When Your Back Is Against The Wall
Burlington NC Car Accident Lawyers
Whether you were rear-ended on South Church Street or sideswiped along I-40, a car accident in Burlington can hit like a punch you never saw coming—leaving you with injuries, stress, and mounting financial pressure. When another driver’s negligence turns your life upside down, you should not have to fight for justice alone.
At Lanier Law Group, we know the traffic patterns and hazards unique to Burlington—and we know how to hold negligent drivers accountable. Our attorneys have spent decades helping crash victims recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and ongoing pain. If you are ready to start putting your life back together, we are ready to stand in your corner and fight for what you are owed.
Your Burlington-Based Legal Team With Statewide Strength
Lanier Law Group has spent more than two decades advocating for injury victims across North Carolina—including those in Alamance County and the Burlington area. With a strong statewide presence and a commitment to local communities, the firm delivers the kind of comprehensive legal support that makes a real difference in the outcome of a car accident claim.
Our attorneys handle every case with a collaborative, team-based approach. That means you don’t just get a lawyer—you get access to a legal support system that includes investigators, adjusters, and case coordinators working together to manage your claim. This structure allows us to build cases efficiently and thoroughly, ensuring that critical details are not missed.
Clients in Burlington benefit from both local insight and state-level resources. We understand the specific roads, traffic patterns, and crash data unique to this region, and we use that knowledge to strengthen your case. At the same time, our scale allows us to pursue tough cases and challenge major insurance carriers when needed.
We also make the legal process accessible. Our team is available 24/7 to answer your questions, and we work on a contingency fee basis—meaning you pay no legal fees unless we recover compensation for you.
Why Crashes Happen in Burlington: Local Risk Factors
Burlington may not have the traffic congestion of a major metro area, but it still sees its share of serious accidents. In fact, certain patterns in traffic flow, road layout, and local development make Alamance County a hotspot for collisions.
Major Routes and Dangerous Intersections
The I-85/I-40 corridor cuts directly through Burlington, carrying both local and interstate traffic. High speeds, heavy commercial vehicle use, and merging traffic from on-ramps all contribute to frequent crashes along these interstates. Accidents here often involve multiple vehicles and serious injuries due to the speed and force of impact.
Closer to downtown, roads like South Church Street, NC-62, and US-70 experience heavy commuter traffic. These corridors connect neighborhoods to shopping centers, schools, and industrial parks—and are common sites for rear-end collisions, sideswipes, and pedestrian incidents.
Construction Zones and Development Pressure
As Burlington grows, road construction and lane closures have become more common. These projects can create temporary hazards, such as confusing detours, narrowed lanes, and abrupt traffic pattern changes. Even short-term changes to road design can increase the likelihood of a crash, especially when signage is poor or visibility is limited.
Construction zones along major highways or near residential developments also introduce heavy equipment and distracted drivers into already challenging traffic conditions.
Distracted and Impatient Driving
Like in many growing communities, distracted driving is a frequent factor in local crashes. Whether it’s someone texting at a red light or scrolling through GPS directions while merging onto the highway, even a moment of inattention can lead to a serious collision.
Impatient drivers also pose a threat, especially during peak hours when congestion builds. Drivers who speed, tailgate, or change lanes abruptly can easily cause accidents—particularly in areas where traffic flows from dense residential zones into high-speed highways.
Schedule a free consultation with us today. Call (336) 361-2569 or submit an online contact form.
Common Types of Collisions We Handle in Burlington
While no two crashes are exactly the same, certain types of accidents are especially common in Burlington. Each presents its own legal considerations when it comes to proving fault, documenting injuries, and pursuing compensation.
Rear-End Collisions
Rear-end accidents often happen on busy roads like South Church Street or Huffman Mill Road, where stop-and-go traffic and short stopping distances make it easy for distracted drivers to slam into the vehicle ahead. While insurers often view these as minor, the reality is that rear-end crashes can result in serious injuries like whiplash, back strain, and concussions.
In these cases, establishing driver inattention or following too closely is key. We work to document the conditions surrounding the crash and demonstrate the full impact on your physical health and financial well-being.
Intersection Accidents
Intersections throughout Burlington—especially those along Graham Hopedale Road and Maple Avenue—are frequent sites for side-impact collisions. These T-bone accidents often occur when a driver fails to yield, runs a red light, or misjudges the speed of oncoming traffic.
