Fatal Pedestrian Crash Claims Lives of Roger and Aileen Whidbee in Elizabeth City on March 30, 2025

Elizabeth City, NC (March 30, 2025) - According to local news reports, a tragic accident occurred early Sunday morning on New Road in Elizabeth City, claiming the lives of two pedestrians, siblings Roger Whidbee, 76, and Aileen Whidbee, 62.

Authorities from the North Carolina State Highway Patrol and Pasquotank County Sheriff's Office confirmed that the incident happened at approximately 6:49 a.m. on March 30. The siblings were walking northbound in the southbound lane of New Road, near John White Road, when a minivan driven by 69-year-old Deborah Stevenson veered across the centerline and struck both pedestrians.

Stevenson, an Elizabeth City resident, remained at the scene and called 911 following the crash. Despite emergency response efforts, Roger and Aileen were pronounced dead at the scene. Law enforcement reported that Stevenson was driving north when she crossed into the oncoming lane, causing the fatal collision.

Stevenson has been charged with two counts of misdemeanor death by vehicle and one count of driving left of center. The charges were filed by the North Carolina State Highway Patrol following an initial investigation.

Adding to the tragedy, family members revealed that the siblings were mourning the passing of their 93-year-old mother, Louise Whidbee, who had died of natural causes earlier that same morning at approximately 3:05 a.m. The pair were reportedly walking to clear their minds and find comfort when the incident occurred.

The community of Elizabeth City is reeling from the loss, as the Whidbee family had deep roots in the area. The siblings were said to be preparing to celebrate their mother’s upcoming birthday on April 5.

As the investigation continues, law enforcement authorities have stated that the crash appears to have been an accident, though charges have been formally filed. No additional injuries or vehicles were involved in the crash.

Working With a Personal Injury Attorney in Elizabeth City, NC

When you're hurt in an accident, things can get stressful fast—doctor’s visits, time off work, and unexpected bills piling up. That’s where a personal injury attorney in Elizabeth City, NC, can step in and help. With their guidance, you don’t have to figure everything out on your own. They help explain your options, talk to insurance companies for you, and make sure your rights are protected every step of the way.

Many people hesitate to reach out for legal help because they’re unsure if their case is serious enough or worry about the cost. The truth is, a consultation is usually free, and it can give you much-needed clarity. Whether your injury came from a car crash, slip and fall, or something else entirely, an attorney can help you understand what you're entitled to and how to go after it.

A local law firm that handles personal injury cases in Elizabeth City, NC, will also be familiar with local courts, judges, and processes. That kind of experience can make a big difference. They know how to build strong cases and how to communicate clearly, helping clients feel heard and understood throughout the process. It’s not about making everything perfect—it’s about making things easier during a tough time.

Why Local Experience Matters When Choosing a Personal Injury Lawyer in Elizabeth City

When you’re choosing a personal injury lawyer in Elizabeth City, it helps to go with someone who knows the area. Local attorneys understand the roadways, the community, and how accidents tend to happen around here. They’ve likely worked with others who’ve faced similar situations and can offer insights that an out-of-town firm might not have.

Beyond that, local lawyers are easier to reach and talk to. Instead of waiting on call centers or automated messages, you’re more likely to get a real person who understands your case. It’s a much more personal experience, which is important when you’re already dealing with the stress of an injury.

How a Personal Injury Attorney in Elizabeth City, NC Can Support You

A personal injury attorney does more than just file paperwork. From day one, they’re working to protect your best interests. They collect evidence, speak with witnesses, review medical records, and negotiate with insurance companies—all so you don’t have to.

They also help you calculate the full value of your claim, which includes not only current medical expenses but also lost wages, future treatment, and emotional distress. Without legal support, it’s easy to miss some of these details or settle for less than you deserve.

If you're unsure about whether to hire an attorney, think of it like this: they're there to take some of the weight off your shoulders, so you can focus on healing.

What to Expect From a Car Accident Lawyer in Elizabeth City, NC

Car accidents can happen in the blink of an eye, but the effects can last a long time. From totaled vehicles and physical injuries to insurance disputes and legal headaches, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s where a car accident lawyer in Elizabeth City, NC, can help you make sense of it all and start putting the pieces back together.

