Hayes, Williams, Turner & Daughtry, P.A.Harnett County Criminal Defense Lawyer | North Carolina Injury Attorney | Dunn Family Law Firm2026-07-02T20:56:06Zhttps://www.harnettlaw.com/feed/atom/WordPressOn Behalf of Hayes, Williams, Turner & Daughtry, P.A.<![CDATA[The passenger’s guide: what to do if you are injured in a friend or relative’s car]]>https://www.harnettlaw.com/?p=489772026-06-22T07:10:20Z2026-06-25T07:09:45Z car accident is stressful enough but having serious injuries when you know the driver adds another layer of difficulty. It is common to worry about moving forward to pursue compensation because it feels like “suing” a friend or family member. In most cases, that is not what is happening. A passenger typically makes an injury claim against an insurance policy, not against the person you care about.
Start with safety and medical care
Your health comes first. If injured, seek medical attention right away, even if symptoms seem minor. Some injuries, like head and back injuries, can worsen over time. Medical records also create a clear link between the crash and your injuries, which is important for any insurance claim.
What to do at the scene and soon after
The steps you take after an accident are important to protect your health and ability to recover costs later. Focus on documentation and basic information gathering. The following five steps are generally applicable after most car accidents:
Call 911 and request police and medical assistance
Get the driver’s insurance information and confirm the vehicle owner
Take photos of the vehicles, the roadway and visible injuries
Collect contact information for witnesses
Avoid discussing fault at the scene or on social media
These actions help preserve evidence and reduce disputes later. They also make it easier for you to move forward with your claim and for the insurance adjuster to evaluate the claim fairly.
Addressing the guilt: you are not filing against your friend
This is the emotional hurdle for many passengers. The driver’s liability coverage or other available coverage generally covers medical payments coverage or uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage. Your friend or relative is not usually writing a personal check. The insurer is handling the claim under a policy that exists for this exact situation.
How the claim process typically works
Once you have medical care underway and have discussed your options with legal counsel, you can notify the relevant insurance company and begin the claim. Keep your documentation organized and be cautious with recorded statements. Save medical bills, discharge papers and treatment notes. It is also helpful to track missed work, lost wages and out of pocket expenses. These records support the value of your claim and help to better ensure you are not left paying for someone else’s negligence.If you are injured while riding with a friend or relative, you can seek compensation without turning it into a personal conflict. The claim is generally against an insurance policy, not against the driver as an individual. Taking prompt medical and documentation steps can help you recover the support you need for treatment, time off work and a more secure financial recovery.]]>On Behalf of Hayes, Williams, Turner & Daughtry, P.A.<![CDATA[I-95 Through Harnett County: Why This Stretch is a Truck Accident Hotspot and Drivers Need to Know]]>https://www.harnettlaw.com/?p=489692026-04-17T12:52:03Z2026-04-22T12:51:14ZIf you drive I-95 through Harnett County, you share the road with thousands of commercial trucks every single day. This stretch near Dunn has become a hotspot for truck accidents due to heavy traffic, high speeds and constant merging. Understanding where these crashes happen most frequently can help you recognize the dangers you face on your daily commute.
High-risk areas along I-95 in Harnett County
Certain sections of I-95 near Dunn see more truck-related collisions than others. The stretch between Exit 73 (NC-55) and Exit 81 (US-421/NC-55) experiences particularly heavy commercial vehicle traffic. According to North Carolina General Statutes § 20-116, drivers must maintain safe speeds and proper following distances, but enforcement becomes difficult when traffic volume increases.Other problem areas include:
The I-95 and US-421 interchange near Dunn
Merge lanes at Exit 73 where slower-moving trucks enter from NC-55
The northbound lanes approaching the Cumberland County line during peak hours
These locations often involve trucks changing lanes, merging into traffic or unexpected slowdowns. When drivers fail to anticipate these movements, rear-end collisions and sideswipe accidents can occur.
Why truck accidents happen more frequently here
This section of I-95 presents unique challenges beyond just traffic volume. As of 2026, the ongoing North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) Project I-5986 has made this stretch even more dangerous. Construction between Mile Markers 71 and 81 near Dunn has created narrowed lanes, concrete barrier walls and shifted shoulders that leave large commercial trucks with zero margin for error. Weather conditions like morning fog and sudden rainstorms further reduce visibility and make surfaces slick. These combined factors turn an already busy corridor into a particularly high-risk zone for serious accidents.
