Best Car Accident Lawyers in Annandale

FAQs

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

  For non-emergency concerns in Annandale, you may call the Fairfax County Police Department at 703-691-2131.

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

  To obtain a copy of an Annandale crash report, visit the Central Records Section of the Fairfax County Police Department at 12099 Government Center Parkway, Fairfax, VA 22035. The office is open Mondays through Fridays, from 8 AM to 4 PM. You may also call the Central Records section during regular business hours at 703-246-2272.

• How much does hiring a car accident lawyer in Annandale charge clients?

  Car accident lawyers in Annandale do not have a fixed rate for their services. Most of them offer free, no-obligation initial consultations and work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they will not charge a dime if they cannot secure a financial recovery. However, clients will remain financially responsible for their out-of-pocket expenses.

• How can a car accident lawyer in Annandale help you?

  Car accident lawyers in Annandale can help you with various matters to resolve your personal injury and property damage claims. The services they offer typically include conducting thorough investigations to support your case, directing you to medical professionals if you do not have a referral, arranging for a reputable auto shop to fix your damaged car, and communicating and negotiating with insurance companies and at-fault parties on your behalf so you can focus on recovering from your injuries.

• Can you still recover damages if you were partly at fault for a car accident in Annandale?

  Following Virginia’s contributory negligence law, authorities in Annandale usually bar at-fault parties from obtaining compensation, even if they are only 1% responsible for the crash. If you find yourself in this situation, you may still have a chance to recover damages through the “last clear chance” doctrine. It determines which party had the last opportunity to avoid the accident. If the other driver had the last chance to avoid the accident but failed, you may still be able to recover damages.

• When will you receive your car accident settlement check in Annandale?

  It depends. One of the main considerations when estimating the timeframe of a claim in Annandale is whether the case settles outside of court or is taken to trial. Your injuries may also influence the length of the case, as your claim’s worth cannot be completely determined until you have reached maximum medical improvement. If you settle the case too soon, your damages may not appropriately account for the medical care and other costs associated with your injuries.

• How long do you have to file a claim or lawsuit after a car accident in Annandale?

  As specified by Virginia's code section 8.01-243, you have two years from the date of the accident to pursue a personal injury lawsuit if you get injured in an Annandale car accident. If you are filing for a wrongful death claim, you also have two years from the date of your loved one’s death to bring a claim. If you let this time window expire, it may be difficult or impossible for you to obtain the compensation you seek.

• 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.