When you have been injured in a car accident, you deserve to be represented by a legal team that understands both the law and the local community. With decades of combined legal experience, attorneys Connor Johnson and J. Penn Crawford are committed to holding negligent drivers and insurance companies accountable.
At The Johnson Injury Firm, our Richmond car accident lawyers are dedicated to helping individuals and families across Virginia recover physically, emotionally, and financially.
Our firm was built on a foundation of integrity, attention to detail, and relentless client advocacy. We are not a high-volume firm that rushes cases through a system. We take pride in working one-on-one with clients and tailoring legal strategies to meet their specific needs.
If you are seeking an injury lawyer in Richmond who will listen to your concerns, thoroughly investigate the case, and pursue maximum compensation, we encourage you to contact our office today.
Why Hiring a Richmond Car Accident Lawyer Matters
A car crash can happen in seconds, but the consequences can last a lifetime. Medical bills, lost wages, pain, and emotional trauma can take a serious toll. Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts or deny claims entirely. Without strong legal representation, accident victims may find themselves left with far less than they need—or nothing at all.
That is why having a top-rated Richmond injury lawyer on your side makes a difference. At The Johnson Injury Firm, our attorneys understand Virginia’s personal injury laws, including contributory negligence rules that could impact your claim. We are familiar with how local courts and insurers operate, and we work quickly to preserve evidence, document injuries, and build a compelling case for full recovery.
Our legal team has represented clients injured in a wide range of crashes, including rear-end accidents, T-bone collisions, distracted driving wrecks, hit-and-run crashes, and uninsured motorist claims. Whether you were involved in a minor fender-bender or a catastrophic multi-vehicle pileup, our Richmond auto accident lawyers will work to protect your rights and future.
Your Next Steps After an Accident in Richmond
Many people are unsure what to do after an accident. Should they speak to the other driver’s insurer? Is medical treatment necessary if symptoms seem minor? Can they afford legal help?
Here is what we recommend:
- Seek immediate medical attention, even if you feel fine.
- Document everything—photos, police reports, witness names.
- Contact a Richmond car accident lawyer as soon as possible.
- Avoid making statements or signing anything from the insurance company.
- Know that legal help is available with no upfront costs.
At The Johnson Injury Firm, we offer free consultations and handle all personal injury claims on a contingency fee basis. That means you pay nothing unless we recover compensation on your behalf. We believe that every injured person should have access to a skilled personal injury attorney in Richmond—regardless of their financial situation.
If you are searching for an auto accident attorney near me, know that our team is local, experienced, and results-driven. We have successfully helped clients across Richmond and throughout Virginia obtain compensation for medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering.
Our Richmond accident law firm stands ready to help you get answers, take action, and move forward.
Why Choose The Johnson Injury Firm for Your Car Accident Case?
A Trusted Richmond Accident Law Firm
Selecting the right legal representation after a crash is one of the most important decisions you will make. At The Johnson Injury Firm, our Richmond car accident lawyers do not just process cases—we advocate for each client with unwavering commitment and care.
Led by attorneys Connor Johnson and J. Penn Crawford, our firm is recognized for its strategic legal action, thorough investigations, and outstanding results throughout Virginia.
What Sets Our Richmond Car Accident Lawyers Apart?
| Feature | Why It Matters |
| Local Knowledge | We understand Richmond’s roadways, traffic patterns, and court systems, which allows us to build highly tailored cases. |
| Reputation with Insurers | Insurance companies know that we do not back down. We are prepared to go to trial if needed. |
| Personalized Legal Strategy | No two accidents are the same. We analyze every detail of your case and develop a plan designed around your goals. |
| Proven Results | Our attorneys have recovered millions in compensation for injured Virginians. |
| Client-Focused Service | You will work directly with your attorney—not be passed off to an assistant or case manager. |
Recognized Experience. Real Results.
