WINSTON-SALEM, NC – Following a motor vehicle collision, crash victims face physical recovery, medical bills, and legal procedures. To help drivers navigate these moments and avoid common legal errors, Lewis & Keller Injury Lawyers, a personal injury law firm serving Winston-Salem, Greensboro, and the Piedmont Triad region, has published a public legal guide outlining standard steps to take following a car accident.
North Carolina is one of the few states operating under the legal doctrine of contributory negligence. Under this rule, if an injured driver is found partially at fault for a collision, insurance companies may deny financial compensation. Due to this standard, evidence collected at the accident scene and statements provided shortly afterward often affect the outcome of personal injury and vehicle damage claims.
The guide, which is available to the public, provides a step-by-step approach to handling the aftermath of a crash. It underscores the importance of securing the scene, seeking medical evaluation, gathering evidence, and exercising caution with insurance adjusters.
First, drivers should prioritize safety by moving vehicles out of active traffic lanes when possible. Calling 911 allows law enforcement officers and emergency medical personnel to respond promptly. An official North Carolina Crash Report (Form DMV-349) completed by responding officers serves as documented evidence during liability reviews.
Second, even when injuries do not appear immediate, physical conditions such as whiplash, soft-tissue damage, internal bruising, or concussions can develop later. Visiting an emergency room or urgent care clinic provides a medical record linking injuries to the crash.
Third, if safe to do so, drivers can use a smartphone to photograph and record video of vehicle damage, physical debris, skid marks, road surface conditions, traffic signals, and visible injuries. Drivers should also exchange contact and insurance information with all motorists involved, as well as obtain contact details from any eyewitnesses.
Fourth, insurance representatives for other involved parties may contact victims shortly after a collision to request recorded statements or offer early settlement payments. Victims can choose to consult an attorney before agreeing to recorded statements or signing settlement releases, as early offers may not reflect future medical expenses or lost income.
Finally, managing insurance claims, statutory deadlines, and contributory negligence rules involves legal procedures. Working with an attorney helps preserve physical evidence, manage communications with insurers, and pursue appropriate compensation.
The firm encourages North Carolina drivers to keep legal contact information in their vehicles and share these safety steps with family members. Lewis & Keller provides case evaluations to assist accident victims in understanding their rights and evaluating legal options.
This guide is particularly important because North Carolina's contributory negligence law can bar recovery entirely if the victim is even 1% at fault, making the collection of evidence and legal guidance critical. The guide aims to help victims avoid common mistakes that could jeopardize their claims.
For more information, visit Lewis & Keller Injury Lawyers.
