Car Accident FAQ

Most offenses for drinking and driving, otherwise known as a DWI, are classified as a misdemeanor offense in North Carolina. A DWI in North Carolina often comes with jail time, fines, and a suspension of the convicted driver's license. However, under certain circumstances, those caught driving while under the influence in North Carolina may be charged with a felony DWI, which is much more severe. If you have been involved in a drunk-driving-related car accident, do not hesitate to contact the drunk-driving car accident attorneys, Tatum & Atkinson, 'the Heavy Hitters,' today to see what we can do for you.…

Automakers are now working diligently on the technology for autonomous vehicles. It is hoped that publicly available cars will be capable of operating independently without consistent human oversight. Since many manufacturers contend that placing machines in charge instead of people and removing human error will result in fewer car accidents, the public will likely be sold on the idea that these vehicles are safer than normal vehicles. What Happens if an Autopiloted Car Crashes? Car accidents frequently involve a driver who is at fault. However, if automakers are serious when they claim that machines will rule and take over, then…

Have you been involved in a self-driving car accident? If so, who bears responsibility, and how can you seek redress? You can investigate your legal options and obtain the compensation you deserve with the aid of an experienced self-driving car accident attorney. How Many Accidents Are Caused by Self Driving Cars Self-driving vehicles are gaining popularity and will play a significant role in automotive technology. Autonomous cars are currently being released by manufacturers such as Uber, BMW, and Tesla. However, these self-driving vehicles are typically not available for purchase to the general public.Yet, Tesla, stands apart, as they proudly offer…

In North Carolina, there are over 250,000 car accidents each year. In this state, distracted driving causes roughly five times as many accidents as driving while intoxicated. The majority of these distraction-related driving errors are easily avoidable. For this reason, many people are referring to DWD (driving while distracted) as the new DWI. Driving while distracted contributed to 54,133 accidents in North Carolina in 2017. Twenty-five thousand two hundred thirty-seven people were hurt in these collisions, and 152 distracted driving car accident victims passed away. The stark reality is that distracted driving is to blame for 19.7% of reported North…

It is a heartbreaking experience to lose a loved one, especially when the loss is sudden and caused by someone else's negligence. In some cases, the deceased's family may file a wrongful death lawsuit to recover the financial losses incurred by the death. But what exactly is wrongful death? Wrongful Death Lawsuit When an accident or act of violence causes an untimely death, the surviving family of the decedent may seek to hold someone accountable for their loss. However, it is essential to understand that wrongful death claims are independent of any criminal charges that may be made against the…

It's a sad reality that accidents that occur while utilizing public transportation can be life-altering, and in worst cases, even fatal. It's also important to know that public transportation providers have a legal obligation to keep the general public and its passengers safe. If they fall short in that responsibility and you become injured as a result, you may be entitled to financial compensation. It's crucial to act quickly if you find yourself in this unfortunate situation, as important evidence can quickly diminish.  It's important to speak with an experienced Raleigh public transportation accident attorney who can help you understand…

It is disheartening to realize that roughly 1 in 8 American drivers drive without any insurance coverage. Despite legal requirements that many states have requiring drivers to purchase insurance, many drivers continue to roam the roads without any insurance coverage to protect themselves or others in the event of a car accident. Additionally, some states do not require car insurance coverage to drive, leaving many individuals wondering what to do next if they were hit by a driver who does not have car insurance. What Do You Do if You’re Hit by a Driver Who Doesn’t Have Insurance? When involved…

Getting into a car collision can be a stressful experience, even if only minor damage was sustained. Every driver needs to know what to do following an accident. When you are in the midst of such an event, you will need to know what to do in a time where thinking clearly may be difficult. Below you will find a list of steps to take immediately following an accident: 1. Always Remain at the Scene of a Car Accident Except in the case of major accidents with serious injuries, no matter how minor the accident, you will need to turn…

After sustaining injuries from a car accident, it is normal for medical bills to be heavily on the mind. Medical bills can easily climb and, in some cases, may exceed hundreds of thousands, if not millions of dollars. For example, a severe spinal injury can easily exceed four million dollars. Medical expenses are not cheap, especially when considering non-emergency treatment costs or long-term care such as rehabilitative services. A personal injury attorney is not a doctor. Yet, they may be able to assist with the management of medical bills. After an injury, the last thing you want to worry about…

When considering auto insurance options and coverage levels, it is essential to ensure that you meet your state's legal requirements to be on the road and that you and your assets are covered in the event of a collision. This guide will help you determine the right coverage for you. What Are the Key Components of an Auto Insurance Policy? The three key components of an auto insurance policy include: Bodily Injury Liability (Per Person) This coverage limit is per person for medical expenses and lost wages stemming from injuries you may cause to others in a collision. Bodily Injury…

