North Carolina law requires all drivers to carry auto insurance. However, many people fail to pay their premiums or simply choose to drive without insurance. Fortunately, NC insurance laws also require all car insurance policies to include Uninsured Motorist coverage. This is the payment source for your injury claims if you are struck by an uninsured or hit & run driver.
Beaufort area accident caused by an uninsured driver? Our NC insurance law allows "stacking" of UM policies. Victims are covered by the UM on the vehicle they are riding in, on their own policy if they have separate insurance, and also on all family-owned insurance policies for residents of the victim's household.
Insurance analysts estimate that nearly one in eight motorists in the U.S. are either uninsured or underinsured. These careless drivers aren't just putting themselves in jeopardy; they also jeopardize your physical safety and financial well-being. The good news is UM coverage pays, but the insurance adjusters handling these claims will seek to minimize your benefits. Two other bits of good news: First, collecting UM benefits from your own policy will not harm your coverage or increase your premiums. Second, once your insurance company pays you, they will go after the uninsured driver seeking full reimbursement, and even suspend their drivers license until payment arrangements are made. Uninsured drivers do not escape justice!
At Nagle & Associates, we stand ready to protect and enforce your rights if you suffer injuries caused by a negligent driver without insurance. Please don't trust your insurance adjuster to simply volunteer full and fair payment. Former adjuster Carl Nagle cautions that "insurance adjusters are paid to minimize your claims, and they will pay you as little as you let them". Whether you choose our firm or another, an experienced underinsured or uninsured driver accident attorney in Beaufort can help access and collect from multiple insurance policies, present the strongest injury case, and collect the tax-free compensation you deserve.
Carl Nagle previously worked in Atlanta, Georgia for insurance companies as a claims adjuster and as an insurance company lawyer. He then moved to North Carolina and now only represents victims of NC motor vehicle accidents. Our firm has successfully handled many underinsured and uninsured motorist cases. Drawing on 30 years of focused motor vehicle accident experience, Carl Nagle is passionate about protecting the rights of injured victims and their families.
Our legal team is committed to recovering the compensation our clients' need to restore savings, pay for past and future medical needs, be compensated for scarring and lost quality-of-life, and to have tax-free compensation so they can improve their life following a serious collision. As such, every attorney at Nagle & Associates works tirelessly to help clients - just like you - understand how underinsured/uninsured driver claims work and how a great lawyer can help you maximize your injury claims and present the strongest legal case.
Underinsured and uninsured driver accident claims can be very complex and involve a variety of factors. Some of the most common situations we find in these cases include:
Regardless of the circumstances, you can rest easy knowing our uninsured and underinsured driver accident attorneys in Beaufort have the skills, experience, and commitment to pursue all of your legal claims and collect maximum payment for your past and future medical needs, for lost wages, and for your pain and suffering.
Nagle & Associates isn't like other underinsured and uninsured driver accident law firms, and that's by design. We don't advertise on television, on the radio, or on billboards. We focus on real injuries and devote ourselves to excellence in service and results. Instead, we focus those resources on benefiting our clients by providing caring yet highly effective legal services for every accident victim we represent.
We also have a better fee structure than other personal injury law firms that handle underinsured and uninsured driver crashes.
Our legal team works on a contingency fee basis, which means we only get paid once your case is settled or your trial concludes. Most cases settle privately, with no lawsuit filings and no court involvement. The contingency fee structure incentivizes your lawyer to pursue maximum compensation for your injury claims. Frankly, an experienced lawyer will collect more from insurance companies than an unrepresented victim. To the extent that your lawyer collects more than you could have, he/she pays his/her own fee. Our goal is to leave you with far more settlement money in hand than you would ever get handling your case alone, and we make the insurance claim process much easier for you.
While many underinsured and uninsured driver accident law firms charge 33.3% of the settlement and 40-44% of amounts collected after a lawsuit is filed, our firm offers a more client-oriented rate of 25% on the settlement and 33.3% on any amounts collected in litigation. We file lawsuits only when an insurer refuses to offer a fair settlement, and only when we agree together that suit filing is the best path toward full compensation for your accident claims. We are a boutique law firm dedicated to concierge level client service and excellent results. We only handle serious motor vehicle accident cases, and our discounted fee percentage leaves a larger share of your settlement money in your hands when the case closes.
