If you’ve been involved in a rear-end car accident in Charlotte, you’re not alone. These types of collisions are one of the most common car accidents and often lead to serious injuries.
At Auger & Auger, we are dedicated to helping victims of rear-end collisions understand their legal rights and pursue the compensation they deserve.
With over 30 years of experience, our team is here to guide you through the complexities of your case and ensure you receive the support you need during this challenging time.
What Causes Rear-End Collisions?
Rear-end collisions typically occur when one driver fails to stop in time, crashing into the vehicle in front of them. These accidents often happen at traffic lights, stop signs, or in congested areas where cars are moving slowly.
While rear-end accidents can happen anywhere, common causes include:
- Distracted driving: Texting, talking on the phone, or using in-car entertainment systems can divert attention from the road.
- Speeding: Driving too fast reduces reaction time, making it difficult to stop when traffic slows or comes to a halt.
- Tailgating: Following too closely doesn’t give the trailing driver enough time to brake if the lead car stops suddenly.
- Weather conditions: Rain, fog, or slick roads can affect stopping distance and cause rear-end collisions.
While these accidents can happen at low speeds, they still pose a significant risk of injury. Even minor collisions can lead to whiplash, concussions, or more severe injuries like spinal cord damage.
It’s essential to seek medical attention after any accident, even if you don’t feel injured right away, as symptoms of some injuries may take time to develop.
Understanding Fault in Rear-End Collisions in North Carolina
In North Carolina, the driver who hits the vehicle in front is generally presumed to be at fault in rear-end collisions. Drivers are expected to maintain a safe following distance to stop in time if traffic slows or stops unexpectedly.
However, North Carolina follows contributory negligence laws. Under this strict legal standard, if you are found even 1% at fault for the accident, you could be barred from recovering any compensation.
This makes it crucial to have an experienced attorney on your side who can protect your rights and work to prove the other driver’s full responsibility for the collision.
What to Do After a Rear-End Collision
If you’ve been in a rear-end accident, taking immediate steps can help protect your health and your legal claim:
- Call 911: An officer will investigate the accident and file a crash report, which can be critical evidence in your case.
- Seek medical attention: Even if you feel fine, it’s important to be evaluated by a doctor. Injuries like whiplash or concussions may not be immediately apparent.
- Document the scene: Take photos of the vehicles, the accident scene, and any visible injuries. This can be helpful in proving fault later on.
- Exchange information: Get the other driver’s contact and insurance information. If there are witnesses, gather their contact details as well.
- Contact a lawyer: Working with a personal injury attorney can ensure that you take the necessary legal steps to protect your claim and pursue fair compensation.
Compensation After a Rear-End Collision
Rear-end collisions can result in a wide range of damages, from medical expenses to lost wages and pain and suffering. At Auger & Auger, we help our clients pursue compensation for:
- Medical expenses: Including emergency care, follow-up treatment, physical therapy, and any long-term medical needs.
- Lost wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to recover lost income.
- Property damage: Including vehicle repairs or replacement costs.
- Pain and suffering: Compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.
Why You Need an Experienced Attorney
Dealing with insurance companies after a rear-end collision can be overwhelming, especially when you’re recovering from an injury. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts or deny claims altogether.
At Auger & Auger, our team will handle the negotiations on your behalf, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you receive the full compensation you deserve.
We will carefully investigate the circumstances of your accident, gather crucial evidence, and build a strong case to prove the other driver’s negligence. Our goal is to secure the best possible outcome for your case, whether through settlement negotiations or, if necessary, taking your case to court.
North Carolina Statute of Limitations
In North Carolina, you have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. While this may seem like a long time, it’s important to act quickly. Evidence can disappear, and witnesses’ memories may fade. The sooner you contact us, the better we can help protect your rights and build a strong case.
Understanding Your Legal Options After a Rear-End Collision
After a rear-end collision, it’s crucial to understand your legal rights and options for pursuing compensation. At Auger & Auger, we offer a free consultation where we listen to your story, assess your case, and explain the best legal options available to you.
Whether you are seeking compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, or other damages, our team of experienced personal injury attorneys in Charlotte, NC, is here to guide you through the process.
No Financial Risk with Our Zero Fee Guarantee
At Auger & Auger, we believe that everyone deserves access to high-quality legal representation without the financial burden. That’s why we offer our Zero Fee Guarantee.
You won’t pay any legal fees upfront; we only get paid if we win your case. Our fees come directly from the settlement, meaning we take on the financial risk, not you. This allows you to focus on your recovery while we fight for the compensation you deserve.
Maximizing Your Compensation
Our primary goal is to maximize your compensation, ensuring you receive the justice and financial support you need after a rear-end collision. We handle all aspects of your case—from gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies—so you can concentrate on healing.
With our expertise, we strive to secure a larger settlement than you might achieve on your own, factoring in damages that are often overlooked or undercalculated.
Free Consultation with Experienced Personal Injury Attorneys
With a free, no–obligation consultation and no legal fees until we win your case, there’s no downside to reaching out. Whether your injuries are minor or severe, it’s important to explore all your legal options.
Contact Auger & Auger today to schedule your free consultation. We will discuss your case in detail, explain the steps for pursuing compensation, and help you achieve the best possible outcome.
Afterward, you can decide whether to hire us, choose another attorney, or proceed on your own.
