Best Car Accident Lawyers in Arlington

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency telephone hotline of Arlington County Police Department is 703-558-2222.

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

  Police report for the accident can be requested electronically via a digital portal at https://secure.coplogic.com/rar/startrequest/200000572. You must provide a copy of your government-issued identification when submitting your request. Also, you must prepare an $8 payment for the processing fee. For in-person requests, you may visit the Office of Records Customer Service Counter at 1425 N. Courthouse Road, Suite 2100, during business hours of Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday: 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Wednesday from 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

• What is the significance of the four elements of negligence in a car accident claim in Arlington?

  The plaintiff must establish four elements of negligence to prove that the other driver was at fault in the Arlington car accident: (1) duty of care refers to the driver's legal responsibility to other road users while operating the vehicle; (2) breach of duty describes how the defendant deviated from his duty; (3) causation indicates that the defendant's breach of duty caused the accident; and (4) damages are the financial and recovery liability incurred by the plaintiff as a result of the incident.

• How can insurance companies act in bad faith in Arlington car accident claims?

  When insurance companies fail to provide their policyholders with maximum coverage, they act in bad faith. During a car accident case in Arlington, the agency may disobey the policy terms of its clients, dispute the severity of the victim's injuries, and dispute the claimants' degree of fault. They will attempt to settle for the lowest possible amount or deny the claim. Insurers may also justify premium increases by asserting that policyholders face greater risks.

• What qualifies as pain and suffering in a car accident claim in Arlington?

  The intangible harm associated with the plaintiff's bodily injury is pain and suffering. If your situation involves pain, discomfort, anguish, inconvenience, and trauma caused by an injury sustained in a car accident in Arlington, you may be entitled to compensation for pain and suffering. Loss of consortium, physical injury, disfigurement, psychological damage, cognitive dysfunction, post-traumatic stress disorder, and altered emotional state are examples of these conditions.

• What is the average amount of insurance received by car accident victims in Arlington ?

  The average settlement amount for a car accident in Arlington involving an injured party is approximately $29,700. This is the bare minimum that will cover your injuries, losses, and damages. You should have the most liability coverage you can afford. Most drivers prefer the 100/300/100 coverage level, which includes $100,000 per person injury, $300,000 in bodily injury liability, and $100,000 in property damage liability. Personal injury protection and underinsured motorist coverage are also available.

• What are the common causes of car accident fires in Arlington?

  Electrical system failures, overheated engines, and fuel lines and tanks are the most common causes of car fires after an accident in Arlington. Many other vehicle components contain flammable materials that can have an unpredictable impact on the incident. Remember not to try to extinguish the fire or open the hood on your own. Any increase in airflow or oxygen can cause the vehicle to burn more quickly. Instead, dial 911 and stay away from the vehicle.

• 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.