Personal Injury Settlements If you or a loved one have been injured in a car accident, you may receive compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain, and suffering, loss of quality of life, and other damages. Various factors may come into play, such as who was at fault, jurisdiction, insurance coverages, supporting evidence, and other variables. Car accident injury compensation can vary significantly from claim to claim, so we've compiled a list to help you understand what it takes to get the most out of your car accident injury claim after a collision and familiarize yourself with the variables that…

When involved in a car collision, it is common to have concerns regarding how medical expenses, repairs to your vehicle (or replacement of your vehicle), and other costs such as lost wages should be covered. After a car accident, you may begin to receive calls from insurance adjusters immediately. You may feel pressured to take a settlement offer or make a statement on the spot, which is usually a mistake. Talking to an experienced personal injury car accident attorney is a great way to discuss your rights and see what compensation may be available for your damages. Your attorney can…

What to Do if Your Child is Injured in a Car Accident? Most states throughout the U.S. require that children be placed in a booster or car seat while riding in a vehicle to keep them safe. Sadly, children may still become injured when involved in a collision. Seeing your child or children injured due to another driver's negligence is one of the most painful experiences a parent can bear. As a parent, it is essential after a car accident that specific procedural steps are taken so that you can ensure that the pain and suffering your child incurred and…

It can quickly become overwhelming shopping for car insurance when thinking about the seemingly endless possibilities and decisions you can make. However, whether you are a first-time driver, purchasing a new vehicle, or even considering finding a new insurer, there are several essential things to consider when comparing car insurance policies. Below you will find some do's and don'ts to keep in mind when choosing the right insurance coverage. Do Take Your Time to Shop Around - Don’t Rush Whether you are a first-time driver, getting a new car, or just looking to find some savings through a new insurance…

Getting involved in a car collision can be a traumatic experience, but getting involved in a car accident with a drunk driver can be even worse. Not only did the drunk driver put themselves in danger, but they also knowingly put the lives of innocent people at risk. Drinking and driving occur when someone consumes alcohol and gets behind the wheel of a car. Legally, a driver is considered safe to drive when their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is below 0.08 or 0.05 (depending on which state you reside). However, driving after the driver's BAC exceeds these legal limits can…

As many know, A DUI is considered a criminal offense. If convicted, a DUI typically comes with a slew of legal issues, whether or not an accident occurred. For many individuals facing a DUI/DWI, car insurance coverage may be one of the last things on their minds. However, depending on coverage and which state you reside, there may be many issues you face when working with car insurance adjusters after a DUI - from denying coverage to canceling your policy. No matter the exact nuances of your car insurance coverage, if you are involved in an accident while intoxicated, it…

Despite the fact that the potential dangers of drunk driving are typically well known in the United States, over 10,0000 traffic fatalities occur in the U.S. annually due to drunk driving. According to the CDC, 1 out of 3 vehicular mortalities involves alcohol consumption. Today, drunk driving is a perilous and hazardous activity that should be avoided. As a result, the incidences of drunk driving convictions are actually on the decline. However, in today's age, another serious driving risk that needs to be taken into account, texting and driving. Some experts state that distracted driving, such as responding to a…

A bustle of parties, gatherings, and work functions often occur during summer. Unfortunately, during many of these get-togethers, alcohol plays a component in the festivities, which may contribute to an increase in alcohol-related accidents. Alcohol-related accidents may lead to severe injuries, death, or other consequences, especially if you are the one caught drinking and driving. Check out these tips to avoid and prevent drunk driving accidents and enjoy safe celebrations. How To Prevent Drunk Driving Accidents 1. Designate a Driver Every year alcohol-related crashes lead to deaths and injuries. Sadly, in the U.S. alone, a drunk driving accident leads to…

As many know, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol can have long-lasting and severe consequences, ranging from the guilt of injuring an innocent party to costly legal repercussions. Some consequences of driving under the influence include suspension of your license, mandatory treatment programs, jail time and/or fines, and driving prohibitions. If you have experienced an issue with driving under the influence in North Carolina, get in touch with an experienced drunk driving lawyer at the law offices of Tatum & Atkinson right away. The Consequences of Drunk Driving The consequences of drunk driving can be extensive. Below are…

