Best Car Accident Lawyers in Manassas, VA

FAQs

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

  The Manassas Police Department can be reached at (703) 257-8000.

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

  To obtain an accident report from the Manassas Police Department, call (703) 257-8456. You also have the option to send a letter to the City of Manassas at 9800 Godwin Drive, Manassas VA 20110.

• What do you do next after a car accident in Manassas?

  After you've seen to it that you and any of the other people involved are not in any danger, calling the police in Manassas is the next thing to do. However, it's important to note that the only thing you are to tell them is when and where the accident happened and if anyone was injured. Exercise caution when saying anything else as you may end up saying something both untrue and influenced by heightened emotions.

• Can you file for a property damage claim after a car accident in Manassas?

  If you are the owner of a property that's been damaged in a car accident in Manassas, you can file a claim for compensation for it that should be covered by a "property damage liability" that motorists must pay to the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles' Uninsured Motorists Fund. In the event that the liable party pushes back, a lawsuit can be filed against the insurance company.

• Why is it advisable to immediately move to file a claim after a car accident in Manassas?

  While there is a two-year statute of limitations to file a damage claim for a car accident, the steps involved in seeing this to the end will take time. Collecting and analyzing evidence, calculating the value of the damages, and waiting for medical diagnoses and prognoses alone will require weeks or even months. People make the mistake of thinking that two years is a long time. Missing the window will mean that the claim will be dismissed in Manassas.

• What is a big mistake most commonly made by people involved in a car accident in Manassas?

  Believing that they are fine and do not need to be seen by a doctor. Victims of car accidents often walk away from the scene thinking that they are okay because they do not feel pain, only for them to start feeling discomfort after a few days. The accident will cause a surge of adrenaline inside the body that can mask the presence of serious injuries because it makes the victim believe that they are not in pain.

• Why is it important to be cautious of what to say to both the police and the insurance company after a car accident in Manassas?

  Because the insurance company will do anything to pay the claimant the least possible amount legally. If you're not careful with what you say, you may end up hurting your chances of receiving compensation in Manassas if the insurance adjusters find a statement that can be misconstrued into an admission of guilt. Virginia, sadly, is a state that follows the pure contributory fault system that bars an injured driver from compensation if they were found to be even 1% responsible.

• 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.