Determining fault in a car accident is an essential part of the claims process. In North Carolina, understanding how fault is assessed can help drivers protect their rights and handle insurance claims. Contributory negligence rule North Carolina follows a...
"Photo of Victor C. Mitchener and Joseph H. Downer"
Victor C. Mitchener, Attorney
Joseph H. Downer, Attorney
Motor Vehicle Accidents
Who is at fault if a car hits a bike?
When a car hits a bike, fault decides more than liability. It also determines whether you walk away with compensation or nothing at all. North Carolina makes these cases especially difficult because even slight mistakes on your part can erase your claim entirely. That...
What steps should you take if your car is totaled?
Finding out that your car has been totaled after an accident can be overwhelming. Whether the crash was minor or severe, dealing with the aftermath brings a lot of questions. You may wonder what steps to take next, how to handle insurance, or what to do with your...
What are the legal implications of hit-and-run accidents?
A hit-and-run accident occurs when a driver collides with another vehicle, pedestrian, cyclist, or property and leaves the scene without stopping to provide contact information or assist those in need of medical attention. Laws in every state require drivers to remain...
What are the legal implications of self-driving car accidents?
Self-driving cars are changing how people travel, but they bring new legal challenges when crashes occur. These vehicles make it harder to decide who holds responsibility—the driver, the car manufacturer, or the software developer. Learning about these rules ensures...
Almost 30% of North Carolina car crash deaths involve alcohol
Alcohol-related car crash deaths are a major concern in North Carolina. This highlights a need for effective strategies to address it. Understanding the factors contributing to alcohol-related crashes sheds light on the scope of the problem. It also informs efforts to...
Why avoid signing a blanket release for medical records?
When you sustain injuries in a car accident, compensation from an insurance company can help with medical expenses and other losses. To evaluate your claim, insurers require documentation of your diagnosis and treatment. However, it is important to understand that you...
What are the different types of driver distraction?
When drivers no longer pay complete attention to the road in front of them, distracted driving occurs. Although many drivers assume texting and driving is the main type of distraction, many other activities can be just as dangerous. Distracted driving poses a...
Dealing with insurance company calls after a car crash
After a car accident, you may receive a call from an insurance company representing the at-fault driver. These calls often come before you have recovered from the incident and have had time to prepare a statement. It is important to be cautious in your conversations...
Should you sign a medical authorization form after a car crash?
After surviving a motor vehicle accident, the next phase you must confront is the process of pursuing compensation from the negligent party’s insurance company. One of their immediate requests will likely be to access your medical records to validate the severity of...
