Your Personal Injury Lawyer in Lexington, NC
When you’re dealing with the aftermath of an injury that wasn’t your fault, you deserve someone in your corner who understands the challenges you face. At Lewis & Keller, our Lexington personal injury team is dedicated to guiding you through the process and helping you stand up to the insurance companies.
Our experienced lawyers have a proven track record of fighting for fair compensation and securing maximum settlements for people just like you. We’re equipped to handle your case from start to finish, ensuring your rights are upheld every step of the way. We believe in open communication and taking a personal approach to every case. We treat each client with the respect they deserve, building a plan that suits their unique needs, whether it involves settlement negotiating or taking the case to court.
When you choose Lewis & Keller, you’re choosing a law firm that’s committed to fighting for you. Let us handle the legal complexities so you can focus on healing. Contact us today for a free consultation – you don’t owe us anything unless we secure compensation for you.
Table of Contents
How Our Lexington, NC Personal Injury Attorneys Can Help
Our attorneys are here to help you through every step of the legal process. We’re happy to answer any questions you may have along the way, and seek to ensure you are fully informed, aware, and understanding of what’s happening with your case. Below you’ll find an outline of the personal injury claims process, along with information about how we can help.
Personal Injury Claims Process
1. Initial Consultation
During your free initial consultation, our team will take the time to understand the details of your case, review any available evidence, and answer any questions you may have. We’ll evaluate the strength of your claim and discuss potential strategies to help you achieve the best possible outcome. This is also where we’ll start to outline a tailored approach to the legal process ahead, so you know what to expect.
2. Investigation & Evidence Gathering
Our attorneys will conduct a thorough investigation into your accident. This includes collecting police reports, medical records, witness statements, any available video footage or photos from the scene, etc. We work with expert witnesses, such as accident reconstructionists and medical professionals, to build a strong case on your behalf, if necessary. By gathering solid evidence, we ensure that we have everything necessary to demonstrate the other party’s liability and the full extent of your injuries.
3. Demand & Negotiation
Once we’ve compiled the evidence, we’ll prepare a demand letter to present to the at-fault party’s insurance company. This letter will outline the details of your case, including the costs of your medical treatments, lost wages, and other damages. Our attorneys are skilled negotiators who understand the tactics insurance companies use to minimize payouts. We’ll advocate fiercely on your behalf to help secure a settlement that fully compensates you for your injuries. If negotiations are successful, your case won’t need to go to court (the vast majority of cases do not go to court).
4. Filing a Lawsuit (If Needed)
If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, we won’t hesitate to take your case to court. We’ll file a lawsuit and move forward with the litigation process, including pre-trial motions, discovery, and depositions. Our team is well-prepared for trial, with years of experience in representing personal injury victims. We’ll keep you informed and involved, making sure you understand each phase as we progress.
5. Trial Representation
Should your case go to trial, our attorneys will be there every step of the way. We’ll present your case before a judge and jury, using the evidence we’ve gathered to illustrate how the accident has impacted your life.
6. Post-Trial & Settlement Collection
If you receive a favorable verdict, our team will handle the post-trial process, including the collection of your settlement. We’ll ensure that you receive the compensation you may be entitled to as quickly as possible. If necessary, we’ll also address any appeals or issues that arise after the trial to ensure your interests are protected.
our Lexington Personal Injury attorneys
See What Our Clients Say
Put An Award-Winning Firm On Your Side
Lewis & Keller is a recognized Best Law Firm in Eminent Domain and Condemnation Law, as well as Personal Injury Litigation-Plainitffs by U.S. News and World Report. The firm has also been given an AV rating from Martindale-Hubbell.
Founding partner Mike Lewis has procured the title of one of the Best Lawyers in America for personal injury litigation and eminent domain, and was also distinguished as a North Carolina Super Lawyer in personal injury. These accolades wouldn’t have been possible without the hard work of all of the attorneys at Lewis & Keller and their clients who placed their trust in them.
Important North Carolina Personal Injury Laws
There are a few North Carolina state laws to understand when you’re preparing to pursue compensation through a personal injury claim. These laws can significantly impact the outcome of your case.
