Car accidents are a significant cause of injury and death in Hickory, NC. The aftermath can be overwhelming for its victims, between navigating insurance claims, medical bills, and legal complexities. Ted A. Greve & Associates is widely experienced in these overwhelming car accident cases, and our car accident lawyer in Hickory, NC, offers personalized representation to help clients secure the compensation they deserve.
Why Hiring a Car Accident Lawyer in Hickory, NC, Is Crucial
Car accidents can have far-reaching consequences, including severe injuries, loss of income, and emotional distress. You need to hire an experienced car accident lawyer like those at Ted A. Greve & Associates. We can:
- Investigate the accident and gather evidence
- Negotiate with insurance companies to secure the maximum settlement
- Advocate on your behalf in court if necessary
Without professional legal support, you may risk missing out on a settlement that covers all your expenses and suffering due to North Carolina’s contributory negligence laws. Our skilled team at Ted A. Greve & Associates is here to provide you with the peace of mind and relief that comes with knowing your rights are protected.
Car Accident Statistics in Hickory
Hickory’s car accident rates are nothing if not shocking:
- Per the North Carolina Department of Transportation, in 2022, there were 1,881 car crashes in Hickory, resulting in 568 injuries and six fatalities.
- Also, per NCDOT, between 2019 and 2021, Hickory reported 9,667 car accidents, with 2,107 occurring in 2021 alone, leading to 605 injuries and 11 fatalities.
- In 2021, Hickory ranked 17th among North Carolina cities with populations greater than 10,000 in accident severity and rate per population.
- Distracted driving caused 17.9% of accidents in North Carolina in 2021, often resulting in property damage and injuries.
Car Accident Cases Ted A. Greve Handles in Hickory
The car accident team at Ted A. Greve & Associates can take on many different types of vehicle accident cases, including:
Truck Accidents
Due to the size and weight of commercial vehicles, truck accidents often result in catastrophic injuries. These cases require expertise in federal trucking regulations, which Ted A. Greve & Associates brings.
Car Accidents
Rear-end collisions, distracted driving incidents, and intersection crashes make up a significant portion of car accidents in Hickory. Our firm has extensive experience handling these cases, ensuring clients receive fair compensation.
Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrians are among the most vulnerable road users, often suffering severe injuries in collisions. Ted A. Greve & Associates fights to hold negligent drivers accountable and secure justice for injured pedestrians.
Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcyclists face unique challenges on the road. Our team understands the nuances of motorcycle accident cases, including issues of visibility and bias against riders.
Navigating the Aftermath of a Car Accident
When you’ve been injured in a crash, you should be aware of the steps you should take and what pitfalls to avoid.
First Steps Following a Car Accident
- Call 911 to get the police on the scene to take a detailed car accident report and to get medical attention for any injuries (even if they are minor). Taking these steps promptly will help you feel proactive and in control of the situation. Exchange information with the other driver(s) and gather contact details from any witnesses.
- Notify your insurance company promptly, but do not give detailed information about the accident without consulting an attorney.
Documenting Evidence
Proper documentation can make or break your case. Take photos of the accident, vehicle damage, injuries, and road conditions. Keep all medical records, receipts, and correspondence with insurance companies.
Common Pitfalls
- Admitting fault or apologizing at the scene is a mistake. Even seemingly innocent utterances (“I’m sorry!”) can result in the law enforcement official on the scene assigning fault to you.
- Failing to seek medical attention promptly, even for minor injuries, is a mistake. If you’ve been injured in a car accident, no injury is “minor.” Failure to treat these injuries quickly can result in permanent damage.
- Accepting a low settlement offer without consulting a lawyer is not just a mistake. It’s a risk that could lead to significant financial losses. It may be tempting to take a low-ball offer, especially when you’re in a lot of pain and the bills pile up. But this decision is penny-wise and pound-foolish in the long run. Hiring an attorney to negotiate the best settlement for you will pay off in dividends.
How Our Hickory Car Accident Lawyers Can Maximize Your Compensation
Our lawyers can work to secure the compensation you deserve after an accident. This compensation is called “damages.”
Economic Damages
We help clients recover compensation for their tangible losses, such as:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages and future earning capacity
- Property damage
Non-Economic Damages
These damages address the intangible impact of an accident, including:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
Wrongful Death
If a loved one has died in a car accident, our attorneys may be able to pursue a wrongful death claim on your behalf. This includes compensation for funeral expenses, loss of income, and emotional suffering.
Understanding North Carolina’s Car Accident Laws
Several North Carolina laws can have a direct impact on your case.
Statute of Limitations
North Carolina law allows an injured party to file a personal injury lawsuit within three years from the date of the accident. For wrongful death cases, the timeframe is two years. Missing this deadline could result in you losing your right to compensation.
Contributory Negligence Explained
North Carolina follows a contributory negligence rule. Under this rule, if you are found to be even 1% at fault for the accident, you may be barred from recovering damages.
Determining Fault and the Impact on Your Case
To establish that the other party is at fault for your life-changing accident, you need to gather evidence (such as police reports, witness statements, and accident reconstruction expert opinions) to show that they harmed you.
Choosing the Right Car Accident Lawyer in Hickory, NC
Ted A. Greve & Associates takes pride in serving clients in Hickory, NC, because we offer:
- Personalized attention: Every case is unique, and we tailor our approach to meet your needs.
- Proven results: We have secured millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts for our clients.
- No upfront fees: We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident in Hickory, NC, don’t face the aftermath alone. Contact Ted A. Greve & Associates to fight for your rights and pursue the justice and compensation you deserve.