One of the most frequently received questions regarding personal injury and automobile accident claims is, "how long after a car accident can I make a claim?"  However, the answer to this question is not one size fits all. In the following article, you will discover more about claim time restrictions, known as the statute of limitations, and how they may affect you as an accident victim. How Long After a Car Accident Can You Claim Injury? In 2018, more than 4.5 million drivers and vehicle passengers sought medical treatment to address injuries resulting from a car collision. Though many drivers…

Being involved in a car collision can be a traumatizing experience, whether the accident was big or small. Many individuals are often unsure as to what to do next. The first concern you should have after an accident is obtaining medical attention. Even if you feel okay, some injuries may not present themselves for days or weeks to come, and it is best to be evaluated by a medical professional immediately. Should you require medical treatment down the line, not receiving a medical evaluation directly following the accident can severely hinder your chances of receiving compensation to cover the expenses…

Many people don't think twice when driving on the road during their daily commutes or when on their way to visit family and friends. The road can seem like a safe place until, abruptly, someone crashes into your car, leading to severe injuries or damage to your vehicle. Frequently, after a car collision can come emergency responders, law enforcement, insurance claims, medical bills, and more. The last thing you want to worry about after all of that is a car insurance company calling or emailing you a few days later saying you are the driver at fault in a car…

Car accidents and the blow to the body often associated with the impact of the vehicle collision may lead to severe back and neck injuries. Car collisions are the number one cause of neck injuries in the U.S. Neck injuries may lead to lasting pain and significant financial burden due to work limitations imposed due to the injury and medical costs associated with the injury. In the U.S., more than 800,000 vehicle accidents involving neck injuries are reported each year, with medical expenses reaching $5,200,000,000. After the impact of a car collision, a great deal of strain is typically placed…

Determining fault in an accident is essential, as it will determine who will be responsible for damages related to the accident, such as medical expenses and other economic and non-economic damages. Unfortunately, a T-bone accident tends to occur when you least expect it. Accidents resulting from a T-bone collision can be devastating, especially as these crashes are often some of the most unexpected, dangerous, and deadly car collisions. The experienced car accident attorneys at the law office of Tatum & Atkinson, 'the Heavy Hitters', have over 65 years of experience and have fought tirelessly for car accident injury victims in…

If you have been involved in a car accident and have sustained injuries, it may benefit you to know that whiplash is one of the most frequently diagnosed injuries a car accident victim may sustain. As whiplash injuries may lead to significant economic losses related to loss of income, medical expenses, and more, it is vital that you receive just compensation for your injuries if you have sustained them due to another driver's negligence. Unfortunately, many parties such as judges, juries, and insurance companies treat whiplash claims with suspicion, as they are incredibly common, and these injuries can be difficult…

Car accidents can often be traumatic experiences, even if the injuries sustained were relatively minor. Whether the injuries were minor or severe, you are still left confused, stressed, and often in pain. When forced to deal with medical professionals, insurers, your employer, and worrying about how you will get around with a damaged vehicle, the process of recovering from a car accident can often feel overwhelming. If you have been involved in a car collision in North Carolina and have sustained injuries, contact the experienced car accident attorneys at Tatum & Atkinson, ‘the Heavy Hitters’ at (800) 529-0804 or online…

If you have been involved in a car collision in North Carolina, you may wonder how you may recuperate by receiving compensation for your damages. Although motorists in North Carolina are required to hold car insurance coverage by law, many North Carolina drivers may be underinsured or uninsured altogether. If an at-fault driver is underinsured or uninsured, you may be concerned about how you may recover from your damages. Uninsured motorist and underinsured motorist coverage is required in North Carolina by statutory law. This requirement helps to ensure that drivers are covered in the event that an at-fault driver does…

Bad roads can contribute to a collision, but who is responsible when bad road conditions cause a car accident? It depends on the specifics surrounding the case. A government agency or private contractor may be held liable. However, proving fault in cases such as these can be burdensome and will often require an experienced car accident attorney. This following guide will detail the laws surrounding bad road conditions and how they can affect you as a driver. Have you or a loved one become injured due to poor road conditions in North Carolina? Our team of experienced car accident attorneys…

Many travelers may opt to rent a car while on vacation, traveling for business, or for any other reason. However, while many people are on vacation or away from their homes, the thought of being involved in an accident will seldom cross their minds. However, a car accident can happen to anyone at any time while out on the road. Therefore, it is essential to understand what steps to take should you be involved in a car accident while driving a rental car in North Carolina. Have you been involved in a car collision while driving a rental car in…