Intersection crashes can cause severe injuries due to the force of impact on the side of the vehicle, which has less structural protection. These cases may require accident reconstruction and witness testimony to determine who had the right of way and who violated the rules of the road.
Sideswipes and Lane-Change Collisions
On multi-lane roads like US-70 or I-85, sideswipe accidents are common—especially during merging or lane changes. These collisions often happen when one driver fails to check their blind spot or doesn’t account for speed differences between lanes.
These cases require clear evidence of lane positioning and driver behavior. Dashcam footage, vehicle damage patterns, and witness accounts often play a key role in proving fault.
Highway Pileups and Multi-Vehicle Crashes
The high-speed stretches of I-85 and I-40 through Alamance County are also the site of multi-car accidents and pileups. These chain-reaction crashes can be caused by sudden braking, poor visibility, or road debris—and they often involve multiple parties with overlapping degrees of fault.
Determining liability in a multi-vehicle crash is complex. We investigate each party’s role in the accident, analyze crash sequences, and work with experts when needed to determine how the incident unfolded. Our goal is to protect our client’s claim from being diluted by disputes over shared fault.
How Speeding and Reckless Driving Endanger Burlington Roads
Aggressive driving behaviors are a leading cause of serious car accidents across North Carolina, and Burlington is no exception. On major thoroughfares like NC-62, US-70, and I-85, drivers who ignore speed limits or engage in reckless maneuvers put everyone at risk. These behaviors increase not only the likelihood of a crash but also the severity of injuries when accidents occur.
Speeding on Local Roads and Interstates
Speed limits are designed to keep traffic flowing safely, especially in areas where merging, turning, or stopping is frequent. Unfortunately, many drivers disregard these limits, particularly on high-speed stretches of I-85 and I-40 or near congested areas like South Church Street.
When speeding is involved, drivers have less time to react, longer stopping distances, and a greater chance of losing control. Collisions at high speeds result in greater force upon impact, often leading to severe or life-threatening injuries.
Tailgating and Unsafe Lane Changes
Following too closely, or tailgating, is another reckless behavior that frequently causes rear-end crashes in stop-and-go traffic. Drivers who do not maintain a safe following distance cannot brake in time to avoid a collision—especially if the car ahead stops suddenly.
Unsafe lane changes are also common in Burlington, especially near freeway on-ramps or during busy commuting hours. Weaving between lanes, failing to signal, or cutting off other vehicles puts everyone around at risk.
When these actions result in crashes, victims are often left with serious injuries and complex claims. Our legal team works to hold reckless drivers accountable and demonstrate the full impact of their dangerous behavior.
What to Do Immediately After a Car Accident in Burlington
The hours and days after a crash can be chaotic. You may be dealing with injuries, car damage, and conflicting information from the other driver or their insurer. Taking the right steps after a crash in Burlington can make a meaningful difference in your physical recovery and your ability to pursue compensation.
Report the Crash and Document the Scene
If the police responded to your accident, the crash report will be a key piece of evidence. If you have not yet obtained a copy, we can request it on your behalf. The report typically includes details about the location, road conditions, driver statements, and any citations issued at the scene.
Photos taken immediately after the accident can also be useful. Images of vehicle damage, skid marks, traffic signs, and weather conditions help preserve important details. If you didn’t take photos at the time, nearby businesses may have surveillance footage—something our team can help locate quickly before it’s overwritten.
Seek Medical Care Promptly
Even if you didn’t go to the hospital immediately, it’s important to be evaluated by a doctor as soon as possible. Some injuries take time to develop symptoms, and delays in diagnosis can lead to complications. Medical records that clearly connect your injuries to the crash are essential to a successful legal claim.
Finally, avoid admitting fault or discussing your injuries in detail with the other driver’s insurance company. Let an attorney handle communication with insurers to protect your rights.
Understanding Medical Treatment Options in Alamance County
One of the most important steps you can take after a car accident is to seek medical attention. Not only is it critical for your health, but it also helps establish a clear connection between your injuries and the crash. In Alamance County, there are several trusted medical facilities where accident victims can begin their recovery.
Emergency and Ongoing Care in Burlington
Alamance Regional Medical Center, located in Burlington, offers emergency services and a range of specialty care options, including orthopedics and physical therapy. If you were transported to the ER after the crash, your initial evaluation and treatment will form the foundation of your injury claim.
