The National Center for Health Statistics estimates more than 31 million injuries occur each year in the United States alone. According to some personal injury attorney, not all those injuries will result in a personal injury claim; however, those that involve negligence may. More than half of all personal injury lawsuits are the result of an automobile accident, followed by medical malpractice injuries, product liability injuries and the very broad category of “other” injuries, which includes construction accidents. Call a personal injury lawyer in Charlotte, NC TODAY at 704-243-9693.
What are Common Personal Injury Claims?
There are many different types of personal injury claims, including the following:
- Car accidents
- Motorcycle accidents
- Trucking accidents
- Construction accidents
- Product liability cases
- Slip and fall injuries
- Dog bites
Are You in Need of a Personal Injury Lawyer? Call Us Now at 704-243-9693.
While legal procedures governing personal injury lawsuits are similar across the United States, North Carolina personal injury laws have some unique requirements. Which is why you need a North Carolina personal injury lawyer. If the amount of damages being sought is less than $10,000, personal injury litigation may be filed in Small Claims Court. where the defendant resides. Lawsuits seeking damages between up to $25,000 are filed in District Court Division usually where the Plaintiff lives or the accident occurred, and those lawsuits seeking more than $25,000 in damages are filed in Superior Court.
North Carolina Personal Injury Statutes of Limitations
The amount of time plaintiffs are allowed in which to file a lawsuit is called the statutes of limitations. These statutes vary from state to state, as well as according to the type of lawsuit being filed. In North Carolina, plaintiffs have three years following the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit, but an injured party should consult with an attorney as soon as possible to determine their particular statute of limitation that applies to his or her case.
North Carolina Personal Injury Contributory Negligence
North Carolina personal injury laws follow the rules of contributory negligence, meaning if the defendant is able to prove the plaintiff was responsible for the accident in any way, the plaintiff will not be able to collect damages. Personal injury lawsuits may request compensatory damages which are considered reimbursement for necessary and reasonable medical expenses and compensation for lost wages, both current and future. Non-economic damages such as emotional distress or pain and suffering are allowed under North Carolina law.
The Complexities of a Personal Injury Case and How You Can Get the Help You Need
The vast majority of personal injury cases, both in North Carolina and across the nation, are resolved prior to trial via negotiated settlement, arbitration or mediation. Most people are unfamiliar with the legal system, the tactics of insurance adjustors, and may be unprepared for the level of paperwork required and the deadlines which must be met once a personal injury lawsuit or wrongful death lawsuit is filed.
Do You Need a Personal Injury Attorney?
If you or a loved one has been seriously injured due to the negligence of another, it is likely you are doing your best to heal while carrying on your everyday tasks. Trying to deal with a personal injury lawsuit in addition with everything else can be overwhelming. Having an experienced North Carolina personal injury attorney, Cox Law Firm by your side can result in a more positive outcome for your future. Call us at 704-243-9693 today!