An experienced car accident attorney will help you understand what your next steps should be. They'll gather key information—like police reports, photos, and medical documentation—and use it to build your case. Their goal is to make sure you're fairly compensated for your injuries and any financial losses you've suffered.

They also know how to handle common tactics used by insurance companies. When you're trying to recover, the last thing you need is to deal with red tape. Letting an attorney manage those conversations ensures that you’re not taken advantage of during a vulnerable time.

Why Hiring a Car Accident Attorney in Elizabeth City Makes a Difference

Accidents in Elizabeth City, NC, are unfortunately all too common. Whether it’s on a busy street or a quiet neighborhood road, crashes can cause life-changing injuries. A car accident attorney understands the local traffic laws and how those laws apply to your case. They can quickly determine who was at fault, what evidence is needed, and what kind of compensation may be available.

By hiring a local attorney, you’re working with someone who’s not only familiar with North Carolina’s legal system but also understands the concerns of the Elizabeth City community. That means they know how to handle both the legal and human sides of your case—keeping you informed and involved without making things more stressful.

How a Car Accident Law Firm in North Carolina Helps After a Crash

A car accident law firm in North Carolina can offer comprehensive support after a collision. That includes investigating the scene, working with medical experts, and making sure all the necessary documentation is in place. Whether you're recovering from a minor injury or facing a more serious situation, they’re there to help guide you through it all.

They can also help identify other parties who may share responsibility for the accident—whether it’s another driver, a faulty vehicle part, or even a city agency that didn’t maintain the roads properly. By looking at all the angles, they can make sure no detail gets overlooked.

The best part? You don’t have to figure it out alone. From your first consultation to the final outcome, a car accident lawyer in Elizabeth City, NC, is there to support you every step of the way.

Why Rosensteel Fleishman Is a Smart Choice for Car Accident Cases in Elizabeth City

After something as devastating as a fatal pedestrian accident, it’s normal for families to feel overwhelmed and unsure of what comes next. Events like the one that took place on New Road in Elizabeth City leave not only emotional scars but serious legal and financial questions. This is where Rosensteel Fleishman Car Accident & Injury Lawyers can step in with experience and understanding.

Rosensteel Fleishman has worked with many families who’ve experienced similar tragedies throughout North Carolina. They know how complicated accident cases can become—especially when you're dealing with insurance companies, police reports, and unanswered questions. Their legal team helps break everything down, piece by piece, so families can begin to find clarity in the middle of chaos.

It’s not just about getting compensation. It’s also about getting answers. With the Elizabeth City case involving multiple charges against the driver, including driving left of center and misdemeanor death by vehicle, it's crucial to have a legal team that knows how to analyze the facts and fight for the victims and their families. Whether you’re in Elizabeth City or another part of North Carolina, Rosensteel Fleishman is here to make sure your voice is heard.

If you’ve lost someone in an accident or you’re dealing with injuries, it’s okay to ask for help. A simple call to 1-704-714-1450 can start a conversation that might take some of the weight off your shoulders.

Why Legal Support Is Important After a Personal Injury Accident

When a serious accident occurs, especially one involving fatalities or significant injuries, families are often left with more questions than answers. Hiring a legal team can give victims and their loved ones a clearer understanding of what happened and what steps they can take next.

Benefits of Hiring a North Carolina Injury Law Firm to Handle Your Elizabeth City Car Accident Case

Local legal experience can make a significant difference. A personal injury law firm in North Carolina like Rosensteel Fleishman understands both the legal system and the community values in places like Elizabeth City. They know what to look for in accident reports, how to investigate contributing factors, and how to speak with insurance companies on behalf of their clients.

Here are a few key benefits of working with a North Carolina-based car accident law firm:

• Familiarity with state traffic laws and local court procedures
• Proven experience handling both minor and severe personal injury cases
• Compassionate legal professionals who communicate in a clear, respectful way
• Access to resources and investigators to reconstruct accident scenes
• No upfront costs for consultation or case review

This approach helps people get a fair chance at justice without feeling overwhelmed by the process.