In addition to hospital-based care, urgent care clinics like Cone Health MedCenter and walk-in providers across the region can offer quicker access to treatment for non-life-threatening injuries. If you need imaging, follow-up care, or rehabilitation services, these facilities can be important parts of your long-term recovery.
Medical Documentation Supports Your Claim
Consistent treatment not only supports your healing—it creates a documented timeline of your injuries. Missed appointments or gaps in care may be used by insurance companies to downplay the severity of your condition. Our team works with you and your providers to ensure your medical records clearly reflect the extent of your injuries and the care required.
Hidden Injuries: What You Might Miss After a Crash
Not all injuries from a car accident are obvious. In fact, some of the most serious conditions don’t show symptoms right away. That’s why it’s so important to monitor your health closely in the days following a crash—and to seek prompt medical evaluation even if you initially feel fine.
Soft Tissue Injuries and Internal Damage
Whiplash and other soft tissue injuries are especially common in rear-end collisions, which happen frequently in Burlington traffic. These injuries may cause pain, stiffness, or reduced mobility—but symptoms often don’t appear until hours or days later.
Internal injuries, including organ damage or internal bleeding, may also be missed without proper imaging. These injuries are potentially life-threatening if left untreated, and they often result from the blunt force trauma of a crash.
Concussions and Brain Injuries
Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) and concussions can occur even without direct impact to the head. The rapid back-and-forth motion of a crash can cause the brain to strike the inside of the skull, leading to symptoms like confusion, headaches, memory issues, or sensitivity to light. These symptoms may take time to develop and can be misinterpreted or dismissed without proper evaluation.
When injuries are delayed, insurers may try to argue they were caused by something other than the accident. That’s why early documentation and ongoing care are critical. At Lanier Law Group, we ensure that delayed-onset injuries are taken seriously and factored into your legal claim. We work to recover compensation for both the immediate and long-term impact of your injuries.
How Contributory Negligence Impacts Your Claim in North Carolina
North Carolina follows one of the strictest fault laws in the country: contributory negligence. Under this legal doctrine, if you are found to be even 1% responsible for the crash, you may be barred from recovering any compensation for your injuries. This rule significantly raises the stakes for anyone pursuing a car accident claim in Burlington—or anywhere in the state.
What It Means for Injury Victims
In practice, contributory negligence gives insurance companies a powerful tool to deny valid claims. Even if the other driver was clearly speeding, distracted, or reckless, the insurer may still try to argue that your own actions contributed in some small way to the collision. A missed turn signal, minor delay in braking, or misunderstanding at an intersection could become the basis for denying your entire claim.
This is why every detail of your case matters. Your actions before, during, and after the crash will be scrutinized, and even an innocent mistake could jeopardize your financial recovery.
Building a Case With No Room for Doubt
Because of this unforgiving legal standard, your attorney’s role is to build a case that clearly establishes 100% liability on the part of the other driver—or any other responsible party. At Lanier Law Group, we approach each case with this challenge in mind, gathering strong evidence and presenting a clear, well-supported claim that leaves no room for the insurer to argue shared fault.
In a contributory negligence state, preparation isn’t optional—it’s essential.
Who May Be Liable in a Burlington Car Accident Case?
Most people assume that the driver who caused the crash is the only one responsible. But many accidents in Burlington involve additional parties whose negligence contributed to the collision or made the outcome worse. Identifying all possible sources of liability is a key part of maximizing your recovery.
Commercial Drivers and Employers
If the person who hit you was driving a company vehicle—such as a delivery van, commercial truck, or rideshare car—their employer may share legal responsibility. Employers can be held liable for negligent hiring, poor vehicle maintenance, or unsafe policies that pressure drivers to work long hours or meet unrealistic deadlines.
Auto Shops and Mechanics
Mechanical failure can also play a role in a crash. If faulty brakes, steering issues, or improperly installed parts contributed to the accident, a repair shop or mechanic could be at fault. These claims require a close review of service records and may involve expert analysis to determine whether a maintenance error caused or worsened the incident.
Government Entities and Road Conditions
Poor road maintenance, missing signs, malfunctioning traffic lights, and unsafe construction zones are also contributing factors in many crashes. When these hazards play a role, the city, county, or state agency responsible for road upkeep may bear some legal responsibility.
Claims against government entities are subject to specific rules and shortened timelines. That makes early legal involvement especially important in these cases.
Businesses That Overserved Alcohol
In certain situations, bars or restaurants that serve alcohol to visibly intoxicated patrons can be held liable if that person later causes a crash. This is known as a dram shop claim, and it may apply when the at-fault driver was drinking shortly before the accident.