We stand ready to begin working on your case now. We offer free consultations by phone and if you want our help, we can meet in our office, and we also have investigators who can meet with you where you are, whether its at your home, your work or even if you are still under care at Graham's Senior Living Homes near Beaufort. If you prefer, you can even retain us by exchanged mailings. We charge no legal fee to help our clients with their property damage claims, and charge nothing for home visits. And remember, there are no up-front costs because our fee is a percentage of settlement, so we are paid only if and when we collect a settlement that you accept.
Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage compensates crash victims for injuries and damages resulting from an accident caused by a driver who has no insurance whatsoever, or by a hit & run driver who cannot be identified. UM does not for property damage caused by a hit & run driver, but injury claims are fully covered by all applicable policies. In contrast, Underinsured Motorist (UIM) coverage steps in when a driver has liability insurance, but the coverage limits are insufficient to cover the injuries and damages they've caused.
The number of drivers on the road without insurance is quite alarming. According to the Insurance Information Institute, around 13% of motorists in the United States are uninsured. In North Carolina, that figure is notably lower, with about 6.5% of drivers operating without insurance coverage. However, the mandatory coverage limits in NC are quite low: before July 1, 2025, drivers can legally drive with only $30,000 per-person and $60,000 per-accident in bodily injury liability coverage. After July 1, 2025, our mandatory coverage increases to $50,000 per-person and $100,000 per-accident.
Our firm only handles real injury claims arising from forceful collisions. We commonly represent victims with injury claims worth more than $50,000. In these cases, we make sure the victim does not sign a Release for the liability coverage, because this destroys your payment rights for UIM coverage. We also notify and open claims for all stackable UIM policies. Once we bring all insurance companies and adjusters to the table, we present the strongest medical evidence, present a strong threat of litigation and trial, and push for the highest possible settlement offer.
UM and UIM are both stackable coverages in NC. If the at-fault driver had no insurance or was a hit & run driver, all UM policies stack. If the at-fault driver doesn't have enough coverage to fully fund your injury claims, all UIM policies stack to provide aggregate coverage and payment for all injury claims.
Policies stack from three sources - the policy on the vehicle the victim was riding in, the victim's personal auto policy if they were riding in someone else's vehicle, and every separate policy for anyone related to the victim by blood or marriage who resided with the victim on the date of the accident. Consider this hypothetical: Mary is riding with her friend Paula when they are struck by a hit & run driver. Paula's UM policy provides $50,000 per person in UM coverage. Mary has her own car and her policy has $100,000 in UM coverage. Mary lives with her son who has a separate auto insurance policy with $250,000 in UM coverage. In this case, Mary can stack and collect from all policies, and receive up to $400,000 in tax-free injury claim payments.
North Carolina's Motor Vehicle Safety and Financial Responsibility Act of 1953 (MVSFRA) defines a vehicle as "uninsured" if it lacks both bodily injury liability insurance and property liability insurance that meets at least the minimum limits set by state law. A vehicle may still be deemed uninsured if it has such insurance but the insurer denies coverage or has gone bankrupt.
According to the MVSFRA, a vehicle is deemed "underinsured" when the total liability limits from all applicable bodily injury insurance policies at the time of the accident fall short of the limits of underinsured motorist coverage for the vehicle involved in the collision and covered under the owner's policy.
When you file an uninsured or underinsured motorist insurance claim, your UM/UIM insurance carrier essentially acts as if they were the defendant. Despite being your own coverage, the insurance adjuster will try to reduce the amount they pay you just as the insurance company of the at-fault driver would. Always remember that insurance companies are for-profit businesses. They are in business to collect premiums, not to pay claims.
Your insurance adjuster might downplay your injuries or argue that you were fully or partially responsible for the accident. In North Carolina, under our pure contributory negligence law, if you are deemed even slightly at fault for the accident, you have no payment rights and cannot collect any compensation. If the adjuster can place you just 1% at fault, you get nothing. And insurance adjusters always challenge claims, question the extent of your injuries, argue that medical bills are unreasonable, and they offer pennies on the dollar to unrepresented victims. That's why it's crucial to involve an attorney as soon as possible—this helps protect your rights and increases your chances of collecting a settlement that reflects what you would receive from a jury of your neighbors following a successful trial.
Even if you prefer to handle your case without a lawyer, personal injury lawyers offer free consultations which can be accomplished by phone or in person. Invest time to talk with a victims' rights advocate who can explain your rights and options, and help you understand how to properly present your accident/insurance claims.
