Kinston Personal Injury Lawyer

Holding Negligent Parties Responsible & Seeking Compensation

Pittman Agner is dedicated to representing your interests and fighting for the rightful compensation you deserve. With our skilled team and proven track record, we have the expertise to handle your personal injury claims, taking on insurance companies and the responsible parties. We understand the challenges you face after an injury and we are here to guide you and advocate for you throughout the claims process. When you choose our firm, you become part of our family, receiving the respect, compassion, and support you need during this critical time.

Put your trust in our genuine care and experienced representation. Contact Pittman Agner at (919) 893-0090 to request a free initial consultation with a personal injury attorney in Kinston.

Personal Injury Claims We Handle in North Carolina

Our firm handles a wide range of personal injury cases resulting from various accidents and incidents, including:

• Car accidents: From drunk driving accidents to rear-end collisions, hit-and-run incidents, and texting while driving crashes. We pursue claims against insurance companies and in court, and in some instances, we help victims collect from their own insurance companies through uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage.
• Pedestrian accidents: We fight for maximum compensation for pedestrians struck by motorists, as they often suffer severe and life-altering injuries.
• Truck accidents: Commercial truck accidents are complex cases involving multiple sources of fault, federal trucking regulations violations, and legal teams representing trucking companies. Our tenacious representation is crucial to achieving the best possible outcome.
• Motorcycle accidents: Similar to pedestrians, motorcyclists are vulnerable to serious injuries that can be life-threatening. Our team vigorously pursues optimal results against insurers and negligent parties.
• Slip & falls: Common accidents caused by property hazards. We hold negligent property owners, managers, and other parties liable for their actions.
• Dog bites: If you've been injured by a dog due to negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and losses.
• Wrongful death: When a loved one's death is caused by another party's wrongdoing, the personal representative of their estate can pursue a wrongful death claim seeking damages.
• Medical malpractice: Negligence by medical practitioners, such as misdiagnosis, surgical errors, emergency room mistakes, and medication errors, can be grounds for a lawsuit.
• Construction accidents: Injuries resulting from third-party negligence at construction sites may give you grounds for a claim.
• Assault & battery injuries: Victims of criminal acts like assault or battery can pursue civil claims for damages alongside any criminal proceedings. Compensation is only possible through a civil case.

What Is a Personal Injury Claim?

A personal injury claim can be filed if you have suffered harm in an accident caused by another party's negligence. If you have been injured through no fault of your own, you may be eligible to file a civil lawsuit against the responsible person(s). This claim is separate from any related criminal trial, such as a driving while intoxicated (DWI) case.

Personal injury claims can arise from various incidents, including car accidents, medical malpractice, product liability (such as dangerous drugs or defective medical devices), dog bites, slip-and-fall accidents, intentional injuries like assault and battery, and more. While each claim is unique, they all fall under the statute of limitations for personal injury lawsuits.

These claims require proof of negligence, which means demonstrating that the responsible party failed to act with reasonable care, directly causing your injuries. Our legal team is highly skilled in collecting evidence, interviewing witnesses, and building a compelling case to support your right to compensation.

What Is the Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury Claims?

The statute of limitations sets a time limit for victims to seek compensation from the responsible party. In North Carolina, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit is three years.

However, waiting the full three years is not recommended. Time is crucial when it comes to personal injury cases. The clock starts ticking as soon as the accident occurs, and your attorney needs time to gather evidence and build a strong case.

Acting quickly has several benefits. During the early stages, witnesses can be easily located, and important details like road conditions can be accurately documented. Additionally, your memory of the accident will be fresh, enabling your attorney to build a robust claim. To protect your right to compensation, it's best to schedule a free legal consultation as soon as possible.

Seeking prompt legal action also helps in preserving other forms of evidence, such as surveillance footage that businesses may routinely erase after a set period. Quick action not only aids in building a comprehensive claim but also sends a strong message to insurers that you are serious about pursuing compensation.

The timeline for settling a personal injury claim varies significantly based on the unique circumstances of each case. While some claims can be resolved in six months, others may take years. However, a successful settlement is worth the time and effort. Factors such as the extent of injuries, strength of evidence, amount of money involved, opposing party's approach, and the possibility of trial influence the duration of the claims process.

