Best Car Accident Lawyers in Fairfax, VA

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the Fairfax police department is 703-691-2131.

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

  You may order a copy of your Fairfax car accident report from CrashDocs.org. You can also pick it up in person from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays from the records section of the police station. Reports are furnished for free to persons who are involved the crash.

• How is fault determined in a Fairfax car accident?

  There are several factors that authorities take into consideration when determining fault in a Fairfax car accident, including road conditions, the speed of motor vehicles, tire conditions, the length of the yellow light, and the possibility of intoxicated or distracted driving. Note that it is advised that involved parties avoid admitting, however off-hand, any fault for the accident.

• What are your legal options if the person at-fault in a Fairfax car accident has no insurance?

  You can seek direct compensation from the driver's personal finances by filing a personal injury lawsuit against them. If the uninsured motorist was using an insured company vehicle during the time of your Fairfax car accident, then you can seek compensation from the company's insurance policy. You can also turn to your own insurance policy, as long as you didn't decline your provider's uninsured motorist coverage.

• Are you still eligible to seek compensation if you weren't wearing your seatbelt during a Fairfax car accident?

  Yes, you can still seek compensation. However, the fact that you were not wearing a seatbelt at the time of your Fairfax car accident can be used against you by insurance companies by arguing that you contributed to your own injuries. As a result, you may receive a lower amount of settlement. But you should also keep in mind that not wearing a seatbelt does not necessarily constitute negligence, despite Virginia's strict contributory negligence doctrine.

• What will happen if you wrongly admit fault in a Fairfax car accident?

  Fairfax is within an at-fault state, which means that your insurance company could pay for all the financial expenses resulting from the crash in the event that you wrongly admit fault. This could also increase your insurance premiums and limit your ability to seek coverage. The other driver could also directly demand compensation from you.

• What are some of the most dangerous intersections in Fairfax?

  Listed below are some of the most dangerous intersections in Fairfax:

  • Centrewood Drive and Saint Germain Road, Centreville
  • Leesburg Pike (Va. Route 7) from Patrick Henry Drive to Rio Drive, Falls Church
  • Gallows Road from Arlington Boulevard (U.S. Rt. 50) to Interstate 66, Fairfax
  • Little River Turnpike (Va. Route 236) from Hummer Road to Woodland Road, Annandale
  • Lee Jackson Memorial Highway (U.S. Route 50) and Metrotech Drive, Chantilly

• 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.