Best Car Accident Lawyers in Virginia Beach

FAQs

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

  For non-emergency concerns, you can call the Virginia Beach Police Department at (757) 385-5000.

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

  You can get a copy of your incident or crash report by going to the Virginia Beach Government's official website and submitting a Police FOIA Records Request.

• How can you get compensation for a hit-and-run in Virginia Beach if the driver is still unknown?

  It’s not rare for there to be no suspect in a hit-and-run or for the identified suspect not to be located. The Virginia Code Section 38.2-2206(E) addresses this by allowing hit-and-run victims to file a lawsuit against “John Doe.” This lets the victim’s own insurance policy assume the role of the unidentified driver and pay them compensation under the uninsured motorist (UIM) coverage. A Virginia Beach car accident lawyer can help the victim facilitate the John Doe filing.

• Should you file a police report after a minor car accident in Virginia Beach?

  Yes, you should ensure that a police report about your car accident is filed with the Virginia Beach Police, even if you think it's minor. You may have sustained car damages or internal physical injuries that only become apparent after a few days. The police report will serve as an unbiased source of accident details should you need to file an insurance claim. The absence of a police report may be used by the insurance company to deny or reduce your claim.

• Where do most car accidents happen in Virginia Beach?

  Based on the 2021 data collected by the Virginia Department of Transportation, the following are the top five most dangerous intersections in Virginia Beach:

  1. Kempsville Road and Indian River Road
  2. S. Independence Boulevard and the I-264 Entry
  3. Lynnhaven Parkway and S. Lynnhaven Road
  4. Virginia Beach Boulevard and First Colonial Road
  5. S. Rosemont Road and Bonney Road

• What is the deadline to file a car accident claim in Virginia Beach?

  According to the Virginia Code Section 8.01-243, car accident victims in Virginia Beach must file their claim for compensation within two years from the accident date. Exceptions apply to victims who were minors at the time of the accident and people with disabilities. The same two-year statute of limitations applies for wrongful death claims, but the clock starts counting from the date the car accident victim passed away.

• What is the pure contributory negligence law, and how does it affect your car accident case in Virginia Beach?

  Under Virginia’s pure contributory negligence law, the injured party must prove that the defendant is 100% liable for the car accident in order to collect compensation. If the defendant or the insurance company argues and proves that the injured party contributed to the accident even at 1%, the injured may be barred from recovering any compensation for their damages. That is why it is recommended that you work with a car accident lawyer in Virginia Beach who is experienced in navigating the pure contributory negligence law.

• 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.