Blog Post

An accident can happen in a matter of seconds, but the impact can last months, years, or even a lifetime. Whether it’s a car crash, slip and fall, or serious injury caused by someone else’s negligence, knowing what to expect after a personal injury incident can make all the difference in your recovery, both physically and financially.

At the Law Office of Daniel J. McCrorie, we’ve helped countless individuals across New Hanover County and Brunswick County understand their rights and navigate every stage of the personal injury process. Here’s what you need to know from start to finish.

After the Accident: Your First Steps Matter

Your immediate priority following any accident is your safety and health. Seek medical attention right away, even if your injuries appear minor. Serious conditions like concussions or soft tissue damage often don't present symptoms immediately.

Once you're safe, begin documenting everything:

• Photograph the accident scene, your injuries, and any property damage
• Collect contact information from witnesses
• File a police report when appropriate, particularly for vehicle accidents

These initial actions build a solid foundation for your claim and can significantly influence negotiations or court proceedings down the road.

Dealing with Insurance Companies

After a personal injury, you'll likely receive a call from an insurance adjuster, sometimes within hours. While they may sound friendly and concerned, remember their primary obligation is to the insurance company's bottom line, not your wellbeing.

Share only essential information: your name, contact details, and basic accident facts (when and where it occurred). Confirm you're receiving medical treatment and plan to consult an attorney. Do not provide a recorded statement without legal counsel present, and never accept an initial settlement offer without attorney review.

Avoid elaborating on your injuries or speculating about fault. Don't use phrases like "I'm fine" or "feeling better." Even well-intentioned remarks can be twisted to minimize or deny your claim.

Call an Experienced North Carolina Personal Injury Attorney

Once your immediate medical needs are addressed, speak with a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. At the Law Office of Daniel J. McCrorie, we can evaluate your claim and determine liability, handle all communication with insurers, collect and preserve vital evidence, and ensure all deadlines are met under North Carolina law.

Most personal injury claims in North Carolina must be filed within three years from the date of the incident. 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.

Document Everything

Thorough documentation is key to a successful claim:

• Keep detailed records of all of your doctor visits, diagnoses, and treatment plans
• Save all medical bills, prescriptions, and out-of-pocket costs.
• Track missed workdays and lost wages.
• Keep a journal about your pain, stress, and how your injuries affect your daily life.

These records demonstrate the true extent of your injuries and losses: not just the physical effects, but also the emotional and financial toll.

The Investigation Process

Your attorney will conduct a detailed investigation into your case. This often includes reviewing police reports, interviewing witnesses, consulting medical and accident experts, and collecting video or photographic evidence.

The goal is to clearly show who was at fault and how their negligence caused your injuries. In North Carolina, this is especially critical because of our state's strict contributory negligence rule.

Why Having a North Carolina Attorney Matters

North Carolina follows a contributory negligence rule, one of the strictest in the country. This means that if you’re found even 1% at fault for the accident, you could lose your right to recover damages entirely.

That’s why having an attorney familiar with local courts, judges, and insurance tactics in Wilmington, New Hanover, and Brunswick Counties is so important. Daniel J. McCrorie’s background as a former Assistant District Attorney gives him a unique perspective and strategic advantage in handling injury claims effectively.

Filing and Negotiating Your Claim

Once evidence is gathered, your attorney will file a formal claim with the at-fault party's insurance company. Most cases settle through negotiation rather than going to trial.

Your lawyer will negotiate aggressively to secure fair compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. This includes not just current expenses, but also future medical needs and long-term effects of your injuries.

If the insurance company refuses to make a fair offer, your attorney can take your case to court.

Getting the Best Outcome for You

A fair settlement should reflect the full extent of your losses, including future medical needs and long-term effects of your injuries. Your attorney’s role is to ensure you’re fully compensated for everything you’ve endured.

Justice Through Dedicated Representation

The personal injury process can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. With the right attorney on your side, you can focus on healing while your legal team handles everything else.

At the Law Office of Daniel J. McCrorie, we take a client-first approach listening to your story, understanding your goals, and guiding you every step of the way. We offer free consultations for personal injury cases and work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win for you.

If you’ve been injured in an accident in Wilmington or the surrounding area,, don’t wait to get the help you need.

Call (910) 212-5127 or contact us online to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation. Let’s discuss your case, explore your legal options, and take the first step toward the justice and recovery you deserve.