Best Car Accident Lawyers in Charlottesville

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Charlottesville, Virginia?

  The Charlottesville Police Department's non-emergency number is (434) 970-3280.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Charlottesville, Virginia?

  You can obtain accident reports from the records management system. Reports can be disclosed to anybody who requests them. Each accident report costs a $15.00 copying fee. A copy of the accident report will be mailed upon request if it comes from an involved individual or the insurance company's letterhead with the insured's name and policy number.

• What are the most common causes of car accidents in Charlottesville?

  Driving too quickly is one of the leading causes of auto accidents and fatalities in Charlottesville. The failure of drivers to adhere to speed restrictions and adjust to weather conditions presents a hazard that frequently results in car accidents. Modifications must be made for weather, visibility, traffic, and road characteristics like slopes or curves. The Virginia Commercial Driver's Manual provides the following speed and stopping information.

• What is the most frequent kind of car accident in Charlottesville?

  Sideswipe Collisions are a prevalent type of car accident in Charlottesville. Often, these incidents occur when the sides of two parallel cars collide and "swipe" each other. Depending on the speed of vehicles and the direction in which they are driving, this might inflict catastrophic injury to both the driver and the automobile. In a sideswipe collision, the driver who veered into the neighboring lane is more likely to be held accountable. 

• Where should you mail your medical bills following a car accident in Charlottesville?

  If you were injured in a Charlottesville car accident, you should send your medical bills to your health insurance provider. You want your health insurance to pay so that expenses are paid on time. Your health insurance will pay a lesser amount toward your medical expenses. But, when resolving the lawsuit, you can demand compensation for the entire medical bill, not just the portion paid by your health insurance carrier. You are entitled to the difference as the individual who paid the health insurance premium.

• In Charlottesville, how many individuals are wounded in car accidents each year?

  According to Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles crash statistics, the City of Charlottesville saw an average of 425 people wounded in motor vehicle accidents within the city's jurisdiction per year. There was an average of two fatal car accidents every year in Charlottesville. The DMV also reported on other crash information that the primary causes of injuries are driver distraction, following too closely, speeding, and failing to yield. These accidents happen between noon and 6:00 p.m., and most drivers are above the age of 21.

• Can you tell the jury in your Charlottesville car accident trial that the other driver's insurance company gave you money to establish the other driver was at fault?

  No. An offer to settle made before the jury trial is inadmissible during the jury trial of your Charlottesville car accident. As a result, no corporation would ever negotiate a settlement if it were allowed as an admission. The only way around this is if there was an express acknowledgment of liability during negotiations, which is permissible.

• How do I choose a car accident lawyer?

  To select a car accident lawyer, consider the lawyer's experience, focus, and reputation. While nearly any attorney can negotiate with insurers for a settlement, not all attorneys have amassed experience litigating a claim in a court of law. Choose an attorney with a background that includes car accident claimants; it's helpful if the attorney is focused on personal injury law. Lastly, read reviews from previous clients to get a feel for the attorney's helpfulness and responsiveness to clients. The best lawyer for your case is one that you feel comfortable and confident working with.

• What steps should I take after a car accident?

  Immediately following a car accident, get out of traffic as soon as possible and dial 9-1-1. Exchange car insurance information with any other involved drivers and get a police report as soon as possible. Be truthful about what happened, even if you are at fault, but stick to reporting the facts of the accident without offering an opinion on who is to blame. If possible, take photos of your car, other cars at the scene, and the scene itself.

• (When) Do I need a lawyer after a car accident?

  Start working with a car accident lawyer as soon as possible following your car accident (some attorneys even make hospital visits). By reaching out for legal help early on, you avoid some of the pitfalls of trying to handle your claim on your own. Your attorney can also get the ball rolling on reimbursement for your medical bills and lost wages while awaiting the outcome of your claim.

• How long after a car accident can you claim an injury?

  The length of time you can file a claim for an injury following a car accident is governed by the statute of limitations in your state. Although it varies, most states set the statute of limitations for injured parties to seek compensatory damages at three years following the accident or three years after you discover your injuries. In cases where children are injured, the statute of limitations may be longer.

• What do I do after a car accident that I'm not responsible for?

  After an accident that's not your fault, seek immediate medical help if you are injured. Once it's safe to do so, obtain the other driver's contact and insurance information, any statements from witnesses, and photos of the scene. Obtain a police report and contact your insurer and the at-fault party's insurer. If you are injured, schedule a consultation with a car accident attorney to discuss your legal options.

• What happens if someone sues you after a car accident?

  If you have car insurance in force at the time of the accident, your insurance is contractually bound to represent you on any claims that arise, indemnifying you against loss up to the limits of your policy. You can help your insurance company by cooperating fully. If the plaintiff in any lawsuit obtains a judgment above your policy limits, then you can be held personally responsible for any damages awarded.

• What/how much can I expect from a car accident settlement?

  According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average bodily injury claim in 2018 was $15,785. The amount of any particular car accident settlement hinges primarily on the severity of the injuries sustained as a result and whether or not any partial or total permanent disability was caused by the accident. Claims that involve broken bones or nerve damage likely settle for more than claims where soft tissue injuries are present.

• How do I arrange a rental car after an accident?

  To arrange a rental car after an accident, first consider whether your insurance or the other party's insurance will be paying for the rental. If another driver is found to be at-fault for the accident, that driver's insurance may pay the costs. If you are responsible, your insurance may pay if your policy covers such expenses. Speak with your insurance adjuster to determine if you have benefits available.

• How long does it take for car insurance to go back down after an accident?

  Post-accident rate spikes can last anywhere from three to five years, depending on your insurer. However, if damages incurred during the accident are less than $2,000, your rate may not go up at all. Three years is typical for collision and property damage claims. Five years is not uncommon in accidents involving bodily injury claims, DUI or DWI, reckless driving, or serious violations at the time of the accident.

• How to settle a car accident claim without a lawyer?

  To negotiate a car accident settlement without a lawyer, you'll have to prove that the other party was to blame for your damages. Gather evidence at the scene to support your claim, including witness statements and photos. Seek medical treatment for your injuries immediately. Notify the other driver's insurer of your intent to file a claim. If you reside in a no-fault state, you will need to use your personal injury protection (PIP) benefits first before filing a claim against the other party for medical expenses and bodily injury. Be prepared with medical records, police reports, receipts for out-of-pocket accident-related costs, and proof of lost income due to the accident before beginning negotiations.