Best Car Accident Lawyers in McLean, VA

FAQs

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

  (703) 556-7750 is the non-emergency contact number for the McLean District Police Station.

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

  You can request a copy of the accident report by sending a mail or going to the Fairfax County Police Department's Central Records Section located at 12099 Government Center Parkway, Fairfax, VA 22035. It will take 10 business days to process mail-in requests.

• What happens if the plaintiff is partially at fault for a car accident in McLean?

  Plaintiffs who are partially at fault for a car accident in McLean may not recover any compensation for their injuries. Virginia follows a pure contributory negligence system, under which accident victims can be barred from obtaining compensation if they were responsible for any degree of fault, even 1%, that led to the crash. The Code of Virginia also states that the plaintiff cannot hold someone fully responsible for the damages.

• How is a pain and suffering settlement calculated after a car accident in McLean?

  Attorneys and insurance adjusters in McLean use a formula to come up with an educated estimation for reasonable pain and suffering damages. This formula usually involves multiplying the accident victim's economic damages, such as lost wages and medical bills, by a number between 1.5 and 5. The multiplier can be determined based on the severity of the injuries. Other factors to be considered to maximize damages include the quality of the evidence and the amount of insurance coverage available.

• What are the most dangerous intersections in McLean?

  The intersection of Spring Hill and Lewinsville Roads is one of the most dangerous intersections in McLean. These roads intersect at an acute angle, creating an X-shape that contributes to frequent collisions in the area. Here are the other dangerous intersections in McLean:

  • Dolley Madison Blvd. and Ingleside Ave.
  • Old Dominion Drive and Bellview Road
  • Balls Hill Road and Old Dominion Drive

• What is the statute of limitations for car accidents in McLean?

  Individuals who have been injured in car accidents in McLean should file a lawsuit two years from the date of the accident. If someone died due to injuries from the crash, the deadline for pursuing a wrongful death claim is within two years from the date of the victim's death. However, the statute of limitations doesn't apply to accidents involving a mentally or physically incapacitated person, a government employee, or a minor.

• Is it illegal to hold a cell phone while driving a car in McLean?

  Yes. Mclean follows the state law that prohibits any person from holding handheld personal communications devices while driving a motor vehicle. Drivers or operators may be allowed to use a cell phone if they are operating a Department of Transportation or an emergency vehicle, if they are inside a parked motor vehicle, or if they need to report an emergency. In addition, using a hands-free device while talking on the phone is still legal.

• 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.