When it comes to collecting compensation after an uninsured or underinsured driver accident, the amount you get often depends on your auto insurance policy. In North Carolina, the law mandates that all car insurance policies include Uninsured Motorist coverage, but having Underinsured Motorist coverage is optional. That means you can collect benefits for Uninsured Motorist through your own policy, while benefits for Underinsured Motorists will depend on your coverage and the coverage on any other policies that apply.
Here's how you may be protected:
Uninsured Motorist coverage (UM) comes into play when another driver is at fault and lacks liability insurance. In such cases, the UM your insurance provider will assist in covering medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage, up to the limits set in your policy. UM coverage also applies if your collision was caused by a hit and run driver. In these cases, UM covers the injury claims but will not pay for repairs or replacement of your damaged vehicle. Thus, collision coverage is needed to collect for property damage caused by a hit and run driver.
Underinsured Motorist coverage (UIM) comes into play when the at-fault driver's insurance limits aren't enough to cover your accident-related losses. In such cases, your may be able to access multiple UIM policies to help cover your claims and damages that exceed what the at-fault driver's policy can provide.
In North Carolina, the minimum limits for Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage match the state's minimum liability requirements. This means you should have at least $30,000 for each injured person in an accident, $60,000 total for personal injuries per accident, and $25,000 for property damage. If you find yourself in an accident with a driver who lacks sufficient insurance and you don't have UIM coverage, don't lose hope. You may be able to access other policies, or you can still work with an underinsured driver accident attorney in Beaufort to pursue a lawsuit against the at-fault driver's personal assets.
Both types of insurance coverage provide compensation for injuries that typically arise from motor vehicle collisions. For a claim to be valid, the at-fault driver's negligence must be the "proximate cause" of the costs or damages incurred. Some of the UM and UIM damages you can claim include:
Under North Carolina law, you can draw not only from your own insurance policy but also from the policy of any relative by blood or marriage who currently lives with you and has UM/UIM coverage for their vehicle. For instance, a student going to Beaufort County Community College near Beaufort, who is living at home, can stack and collect from both their UIM policy and their parents' UIM policy if each has separate vehicles and separate insurance policies. The key is separate policies. If a single crash victim has multiple auto insurance policies, the can stack and use all of those policies, and still collect from family-owned policies AND the policy for the vehicle they occupied during the accident.
It's important to understand that UM/UIM coverage isn't automatically applied - North Carolina has specific regulations that outline when an injured party can file a UM/UIM claim. Since these rules can be quite complex, it's wise to work with an uninsured or underinsured driver accident attorney in Beaufort who is knowledgeable about underinsured and uninsured motorist coverage to help navigate the process and effectively resolve your claim.
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions we get from clients who were hit and injured by an underinsured or uninsured driver in North Carolina.
Uninsured Motorist coverage does cover injury claims arising from a hit-and-run accident, but certain criteria must be met to prevent fraudulent claims. First, victims should report the crash to police immediately Period Second, if your injuries are significant, you should speak with a lawyer about how to report claims and speak safely with insurance carriers. Lastly, there must be actual contact between the vehicles involved. This is often referred to as the "no contact rule." For instance, if one vehicle forces another off the road without any physical contact, the uninsured motorist coverage is not liable and North Carolina law allows them to deny the claim.
After an accident, the process of recovery can feel daunting and overwhelming, especially if you're dealing with injuries or recovering at Beaufort Senior Living community near Beaufort. That's why it's wise to reach out to one of our experienced personal injury attorneys, who can help take that burden off your shoulders. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you won't owe us a dime unless we secure compensation for you. That means there's no downside to giving us a call at (800) 411-1583 to explore your options.
According to North Carolina law, interpolicy stacking is applicable only to insurance for "nonfleet private passenger motor vehicles," as outlined in N. C. Gen. Stat. §58-40-15 (9) and (10). Furthermore, any uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage included in a policy that covers five or more vehicles, or that pertains to vehicles not classified as a "private passenger motor vehicle" under the statute, does not qualify as a "separate or additional policy." Therefore, the limits of such coverage cannot be stacked with those of any other policies when determining the uninsured and underinsured motorist limits.