Lanier Law Group investigates all avenues of liability so that no responsible party is overlooked. A full and fair recovery often depends on identifying every contributor to the crash—not just the person behind the wheel.
Investigating the Scene and Preserving Evidence
Every strong car accident claim begins with a thorough investigation. To succeed under North Carolina law, you need to show not just that you were hurt, but that someone else’s negligence was entirely to blame. That’s why collecting and preserving evidence is a top priority from the start.
Gathering Physical Evidence
We begin by securing the official crash report, which often contains initial fault assessments, road conditions, and witness information. If you took photos at the scene—of vehicle damage, traffic signs, or road hazards—those images can help recreate what happened. If no photos are available, we may be able to gather nearby surveillance footage or return to the scene ourselves to document any remaining physical evidence.
Interviewing Witnesses
Witnesses can be essential in proving fault, especially when insurance companies dispute the facts of the crash. Our legal team tracks down witnesses quickly and records their statements while their memories are still fresh. In some cases, we may also obtain written affidavits or schedule depositions if the case goes to court.
Using Expert Analysis
When needed, we work with outside experts such as accident reconstruction specialists or mechanical engineers. These professionals help analyze vehicle damage, road geometry, and other crash data to identify how and why the collision occurred.
The evidence we gather not only helps prove liability—it also protects your case from efforts to assign partial blame. In a state like North Carolina, where contributory negligence can block your recovery entirely, this work is crucial.
How Insurance Companies Try to Limit Payouts
After a crash, you may assume that filing a claim is straightforward—especially if the other driver was clearly at fault. Unfortunately, that’s rarely the case. Insurance companies are in business to protect their bottom line, and they have well-practiced strategies for minimizing what they pay out.
Offering Quick, Low Settlements
One of the most common tactics is to offer a settlement early—often before you’ve finished medical treatment or understand the full extent of your injuries. These offers may cover your initial bills but fall far short of what you’ll need for long-term recovery. Once you accept, your claim is closed—and you can’t go back for more.
Requesting Recorded Statements
Insurers may also ask you to provide a recorded statement. While this might sound routine, it’s often a way to catch you off guard. Anything you say can be used to suggest that you were partially at fault or that your injuries aren’t as serious as you claim. We advise clients never to speak with the other party’s insurance company without legal representation.
Blaming the Victim
In North Carolina, the contributory negligence rule means that insurers have a strong incentive to shift even a small portion of the blame onto you. They may argue that you were speeding, distracted, or not paying full attention—no matter how minor the accusation. This is one of the most effective ways they deny claims entirely.
Lanier Law Group understands how these companies operate, and we don’t let them control the narrative. We build detailed, evidence-backed cases that reflect the full truth—and we push back on every attempt to reduce or deny what our clients are owed.
Recoverable Damages After a Burlington Car Crash
After a serious car accident, your injuries can take a toll on every part of your life—from your health and finances to your ability to enjoy daily activities. North Carolina law allows injury victims to recover compensation for both economic and non-economic damages. In some cases, additional damages may be awarded when the other party’s behavior was particularly reckless.
Medical Expenses and Future Treatment
Your compensation should cover all accident-related medical costs. This includes emergency room visits, ambulance transport, hospital stays, surgery, medication, follow-up care, physical therapy, and any necessary medical equipment. If your injuries require ongoing or future treatment, those projected costs are also considered when determining damages.
Our team works closely with your medical providers to ensure all current and future healthcare needs are accounted for in your claim.
Lost Income and Earning Potential
If your injuries forced you to miss work, you may be entitled to recover the wages you lost during your recovery. In more serious cases, you may not be able to return to your previous job—or to any job at all. Compensation for lost earning capacity is designed to make up for that long-term impact on your ability to provide for yourself and your family.
Pain, Suffering, and Loss of Enjoyment
Not all losses show up on a medical bill or pay stub. North Carolina law also allows you to recover non-economic damages for the physical pain, mental distress, and emotional hardship caused by your injuries. If your injuries have limited your ability to enjoy life, pursue hobbies, or maintain relationships, those effects are considered as well.
Punitive Damages
In rare cases, punitive damages may be awarded when the at-fault driver’s conduct was especially reckless or malicious—such as in a drunk driving case. These damages are meant to punish wrongdoers and deter similar behavior in the future.