An experienced personal injury lawyer can provide a more accurate estimate based on the specifics of your claim. However, unexpected circumstances can affect the timeline. Starting your claim promptly by contacting an attorney is the best way to expedite the process.

Why Choose a Kinston Personal Injury Lawyer?

When you suffer a personal injury, the recovery process can consume your life physically and emotionally. While focusing on your healing is crucial, it's equally important not to let a potential settlement slip away due to delays. Protect your rights and interests by contacting an experienced personal injury attorney from the start.

If you've been injured in an accident in North Carolina, Pittman Agner is here to assist you. Our experienced Kinston personal injury attorneys have the knowledge and skill to handle your claim effectively and efficiently. Don't hesitate to call us today at (919) 893-0090 for more information on how we can protect your interests and increase your chances of receiving the compensation you deserve.

Our clients frequently ask us questions about personal injury law. We have addressed many recurring themes and common inquiries in our practice. To learn more, contact us today at (919) 893-0090.

Understanding North Carolina's Comparative Negligence

In North Carolina, the concept of comparative negligence can significantly impact your personal injury claim. This legal doctrine means that if you are found to be even slightly at fault for the accident, you may be barred from recovering any compensation. This is distinctive as North Carolina follows the pure contributory negligence rule, which is one of only a few states that adhere to this strict standard. As a result, it becomes imperative to work with a diligent attorney who can help pinpoint full responsibility on the other party, maximizing your chances for a favorable outcome. At Pittman Agner, we meticulously analyze all aspects of your claim to ensure that we build a robust argument backed by solid evidence.

This rule highlights the necessity of collecting comprehensive evidence and having an attorney who can effectively argue your position. Witness testimonies, accident reconstructions, and expert opinions might be essential to tilt the claim in your favor. Knowing this, our team works tirelessly to gather critical information and construct a solid case that stands up in court or during negotiations. Each piece of evidence we accumulate aims to substantiate our client's innocence and the other party's negligence, which bolsters your chance for recovery under this stringent legal standard.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Do Immediately After an Accident in Kinston?

After an accident, it is crucial to prioritize safety and medical attention. Move to a safe area if possible and check for injuries, seeking immediate medical care. Contact law enforcement to report the accident and ensure an official record is documented. Gathering evidence at the scene is also beneficial; take photos of the vehicles, scene, and any visible injuries. Collect contact information from witnesses and other parties involved. This information can be vital in supporting your personal injury claim. Lastly, contact a local personal injury attorney in Kinston to discuss your options and rights. At Pittman Agner, we offer guidance through this process to protect your interests.

How Is Compensation Calculated in Personal Injury Claims?

Compensation in personal injury claims usually involves several factors, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain, suffering, and the impact on quality of life. Each of these elements contributes to what is commonly referred to as damages. Medical records, invoices, pay stubs, and expert testimony often substantiate these claims. The severity and type of injury, as well as the degree to which the injury affects your future earning ability, play critical roles in determining the extent of compensation. Our attorneys evaluate all facets of your situation to ensure comprehensive coverage of immediate and future financial needs.

Do I Need a Lawyer if the Insurance Company Offers a Settlement?

Legal representation is vital, even if an insurance company extends a settlement offer. Insurers typically aim to minimize payouts, and initial offers may not fully cover your damages. A personal injury attorney assesses the offer's fairness, ensuring you understand its implications and any future repercussions. Attorneys negotiate for improved settlements that recognize the true extent of your financial and personal losses. Having legal expertise can significantly alter the outcome of your negotiations with insurers.

What Happens if I Share Fault in the Accident?

Given North Carolina's contributory negligence rule, even a small share of fault could prevent recovery in a personal injury claim. However, determining fault isn’t always straightforward. An attorney can help dissect the incident to argue your position vigorously, emphasizing the other party's greater liability. Legal guidance is crucial in such scenarios to navigate the complexities of North Carolina’s strict laws effectively.

How Long Does It Take to Resolve a Personal Injury Claim?

The timeline for resolving a personal injury claim can vary widely based on the specific circumstances of each case. Factors influencing the duration include the complexity of the case, the number of parties involved, the extent of the damages, and whether a settlement can be reached out of court or if the case goes to trial. Simple claims may resolve within months, while more complicated ones can take years. Legal representation helps expedite the process by efficiently managing communications and negotiations with involved parties, ensuring procedural requirements are met promptly.