To protect your right to payment for your injury claims, it's important to be aware of the deadlines for filing uninsured and underinsured motorist claims, referred to as the statute of limitations. In North Carolina, you typically have three years from the date of the accident to file your lawsuit against all liable parties. However, in fatal injury cases, our NC Wrongful Death Act requires suit to be filed within two years. You should never wait until the last minute to you're your lawsuit! Navigating the claims process can be tricky, and the last thing you want is to miss out on the compensation you deserve because you didn't meet the deadline. That's why it's a good idea to team up with a skilled uninsured driver accident attorney in Beaufort who can help you handle your claim more effectively.
Many drivers shell out significant premiums to insurance companies for coverage in the event of an accident. Unfortunately, insurance companies commonly oppose, minimize and deny valid claims. This leaves injured individuals and victims of motor vehicle accidents in a tough spot when they need assistance the most. Unfortunately, it happens frequently and insurance companies often resort to various tactics to safeguard their profits.
Tactics like these are made in bad faith. They can include:
Insurance companies often rely on these claim-opposition tactics to delay, minimize & deny claims, which underscores the importance of having a strong advocate by your side. Partnering with an experienced NC underinsured or uninsured accident lawyer can help your claim get approved, and help you collect maximum payment for your crash-related losses.
If you've been in an accident caused by an uninsured or underinsured driver, it's very easy for insurance adjusters to control the dialogue and steer you toward a bad result. Even though you're dealing with your own insurance company, they know you don't intend to go to court without a lawyer, and they will not help you find reasons to pay full value for your accident and injury claims. Expect opposition and don't trust the insurance adjuster who is being paid to minimize your claims.
At Nagle & Associates, our experienced attorneys in North Carolina only handle motor vehicle accident cases and we know exactly how to pursue and collect maximum payment fo any victim of an uninsured or underinsured driver. We have decades of experience with complex traumatic medical cases, and we know how to collect and present your medical evidence, and how to compel the insurance adjusters to pay the full value of your case. We have mastered all NC insurance laws, and we know how to access multiple policies and compel maximum payment for your injury claims. We work closely with every client, develop a relationship that helps us understand your story, and work to solve your problems every step. We work for you, and with you! Together, we'll gather the details of your situation, thoroughly investigate the incident, and outline the best legal options for you. Whether you need guidance through the entire process, assistance in negotiating with the insurance company, or representation in court against a negligent driver or insurer, we've got your back. We're not afraid to take a strong stance to ensure you get the compensation you're entitled to.
Contact our office today for your free consultation.
North Carolina might not be the first place travelers think of when they pine for the Old World’s charm, but the Tar Heel State conceals pockets of Europe-inspired magic that even frequent flyers to Paris or Bern might find remarkable. Forget lengthy layovers and currency exchanges; these eight towns showcase architecture, heritage, and culture reminiscent of Europe’s storied squares and markets, all within a few hours&rsquo...
North Carolina might not be the first place travelers think of when they pine for the Old World’s charm, but the Tar Heel State conceals pockets of Europe-inspired magic that even frequent flyers to Paris or Bern might find remarkable. Forget lengthy layovers and currency exchanges; these eight towns showcase architecture, heritage, and culture reminiscent of Europe’s storied squares and markets, all within a few hours’ drive of each other.
Mountain enclaves with Bavarian echo and coastal hamlets in North Carolina bear the seafaring stamp of their Swiss or English founders. These communities prove that North Carolina’s roots run deeper—and more globally—than you might expect. If you crave an Alpine vista, a riverside promenade, or a centuries-old site with pirate lore, pack your wanderlust, clear your schedule, and get ready to tour the continent…without leaving the state’s border!
Off The Beaten Path Towns In North CarolinaNorth Carolina is home to some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the country, from the rugged peaks of the Blue Ridge Mountains to the sandy shores of the Atlantic Ocean.
New Bern was founded in 1710 by Swiss and German immigrants, embodying a strong European heritage. This connection is most evident in its architecture and the name itself, derived from Bern, the capital of Switzerland. The town is notable for being the birthplace of Pepsi-Cola, created by pharmacist Caleb Bradham in his drug store in 1898.
Visitors to New Bern can explore a variety of specific historical and cultural sites. The Tryon Palace, a reconstructed colonial governor's residence, offers guided tours and gardens. The North Carolina History Center at Tryon Palace provides interactive exhibits. For dining, Persimmons Waterfront Restaurant serves local cuisine with river views, while Baker's Kitchen offers traditional breakfasts and bakery items. Art enthusiasts can visit the Bank of the Arts for local exhibitions. Additionally, Union Point Park presents a serene setting for picnics and riverside walks.