What Does a Elizabeth City Accident Lawyer Do? How Can They Help?

A car accident attorney in Elizabeth City can do much more than file paperwork. They work to protect your legal rights, speak with insurance adjusters on your behalf, and determine the full extent of damages you may be entitled to—whether that's medical expenses, funeral costs, lost wages, or pain and suffering.

In a case like the Whidbee family’s, where misdemeanor charges have been filed and potential civil claims may follow, a personal injury attorney’s role becomes even more essential. They can investigate whether there were additional contributing factors—road conditions, driver distractions, or even vehicle malfunction—that could impact a claim. Most importantly, they offer support and guidance when it’s needed most.

How Can a Personal Injury Attorney Be Helpful After a Car Accident in Elizabeth City, NC

After an accident, most people don’t know what to do first. That’s completely understandable. A personal injury attorney in Elizabeth City, NC, can walk you through each step—from gathering police reports and witness statements to helping you understand your legal rights and options.

They don’t just look at the current costs. They also consider long-term needs like ongoing care, therapy, or the loss of a family provider. If you or someone you love was impacted by a car accident in Elizabeth City, having legal guidance makes the path forward clearer and more manageable.

Helping Families Impacted by the Elizabeth City Pedestrian Crash

The loss of Roger and Aileen Whidbee has deeply impacted the Elizabeth City community, highlighting just how suddenly life can change. In such tragic situations, legal support isn’t about conflict—it’s about protection, advocacy, and getting the answers families deserve. Rosensteel Fleishman understands this better than most.

When families experience unexpected loss, they often don’t know where to begin. Dealing with police investigations, medical reports, and insurance questions can be exhausting—especially when emotions are still raw. That’s where Rosensteel Fleishman can help. Their team knows how to handle the complexities of wrongful death and pedestrian accident claims, offering steady guidance to families who feel lost in the legal process.

In cases like this one, where the driver has been charged with multiple misdemeanors, it’s especially important to understand the legal implications and what compensation may be available. Whether a case leads to court or is settled out of it, the goal is always the same: to make sure victims and their families are respected, heard, and fairly treated.

Even if you’re not sure you have a case, Rosensteel Fleishman encourages people to reach out. There’s no charge for an initial consultation, and sometimes that first call can make a big difference in how a family moves forward after an accident.

Choosing Rosensteel Fleishman for Your Accident & Injury Case in North Carolina

In the aftermath of a serious accident, whether in Elizabeth City or elsewhere in North Carolina, having someone on your side who understands what to do next is a huge relief. That’s exactly what Rosensteel Fleishman Car Accident & Injury Lawyers offers. With offices in Charlotte and a reach that extends throughout the state, they’re available to help families who are grieving, hurting, or just trying to get back on their feet.

Rosensteel Fleishman brings a calm, steady hand during chaotic times. They take pride in their ability to simplify legal matters, helping clients understand what’s happening without overwhelming them with legal talk. Their team is responsive, respectful, and committed to doing the hard work needed to help you move forward.

Corey Rosensteel put it clearly when he said, “Every family deserves to be treated with respect, especially during their most difficult moments. We’re here to help them figure out what comes next—without pressure, without confusion.”

If you're looking for a personal injury lawyer in Elizabeth City, NC or need a car accident attorney near you, Rosensteel Fleishman is a dependable choice that’s just a phone call away.

Talk to a North Carolina Accident Attorney Today for Free

If you or a loved one has been impacted by a car accident in Elizabeth City or anywhere else in North Carolina, now is the time to explore your legal options. Rosensteel Fleishman makes it easy. There's no pressure, no long forms to fill out, and no upfront fees—just a simple, friendly conversation to see how they can help.

Reach out today by calling 1-704-714-1450 and get connected with an experienced personal injury lawyer in North Carolina. Whether you’re dealing with the loss of a loved one or recovering from serious injuries, you don’t have to face it alone. Rosensteel Fleishman is ready to stand with you.