Whether it’s a collision on I-85, a pedestrian accident in Charlotte, or a workplace injury in the mountains of Asheville, accidents in North Carolina can change lives in an instant. After the initial shock, many victims and families are left asking: What do we do now?
This guide highlights essential North Carolina accident victim resources to help you access medical care, request police reports, understand your legal rights, and get support after an injury or fatal accident.
Support for Injury Victims After Accidents in North Carolina
If you’ve been injured in an accident caused by another person’s negligence, North Carolina law gives you the right to seek compensation—but it also places limits that victims need to know about.
Emergency Care and Rehabilitation in North Carolina
Some of the state’s top hospitals and rehab centers for accident victims include:
- UNC Medical Center (Chapel Hill) – Level I trauma center
- Atrium Health Carolinas Medical Center (Charlotte) – Emergency care and trauma support
- Duke University Hospital (Durham) – Advanced neurological and orthopedic care
- Mission Hospital (Asheville) – Trauma services and rehabilitation
For community health clinics and state-supported services, visit the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services at https://www.ncdhhs.gov
North Carolina Personal Injury Laws
North Carolina is one of only a few states that uses a pure contributory negligence rule. If you are found to be even 1% at fault for the accident, you may be barred from recovering any compensation. Because of this strict rule, having strong legal representation is critical.
Damages available in personal injury claims include:
- Medical bills
- Future treatment costs
- Lost income and benefits
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional trauma
The statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim in North Carolina is three years from the date of injury.
Support for Families After Fatal Accidents in North Carolina
Losing a loved one in an accident is devastating. Whether the loss was due to a vehicle crash, workplace incident, or dangerous property, certain family members may be eligible to seek justice through a wrongful death claim.
Grief Counseling and Bereavement Support in North Carolina
There are many grief and trauma resources across the state, including:
- Hospice & Palliative Care Charlotte Region – Free grief support services for families
- Heartstrings (Greensboro) – Offers peer-based grief support groups
- Kids Path (Winston-Salem) – Pediatric grief counseling and family support
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call or text 988 for confidential, 24/7 support
Filing a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in North Carolina
According to North Carolina General Statutes § 28A-18-2, wrongful death claims must be filed by the personal representative of the deceased’s estate. Damages may go to surviving family members.
Compensation may include:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Medical bills related to the fatal injury
- Lost future earnings
- Loss of companionship and services
- Pain and suffering (prior to death)
The deadline to file a wrongful death claim in North Carolina is two years from the date of death.
How to Get a Police Report After an Accident in North Carolina
Crash reports are valuable tools in insurance claims and lawsuits. They provide details about how the accident occurred and who may be at fault.
Requesting an Accident Report in North Carolina
There are several ways to request a crash report:
- North Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV): Visit https://www.ncdot.gov to request a report online
- North Carolina State Highway Patrol: For accidents on interstates and highways
- Local Police Departments: Contact the records division in the city or town where the accident occurred
To request a report, you may need:
- Names of those involved
- Date and location of the crash
- Report number (if available)
- Payment of a small fee (usually $5–$10)
Most reports are ready within 5–7 business days.
Financial and Social Support After Accidents in North Carolina
If you’re unable to work or struggling to cover bills after an accident, there are several assistance programs available throughout the state.
Public Benefits Through NC DHHS
The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services offers a range of support programs:
- NC Medicaid – Free or low-cost healthcare for eligible individuals
- Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) – Monthly grocery assistance
- Crisis Intervention Program (CIP) – Help with utility bills
- Work First Family Assistance – Temporary cash assistance
Apply for services at https://epass.nc.gov
North Carolina Victims Compensation Services
If the accident involved a criminal act—such as a drunk driving crash, hit-and-run, or assault—you may qualify for help through NC Victims Compensation Services.
They may reimburse costs for:
- Medical care
- Counseling
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Lost wages
Learn more or apply at https://www.ncdps.gov or call 1-800-826-6200.
Frequently Asked Questions About Accidents in North Carolina
What is contributory negligence?
North Carolina uses a contributory negligence rule. This means that if you’re even 1% at fault for the accident, you may be ineligible to recover any compensation. This makes it especially important to gather evidence and speak with a lawyer.
How long do I have to file a lawsuit?
You have three years from the date of the injury to file a personal injury lawsuit and two years from the date of death for a wrongful death claim.
Who can file a wrongful death claim?
The personal representative of the deceased’s estate must file the lawsuit. Surviving family members may receive the compensation awarded.
Do I need a police report?
A police report is often required by insurance companies and strengthens your legal case. It’s a key document that outlines what happened and who was involved.
Should I hire an attorney?
Yes. Because of North Carolina’s strict fault rules, having a lawyer can mean the difference between receiving compensation or losing your case entirely.
Call a North Carolina Accident Attorney Today
Accidents and sudden loss can leave you feeling powerless—but legal help is available. An experienced North Carolina accident attorney can answer your questions, help you gather evidence, and fight for your right to financial recovery.
A lawyer can also:
- Obtain your crash report
- Investigate the accident thoroughly
- Negotiate with insurance companies
- File your claim on time
If you or a loved one was injured or killed in an accident, don’t wait. Call a North Carolina accident attorney today and take the first step toward justice.