What Happens When Children Are Hurt in A Wreck In North Carolina?

In North Carolina, the charges and penalties that may apply when children are hurt after a car wreck depends on the circumstances surrounding the accident. It’s important to understand that in most cases, the person responsible for causing an accident and the resulting injuries is the one who will face charges. The specific charges can vary based on factors such as the severity of the injuries, the driver’s actions and any applicable laws violated.

What Are the Potential Charges?

The charges and their seriousness can differ based on the location and specific details of the incident. It’s best to consult with a legal professional for accurate advice tailored to your situation.

Reckless Driving. If a driver behaves in a very dangerous and careless way and not caring about the safety of others on the road, they can be charged with reckless driving. In North Carolina, reckless driving is considered a misdemeanor, which means it’s a criminal offense.

Careless and Imprudent Driving. Careless driving means driving without paying enough attention, which can cause accidents. Imprudent driving is when someone drives in a way that ignores the safety of others. Both of these are considered misdemeanors, which are less serious offenses.

Driving Under the Influence (DUI). If the driver who caused the accident was drunk or on drugs when it happened, they could be charged with DUI (Driving Under the Influence). In North Carolina, the seriousness of DUI charges can vary. It depends on things like previous convictions, how badly someone was hurt, and the age of the child involved.

Child Endangerment. If it is discovered that a driver intentionally put a child at risk by driving dangerously or while under the influence, they could face charges of child endangerment.

What Compensation Can You Get?

When a child is injured in a car accident in North Carolina, the parents or legal guardians may be eligible for different types of compensation. This compensation is meant to help cover the expenses related to the child’s injuries and recovery.

Medical Expenses. Parents can request reimbursement for all medical costs associated with their child’s injuries caused by the car accident. This includes expenses like hospital stays, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, physical therapy, and any ongoing medical treatments needed. Both past and future medical expenses related to the accident can be included in the compensation claim.

Pain and Suffering. Parents may have the opportunity to seek compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress their child has experienced due to the accident. This includes not only the immediate pain and suffering following the accident but also any ongoing physical discomfort or emotional distress resulting from the injuries.

Disability and Disfigurement. If a child sustains injuries that lead to long-term or permanent disability or disfigurement, parents may have the right to receive compensation. This compensation is intended to cover the physical limitations the child may face and the emotional effects on their self-esteem and overall quality of life.

We Can Help You Get The Compensation Your Child Deserves

If you or your child has been seriously injured in a car accident, it’s worth taking a few minutes to call Tatum & Atkinson, PLLC, at (800) 529-0804 for a free consultation. There’s no obligation, and we can answer any questions you have about your claim. Don’t wait. For personal injury cases in North Carolina, you only have three years (sometimes less) from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. The sooner you get the process started, the sooner you can receive the compensation you deserve.

Call the Heavy Hitters at 1-800-LAW-0804 today!