We are not a high-volume, national chain. Our Richmond accident law firm handles a limited number of serious cases, allowing us to dedicate the time, attention, and energy each one deserves. This approach has helped us secure full and fair compensation in car wreck cases involving:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord damage and paralysis
- Multiple fractures
- Internal bleeding and organ injuries
- Permanent disfigurement
- Wrongful death
Our reputation as top-rated Richmond injury lawyers is built on legal excellence, responsiveness, and results. Insurance companies often attempt to minimize your claim, but we come prepared with evidence, expert opinions, and an apparent demand for justice.
If you are looking for a car wreck lawyer in Richmond, VA, who will fight for the outcome you deserve, our team is here to help.
Attorney-Client Relationships Rooted in Trust
We understand that clients are often overwhelmed after an accident,
dealing with pain, bills, and uncertainty about the future. That is why we make it easy to talk to us. From your first call, we clearly explain your rights, answer your questions honestly, and begin protecting your interests immediately.
What You Can Expect When You Work With Us:
- A free, no-obligation consultation with a Richmond auto accident lawyer
- Prompt communication and updates about your case
- Detailed explanation of your legal rights and options
- No upfront fees—we only get paid if we win
What to Do After a Car Accident in Richmond
A car crash can leave you shocked, injured, and unsure of what steps to take next. Whether you were involved in a rear-end collision, a T-bone crash, or a hit-and-run accident, knowing what to do in the moments and days following the incident can significantly impact your ability to recover compensation. Our Richmond car accident lawyers at The Johnson Injury Firm have guided numerous individuals through this process and understand the importance of timely action.
Below is a step-by-step guide to protect your rights and strengthen your claim:
Immediate Steps to Take at the Scene
| Step | Why It Matters |
| Call 911 | Police will document the accident, which provides essential evidence. Medical help can also be dispatched if needed. |
| Check for Injuries | Your health comes first. Seek medical attention for any pain, dizziness, or bleeding—even if it feels minor. |
| Exchange Information | Obtain the other driver’s name, contact information, license plate number, and insurance details. |
| Document the Scene | Take photos of all vehicles, damage, debris, skid marks, traffic signs, and any visible injuries. |
| Identify Witnesses | If someone saw the crash, get their name and number—they may provide a critical third-party account later. |
What Not to Do After an Accident
- Do not admit fault, even casually. The cause of the accident may involve multiple factors that are not immediately obvious.
- Do not delay medical treatment. Some injuries, such as concussions or internal bleeding, may not be immediately noticeable.
- Do not speak to the other driver’s insurance company without legal counsel. Their goal is to minimize your claim.
- Do not sign any documents or accept a settlement offer until a qualified Richmond car accident attorney has reviewed your case.
What to Do in the Days Following the Accident
- Notify your own insurance company, but avoid making statements about fault or agreeing to a recorded call.
- Follow all medical recommendations and attend all scheduled appointments as directed. Gaps in treatment may be used against you.
- Keep a journal to track your symptoms, pain levels, emotional distress, and how the injury is affecting your daily life.
- Save all receipts related to medical expenses, car repairs, rental cars, and lost income.
Why Fast Action Matters
Virginia law imposes a strict two-year statute of limitations on most personal injury claims, including car accidents. Waiting too long to file a claim can permanently bar you from recovering any compensation. Additionally:
- Witnesses become harder to locate over time.
- Surveillance footage may be erased.
- Medical records and accident evidence may be lost or destroyed.
At The Johnson Injury Firm, we take immediate steps to preserve and collect this evidence. Our Richmond auto accident attorneys know what it takes to build a strong case from the start. We coordinate with accident reconstruction experts, gather medical documentation, and negotiate directly with insurers, allowing you to focus on your recovery.
If you are unsure what to do after your crash, contact our Richmond accident law firm today. We will explain your rights, guide you through the next steps, and begin protecting your future from the moment you reach out.
Types of Car Accident Cases We Handle
Not all car accidents are the same; each type of crash presents unique legal and medical challenges. At The Johnson Injury Firm, our Richmond car accident lawyers have the experience, knowledge, and resources to handle a broad range of auto accident cases throughout Virginia.
