From fender benders to major collisions, car accidents are not an uncommon sight around Fayetteville and Fort Bragg. Frequent road construction and a rapidly growing population lead to frequent collisions both in town and on the interstates. However, if you’ve been injured in an automobile collision caused by a careless driver, you need to speak with a car accident attorney at Maurer Law.
Our dedicated team is with you through every step of the legal process, from the first consultation to the time your case is settled or closed. We are dedicated to advocating for fair settlements and holding responsible parties accountable for their negligence as we fight to get our clients the peace of mind and compensation they deserve.
Establishing Liability After a Car Accident in North Carolina
It’s important to first understand that the plaintiff has the burden of proof in car accident cases, meaning that it’s their responsibility to show the defendant’s negligence or action were the sole cause of the collision. Additionally, under North Carolina law, the plaintiff can not be found to be negligent or at fault in any way. Otherwise, under the doctrine of contributory negligence, the plaintiff will be barred from receiving compensation.
Elements to a Negligence Action
In order for a case to go to court and a jury to find in favor of the plaintiff, a car accident attorney must prove the following:
- Duty of Care: The defendant needed to act according to a set standard, such as a statute, local ordinance, or the rules of the road.
- Breach of Duty: The defendant was negligent in holding to the duty of care by breaking the statute, ordinance, or traffic laws.
- Suffering Damages: Once duty and breach of duty are established, the plaintiff must prove that they suffered damages as a result of the collision.
Damages Awarded After a Car Accident
If the elements to the case are established, a jury may award damages based on both economic and non-economic factors.
- Economic: Damages based on medical expenses, future medical costs, lost wages, and property damage;
- Non-economic: Damages based on the pain and suffering a plaintiff sustained due to the accident. In cases of particularly egregious circumstances, punitive damages may be awarded to specifically punish the defendant.
Working with an Experienced Auto Accident Attorney
After an automobile accident, you may be approached by an insurance company offering a settlement. However, the insurance companies are looking out for their bottom line, not your best interests.
Having an experienced automobile accident attorney fighting on your side is essential to a more favorable outcome. At Maurer Law, we not only have the legal experience, but
Attorney Michael Maurer worked for several years as a police officer and detective prior to becoming an attorney. He has the investigative skills to understand the cause of your accident, connect with eyewitnesses and expert witnesses, and will do everything in his power to ensure the defendant is held liable for their carelessness.
Schedule a FREE Consultation with a Car Accident Attorney in Fayetteville Today
Don’t try to negotiate the legal system or work with insurance companies on your own. With Maurer Law, you’ll have an experienced legal advocate working hard to get you a fair and favorable outcome. Schedule a free and confidential case evaluation today by calling us at 910-714-4323 or fill out the
contact form to schedule a FREE consultation