What happens after a truck accident on I-95
Truck accident cases often involve multiple parties, and because North Carolina follows a contributory negligence rule, even if you share even a small percentage of fault, you may lose the right to recover compensation. An attorney familiar with Harnett County can investigate your crash and review critical evidence like driver logs and maintenance records that strengthen your case. When the roads you depend on carry this much risk, knowing your legal options can make all the difference.]]>On Behalf of Hayes, Williams, Turner & Daughtry, P.A.<![CDATA[When can ‘minor’ car accident injuries actually be more dangerous?]]>https://www.harnettlaw.com/?p=489482026-02-19T10:51:07Z2026-02-20T10:50:16ZHidden dangers of delayed symptoms
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) confirms that impact forces cause significant damage even without visible vehicle destruction. Injuries to the brain or soft tissues often follow a "latent" pattern, with symptoms emerging slowly.
You may experience slight stiffness that can worsen into a debilitating condition as the initial shock wears off. Common injuries that often appear minor at the scene include:
Whiplash and neck strains: Sudden jerking tears ligaments and muscles, but inflammation often peaks within 24 to 48 hours.
Traumatic brain injuries (TBI): A concussion may only cause slight confusion or a dull headache before escalating into cognitive issues.
Internal bleeding: Deep bruising from a seat belt can signal organ damage that requires immediate medical imaging.
Nerve damage: Feeling tingling sensations ("pins and needles") in your extremities can indicate a herniated disc pressing against spinal nerves.
These symptoms signal that your body is struggling to recover from the physical stress of the crash. Never ignore persistent headaches or numbness simply because they did not start at the moment of impact.
Early documentation matters
National Safety Council statistics from 2023 show that the economic cost of a "possible injury" crash averages $27,000, while “evident” injuries jump to $44,000. Costs for “disabling” injuries quadruple to $167,000, while the average monetary cost of a fatality approaches $2 million. Insurance adjusters often try to settle claims quickly before you realize the true extent of your medical needs.
Under North Carolina law, you may rescind an insurance settlement within 30 days if you signed without an attorney, but avoiding an early, lowball offer is always the safer path. Establishing a clear link between the accident and your symptoms protects your rights.
Skilled legal guidance helps you uncover the true scope of your losses and ensures that "minor" complications do not result in a lifetime of out-of-pocket medical expenses. An experienced car accident lawyer helps correctly calculate the gap between your current diagnosis and your long-term needs, so you can receive the compensation you deserve.]]>On Behalf of Hayes, Williams, Turner & Daughtry, P.A.<![CDATA[Navigating Car Accidents in North Carolina During the Holidays]]>https://www.harnettlaw.com/?p=489402025-12-19T07:52:30Z2025-12-24T07:52:02Z
Ensuring that your vehicle is properly maintained and repaired as needed.
Getting plenty of rest prior to your trip.
Engaging in defensive driving so that you can anticipate things that can go wrong and can take evasive maneuvers when necessary to do so.
Scheduling your trip during times when there’s less traffic.
Avoiding distracted driving.
Planning ahead so that you know what sort of weather conditions to expect.
With thoughtfulness and attention, you can significantly reduce your risk of being involved in a serious crash. But what if you wind up in a wreck or have already been injured in one? What should you do then?
What to do if you’ve been involved in a North Carolina accident
Life can quickly become overwhelming when you’ve been involved in a serious car accident. You may not know where to turn for help or where to start in reclaiming your life. Here are some tips that we hope you’ll find helpful as you navigate the aftermath of your car accident:
Call the police so that a report is generated.
Seek out immediate and ongoing medical care so that your condition and prognosis can improve and so that you create a record of the extent of your injuries and your need for ongoing treatment.
Take pictures of the accident scene, making sure you capture everything from road conditions to vehicle damage and nearby traffic signs and signals.
Talk to witnesses so that you can secure their account of events while being sure to capture their contact information.
Seek out assistance from family members and friends who can help you find a new sense of normal in the aftermath of your wreck.
Keep a journal about how your accident injuries have impacted your ability to live and enjoy a normal life.
Continue to follow your doctor’s recommendations for treatment and care.
Refrain from speaking to the insurance company on your own.
Be careful when posting on social media so that you don’t provide the defense with evidence that they can use against you in your personal injury case.
