At the scene: do this first

1. Stop, secure safety, and call 911. State law requires stopping and reporting qualifying crashes. Use flashers and triangles; move vehicles only if safe.
2. Request an officer. Reports and diagrams help with liability and benefits in rural corridors.
3. Exchange and document. Names, plates, VINs, insurers, witnesses. Photograph vehicles, lanes, signage, skid marks, and visible injuries.
4. Watch your words. Give facts to police and insurers. Don’t speculate or accept blame.

After you leave the scene

• Medical check within 24–48 hours. Delayed symptoms are common; records connect injuries to the crash.
• Notify your insurer carefully. Provide documents; avoid recorded statements without guidance.
• Track everything. Bills, estimates, prescriptions, mileage, time off work, and a brief recovery journal.

North Carolina rules that matter

• At‑fault system: the liable driver’s insurer pays damages.
• Contributory negligence: even 1% fault can bar recovery, so evidence quality matters.
• Typical filing window: generally three years for personal injury from the crash date.

Discuss timelines and exceptions with counsel; don’t wait until deadlines are close.

Duplin County crash snapshot (latest official)

2023 totals: 1,746 reportable crashes; 20 fatal; 403 injury; and 91 alcohol‑related. Road‑user breakdown: 15 pedestrian crashes (7 fatal), 1 bicycle crash, and 18 motorcycle crashes (3 fatal, 10 injury). Source: 2023 Duplin County Crash Profile (PDF).

Get help before evidence fades

Local counsel can preserve 911 audio, pull nearby camera footage, obtain NCDOT intersection change logs, and handle insurers while you recover.

Free consultation or call (910) 293-3124.

Related services

• Automobile Accidents
• Personal Injury
• Car Accident Lawyer — Duplin County
• Motorcycle Accident Lawyer — Duplin County