Statute of Limitations
In North Carolina, personal injury claims generally have a statute of limitations of 3 years from the date of the accident. This means you have a limited time to file a lawsuit.
If you fail to file within this time period, you may lose your right to pursue compensation. DO NOT procrastinate. It takes time to prepare to file a lawsuit, and evidence is typically stronger the sooner after the incident it is.
Contributory Negligence
North Carolina follows a strict contributory negligence rule, which means you can be denied from recovering any compensation if you’re found to be even partially at fault for the accident. That means that if you are found to be even 1% at fault, you may be unable to recover any damages.
Our attorneys will work diligently to prove that you were not at fault to protect your right to compensation.
Types of Personal Injury Cases We Handle
At Lewis & Keller, we have extensive experience handling a wide variety of personal injury cases. Our team is committed to helping you recover the compensation you may deserve, regardless of the nature of your injuries. Here are some of the most common case types we handle:
- Car Accidents
- Truck Accidents (semi-trucks)
- Motorcycle Accidents
- Slip & Fall / Premises Liability Cases
- Product Liability Cases
- Dog Bite Injury Cases
- Workplace Injury Accidents (Workers’ Compensation)
- Social Security Cases
- Nursing Home Abuse Cases
- Wrongful Death
Our Results Speak For themselves
$
7000000
Motorcycle accident resulting in paralysis.
$
3000000
Auto accident resulting in post traumatic stress disorder.
$
1393000
Workplace accident resulting in a traumatic brain injury.
What To Do After a Personal Injury
Experiencing a personal injury can be overwhelming, and it’s important to take the right steps to protect your health and your legal rights. Here’s what you should do after a personal injury to ensure you’re in the best position to seek compensation:
- Seek Medical Attention: Your health and safety should be your top priority. Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s important to see a healthcare professional as soon as possible. Some injuries may not show immediate symptoms and medical records also play a vital role in documenting your injuries, which serves as evidence.
- Report the Incident: Depending on the nature of your accident, you may need to report it to the proper authorities. For example, if you were in a car accident, call the police and file an accident report. If you were injured on someone’s property, report it to the property owner or manager.
- Document Everything: Gather as much information as possible about the accident. Take photos of the scene, any visible injuries, and any damage to vehicles or property. Collect contact information from any witnesses, as well as the names and contact details of the other parties involved. Keep organized records of all your related medical treatments and visits as well.
- Avoid Talking to Insurance Adjusters: After an accident, you may receive a call from the at-fault party’s insurance company. Be cautious about what you say, as anything you disclose could be used against you. It’s often best to let your attorney handle communication with the insurance adjusters. DO NOT accept any settlements without consulting your lawyer first (they are trying to get you to agree to a minimum settlement).
- Keep Records of Your Expenses: Personal injury cases can lead to a long list of expenses. Keep detailed record of these expenses, as they can be used to support your claim and justify a higher settlement amount. Additionally, document any impact on your daily life, such as pain, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment in activities, etc. which can contribute to non-economic damages.
- Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer: Navigating the legal process on your own can be very challenging, especially when dealing with complex laws and insurance companies that are far better equipped than you. A personal injury lawyer can provide guidance, protect your rights, and help secure the compensation you may deserve.
- Follow Your Doctor’s Advice: To ensure the best possible recovery and strengthen your case, follow your doctor’s advice and complete all recommended treatments. Skipping appointments or failing to follow medical instructions could be used against you by the opposing party to argue that your injuries are not as severe as claimed.
Potential Compensation in Personal Injury Cases
If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to various forms of compensation. In personal injury cases, compensation is designed to cover the losses you’ve experienced and help you move forward. Here’s an overview of the types of compensation you may be eligible to receive:
Lost Wages
If your injury has forced you to miss work, you can seek compensation for lost wages. This includes not only the time you’ve already missed but also any future loss of earnings, if your injury prevents you from returning to work or limits your ability to earn the same income. We’ll gather evidence of your earnings and work with economic experts if needed to calculate future income losses.
Pain and Suffering
In addition to tangible financial losses, personal injury victims may be entitled to compensation for pain and suffering. This type of compensation accounts for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the injury. Factors such as the severity of the injury, the level of pain experienced, and the impact on your quality of life will be considered in determining this amount.