Be prepared to be deposed leading up to trial in your case.
Be safe and protect your interests this holiday season
We hope that you’re able to stay safe this holiday season by exercising defensive driving. But if you find yourself in an accident, we hope now you’ll now know what you need to do to protect your interests and your future. We understand, though, that there are multiple nuances to these types of situations, which is why you might want to discuss your situation with an experienced personal injury attorney. By doing so, you may be able to develop a plan that puts your mind at ease and maximizes your chances of obtaining the outcome that you want.]]>On Behalf of Hayes, Williams, Turner & Daughtry, P.A.<![CDATA[Hit and Run Accidents in North Carolina: What to do When the Other Driver Flees]]>https://www.harnettlaw.com/?p=488812025-10-17T07:48:59Z2025-10-22T07:44:33Zsteps you can take to protect your interests, advance your recovery and reclaim the life that was unfairly ripped away from you.
But figuring out the best way to navigate your physical, emotional and financial losses in the aftermath of a hit-and-run accident can be tough. That’s why in this post we want to look at what you can do to find the individual who hit you, secure the financial resources you need and find the help necessary to competently and confidently navigate the road ahead.
How can you locate a hit-and-run driver?
Your first step in locating a hit-and-run driver is to contact the police. Don’t move your vehicle until law enforcement is able to analyze the scene of the wreck and collect evidence. As part of their investigation, the police will speak with you and other witnesses to secure a vehicle description, but they may also analyze any existing dashcam, security or traffic footage that may have captured the accident. This could result in the recovery of a license plate number that leads to the driver in question. If that happens, then not only will criminal charges be filed, but you’ll also be in a strong position to file a personal injury lawsuit against that driver.
How can you secure the financial resources that you need?
A personal injury lawsuit against the driver who harmed you may be your best bet, but that’s not an option if you can’t locate that individual. If that’s the case, then you’ll have to turn to your own insurance provider for coverage. You may be able to secure financial relief through your own collision or uninsured motorist coverage, but you’ll have to work with your appraiser to provide them with the evidence needed to approve your claim. Be sure to also consider whether other provisions of your policy can be utilized, such as personal injury protection.
How can a legal professional can assist with your hit-and-run accident case?
There are many ways that an attorney may be able to guide you through the process. For example, they can help coordinate with law enforcement to ensure that proper steps are taken to find the individual responsible for your harm. If that individual is located, then your attorney can assist in building a personal injury lawsuit against them so that you stand the best chance possible of recovering the compensation you’re owed.
But even if you can’t locate the driver who it you, an attorney can still prove beneficial during the insurance claims process. An attorney can gather the evidence needed to file a robust claim and work with the insurance company to ensure that there aren’t any unnecessary delays. This will hopefully lead to a quicker outcome that positions you for the fullest recovery possible.
Don’t let a hit-and-run accident leave you down and out
We know there are a lot of stressors to address when facing a hit-and-run accident. But you can’t let the legal process weigh on you to the point that you don’t take the action necessary to protect your financial interests. Instead, ready yourself to act. And if that seems like too much to handle, then work with your personal injury attorney to secure any help that you may need to confidently move forward and secure the resolution that you need.]]>On Behalf of Hayes, Williams, Turner & Daughtry, P.A.<![CDATA[North Carolina motorcyclists should be vigilant during the summer]]>https://www.harnettlaw.com/?p=488622025-09-02T05:53:30Z2025-09-05T05:52:53ZRecent crash highlights dangers motorcyclists face
A North Carolina motorcyclist was killed after colliding with a fire truck. Law enforcement reports that the fire truck was heading for a call and had its lights and sirens activated when the rider crashed into the truck while both were in an intersection. The 46-year-old rider was thrown and died.
While this is an unfortunate set of circumstances, it exemplifies the potential dangers riders are confronted with when they take to the state roads. Being thrown from the bike and skidding are just two potentially catastrophic outcomes that can happen to a rider. Since they are so vulnerable and are often only protected by a helmet and riding gear, they can suffer broken bones, head injuries, spinal cord damage, lost limbs, road rash, and more. In a worst-case scenario, they can lose their lives.
Motorcycle safety involves preparedness
North Carolina has a program called Vision Zero that encourages drivers and riders to share the road and for riders to take safety precautions to mitigate the dangers they face. Its lofty objective is to reduce the number of road fatalities to zero.