Whether your injuries resulted from a negligent driver, a defective vehicle, or a hazardous roadway, we can help you pursue compensation through every legal avenue available.
Below are the most common types of car accident cases we handle:
Rear-End Collisions
Rear-end crashes are among the most frequent types of accidents in Richmond and are often caused by distracted driving or following too closely. Even at low speeds, these collisions can result in serious injuries such as whiplash, herniated discs, and concussions.
We work with medical providers to document the full extent of your injuries and hold negligent drivers accountable for their actions.
T-Bone and Side-Impact Crashes
T-bone collisions typically occur at intersections when one driver fails to yield or runs a red light. These crashes can cause devastating injuries due to the limited protection offered by the sides of a vehicle.
Our Richmond auto accident attorneys gather crash reports, eyewitness accounts, and traffic camera footage to establish fault and pursue maximum compensation.
Head-On Collisions
Head-on crashes are often catastrophic and may involve drunk driving, drowsy driving, or drivers veering into the wrong lane. Victims of these accidents frequently face life-altering injuries or wrongful death. Our firm provides aggressive representation to secure the necessary resources for recovery or long-term care.
Rideshare Accidents (Uber & Lyft)
Crashes involving rideshare drivers introduce complex insurance questions. Was the driver on the clock? Who is responsible—Uber, Lyft, or the individual driver? We have successfully handled rideshare claims and understand how to navigate these multi-party disputes to protect your rights.
Commercial Vehicle and Truck Accidents
Accidents involving commercial vehicles or delivery trucks (such as Amazon, FedEx, or freight carriers) often involve corporate defendants with powerful legal teams. Our Richmond car accident lawyers are not intimidated by big companies.
We know how to uncover maintenance failures, driver log violations, and employer negligence that can support your case.
Hit-and-Run Accidents
If the driver who hit you fled the scene, you may still be entitled to compensation through your uninsured motorist coverage. Our attorneys will assist with identifying the at-fault party whenever possible and handling the claim with your insurer to secure a fair result.
Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) Claims
Unfortunately, not all drivers in Richmond carry sufficient insurance, or any at all. We frequently assist clients in pursuing UM/UIM claims when the at-fault driver is underinsured or unidentified. These cases require precise handling to avoid delays, denials, or reduced payouts.
Multi-Vehicle Accidents
When several vehicles are involved, determining liability becomes more complex. Our firm conducts a full investigation to determine fault, assess comparative liability, and ensure no responsible party escapes accountability.
Accidents Involving Pedestrians or Bicyclists
Drivers who fail to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks or give cyclists adequate space can cause life-threatening injuries. These cases often involve severe head trauma, broken bones, and long-term rehabilitation. We take a compassionate yet aggressive approach to securing compensation for vulnerable road users.
Why It Matters
Each type of accident may involve different laws, insurance policies, evidence requirements, and levels of fault. By working with a top-rated Richmond injury lawyer from the outset, you improve your chances of recovering every dollar you are owed.
At The Johnson Injury Firm, we understand that behind every case is a person or family whose life has been turned upside down. That is why our Richmond auto accident lawyers work tirelessly to resolve even the most complex and high-stakes injury claims.
Common Injuries from Car Accidents
Car accidents can cause a broad spectrum of injuries, ranging from minor discomfort to permanent disability. At The Johnson Injury Firm, our Richmond car accident lawyers have worked with clients suffering from all types of physical and emotional trauma. We understand the medical implications of these injuries and how they affect your ability to work, care for your family, and enjoy life.
Proper documentation and early treatment are essential. Insurance companies often downplay injuries or argue that they were pre-existing. We collaborate closely with medical professionals to ensure that your injuries are accurately diagnosed, thoroughly documented, and directly linked to the crash.
