Short Answer

In North Carolina, you can seek reimbursement for car repairs from the at-fault driver’s liability insurer, your own collision coverage (minus any deductible), or by filing a lawsuit. You must show the other driver caused the crash, your vehicle was damaged as a result, and your repair costs were reasonable. North Carolina’s three-year deadline to file suit applies, and contributory negligence can bar recovery if you were even slightly at fault.

Understanding the Problem

You want to know how, under North Carolina law, you can get paid back for repair costs you already covered out-of-pocket after a crash. The key decision is whether to recover through insurance (the other driver’s policy or your own) or through court if the insurer will not pay. Here, the crash happened last year and you already paid for repairs.

Apply the Law

North Carolina follows an at-fault system. To recover vehicle repair costs, you generally must prove the other driver was negligent, that the crash caused your car’s damage, and that the amount you seek is reasonable (based on repair invoices, comparable estimates, or fair market value if the car was totaled). Claims can be made to the at-fault driver’s liability insurer or under your own collision coverage; unresolved disputes can be filed in Small Claims (Magistrate) Court, District Court, or Superior Court depending on the amount. The standard deadline to file a lawsuit for property damage is three years from the crash date.

Key Requirements

• Fault: The other driver’s negligence caused the collision.
• Causation: The crash directly resulted in your vehicle damage.
• Proof of loss: Reasonable repair cost (or fair market value if total loss), supported by invoices, estimates, and photos.
• No contributory negligence: If you were even slightly at fault, recovery can be barred.
• Timeliness: File any lawsuit within three years; provide prompt notice to your own insurer per your policy.

What the Statutes Say

• North Carolina Gen. Stat. § 1-52 (Limitations of actions) - Sets a three-year limit for actions for injury to person or property.
• North Carolina Gen. Stat. § 20-279.21 (Mandatory auto liability coverage) - Requires liability insurance to cover bodily injury and property damage claims.

Analysis

Apply the Rule to the Facts: The other driver allegedly ran a red light, which supports negligence and fault. Your out-of-pocket repair payments, supported by invoices and photos, show the amount of loss. Because the crash was last year, you are within the three-year window to sue if needed. You can claim through the at-fault insurer and, if available, also pursue your own collision coverage (your carrier may later recover from the at-fault insurer and seek your deductible back).

Process & Timing

1. Who files: You (vehicle owner/driver). Where: Start with claims to the at-fault driver’s insurer and, if you carry it, your own collision carrier. What: Submit a written demand with repair invoices, photos, the crash report number, and insurer information; use your insurer’s claim portal or forms on the North Carolina Judicial Branch or insurer websites as applicable. When: Do this as soon as possible; lawsuit deadline is typically three years from the crash date.
2. If the insurer accepts liability and your documentation is complete, it will issue payment to you and, if applicable, a lienholder. If the offer is short, request a review using comparable estimates or proof of diminished value (if claimed).
3. If the insurer denies or underpays, file in the proper court: Small Claims (Magistrate) Court for lower amounts, District Court for mid-range claims, or Superior Court for higher-value claims. The case ends with a settlement, judgment, or dismissal. If you used your collision coverage, your insurer may pursue subrogation and reimburse your deductible if recovered.

Exceptions & Pitfalls

• Contributory negligence: Any fault on your part may bar recovery; be careful with recorded statements.
• Releases: Do not sign a broad release for property damage that also waives your injury claim unless you intend to resolve both.
• Proof issues: Keep invoices, estimates, and photos; ask shops to retain major replaced parts until your claim is resolved.
• Coverage coordination: If you use your collision coverage, your carrier’s subrogation and your deductible recovery depend on the at-fault insurer’s repayment.
• Loss types: Know the difference between repair cost, total loss valuation, loss of use/rental, and diminished value; support each with documents.
• Medical and payment liens: Some providers and insurers may have lien or reimbursement rights against your settlement; factor these into negotiations.

Talk to a Personal Injury Attorney

If you’re dealing with out-of-pocket repair costs after a North Carolina crash, our firm has experienced attorneys who can help you understand your options and timelines. Reach out today. Call (919) 341-7055 or email intake@piercelaw.com.

Disclaimer: This article provides general information about North Carolina law based on the single question stated above. It is not legal advice for your specific situation and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Laws, procedures, and local practice can change and may vary by county. If you have a deadline, act promptly and speak with a licensed North Carolina attorney.