Unfortunately, car accidents are a leading cause of head-trauma-related fatalities in the U.S. If a head injury victim survives after a car accident, they may be left with life-long symptoms. Head injuries may leave individuals with crushing medical expenses, lost wages, and lifelong impacts on daily functioning or the ability to work. The reality of the consequences of a car accident-caused head injury leads to understanding why it is so essential to take full advantage of the law. It is pertinent to ensure you or your loved one receives just compensation for both your current and future expected damages after…

Road rage is a problem that many Americans may experience within their lifetime. Unfortunately, a study by the NHTSA indicated that up to 66% of vehicular fatalities can be attributed to aggressive driving. Furthermore, around 37% of traffic fatalities involved the use of a firearm, tailgating, or aggressive distractions such as honking, crude gestures, and other aggressive behaviors. As a result, thousands of road rage accidents happen daily in the United States, leading to preventable deaths and serious injuries. Road rage is common in North Carolina. Many of us may have witnessed road rage first-hand or have heard horror stories…

While airbags have saved countless lives, they may still contribute to serious injury in the event of a car accident. Injuries may result from airbag deployment, especially if an airbag is defective. Have you or a loved one been involved in a car accident and sustained injuries due to an airbag? Contact the experienced North Carolina car accident attorneys at Tatum & Atkinson, ‘the Heavy Hitters.’ Call (800) 529-0804 or contact us online to receive your free, no-obligation case evaluation.  Do Airbags Cause Injuries? Do airbags cause injuries? Yes, airbags, whether frontal or side airbags, may cause injuries to a…

A rollover car accident may occur when a vehicle flips over on its side or roof, often due to sharp turning, road conditions, or other loss of control of the car. If you have been involved in a rollover accident due to the negligence of another driver or due to improperly cared for roads, contact a car accident attorney as soon as possible to discuss your legal options for recovery. If you or a loved one have been injured due to a rollover car accident, contact the experienced car collision attorneys at Tatum & Atkinson, 'the Heavy Hitters', by calling…

Head-on collisions can be terrifying, as generally, no one expects to head out on the roadway and be struck by another vehicle. However, in North Carolina, accidents happen daily. If you or a loved one have been injured due to a head-on collision, contact the experienced car collision attorneys at Tatum & Atkinson, 'the Heavy Hitters', by calling (800) 529-0804 or contacting us online. With over 65 years of collective experience serving North Carolina accident injury victims, Tatum & Atkinson ‘the Heavy Hitters'  has the knowledge and skills required to ensure you receive the just compensation you deserve. Head-On-Collision What…

Although auto collisions may cause injuries at any speed, high-speed car collisions are often associated with fatal or severe injuries. Due to the increased impact and force related to high-speed crashes, the human body is far more likely to sustain severe damage. The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety discloses that around 26% of fatalities (9,478 deaths) in 2019 due to car collisions involved high speeds. Several factors go into the danger of high-speed car collisions. These include:   Not wearing proper safety restraints increases the likelihood of being ejected from a vehicle at high speeds.   The increased time it…

North Carolina law dictates that a vehicle driver involved in an accident must notify local law enforcement if the collision causes injury to any individual or property damage of over $1,000.00. If the accident occurs on private property, the accident will not necessarily need to be reported. However, it may be beneficial to ensure the police are called or that a report is filed, no matter how minor the accident. With current technology now allowing many once in-person processes to be completed online, many drivers may wonder if they can file a police report online. We have compiled a guide…

When it comes to car collisions, North Carolina is classified as an "at-fault" state, meaning that if you were injured in a car collision due to the negligence of another driver, the at-fault driver can be held liable for any damages that you incurred due to the accident. If you have been injured in a car collision in North Carolina due to the negligent actions of another driver, you may be entitled to compensation for your damages. Contact our experienced team of car accident attorneys at Tatum & Atkinson, 'the Heavy Hitters', to receive your free, no-obligation consultation by calling…

Drivers in North Carolina may wonder if they should purchase Med Pay insurance through their car insurer for additional protection. While MedPay is not required in North Carolina, it can certainly be beneficial. Below we will dive into the ins and outs of MedPay insurance so that you can make informed choices to keep both you and your family adequately protected in the event you are involved in a car accident.  If you or a loved one have been injured in a car accident due to another driver's negligence, contact the experienced car collision attorneys at Tatum & Atkinson, 'the…

If you have been involved in a car accident in North Carolina, you should first make sure everyone is safe and attempt to move the car out of the roadway to prevent any obstruction to traffic, if possible. Next, call the police and, if necessary, ask for an ambulance. Police will take a statement from you and any other drivers involved. A paramedic will be able to evaluate your injuries and let you know if you should go to the hospital. Have you been involved in a car accident in North Carolina? Contact the experienced North Carolina car accident attorneys…