Frequently Reported Car Accident Injuries
| Injury Type | Description & Impact |
| Whiplash | A soft tissue injury common in rear-end collisions. Can cause neck stiffness, headaches, and chronic pain. Often underestimated by insurers. |
| Concussions & Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI) | Even mild concussions can result in memory loss, mood changes, and cognitive problems. Severe TBIs may lead to lifelong impairments. |
| Spinal Cord Injuries | May result in herniated discs, nerve damage, or paralysis. These injuries often require surgery, rehab, and long-term care. |
| Broken Bones | Fractures to the arms, ribs, legs, or hips can require casting, surgery, and months of recovery. |
| Internal Injuries | Organ damage and internal bleeding are not always immediately visible but can be life-threatening without rapid treatment. |
| Facial Injuries | Lacerations from shattered glass or impact with airbags can lead to permanent scarring and disfigurement. |
| Psychological Trauma | Anxiety, depression, and PTSD are common following a serious accident. Mental health care is often overlooked in injury claims. |
Why Injury Documentation Matters
Properly diagnosing and recording your injuries is one of the most important parts of your case. Without detailed medical records and consistent treatment, the insurance company may argue that your injuries are minor or unrelated to the crash.
To protect your case:
- See a doctor immediately, even if you feel fine at first.
- Attend all follow-up appointments and therapies.
- Keep a pain journal to track symptoms and how they interfere with daily life.
- Save medical bills, imaging reports, and doctor’s notes.
We Understand the Full Impact of Injury
As experienced Richmond auto accident lawyers, we look beyond just the emergency room bills. Our legal team calculates future treatment costs, the impact on your career, the strain on your family, and the emotional suffering caused by the accident.
You deserve more than a quick settlement—you deserve full compensation for what you have endured. Our Richmond accident law firm partners with physicians, specialists, and economists to value your claim accurately and demand the recovery you need to move forward.
If you are unsure how serious your injuries are or whether they justify a legal claim, speak with our attorneys. We will evaluate your medical records, listen to your experience, and provide clear, honest guidance on your next steps.
What Compensation Can You Recover?
Understanding the full value of your car accident claim is essential to securing the compensation you need, not just for your current expenses, but for your future stability. At The Johnson Injury Firm, our Richmond car accident lawyers are skilled in identifying every possible source of recovery. We do not let insurance companies undervalue your claim or overlook the long-term impact of your injuries.
Whether you suffered a whiplash injury, a spinal cord injury, or the wrongful death of a loved one, we will pursue the maximum compensation allowed under Virginia law.
Types of Damages Available in a Richmond Car Accident Claim
Virginia law allows injured victims to recover both economic and non-economic damages, as well as punitive damages in rare cases. Below is a breakdown of the most common types of compensation we pursue:
| Type of Damage | What It Covers |
| Medical Expenses | Emergency care, hospital bills, surgery, physical therapy, medication, and future treatment needs. |
| Lost Wages | Time missed from work, including hourly wages, salary, bonuses, and freelance income. |
| Loss of Earning Capacity | If your injuries impact your ability to work in the future, we calculate the long-term financial impact. |
| Property Damage | Repair or replacement of your vehicle and any personal property lost in the crash. |
| Pain and Suffering | Compensation for physical pain, mental anguish, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. |
| Scarring and Disfigurement | For permanent physical changes and their emotional toll. |
| Loss of Consortium | If your injuries affect your relationship with a spouse or partner. |
| Wrongful Death Damages | Funeral costs, loss of companionship, and financial support for families who have lost a loved one. |
How We Maximize Compensation
Insurance companies often offer quick settlements that fail to consider the full scope of the situation. Our Richmond auto accident attorneys are well-versed in the tactics insurers employ and prepare every case as if it were going to trial. This gives us leverage in negotiations and ensures that no form of damage goes unaddressed.
We work with:
- Medical professionals to determine future care needs
- Vocational experts to assess your ability to return to work
- Economic experts to project long-term financial losses
- Mental health providers to document emotional trauma
Virginia’s Contributory Negligence Rule: What You Need to Know
Virginia follows a pure contributory negligence rule, meaning that if you are found even 1% at fault for the accident, you may be barred from recovering compensation. This is one of the strictest rules in the country, making it essential to have a Richmond car accident lawyer build a solid, fault-free case.
