Best Car Accident Lawyers in Hampton

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency phone number of the Hampton Police Division is (757) 727-6111.

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

  To obtain a copy of an accident report in Hampton, visit the Central Records Unit of the Public Safety Building during the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday: Records Unit 40 Lincoln Street Hampton, VA 23669 Phone: 757-727-6540 Email: chiefsoffice@hampton.gov

• Who will compensate you if you get hurt in a Hampton car accident?

  If you are a victim of a car accident caused by a negligent driver in Hampton, you are entitled to hold the other driver responsible and make them compensate you for your losses. The damages you can recover may include current and future medical expenses, rehabilitation and physical therapy costs, lost earnings and wages, diminished future earning capacity, and pain and suffering.

• How long will your car accident case in Hampton take?

  There is no fixed timeline for car accident cases in Hampton to be resolved. Your car accident lawsuit may take anywhere from several months to a year or more, depending on the availability of the evidence and how willing the other side is to negotiate. Another factor is if your case will get settled out of court or if it will go to trial, which will then lengthen the entire process.

• How do punitive damages work in Hampton?

  Car accident lawsuits that go to trial in Hampton may involve funds known as “punitive damages.” This category of damages is awarded in addition to actual damages in circumstances wherein the at-fault driver is found by the court to be especially harmful through their extraordinarily unsafe behavior, such as racing on highways, antagonizing other drivers, or having a high blood alcohol concentration in excess of .15.

• Who should you sue for an accident caused by a defective car in Hampton?

  Not all car accidents are caused by another driver. If your accident in Hampton was caused by a defective automobile or faulty car parts, you can pursue a product liability claim against the vehicle’s manufacturer. The most usual examples of this type of liability include faulty airbags and dysfunctional ignition switches.

• How long do you have to file a car accident lawsuit in Hampton?

  Hampton follows Virginia’s statute of limitations for personal injury, which governs the amount of time you have to pursue a claim or lawsuit for damages after an incident. If you figure in a car crash in the city, you generally have two years after the accident to file a lawsuit in court. If you fail to meet this legal deadline, you may be barred from receiving any compensation.

• 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.