Kinston Car Accident Attorney

Ready to Help Kinston Residents Who Have Been Injured in Car Accidents

At Strickland Agner Pittman, our experienced team of personal injury attorneys is dedicated to helping car accident victims in Kinston and throughout North Carolina get the compensation they deserve. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll that a car accident can take on your life, and we are here to help you navigate the legal process and fight for your rights.

Call (919) 893-0090 or fill out our online contact form today to schedule a free consultation.

Common Causes of Car Accidents

A car accident, also known as a traffic accident or auto accident, refers to an incident in which one or more vehicles collide with each other or with other objects, resulting in damage to the vehicles, injuries to the occupants, and sometimes even fatalities. Car accidents can vary in severity, from minor fender-benders to catastrophic collisions.

Common causes of car accidents include:

• Distracted Driving: This is one of the leading causes of car accidents. Distractions can include texting or using a mobile phone, eating, adjusting the radio, or talking to passengers while driving.
• Speeding: Driving at speeds higher than the posted speed limits or too fast for road and weather conditions can reduce reaction time and increase the severity of accidents.
• Drunk Driving: Operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs impairs judgment, coordination, and reaction time, leading to a higher likelihood of accidents.
• Reckless Driving: This includes aggressive behaviors such as tailgating, weaving in and out of traffic, and ignoring traffic laws, which can result in dangerous situations.
• Fatigue: Driving while tired or drowsy can impair a driver's attention and reaction time, making them more prone to accidents.
• Weather Conditions: Adverse weather conditions like rain, snow, ice, fog, and heavy winds can reduce visibility and road traction, increasing the risk of accidents.
• Running Red Lights and Stop Signs: Disobeying traffic signals and signs can lead to dangerous intersections collisions.
• Poor Road Conditions: Potholes, debris, and poorly marked or maintained roads can contribute to accidents.
• Vehicle Defects: Mechanical failures or defects in a vehicle, such as brake failure or tire blowouts, can lead to accidents.
• Inexperienced Drivers: Inexperienced or young drivers may lack the skills and judgment needed to handle various driving situations.
• Aggressive Behavior: Road rage incidents, where drivers become angry and aggressive toward others, can escalate into accidents.
• Poor Visibility: Reduced visibility due to factors like glare from the sun, darkness, or obstructed views can result in accidents.
• Tailgating: Following other vehicles too closely reduces reaction time and increases the risk of rear-end collisions.
• Inadequate Signaling: Failing to use turn signals or not communicating intentions to other drivers can lead to confusion and accidents.
• Wildlife and Animals: Collisions with animals, such as deer or livestock, can occur, particularly in rural areas.

North Carolina Car Accident Laws

North Carolina follows a fault-based system when it comes to car accidents. This means that the driver who is found to be at fault for causing the accident is typically responsible for covering the damages resulting from the accident.

Remember, it is imperative to understand that North Carolina follows a strict contributory negligence rule, meaning if a plaintiff (the injured party) is found to be even partially at fault for the accident, they may be barred from recovering any damages from the other party. In other words, if you are found to be even 1% at fault for the accident, you may not be able to recover compensation from the other driver.

However, there is an exception for cases involving multiple parties where the plaintiff's negligence is less than the combined negligence of all other parties involved. In such cases, the plaintiff may be able to recover damages, but their recovery will be reduced in proportion to their share of fault.

How We Can Help

Our team will work tirelessly to investigate the circumstances of your car accident, gather evidence, and build a strong case on your behalf. We will negotiate with insurance companies to ensure that you receive a fair settlement for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. And if necessary, we will take your case to court to fight for your rights.

If you have been injured in a car accident, don't wait to seek legal help. Contact Strickland Agner Pittman today to schedule a free case evaluation with our Kinston car accident attorney.