At The Johnson Injury Firm, we gather:
- Police reports
- Eyewitness testimony
- Traffic camera footage
- Black box data
- Accident reconstruction evidence
Our attention to detail and proactive approach help protect your right to recover the compensation you are entitled to.
Do Not Settle for Less Than You Deserve
You may receive a settlement offer from the insurance company within days of the accident, but accepting it without legal review can cost you tens of thousands of dollars. Once you sign a release, you cannot go back to request more money, even if your condition worsens.
Let our Richmond car accident attorneys review the offer and negotiate on your behalf. We will tell you what your case is truly worth—and fight to secure it for you.
How Virginia’s Car Accident Laws May Affect Your Case
Understanding how state laws apply to your situation is a critical part of any personal injury claim. Virginia has some of the strictest liability and filing rules in the country, and even a small mistake or delay can prevent you from recovering compensation. At The Johnson Injury Firm, our Richmond car accident lawyers are well-versed in Virginia law and use that knowledge to protect our clients at every stage.
Below are key legal principles that may affect your case, and why having an experienced attorney is essential.
1. Virginia’s Pure Contributory Negligence Rule
Under Virginia’s contributory negligence law, if you are found even 1% at fault for the accident, you are barred from recovering any damages, no matter how badly you were injured or how the other party was primarily to blame.
This rule makes it critical to work with a Richmond car accident lawyer who can build a case that demonstrates the other party’s full responsibility. We conduct thorough investigations, preserve evidence, and consult with accident reconstruction experts to dispute any attempt to shift blame to you.
Key Takeaway: Never admit fault or make assumptions about liability after a crash. Even an offhand comment can be used against you later.
2. Virginia’s Statute of Limitations
You only have a limited time to file a personal injury claim after a car accident in Virginia. According to Virginia Code § 8.01-243(A), the statute of limitations is two years from the date of the accident. If your claim is not filed before this deadline, you may be permanently barred from recovering compensation.
| Type of Case | Time Limit to File |
| Personal injury from a car accident | 2 years from the date of the accident |
| Property damage only | 5 years |
| Wrongful death | 2 years from the date of death |
Important Note: The countdown begins on the day of the crash, not the date you discover an injury or receive a diagnosis.
3. Insurance and Minimum Coverage Requirements in Virginia
Virginia drivers are not required to carry auto insurance if they pay a $500 fee for uninsured motorist coverage. This can leave accident victims vulnerable if the at-fault driver has no coverage. Even when insurance is in place, the minimum required limits may be too low to cover your losses:
- $30,000 per person for bodily injury
- $60,000 per accident for bodily injury
- $20,000 for property damage
Our attorneys can help you pursue compensation through uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage (UM/UIM), your policy, or third-party claims, depending on the situation.
4. Legal Standards of Proof and Evidence
To win your case, we must prove:
- The other party owed you a duty of care (e.g., to drive safely)
- They breached that duty through negligent or reckless behavior
- That breach directly caused your injuries
- You suffered damages as a result
This requires gathering detailed evidence and presenting it in a way that meets legal standards. Our Richmond accident law firm uses:
- Medical records
- Crash scene photos
- Witness testimony
- Surveillance footage
- Black box data
- Cell phone records
- Expert reports
5. Comparative Fault Claims: How Insurers Use the Law Against You
Insurance companies are well aware of Virginia’s harsh contributory negligence rule. They may:
- Misinterpret facts to suggest you were partially responsible
- Use your statements against you.
- Delay the investigation in hopes you miss the deadline to file
At The Johnson Injury Firm, we counter these tactics by controlling the narrative from the beginning. Our attorneys handle all communication with the insurance companies, document every detail, and preserve the integrity of your claim.
Do Not Navigate Virginia Law Alone
Even a seemingly minor error—such as giving a recorded statement to an insurance adjuster or missing a filing deadline—can destroy your case. By working with a top-rated Richmond injury lawyer from the start, you safeguard your right to pursue the compensation you deserve.
