Car accidents are not just a frequent occurrence, they can also leave victims with significant physical, emotional, and financial burdens. Spinal cord injuries and brain injuries are also incredibly common in car accidents. Victims of car accidents deserve fair compensation for their losses, but auto insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts on car accident claims.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident in Wilmington, an experienced Wilmington personal injury attorney can level the playing field. Statistics show that claimants represented by attorneys secure substantially higher compensations for injury claims than those who go it alone.
Contact Shipman & Wright to schedule a free case consultation and let us help you secure the compensation you deserve for your injury claim.
Why Choose Shipman & Wright?
Choosing the right Wilmington auto accident attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your car accident case. Here are reasons to trust Shipman & Wright with your car accident claim:
- Experience: Our Wilmington car accident lawyers have a deep understanding of North Carolina’s traffic laws and have successfully handled countless car accident cases.
- Personalized Attention: We provide personalized legal services, ensuring that you are not just another case number.
- Proven Track Record: Our law firm has a history of securing favorable settlements and verdicts for our clients. Check out some of our previous case results.
Our Wilmington car accident lawyers, known for their legal skills and dedication to justice, are committed to your cause. Let our law firm help you navigate your legal journey with confidence.
Meet Our Wilmington Car Accident Attorneys
Wilmington auto accident attorneys Gary Shipman and William Wright are the partners of Shipman & Wright and have been leading the law firm to success since 1980. The firm handles all types of personal injury cases ranging from car accident and truck accident cases to Amazon delivery accident cases. When you choose Shipman & Wright LLP, you will get personalized attention from experienced personal injury attorneys who are determined to get you maximum compensation for your car accident injuries.
Client Testimonials
“While driving home after a vacation in North Carolina, we were struck head on by a vehicle traveling 70 mph. The team at Shipman and Wright, especially Kimberly Smith, did a wonderful job looking out for our interests as we dealt with insurance companies. They were kind, compassionate and they listened! We recommend them without any reservations.”
Steve & Sylvia Boyce
“I was stuck in a difficult situation recently and had the pleasure of working with Jennifer and Jillian. These strong women helped me feel empowered and turned my negative situation around so I could move forward. I received prompt responses and I felt confident I was in good hands. I’m extremely grateful for their help and I highly recommend this firm to assist with your legal matters.”
Jessica Varner
Read more client testimonials.
Wilmington Auto Accident Resources & FAQs
- What Typically Causes Car Accidents?
- How is Liability Determined in a Car Accident Case?
- What Compensation Can You Recover After a Car Wreck?
- How Long Do You Have to File a Car Accident Case?
- How Can a Wilmington Car Accident Lawyer Help?
- Contact Our Wilmington Auto Accident Lawyers Today
What Typically Causes Car Accidents?
Car accidents in Wilmington occur for a variety of reasons, but some causes are more common than others. Here are some causes that our Wilmington auto accident lawyers often see:
- Distracted Driving: Drivers texting, eating, or engaging in any activity that diverts their attention from the road. This greatly increases the incidence of pedestrian accidents, which requires the assistance of a Wilmington pedestrian accident attorney.
- Speeding: Drivers exceeding speed limits in North Carolina or driving too fast for conditions can increase the chances of an auto accident.
- Drunk Driving: Drivers operating vehicles under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Our Wilmington drunk driving accident attorneys can help you with these types of car wrecks.
- Reckless Driving: Drivers engaging in aggressive driving behaviors, such as tailgating and improper lane changes, can cause serious motor vehicle collisions.
- Weather Conditions: Rain, ice, and fog can significantly affect road conditions and increase the risk of accidents, including motorcycle accidents in Wilmington, North Carolina.
Each of these factors can contribute to the severity of an auto accident and the complexity of an auto accident claim.
How Liability for a Car Accident is Determined in North Carolina
Determining liability for a car wreck in North Carolina hinges on understanding the state’s laws regarding negligence and contributory negligence. Key points include:
- Proving Negligence: This requires demonstrating that another party failed to act with the reasonable care owed to you, leading to the auto accident in which you were injured. As such, gathering comprehensive evidence is crucial to establishing the other party’s liability.
- Contributory Negligence: North Carolina’s strict contributory negligence law (N.C. General Statutes, Chapter 1, sections 1-139) can bar you from any recovery if you are found even 1% at fault for the accident. This underscores the importance of a skilled car accident lawyer who knows how to overcome the challenges posed by contributory negligence if need be.
Liability in truck accidents can be even more difficult to determine than in car accidents as there are several different parties who may be held liable. If you are injured in a truck accident, be sure to contact a Wilmington truck accident attorney.
Types of Compensation Available For a Car Accident
Injury victims of car accidents in Wilmington may be entitled to various types of compensation, addressing both economic and non-economic damages:
- Medical Expenses: Coverage for current and future medical treatment related to your car accident injuries, including spinal cord injury and traumatic brain injury treatment.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for lost earnings and diminished earning capacity.
- Pain and Suffering: For physical discomfort and emotional distress resulting from the auto accident.
- Property Damage: Reimbursement for the cost to repair or replace a damaged vehicle or other personal property.
- Punitive Damages: In cases of egregious negligence, additional compensation may be awarded to punish the wrongdoer.
Understanding the full scope of compensable damages is crucial for ensuring you receive the restitution you deserve after a car accident.
The Statute of Limitations For Car Accident Claims in North Carolina
In North Carolina, the statute of limitations for filing a car accident claim in court is generally three years from the date of the accident (N.C. Gen. Stat. § 1-52). However, certain situations may extend or shorten this timeframe.
It is also important to note that these limitations apply to filing a lawsuit, not an insurance claim, which should be initiated as soon as possible. Understanding these time constraints is vital to protecting your right to compensation.
How a Wilmington Auto Accident Attorney Can Help
Securing the services of a skilled Wilmington car accident attorney can significantly enhance your car accident claim’s chances of success. Here is how:
- Investigation and Evidence Gathering: Our auto accident lawyers will collect crucial evidence to build a strong case for compensation.
- Skilled Negotiations: We will leverage our experience to negotiate with the at-fault party’s insurance company for a fair settlement.
- Navigating the Legal Complexities: We will use our in-depth understanding of state and local laws and regulations to help you navigate the legal system effectively.
- Maximizing Compensation: We will work tirelessly to ensure you receive the full compensation you are entitled to for your losses.
- Litigation: We will represent your interests in court, if necessary, to fight for your rights.
The benefits of hiring a skilled Wilmington car accident lawyer from our law firm extend beyond just legal representation; we can also offer you peace of mind during a very challenging time.
If you have lost a family member in a car accident in Wilmington, contact our Wilmington wrongful death lawyers for legal guidance.
Contact Shipman & Wright for a Car Accident Attorney in Wilmington, NC
If you or a loved one have been involved in an auto accident in Wilmington, do not navigate this challenging time alone. The Wilmington car accident attorneys at Shipman & Wright are ready to stand by your side, offering experienced legal guidance and support. Our dedicated team is committed to securing the compensation and justice injury victims deserve. Call Shipman & Wright today for a free case review, and let us help you take the first step on your path to recovery.