For motorcyclists, the statistics are sobering. The most recent comprehensive numbers are from 2023. There were 205 motorcyclists who lost their lives in a crash that year. Effective safety strategies include wearing a helmet and having protective clothing. That includes wearing appropriate shoes, gloves, and eye protection. They are also warned as to the risks of riding after drinking alcohol since 43% of fatal single-bike crashes in 2022 happened after the rider had been drinking.
Motorcyclists are in greater jeopardy during the summer
Motorcyclists generally face more dangers in the summer than they do during the rest of the year. There are many reasons for this including a higher traffic volume due to people taking summer trips and more young, inexperienced drivers being on the road. Many drivers of passenger vehicles and trucks are distracted by their cellphones, directional apps, and by interacting with passengers.
The weather is also a problem. Since storms and hurricanes are common when the weather is warmer, a wet road, drivers who are unaccustomed to operating their vehicles in poor weather, and flooding can also put riders in jeopardy. Many drivers do not keep watch on their blind spots for riders. The combination of heavier traffic and these other dangers put riders at risk.
Injured motorcyclists and their families should have help after an accident
People who have been hurt or lost a loved one in a motorcycle accident need to have prompt, aggressive representation to look out for their interests. The medical challenges people will face can include hospitalization, prescription medications, and rehabilitative care. Their finances can be severely damaged not just with medical bills, but with the inability to work. They might need to have care at home as they recover.
Regardless of the severity of the accident, it is important to have advice from the start. Consulting with professionals who know the ins and outs of motorcycle crashes, understand how to gather evidence, and can move forward with a case is key with reaching a successful outcome and holding those responsible for the accident accountable.]]>On Behalf of Hayes, Williams, Turner & Daughtry, P.A.<![CDATA[Reducing the risk of a crash on I-95 or I-40 this summer]]>https://www.harnettlaw.com/?p=488532025-06-23T08:58:44Z2025-06-26T08:57:28ZI-40 recently reopened as part of the post-Helene repair process, and the interstate tends to see heavy traffic volume and a large number of crashes. The same is true of I-95. Despite the state committing to many projects intended to expand and improve I-95, crash risk is significant.
What do motorists need to know about traveling on the highway during the summer months?
Heavy traffic is particularly dangerous
Technically, people can end up involved in collisions on even the most rural roads. However, heavy traffic volumes tend to increase collision risk. The more drivers there are in close proximity to one another, the greater the potential that a small mistake could lead to a major incident.
Many people drive through North Carolina on their way to various vacation destinations. The summer months see an influx of tourist traffic. High speeds amplify this issue by creating the risk of worse injuries and secondary crashes after a collision occurs.
Drivers on I-95 and I-40 could end up involved in multi-vehicle collisions. Even if the crash only involves two vehicles, it might leave a vehicle unsafe to drive and put people in the hospital.
Large vehicles also amplify risk
Many of the people driving across North Carolina for vacation purposes may have recreational vehicles (RVs), large rented vans or SUVs. There are also many commercial trucks crisscrossing the state to supply the businesses catering to those tourists.
The unfortunate reality is that when a crash involves a larger vehicle, the smaller vehicle involved in the incident is at elevated risk. Motorists on I-95 and I-40 are vulnerable to collisions involving large vehicles that may cause more devastation than crashes between two smaller passenger vehicles.
Pursuing compensation can quickly become complex
Even in cases where the injured party may not originally be from North Carolina, they may need assistance from within the state as they pursue compensation for their injuries and property damage losses. They may need help filing an insurance claim or a personal injury lawsuit.
Securing support from those familiar with North Carolina's insurance rules and legal system can be beneficial. Summertime interstate car crashes have the potential to not just ruin a vacation but forever change circumstances for a family. Adequate compensation can help limit the long-term fallout caused by a wreck.]]>On Behalf of Hayes, Williams, Turner & Daughtry, P.A.<![CDATA[How contributory negligence can impact car crash compensation]]>https://www.harnettlaw.com/?p=488382025-04-24T06:45:33Z2025-04-29T06:45:02ZPartial fault prevents successful litigation
Every state has different policies regarding contributory negligence or comparative fault. These legal terms refer to the partial responsibility that parties may have for crashes and other incidents that result in injuries.