The Claims Process: What to Expect
If you have never filed a personal injury claim before, the process may feel overwhelming. At The Johnson Injury Firm, we understand how stressful life can be after a car accident, especially when you are dealing with injuries, insurance companies, and financial strain. That is why our Richmond car accident lawyers handle every step of the claims process for you, keeping you informed while allowing you to focus on healing.
We prepare every case as if it is going to trial, even though most settle out of court. This strategy provides us with the leverage we need to demand full compensation and ensures that your case is prepared for court if the insurance company refuses to negotiate fairly.
Step-by-Step Overview of a Car Accident Claim
| Step | What Happens |
| 1. Free Consultation | We review your case, discuss your legal options, and determine how to proceed. No pressure and no obligation. |
| 2. Investigation Begins | We gather crash reports, medical records, witness statements, photos, video evidence, and expert opinions. |
| 3. Medical Monitoring | We track your treatment and recovery to ensure we understand the full extent of your injuries and future needs. |
| 4. Demand Letter | Once you reach maximum medical improvement, we prepare and send a detailed demand letter to the insurance company. |
| 5. Negotiation | We handle all communications and negotiations with the insurer. Most cases are resolved here, but we never rush a settlement. |
| 6. Litigation (if necessary) | If the insurer refuses a fair offer, we are fully prepared to file a lawsuit and advocate for you in court. |
| 7. Resolution | Whether by settlement or verdict, we work to recover the compensation you deserve—and only get paid if we win. |
How Long Will It Take?
Every case is different. A straightforward claim may resolve in a few months, while more complex cases involving serious injuries or disputed liability may take a year or more. Delays in treatment or gaps in documentation can also impact the timeline.
We prioritize thorough preparation and efficient handling. Our goal is to advance your case without compromising the quality of your recovery.
Factors that affect your timeline include:
- Severity of injuries
- Length of medical treatment
- Insurance company response time
- Whether liability is disputed
- Whether litigation becomes necessary
Do You Have to Go to Court?
Most clients ask this question early in the process. The answer is—not usually. The majority of car accident cases settle out of court. However, if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, we will not hesitate to take your case to trial.
Attorney Connor Johnson and J. Penn Crawford have extensive litigation experience and a strong reputation in Richmond courts. Insurers know we are prepared, which often encourages a more favorable settlement without the need for trial.
Keeping You Informed Every Step of the Way
Strong communication is a key part of our client service. You will never be left wondering about the status of your claim. Our legal team is accessible, responsive, and committed to keeping you informed throughout the entire process, from the initial consultation to resolution.
At The Johnson Injury Firm, our job is not just to file paperwork or argue in court—it is to guide, educate, and support you through one of the most challenging times in your life.
Dealing with Insurance Companies: What They Don’t Tell You
After a car accident, many victims assume the insurance company is on their side. Unfortunately, that is rarely the case. Insurance companies are for-profit businesses whose primary goal is to minimize payouts, not to ensure you receive fair compensation. At The Johnson Injury Firm, our Richmond car accident lawyers frequently observe how insurers employ subtle tactics to undermine valid claims, delay payments, or pressure victims into accepting low settlements.
If you speak with the insurance company before speaking to an attorney, you could unknowingly damage your case. That is why we take over all communication with insurers the moment we are hired—to protect your rights and ensure a successful recovery.
Common Insurance Tactics You Should Watch For
| Tactic | What It Means |
| Quick Settlement Offers | A lowball amount is offered before you know the full extent of your injuries, hoping you will accept and sign away future rights. |
| Recorded Statements | Anything you say can and will be used against you. Innocent comments may be twisted to shift blame. |
| Delays in Processing | The longer they delay, the more pressure you feel to settle. Meanwhile, evidence may disappear. |
| Disputing Liability | Even if the other driver was clearly at fault, the insurer may claim you were partially responsible to avoid paying. |
| Requesting Unnecessary Documents | A stall tactic designed to frustrate or confuse you while they look for ways to reduce the claim. |
Why You Should Never Handle an Insurance Claim Alone
Without legal representation, insurance adjusters assume you are unfamiliar with Virginia’s contributory negligence laws, the actual value of your claim, or how to dispute denied benefits. They may:
- Ask you to sign documents that waive your right to further compensation
- Minimize or ignore emotional and long-term physical injuries
- Rely on confusing policy language to deny valid claims
- Tell you that you do not need a lawyer
We have seen it all. Our Richmond auto accident attorneys know their playbook, and we push back with solid evidence, well-documented damages, and an unshakable legal strategy.
