Best Car Accident Lawyers in Centreville

FAQs

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

  For non-emergency concerns in Centreville, call the Fairfax County Department of Public Safety Communications at (703) 691-2131.

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

  To obtain a copy of a Centreville 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 a.m. to 4 p.m. You may also call the Central Records section during regular business hours at 703-246-2272.

• How much does it cost to hire a car accident lawyer in Centreville?

  Car accident lawyers in Centreville do not have a fixed rate for providing legal services. Many lawyers in the area work on a contingency fee basis, without asking for money upfront. Under this system, the attorney’s fees are contingent on any monetary recovery they obtain on their client’s behalf. If the lawyer fails to secure compensation for their client, they also won’t get paid.

• How does the contributory negligence rule in Centreville work?

  If you sustain injuries in a Centreville car accident due to someone else’s negligence, but you’re found to be partly at fault for the crash, Virginia’s rule of contributory negligence will be applied. Under this rule, even if the person that injured you is 99% at fault and you’re 1% responsible for your injuries, you are barred from obtaining recovery, no matter how serious your injuries are. Simply put, if you are partially at fault for an accident in Centreville, you won’t get any compensation.

• What can you get compensated for after a car accident in Centreville?

  After getting hurt in a Centreville car accident, you may be entitled to recover compensation for the losses you incurred as a result of the crash. You have the right to pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, household services, property damage, and pain and suffering. You may also seek compensation for future losses if the car accident caused you permanent impairments that limit your ability to do the things you used to do easily.-

• Should you still seek medical attention after getting involved in a Centreville car crash if you feel fine?

  If you figure in a Centreville car accident, you should accept the offer of the police officer or the emergency medical respondent to obtain immediate medical attention even if you feel fine. If medical care was not offered to you, see a doctor on your own. It is advisable that you get prompt and appropriate medical care, as any delay in receiving medical attention can lead to the worsening of your injuries, causing them to manifest into something more severe.

• How much time do you have to get compensation after a car accident in Centreville?

  According to Virginia's code section 8.01-243, you have two years from the date of the incident to pursue compensation if you get injured in a Centreville car accident. If you are filing for a wrongful death claim, you also have two years from the date of your loved one’s passing to bring a claim. If you allow this time window to pass, it may be difficult or impossible for you to receive the compensation you deserve.

• 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.