Car accidents can be overwhelming and confusing, especially if you’re dealing with injuries, insurance companies, and legal questions all at once. At The Johnson Injury Law Firm, we understand how challenging this time can be, and we’re here to help you navigate the process with clarity and confidence.
As a Richmond car accident lawyer, we have helped countless individuals get the answers they need and the compensation they deserve. Below, we’ve compiled answers to some of the most frequently asked questions we hear from our clients to help you better understand your rights and options after an auto accident.
What Should I Do Immediately After a Car Accident?
The steps you take immediately after a car accident are crucial. First and foremost, prioritize safety and seek medical attention if needed.
Call 911 to report the accident and ensure a police report is filed. This document will be essential for your case if you pursue compensation. If possible, gather evidence at the scene. Take photos of the vehicles, damages, injuries, and contributing factors like road conditions or traffic signs.
Exchange information with the other driver, including their name, contact details, and insurance information. Do not admit fault, even if you feel partially responsible. Fault can be complex and is often determined through investigations and legal proceedings.
Virginia law requires that you report any accident resulting in injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,500 to the police. Failing to do so can result in penalties. If you have questions about these steps, a car accident attorney near you can provide guidance on what to do next.
How Is Fault Determined in Virginia Car Accidents?
Virginia operates under a contributory negligence rule, one of the strictest in the nation. You may be barred from recovering compensation if you are found even one percent at fault for the accident. Insurance companies often use this rule to minimize payouts, so having a skilled Richmond accident lawyer on your side is essential.
To prove fault, we will gather evidence such as police reports, eyewitness statements, traffic camera footage, and expert testimony. As your auto accident attorney in Richmond, we will build a compelling case to demonstrate that the other party was responsible for the accident.
What Damages Can I Recover After a Car Accident?
In Virginia, you may be eligible to recover several types of damages after a car accident.
These include economic damages, which cover measurable losses such as medical bills, lost wages, and property damage. Non-economic damages account for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
In cases involving egregious negligence, such as drunk driving, the court may award punitive damages to punish the at-fault party and deter similar behavior. Virginia law caps punitive damages at $350,000.
Our team of top-rated auto accident lawyers in Richmond will assess your case and ensure you seek maximum compensation for all applicable damages.
How Long Do I Have to File a Car Accident Claim in Virginia?
Virginia law imposes a strict statute of limitations for filing personal injury claims. Generally, you have two years from the accident date to file a lawsuit. You may lose your right to pursue compensation if you miss this deadline.
However, exceptions may apply in certain cases, such as when the injured party is a minor or if the injuries were not immediately apparent. We encourage you to contact a Richmond car accident lawyer as soon as possible after your accident. Acting quickly ensures that evidence is preserved and deadlines are met.
What If the Other Driver Doesn’t Have Insurance?
Virginia requires drivers to carry minimum liability insurance of $30,000 per person, $60,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $20,000 for property damage. However, not all drivers comply with this law. If an uninsured or underinsured driver hits you, your insurance policy may include Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage to cover your losses.
Our team can review your policy and help you navigate the claims process to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. If disputes arise with your insurance company, our Richmond accident lawyers can advocate for you.
Should I Speak to the Insurance Adjuster?
Insurance adjusters may seem friendly, but it’s important to remember they work for the insurance company, not you. Their goal is to minimize payouts, which may lead to unfair settlement offers.
We recommend consulting with a car accident attorney near you before speaking with an adjuster or accepting any settlement offer. As your auto accident attorney in Richmond, we will handle all communication with the insurance company and negotiate aggressively to secure a fair settlement.
If necessary, we are prepared to take your case to court.
Do I Need a Lawyer for My Car Accident Case?
While it’s possible to handle a car accident claim independently, having a skilled Richmond car accident lawyer significantly increases your chances of securing maximum compensation. We handle the legal complexities, gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court if needed so you can focus on recovering.
Research shows that accident victims represented by attorneys receive higher settlements on average than those who handle their claims independently. Our experience in Virginia’s contributory negligence law also ensures you won’t be unfairly blamed for the accident.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Car Accident Lawyer?
At The Johnson Injury Law Firm, we work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing upfront. We only get paid if we successfully recover compensation for you. This arrangement allows you to access high-quality legal representation without added financial stress.
How Can I Maximize My Compensation After a Car Accident?
Avoid posting about the accident on social media, as insurance companies may use your posts against you. Hire a top-rated auto accident lawyer in Richmond to build a strong case on your behalf.
Our team has a proven track record of helping clients recover full and fair compensation for their injuries and losses.
What Makes The Johnson Injury Law Firm Different?
As a trusted Richmond car accident lawyer, we are dedicated to providing personalized, compassionate, and results-driven legal representation. We treat every case as if it were our own, ensuring no detail is overlooked, and every client receives the attention they deserve.
Our understanding of Virginia’s traffic laws and our commitment to fighting for justice sets us apart.
Contact Us Today
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, don’t navigate the legal process alone. Contact The Johnson Injury Law Firm today to schedule a free consultation. As your Richmond accident lawyers, we are here to answer your questions, address your concerns, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Let us help you get back on the road to recovery.
