Blog Post

Car accidents can happen in an instant, and the aftermath can feel overwhelming. From dealing with injuries and insurance companies to navigating North Carolina’s strict traffic laws, knowing what steps to take is critical for protecting your health, finances, and legal rights.

According to state data, North Carolina sees more than 250,000 crashes each year. Even “minor” wrecks can involve medical treatment, police reports, and complicated insurance claims. At the Law Office of Daniel J. McCrorie, we’ve helped countless accident victims in Wilmington, New Hanover County, and beyond take the right steps to move forward after a collision.

This guide explains what you should do in the minutes, days, and weeks following a car accident in North Carolina.

At the Scene: Safety and Reporting

Put safety first. North Carolina law requires drivers to stop at the scene of a crash involving injury, death, or significant property damage. Move your vehicle to a safe spot if possible, turn on your hazard lights, and call 911 right away.

Check for injuries and render aid. Provide reasonable assistance to anyone who is hurt. Do not attempt to move seriously injured people unless they are in immediate danger.

Exchange and document information. Collect names, phone numbers, insurance details, license plates, and driver’s license numbers from all parties involved. Use your phone to photograph the vehicles, damages, road signs, and even your own injuries. Eyewitness statements can also be valuable.

Do not admit fault. Even a simple “I’m sorry” can be used against you later under North Carolina’s strict contributory negligence laws. Stick to the facts and let investigators and insurers determine fault.

Seek Medical Attention Immediately

Your health comes first. Some injuries, such as whiplash, concussions, or internal trauma, may not show symptoms right away. Visiting an ER, urgent care, or your doctor as soon as possible creates medical records that are essential for both your recovery and any future legal claim.

Keep copies of all medical records, bills, prescriptions, and treatment notes. At our firm, we use these records to demonstrate the true extent of our clients’ injuries and losses.

Reporting Requirements in North Carolina

If your accident causes an injury, death, or at least $1,000 in property damage, you are legally required to report it to law enforcement. In most cases, an officer will come to the scene and file a crash report, which serves as a crucial piece of evidence in insurance and legal claims.

Failing to stop or report can result in serious penalties, including hit-and-run charges, so always ensure proper reporting takes place.

Insurance Claims and Liability

North Carolina is an at-fault state, meaning the driver who caused the crash (or their insurer) is generally responsible for damages. However, our state follows the contributory negligence rule: if you are even 1% at fault, you may be barred from recovering compensation.

This is one of the strictest standards in the country, which is why it’s important to speak with an attorney before making statements to insurance adjusters or accepting any settlement. At the Law Office of Daniel J. McCrorie, we protect clients from insurance tactics designed to minimize payouts and fight to secure the compensation they truly deserve.

North Carolina drivers must carry minimum liability insurance ($50,000 per person/$100,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $50,000 for property damage as of 2025). Unfortunately, many accidents exceed these limits, making it essential to review your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.

Statute of Limitations and Legal Deadlines

Most car accident victims in North Carolina have three years from the date of the crash to file a personal injury lawsuit. For wrongful death claims, the deadline is only two years. While this may sound like plenty of time, acting quickly helps preserve evidence, secure witness statements, and strengthen your case.

How the Law Office of Daniel J. McCrorie Can Help

After a wreck, you may be juggling medical bills, missed work, and pressure from insurance companies—all while trying to heal. You don’t have to face it alone.

At the Law Office of Daniel J. McCrorie, we:

• Provide free consultations for personal injury cases.
• Work on a contingency fee basis. You don’t pay unless we win.
• Guide you step-by-step through insurance negotiations and, if necessary, courtroom litigation.
• Bring unique insight from Attorney Daniel J. McCrorie’s background as an Assistant District Attorney in Brunswick, Bladen, and Columbus Counties.

Whether you’re recovering from a car accident, trucking collision, or another personal injury, we are committed to protecting your rights and helping you secure the compensation you deserve.

Contact Us Today

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Wilmington, New Hanover County, or anywhere in Eastern North Carolina, call the Law Office of Daniel J. McCrorie at (910) 212-5127 or visit our office at 508 Princess Street, Wilmington, NC 28401.

Don’t wait. Get the legal support you need to move forward with confidence.

Disclaimer: This article provides general information and is not legal advice. Every case is unique. For personalized advice, consult directly with an attorney.