon as possible to ensure all necessary steps are taken within the required time limits.

How Blue LLP Can Help

Navigating the legal and emotional challenges following a serious car accident is never easy. At Blue LLP, we are dedicated to providing compassionate and effective legal support to victims and their families. Our experienced attorneys can:
Evaluate your case and advise on the best course of action.
Handle all legal aspects of your claim, allowing you to focus on healing and recovery.

We will help you pursue the maximum compensation to help alleviate the financial strain caused by the accident.

Why Choose Blue LLP?

Blue LLP has a proven track record of successfully representing clients in wrongful death and personal injury cases. Our approach is client-centered, ensuring that your needs and concerns are prioritized every step of the way. We offer:
Comprehensive Case Evaluation: We thoroughly investigate the circumstances of your case to identify all potential sources of compensation.
Expert Negotiation Skills: Our attorneys are skilled negotiators who work tirelessly to secure fair settlements for our clients.
Trial-Ready Representation: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are prepared to take your case to court and advocate aggressively on your behalf.

Moving Forward After a Tragedy

Recovering from a serious car accident is a long and often painful journey. While no amount of compensation can truly make up for the loss of a loved one or the suffering caused by a severe injury, a successful legal claim can provide the resources needed to rebuild your life. From covering medical expenses to ensuring financial stability for your family, pursuing justice can help alleviate some of the burdens during this challenging time.
If you or someone you love has been affected by a serious car accident, contact Blue LLP today. Our team is here to provide the guidance and support you need during this difficult time. Together, we can work toward securing the justice and compensation you deserve.