Our legal team evaluates every claim to determine the full range of damages available and builds a case that reflects the real impact the crash has had on your life.
Wrongful Death Claims After Fatal Accidents in Burlington
Losing a loved one in a car accident is a devastating experience. If the crash was caused by someone else’s negligence, surviving family members may be able to pursue a wrongful death claim under North Carolina law. These claims are intended to provide financial support and a measure of justice after an unexpected and preventable loss.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim?
In North Carolina, a wrongful death claim must be filed by the personal representative of the deceased person’s estate. This is typically a close family member, such as a spouse, parent, or adult child. The claim is filed on behalf of surviving family members who suffered loss due to the death.
What Damages Are Recoverable?
A wrongful death claim can include a variety of damages, such as:
- Medical expenses related to the final injury
- Funeral and burial costs
- Loss of the deceased person’s income and benefits
- Loss of companionship, support, and services
- Pain and suffering experienced by the deceased before death
Lanier Law Group handles these claims with compassion and sensitivity. We understand how painful this process can be and work to support families through every step—while pursuing accountability from the responsible parties.
Car Accidents Involving Uninsured or Underinsured Drivers
Not every driver on the road follows the law. If you’re hit by someone who has no insurance—or not enough insurance to cover your losses—it can feel like your options are limited. Fortunately, North Carolina requires uninsured motorist (UM) coverage as part of every auto insurance policy. Many policies also include underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage.
How UM/UIM Coverage Works
If the at-fault driver is uninsured, your UM policy can step in to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages up to your policy limits. If the other driver has insurance but not enough to cover your losses, your UIM coverage can help make up the difference.
These claims are filed with your own insurance company, but that doesn’t mean the process is easy. Your insurer will still review and potentially challenge the claim—just like in a third-party case.
How Lanier Law Group Helps
Our attorneys assist clients with UM/UIM claims by reviewing policy terms, gathering the necessary documentation, and negotiating directly with insurers. Whether you’re dealing with a driver who fled the scene or someone with insufficient coverage, we make sure your rights are protected and your losses are pursued to the fullest extent.
Why Hire a Burlington Car Accident Attorney?
After a car accident, it can be tempting to handle things on your own—especially if the other driver admits fault and the insurance company seems cooperative. But in North Carolina, even a small mistake can put your claim at risk. Hiring an experienced personal injury attorney can make a significant difference in both the outcome of your case and your peace of mind during the process.
How Legal Representation Helps
A skilled attorney can:
- Handle communication with insurance adjusters
- Protect you from accepting a lowball settlement
- Build a strong case that avoids the pitfalls of contributory negligence
- Identify all liable parties and sources of compensation
- Prepare your claim for court if negotiations fail
At Lanier Law Group, we’ve been representing injury victims in Burlington and throughout North Carolina for more than 25 years. We know the law, understand local traffic patterns, and are prepared to fight for the full compensation you deserve.
Take the First Step Toward Recovery With Lanier Law Group
If you or someone you love has been injured in a Burlington car accident, Lanier Law Group is ready to step into the ring with you. From your first consultation to the final bell, our team delivers strategic, compassionate, and hard-hitting advocacy designed to help you reclaim your future.
We work on a contingency fee basis—so you never pay upfront legal fees, and you owe us nothing unless we secure compensation on your behalf. Our attorneys are available 24/7 to answer your questions, explain your rights, and keep you informed every step of the way.
Recovery is not just about healing—it is about fighting back. Let us help you take the first step.
Call 919-342-1368 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation with a Burlington car accident lawyer today.
Call today at (336) 361-2569 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation and case evaluation.
We Won't Back Down
Fighting for Your Rights, Winning Maximum Recovery
100% Free Consults
We Fight for Our Clients
*Featured Case Results, Settlements, & Trial Wins From Our Attorneys
Don't Hire Just Any Firm
Take Control of Your Case Today With the Help of Lanier Law Group
We Never Back Down
Our attorneys are confident taking cases to trial and will always seek to maximize your compensation.
We're Here For You 24/7
Regardless of when you contact our firm, we're here to make sure that you get the answers you need. We also offer weekend appointments and consultations.
We're In Your Corner
Every case we take on has a team of dedicated professionals assigned to make sure that we're delivering the best possible service and results.
We Come Prepared
After an injury, every second counts. We are available to meet with you in person, virtually, or at your location to provide you with counsel and start delivering results.