North Carolina has a pure contributory negligence statute. This unfortunately means that any degree of personal responsibility prohibits a plaintiff from securing compensation through a personal injury lawsuit. However, the burden of proof is on the defendant to show that the contributory negligence rule applies.
They must convince the courts that a preponderance of the evidence shows that the plaintiff helped cause the crash through misconduct or negligence on the road. They may make such claims in response to a pending personal injury lawsuit. The courts can review their allegations and determine what degree of fault the plaintiff may have. Even 1% of fault for the crash can be enough to eliminate the option of pursuing a lawsuit.
Those hoping to take legal action after a motor vehicle collision may need to review the situation carefully with a skilled legal team and prepare to respond assertively to allegations of contributory negligence. Getting the right support when seeking compensation after a car crash can help people pursue the compensation they deserve following a major wreck.]]>On Behalf of Hayes, Williams, Turner & Daughtry, P.A.<![CDATA[The impact of weather conditions on car accidents in North Carolina]]>https://www.harnettlaw.com/?p=488272025-02-21T10:23:18Z2025-02-26T10:22:22ZPractice defensive driving
If it’s raining, snowing or anything wet is falling from the sky (or even if the rains are over but the roads are still slick or have puddles), go into defensive driving mode. That means, in part, focusing completely on your driving and what’s going on around you on the road. If you’re on a long trip and using cruise control, turn it off. Keep both hands on the steering wheel.
Slow down – even if it means driving under the speed limit. Remember that you can be ticketed for driving too fast for road and weather conditions regardless of your speed. You also don’t want to be going too fast if you go through a puddle that’s deeper than it looks. That can cause hydroplaning.
Allow plenty of room between you and the vehicle ahead. That “3-second rule” may need to be lengthened to 4 or more seconds. Remember that the closer you are to the car in front of you, the more likely you are to be temporarily blinded by splashing water.
Don’t make any sudden moves, like sharp turns or hard braking. That’s another reason to keep your speed down. If you start to skid, remember to look and steer in the direction you want to go and not to slam on the brakes.
Wind is another dangerous weather condition
If conditions are windy, keep your distance from large vehicles that tend to get blown around. Also watch out for debris rolling across the road so you can safely avoid it or at least be extra careful if you have no choice but to drive over it.
Taking these precautions can minimize your risk of a collision with a driver who isn’t taking them. However, it’s important to remember that if you are involved in a crash despite your best efforts, bad weather doesn’t excuse another driver’s unsafe behavior. You can help protect your rights and work to pursue fair compensation if you get legal guidance as soon as possible.]]>On Behalf of Hayes, Williams, Turner & Daughtry, P.A.<![CDATA[What pedestrians should consider when walking in the dark]]>https://www.harnettlaw.com/?p=487972025-01-15T05:34:33Z2025-01-21T05:34:12ZWalking after dark is a good way to get some exercise without having to worry about being out in the heat of the day. Some people find this a peaceful time to walk, but anyone who chooses to walk after dark should ensure they take proper safety precautions.
Low visibility and reduced awareness can increase the risk of being struck by a vehicle. Following these safety tips may help to improve their safety.
Wear the proper gear
One of the easiest ways to stay visible at night is by wearing bright or reflective clothing. This may include options like armbands, vests or shoes that have reflective properties. This makes it much easier for drivers to see pedestrians. Carrying a flashlight or wearable LED can also enhance visibility.
Stay in well-lit areas
Well-lit sidewalks and pathways are ideal for pedestrians because drivers can easily see them. The light can also help to pedestrians by making it easier to see uneven pavement and other obstacles.
Remain alert and avoid distractions
Distractions and failing to pay attention to what’s going on around them can lead to pedestrians missing valuable information. Avoid wearing earbuds or headphones that cover both ears to make it easier to hear vehicle horns and other sounds.
Obey all traffic signals
Traffic signals, such as pedestrian signals in crosswalks, are meant to enhance safety. It’s also a good idea to remain as predictable as possible to drivers to make it easier for them to know what’s going on and what to expect.
Let someone know the route
It’s a good idea to share the walking route with someone. Provide them with the starting time and them know when the walk concludes. This increases safety because if something happens, someone will know that there’s likely been an incident.Any pedestrian who’s struck by a vehicle should ensure they get prompt medical attention, which can be costly. They may opt to pursue a claim for the financial damages that occurred in the crash. This can only be done for a limited time, so working with someone familiar with these matters is critical. ]]>