Blowing Rock, located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, draws its name from an ancient rock formation that dramatically overhangs Johns River Gorge, where winds cause the snow to blow upward. This scenic village, with its cool mountain climate and views, parallels the charming hill towns of Europe.
In terms of attractions, the Blowing Rock Art and History Museum (BRAHM) presents regional cultural exhibits, and the nearby Moses H. Cone Memorial Park provides trails and the historic Manor House. For dining, Storie Street Grille offers refined local cuisine, and the Six Pence Pub provides a British-style atmosphere. Blowing Rock’s Main Street features a variety of shops like the Last Straw, an upscale boutique, creating a European shopping experience right in North Carolina.
Highlands, at an elevation of over 4,000 feet in the southern Appalachian Mountains, shares its mountainous terrain with the scenic landscapes often found in the European highlands. Founded in 1875 by developers based on the idea that it would become a major crossroads, the town's layout was inspired by its envisioned role as a meeting point.
The Bascom: A Center for the Visual Arts offers exhibitions and workshops, while the Highlands Playhouse presents live performances. For dining, Madison's Restaurant and Wine Garden provides locally sourced cuisine. Nearby, the Sunset Rock provides a panoramic view of the town and its environs, reminiscent of a Swiss vista. Additionally, the Highlands Biological Station features a botanical garden that showcases native alpine flora.
Mount Airy is widely recognized as the inspiration for the idyllic town of Mayberry from the television show "The Andy Griffith Show." Though not founded by Europeans, its small-town charm and community feel parallel to the quintessential European village. The town is also known for its role in the granite industry, with the largest open-face granite quarry in the world located nearby.
Visitors to Mount Airy can delve into local culture and history at the Andy Griffith Museum, which features memorabilia from Griffith's career. Snappy Lunch, known for its famous pork chop sandwich, has been serving locals since 1923. For outdoor activities, the nearby Pilot Mountain State Park provides trails and climbing opportunities.
Beaufort, North Carolina's third-oldest town, is located on the state's picturesque Crystal Coast. Established in 1709 and named after Henry Somerset, Duke of Beaufort, the town's history is steeped in maritime culture, much like many coastal towns in Europe.
The North Carolina Maritime Museum offers insights into the region's seafaring history and the story of Blackbeard's ship, Queen Anne's Revenge, which was discovered nearby. Dining options include the Beaufort Grocery Company, providing upscale comfort food in a cozy setting. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Rachel Carson Reserve is accessible by ferry, offering a natural retreat with wild horses—a scene that echoes the rustic coastal landscapes of European shores. Front Street provides a picturesque stroll overlooking the harbor, filled with local shops and galleries.
Davidson, positioned along Lake Norman, is primarily known for Davidson College, which was established in 1837. This prestigious liberal arts college imbues the town with a vibrant intellectual atmosphere reminiscent of European university towns. The town's planning and architecture foster a close-knit community feel.
The town of Davidson offers a variety of cultural and recreational activities that underscore its European vibe. Main Street Books provides a curated selection of reads and frequent literary events akin to the bookshops and literary cafes of Europe. Kindred offers innovative dishes in a sophisticated setting, while Summit Coffee on Main Street serves as a central meeting spot for coffee aficionados, reflecting the café culture prevalent in Europe. The Davidson Farmer's Market, a weekly event held on Saturday mornings, features local produce and goods, fostering a community-centric atmosphere.
Bath, established in 1705, is North Carolina’s oldest town and carries a deep historical significance reminiscent of European settlements. Named after Bath, England, this town mirrors its namesake with a rich history steeped in both colonial and maritime heritage. It once served as a haven for pirates, including the infamous Blackbeard, adding a layer of intrigue similar to storied European pirate towns.
The Historic Bath Site offers guided tours of the Palmer-Marsh House, built in 1751, and St. Thomas Church, established in 1734, showcasing architecture and artifacts from the era. The Old Town Country Kitchen provides meals that reflect the local flavor in a quaint setting. Additionally, Bonner's Point offers a scenic overlook by the water, ideal for picnics and leisurely walks.
Tryon, situated in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, has a rich equestrian heritage that echoes the horse-centric cultures of certain European locales. Founded in the late 19th century, this town has become synonymous with horse riding and breeding, drawing comparisons to regions in England and France known for their equestrian pursuits. Tryon is also renowned for its role in the American arts scene, having been a retreat for notable figures such as F. Scott Fitzgerald.