Property Damage
If your personal property was damaged during the accident, you could be compensated for repair or replacement costs. This commonly applies in cases involving car accidents, where you may be eligible to recover expenses for vehicle repairs or the fair market value of your vehicle if it was totaled.
Emotional Distress
Some injuries lead to significant emotional trauma, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Emotional distress compensation aims to address the psychological impact of your injury. This form of compensation is often supported by testimonies from mental health professionals who can attest to the extent of your suffering.
Loss of Enjoyment of Life
Injuries that result in long-term or permanent disabilities can limit your ability to enjoy activities you once loved, such as hobbies, sports, or family events. Compensation for loss of enjoyment of life seeks to account for this diminished quality of life, recognizing the ways in which your injury has altered your daily experiences and personal fulfillment.
Loss of Consortium
In some cases, spouses or family members may be eligible for compensation due to the negative impact of your injury on their relationship with you. This is known as loss of consortium and includes the loss of companionship, affection, or intimacy resulting from your injury. While this form of compensation is separate from your personal injury claim, it can be pursued alongside it.
Punitive Damages
In cases where the at-fault party’s actions were particularly reckless or malicious, punitive damages may be awarded. These damages are meant to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior in the future. While North Carolina has caps on punitive damages, our attorneys will pursue them whenever applicable to your case.
The type of damages and amount of compensation you can receive depend on the specific circumstances of your case. A Lexington personal injury lawyer can estimate the value of your case during your initial case review.
Personal Injury FAQs
How Much Is My Personal Injury Case Worth?
The value of your case depends on factors like the severity of your injuries, medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and the impact on your quality of life. While each case is unique, consulting with an experienced attorney can give you a clearer idea of potential compensation after evaluating your specific circumstances.
How Long Will It Take to Resolve My Case?
The timeline for resolving a personal injury case varies depending on its complexity, the severity of injuries, and whether a settlement can be reached or if the case goes to trial. Some cases settle within a few months, while others may take a year or more. Your attorney will provide a realistic timeline after assessing the specifics of your case.
What If I Was Partially At Fault for the Accident?
North Carolina follows a strict contributory negligence rule, which means that if you are found even 1% at fault, you may be barred from recovering compensation. This makes it essential to have an experienced attorney who can help prove that the other party was entirely at fault and counter any claims that you share responsibility for the accident.
Do I Have to Go to Court?
Most personal injury cases settle out of court through negotiations. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, going to trial may be necessary. Your attorney will prepare you for each step and represent you in court to fight for the compensation you may deserve. Whether or not your case goes to trial, having an attorney can help secure the best possible outcome.
What Should I Say to Insurance Adjusters?
Be cautious when speaking to insurance adjusters, as they may try to use your statements against you to minimize your claim. Avoid giving recorded statements or accepting any offers without consulting an attorney. Your attorney can handle all communication with insurers to protect your rights and work toward a fair settlement.
Can I Still File a Claim If My Injuries Aren’t Severe?
Yes, you can file a claim even if your injuries seem minor. Medical costs, pain, and emotional impact from an injury can still be significant, and you may be entitled to compensation for these losses. Consulting with an attorney can help you understand the value of your claim, even for less severe injuries.
What Is the Difference Between a Settlement and a Verdict?
A settlement is an agreement reached between you and the at-fault party’s insurance company to resolve the case without going to trial. A verdict, on the other hand, is a decision made by a judge or jury if the case goes to trial. Both outcomes aim to secure compensation, but a settlement can provide a quicker resolution. An attorney will advise you on the best path based on the specifics of your case.
Related Articles & Info
- How You Can Get A Fair Settlement From An Insurance Adjuster After An Accident
- How To Maximize Your Chance At Fair Compensation After An Accident In North Carolina
- Steps You Can Take If The Insurance Company Denies Your Personal Injury Claim
- The Top 10 Most Dangerous Jobs In America & How You Can Avoid Injury If You Have One
- Asbestos Exposure: What Workers Need To Know
- What Every Parent Should Know About High School Sports Injury Lawsuits In North Carolina