How The Johnson Injury Firm Levels the Playing Field
When you hire our firm, the insurance company knows you’re serious. From the first demand letter to the final settlement or verdict, we put pressure on the insurer to act reasonably, lawfully, and promptly. We handle:
- All claim paperwork and deadlines
- All communications and negotiations
- Submission of medical bills, wage loss documentation, and future care needs
- Responses to claim denials or low offers
- Preparation for litigation, if necessary
We never encourage quick settlements unless they reflect the full value of your claim, and we never accept excuses from insurers who try to pay less than you deserve.
Let Us Deal with the Insurance Company So You Don’t Have To
Fighting an insurance company alone can feel like an uphill battle. But with The Johnson Injury Firm on your side, you have a team of experienced Richmond car accident lawyers advocating for your best interests, not the insurer’s bottom line.
Whether you are negotiating with your insurer or the other driver’s company, we will protect you from common pitfalls, push back against unfair tactics, and fight for the compensation you are entitled to under Virginia law.
Why Timing Matters: Act Now Before It’s Too Late
One of the most dangerous mistakes you can make after a car accident is waiting too long to take action. Every day that passes without legal representation increases the risk of losing critical evidence, damaging your claim, or missing important legal deadlines.
At The Johnson Injury Firm, we urge accident victims to reach out to a Richmond car accident lawyer as soon as possible, because timing can make the difference between a strong case and no case at all.
The Clock Is Already Ticking
Under Virginia Code § 8.01-243, you have two years from the date of your accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This may sound like a long time, but building a compelling claim takes significant preparation, including gathering medical records, consulting with experts, and conducting a full investigation.
In addition to this strict deadline, other factors make early action crucial:
- Witnesses may forget what they saw, move away, or become unreachable.
- Traffic or surveillance footage may be erased within days or weeks.
- Vehicles may be repaired or destroyed, eliminating key physical evidence.
- Insurance companies will begin investigating immediately, often to shift blame or reduce liability.
By contacting our Richmond accident law firm promptly, you enable us to secure and preserve the evidence necessary to support your claim.
Delaying Medical Treatment Can Harm Your Health—and Your Case
Even if you feel fine after the accident, it is essential to see a doctor as soon as possible. Some injuries—such as internal bleeding, soft tissue injuries, or concussions—may not appear right away but can worsen over time. Delayed treatment gives the insurance company a reason to argue that your injuries were not serious or were unrelated to the crash.
What You Should Do:
- Seek immediate medical attention, even if symptoms are mild.
- Follow all recommended care, including physical therapy or specialist visits.
- Keep all medical appointments and save documentation.
- Contact a Richmond car accident attorney to guide your next steps.
Early Legal Representation Makes a Real Difference
Many people wait to contact a lawyer until they are frustrated, overwhelmed, or in a dispute with an insurer. By then, critical opportunities may have already been lost.
Here is how acting early helps us help you:
| Action Taken Early | Benefit to Your Case |
| Immediate legal representation | Insurers cannot manipulate or mislead you during early conversations. |
| Preservation of evidence | We secure black box data, video footage, and accident scene records before they are gone. |
| Medical coordination | We help document injuries properly and align treatment timelines with your claim. |
| Faster resolution | We begin negotiations sooner, avoiding unnecessary delays or missteps. |
No Fees Unless We Win. No Reason to Wait.
The Johnson Injury Firm offers free consultations and handles all Richmond car accident cases on a contingency fee basis. That means you pay us nothing upfront and owe us nothing at all unless we secure compensation for you. There is no risk to contacting us, but there is a potentially significant cost in waiting too long.