Visitors to Tryon can enjoy its equestrian tradition at the Tryon International Equestrian Center, which hosts international competitions and events. For food, Huckleberry's Tryon offers locally sourced American cuisine in a setting that reflects the town's cultural blend of Southern hospitality and European influences. The Tryon Fine Arts Center provides a hub for local and visiting artists, featuring performances and exhibitions that cultivate the town’s artistic reputation. Lastly, the Lanier Library, established in 1890, serves as a historical and cultural resource.
From alpine echoes in Blowing Rock to Swiss influences in New Bern, these eight North Carolina locales prove that old-world allure thrives stateside. By blending centuries-old heritage with modern-day draws, they capture the best of Europe—minus the passport stamp. Explore them for a fresh, memorable transatlantic adventure at home—and beyond.
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BEAUFORT COUNTY, N.C. (WITN) - Some Beaufort County residents are expressing concerns following the results of the county’s 2025 Property Tax Revaluations.The Beaufort County Commissioners voted to approve the 2025 Property Tax Revaluations in 2022.Kevin Ocarroll, a Beaufort County homeowner says, “I got my tax bill two Fridays ago and it has gone up 120%. My taxes have not raised but more than $230 approximately over the past 16 years until this came up.”“My house value doubled, and we have a sma...
BEAUFORT COUNTY, N.C. (WITN) - Some Beaufort County residents are expressing concerns following the results of the county’s 2025 Property Tax Revaluations.
The Beaufort County Commissioners voted to approve the 2025 Property Tax Revaluations in 2022.
Kevin Ocarroll, a Beaufort County homeowner says, “I got my tax bill two Fridays ago and it has gone up 120%. My taxes have not raised but more than $230 approximately over the past 16 years until this came up.”
“My house value doubled, and we have a small property behind the house that tripled in value. If we keep the same tax rates as we have now, I’ll have to pay $1500 a year roughly in property taxes,” Beaufort County homeowner Heike Woolard also told WITN.
The county’s 2025 Property Tax Revaluation rolled out at the end of February.
Beaufort County Tax Assessor, Lloyd Salter says, “What a lot of people are mad about is, truthfully — they don’t know what all goes into the process. Like anything required in government and in the private sectors, there’s a lot of regulations and laws like the requirement to do it every 8 years. That’s a statute. Our last one was in 2018, so we’re on now really like a 7-year cycle.”
Salter says the county is working to make the cycle shorter by moving to a 6-year cycle. “One of the reasons for that is, what you’re doing with a revaluation is you’re trying to capture what the market is — so, what houses are selling for, what businesses are renting for, lease values, sale values. January 1st of this year was our effective, so we use sales for the last year or two to indicate that.”
With a condensed cycle, he told WITN that’ll help many residents. “Moving it up a little — what happens is you don’t see that 5% increase or another 10% increase -- figuring the markets normally go up in an average economy. Here it’s gone up quite a bit in the recent years.”
There are a few factors contributing to the increase.
“We’re seeing the whole county go up over the past few years. The average 75% across the county. Other counties around us are seeing almost exactly the same thing. You’re having several counties on shorter cycles seeing cycles bigger than this because of location, amount of water front, amount of urbanization,” Salter said.
Salter is working to shed light on how the process works to inform more citizens. He says, “We’re not perfect. Going out and looking at these sales and looking at these things, we don’t go in houses. We don’t always know if you’ve got moisture in the kitchen. We didn’t know the condition on just a drive by and a walk around.”
For dissatisfied residents, appealing is an option that homeowners have.
“We address that. So, the appeal process is a big part of every revaluation process. Your appeal process should be when we’re addressing those concerns—like you know what, this isn’t correct and isn’t here anymore,” Salter told WITN.
However, residents WITN spoke with say the process isn’t as easy as it seems.
Ocarroll says, “I went down there and they told me they couldn’t tell me what my new tax bill would be until July but you have to appeal it by April if you appeal, which is — how do I know if I need to appeal unless I see the new rates?”
“I’m sure they’re going to get so many appeals and so much traffic. I don’t even know what we can appeal. I’ve been so shell-shocked over this,” Woolard told WITN.
Salter says the Beaufort County Tax Office has set up multiple resources to help residents both online and in-person.
In addition to the county’s resources, the county is also holding two community sessions to discuss the revaluation process:
The county says more information sessions at other locations throughout Beaufort County will be announced soon.
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