Short Answer

There is no North Carolina law that sets a specific number of days, but you should get a medical evaluation as soon as possible—ideally the same day or within 24–72 hours. Prompt treatment creates a clear record that links your injuries to the crash. Delays invite insurers to argue your symptoms came from something else. If you cannot be seen in person immediately, start with telehealth and follow up in person.

Understanding the Problem

In North Carolina, the injured person wants to know: how quickly must I see a doctor after a car wreck to support my personal injury claim, and does it have to be an in-person visit? Here, the injured person is an adult, and the consultation with our firm needs to be directly with them. The timing and type of medical care you choose affects how well your injuries are documented and how insurers evaluate your claim.

Apply the Law

North Carolina does not require treatment within a set number of days. However, injury claims rise or fall on proof of causation and damages. Early, consistent medical documentation—history of the crash, symptoms, exam findings, diagnosis, and treatment plan—helps show the crash caused the injuries and that you took reasonable steps to address them. Claims usually begin with the at-fault driver’s insurer; if settlement fails, a lawsuit is filed in the county’s civil court. The general statute of limitations for personal injury is three years from the date of the crash.

Key Requirements

• Prompt evaluation: Get checked as soon as you can (same day if possible, or within a few days) to document injuries and onset of symptoms.
• Objective findings when possible: In-person exams and imaging can capture range of motion limits, tenderness, and other measurable signs that support the claim.
• Consistent follow-up: Attend recommended visits and therapies; gaps in treatment weaken the link between the crash and your symptoms.
• Clear causation history: Make sure your medical records state the crash mechanism and timing of symptoms; this ties the injury to the incident.
• Watch deadlines: Personal injury lawsuits generally must be filed within three years; some insurance benefits and proof-of-loss requirements can have shorter, contract-based timelines.

What the Statutes Say

• North Carolina Gen. Stat. § 1-52 (Three-year limitation) - General three-year deadline for filing most personal injury actions.
• North Carolina Gen. Stat. § 1-53 (Two-year limitation for certain claims) - Two-year deadline applies to wrongful death and certain other claims.
• North Carolina R. Evid. 803(4) (Statements for medical diagnosis) - Patient statements made for diagnosis/treatment can be admissible, so accurate history in medical records matters.

Analysis

Apply the Rule to the Facts: Because the injured person is an adult, they should arrange prompt medical care themselves—preferably the same day or within a few days—to create a clear record of causation and symptoms. A phone or telehealth visit can start the process, but an in-person exam often provides stronger, objective findings that insurers rely on. They should follow the doctor’s plan and avoid gaps, which can be used to argue the crash did not cause the injury. If the claim cannot be resolved, the three-year filing deadline applies to most personal injury cases.

Process & Timing

1. Who files: The injured adult. Where: First with medical providers; then notify the at-fault driver’s insurer and your own insurer (for any applicable benefits). If a lawsuit is needed, file in the county’s civil court through the Clerk of Superior Court. What: For suit, file a Complaint and a Civil Summons (AOC-CV-100) available on nccourts.gov. When: Seek medical care immediately; lawsuit typically within three years of the crash.
2. Gather records and bills; continue recommended treatment. Expect insurers to request medical authorizations and prior records; this can take several weeks to months.
3. If settlement fails, file and serve the Complaint and Summons; the court issues scheduling orders and the case proceeds through discovery toward mediation or trial.

Exceptions & Pitfalls

• Delays or gaps in treatment make it harder to prove the crash caused your injuries; start care promptly and keep appointments.
• Telehealth notes help, but lack of physical exam or imaging can reduce persuasive value; follow telehealth with an in-person visit when safe and feasible.
• Insurance policies can impose shorter notice or proof-of-loss deadlines; read your policy and respond promptly to requests.
• Pre-existing conditions are not a bar, but failing to tell your doctor about them can undermine credibility; be complete and honest in your history.
• If pain is severe, head injury is suspected, or symptoms worsen, go to the emergency department—safety and documentation both matter.

Talk to a Personal Injury Attorney

If you or your adult child was hurt in a North Carolina car crash and you’re unsure about timing, treatment, or next steps, 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.