If you are asking yourself, “Do I need a lawyer for this?”—the answer is yes. At the very least, let us review your case, explain your rights, and help you make an informed decision. There is no downside to reaching out. But there is a significant risk in doing nothing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
At The Johnson Injury Firm, we know that car accident victims in Richmond often have urgent questions about their rights, timelines, compensation, and what to expect next. Below are some of the most frequently asked questions our Richmond car accident lawyers receive, along with clear and detailed answers based on Virginia law and our extensive experience representing injured clients throughout the state.
How much is my Richmond car accident case worth?
The value of your case depends on several factors, including:
- The severity and type of your injuries
- Your current and future medical expenses
- Lost wages and reduced earning potential
- Pain and suffering or emotional distress
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
- The strength of your evidence and proof of fault
There is no one-size-fits-all answer. Our Richmond auto accident attorneys work with medical experts and economists to calculate the full value of your losses, both now and in the future. We also account for non-economic damages, such as loss of enjoyment of life and mental anguish.
Can I still recover compensation if I was partially at fault?
Under Virginia’s strict contributory negligence rule, you cannot recover any compensation if you are found even 1% at fault for the crash. This is why it is critical to have a skilled Richmond car accident lawyer investigate your case and present clear, fault-free evidence.
If the insurance company attempts to assign blame to you, we will counter with witness statements, accident reconstructions, and supporting documentation to protect your right to recover damages.
Should I accept the insurance company’s first settlement offer?
In most cases, no. Initial settlement offers are usually designed to close the claim quickly and cheaply, before you fully understand your injuries, your long-term needs, or your legal rights. Once you accept a settlement, you generally cannot reopen the claim, even if your condition worsens.
Before agreeing to anything, consult with a Richmond accident law firm. We will review the offer, compare it to your actual damages, and negotiate for full compensation on your behalf.
How long will my car accident case take?
The timeline varies depending on:
- The complexity of the accident
- The length of your medical treatment
- Whether liability is contested
- The insurance company’s responsiveness
- Whether your case proceeds to litigation
Straightforward cases may settle within a few months. More complex or serious injury claims can take a year or longer to resolve. At The Johnson Injury Firm, we work efficiently without compromising the quality of your case preparation.
What if the at-fault driver does not have insurance?
If the other driver is uninsured—or has too little coverage to pay for your damages—you may still be able to recover compensation through your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage (UM/UIM). This coverage is included in most Virginia auto insurance policies.
Our attorneys can help you file this claim and ensure that your insurer treats you fairly. Do not assume you are out of options just because the other driver lacked coverage.
What if my injuries seem minor at first?
Many car accident injuries—especially soft tissue damage, concussions, and internal injuries—do not present immediate symptoms. What feels like a minor ache could worsen over time and require significant treatment.
That is why you should always:
- Seek medical care right away
- Follow all treatment recommendations
- Monitor and document your symptoms over time
Delaying care can not only jeopardize your health, it can also hurt your ability to prove that the accident caused your injuries.
Contact Our Richmond Car Accident Lawyers Today
If you or someone you love has been injured in a car accident, now is the time to take action. You do not need to face the insurance companies, the legal system, or the recovery process alone. At The Johnson Injury Firm, our Richmond car accident lawyers are here to guide you, protect you, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
From the moment you contact us, we will take the time to understand your case, answer your questions, and explain your rights. We do not charge any fees unless we win. Our goal is to make the legal process as clear and stress-free as possible—while relentlessly pursuing justice on your behalf.
Why Choose The Johnson Injury Firm?
- Decades of combined legal experience
- Personalized, one-on-one attention from your attorney
- Deep knowledge of Virginia’s car accident laws and insurance practices
- Proven track record of successful case results
- Local presence and strong reputation in the Richmond legal community
Whether your case involves a rear-end crash, a rideshare collision, or catastrophic injuries, we are ready to help. Our Richmond accident law firm is committed to holding negligent drivers and insurers accountable—so you can focus on healing and rebuilding your life.
Do not wait. Evidence disappears. Deadlines expire. The sooner we start, the stronger your case will be.
