How Much Can Someone Sue for a Car Accident in NC?

When involved in a car accident in North Carolina, the amount you can sue for depends on various factors, including the severity of your injuries, the extent of property damage, and the impact on your quality of life.

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North Carolina does not impose caps on economic or non-economic damages, meaning you can recover up to the amount you can prove you have been injured, barring contributory negligence. However, punitive damages, which are rarely available, are capped at the greater of three times your proven compensatory damages or $250,000.

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The average car accident settlement in North Carolina may be around $20,000, but this figure is not a guarantee or a cap. Settlements can vary significantly based on the specifics of each case. Factors such as the severity of injuries, longer post-accident care, and the nature of the other party’s conduct can significantly impact potential recovery. It's crucial to note that North Carolina follows a pure contributory negligence rule, meaning if you are found to be even slightly at fault, you may be barred from recovering any compensation.

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Policy limits also play a crucial role in the compensation process. North Carolina requires auto insurance policies to cover $30,000 per person and $60,000 per accident for bodily injury, with property damage covered at a minimum of $25,000. These limits can affect the amount available for recovery in case of an accident.

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Given the complexity of recovering damages in North Carolina due to contributory negligence and the variability of settlement amounts based on individual case facts, working with an experienced personal injury attorney is advisable.

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An attorney at Hall & Dixon PLLC can navigate the legal intricacies and help maximize the potential recovery for damages suffered in a car accident. If you have any questions about a claim or potential claim, contact us today for a free consultation.