Virginia Car Accident Lawyer
If you were involved in a car accident, you may need help recovering compensation from the at-fault party. Our Virginia car accident lawyers at Cooper Hurley Injury Lawyers are ready to help. We offer clients a free consultation and will help them gather evidence and prove liability. Our team will fight aggressively for every client we represent to help make them financially whole after a car accident. We represent clients throughout Hampton Roads and have 9 office locations in the area, including Virginia Beach and Portsmouth.
On This Page
- How Can Cooper Hurley Injury Lawyers Help After Your Accident?
- What to Do If You’re in a Car Accident
- Types of Car Accident Cases We Handle
- Common Injuries in Car Accidents
- Available Damages in a Car Accident
- How a Virginia Car Accident Attorney Can Help You
- FAQs About Car Accidents in Virginia
- Contact a Virginia Car Accident Attorney from Cooper Hurley Injury Lawyers
Hiring a car accident lawyer in Virginia from Cooper Hurley Injury Lawyers is a smart move if you are in an accident. We can investigate your case and advocate for your rights. Our legal team works tirelessly to help our clients recover the maximum compensation for their claims, including damages for lost wages, medical bills, and emotional trauma.
How Can Cooper Hurley Injury Lawyers Help After Your Accident?
After a Virginia car accident, you need to contact a car accident lawyer to help you handle the legal process and its complexities.
Some ways our Virginia car accident lawyer can help with your case include the following:
- Experienced representation: Our knowledgeable and skilled attorneys have over 125 years of combined experience representing injured accident victims—we are The Car Crash Experts.
- Expertise in investigating and gathering evidence: Accident scenes change quickly, and evidence may be moved or lost. Your attorney can ensure essential information is collected.
- Skilled negotiations: Insurance companies want to pay accident victims as little as possible. Your attorney will negotiate for a fair amount of compensation for your losses.
- No fee unless you win: Our team works on a contingency fee basis, which means you do not pay unless you recover compensation.
- Free consultation: We offer clients a free consultation to discuss their case and know their options before committing to hiring our law firm.
We Have Won Some of the Highest Verdicts and Settlements in Virginia
In 2022, we obtained a $6 million settlement for a veteran after his fall injury resulted in paraplegia. We also obtained a $2.46 million verdict for a client injured in a Norfolk crash—the second biggest car accident verdict in 2022.
Some of our other noteworthy results include the following:
- $6.5 million for a car accident victim
- $7 million for a motorcycle accident victim
- $5 million for a client injured by a truck driver
Unfortunately, accidents often happen through no fault of your own, when they do, we are here to help you recover fair compensation if you do.
Common Causes of Car Accidents in Virginia
The main culprit for car accidents is negligence. Virginia drivers are legally obligated to operate their vehicles with due care to avoid accidents and ensure the safety of others on the road. However, it only takes one small mistake or lapse of judgment to cause a collision. The major common causes of Virginia car accidents include the following:
- Speeding: Exceeding the speed limit is a common factor in Virginia car accidents, often resulting in severe injuries due to the impact force.
- Distracted driving: Few people leave home without their smartphone, which is the leading cause of distracted driving accidents. However, other issues can cause these, too, such as eating, grooming, or talking to passengers.
- Driving under the influence: Alcohol and drugs impair judgment and reflexes. DUI is illegal and significantly increases the likelihood of being involved in an accident.
Remain alert and focused on your task when behind the wheel. This can help prevent accidents and may help you avoid a collision.
What to Do If You're in a Car Accident
Do you know what to do after a Virginia car accident? Knowing the right steps can impact the outcome of your legal proceedings. These steps include the following:
1. Pull Over Safely
Virginia Code § 46.2-894 requires that drivers pull over at the nearest safe location following car accidents. Failing to do so could result in criminal charges. Ensure you are away from traffic and turn on your hazard lights to warn other drivers.
2. Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Regardless of how minor the injuries may seem, seeking medical attention is necessary. Many injuries have delayed symptoms. Waiting to be treated may cause these symptoms to worsen.
Going to the doctor also provides official documentation of your injuries. Medical evidence will link the injuries to the accident, which is beneficial when trying to recover compensation.
3. Call The Police
Contacting the police immediately after an accident is critical. An officer will investigate the scene, document the details, interview witnesses, and prepare an official report. A police report can strengthen your position in a car accident claim by providing an objective account and important information to build your case.
Give the police detailed information. Always tell the truth about the accident to an investigating officer, but do not give incriminating expressions of opinion that may harm your case, such as admitting you were to blame for the wreck. Stick to the facts.
4. Document the Scene
Use your phone to take photos and videos of the accident scene, including vehicle positions, damages, debris, road conditions, and traffic signs that may have played a role in the accident. Your attorney can use this evidence to help determine liability and to hold the at-fault driver accountable for their actions.
5. Exchange Information and Hire an Attorney
Gather insurance details, names, and contact information from all parties involved in the accident.
Then, schedule a consultation with a qualified Virginia auto accident attorney to guide you through the legal process.
Types of Car Accident Cases We Handle
Something our car accident attorneys have realized through the years is that no two car accidents are the same. There are unique factors that make each one complex in its way. As an experienced law firm in Virginia, we proudly represent all car accident victims.
The most common cases we see include the following:
Rear-End Collisions
One common type of accident on Virginia roadways is the rear-end collision. When these occur, those in the lead vehicle often suffer from whiplash and other neck injuries.
With these accidents, determining fault is usually simple. While true, this is not always the case. Our attorneys can help prove liability and file a car accident lawsuit.
T-Bone Accidents
A T-bone accident is also called a side-impact collision. These are common at intersections and may result in serious injuries. Liability is more complex in these cases. Our legal team will help you with each step of the legal process and work to protect your rights.
Head-On Collisions
These are among the deadliest types of accidents, often resulting in severe or fatal injuries. The legal aftermath can involve significant compensation claims, making expert legal help essential.
Uber/Lyft/Rideshare Accidents
The rise of ridesharing services has added another layer of complexity to car accident cases. Whether you are a driver, passenger, or a third party, we can navigate the maze of insurance policies and liability laws particular to rideshare companies if you’ve been in an Uber or Lyft accident.
Common Injuries in Car Accidents
Car accidents are traumatic experiences. You may experience several injuries, some minor while others more severe. Factors like speed, vehicle size, and if you wore a seatbelt can all impact the injuries you sustain.
Common injuries seen in Virginia car accidents include:
Broken Bones
Fractured bones are common in car crashes, often requiring weeks or months of healing and physical therapy. In extreme cases, surgery may be needed to repair the damage.
Spinal Cord Injuries
A collision can produce enough force to injure the spinal cord, potentially leading to permanent paralysis. Such injuries are devastating and life-altering and come with many medical costs.
Traumatic Brain Injuries
Concussions and other traumatic brain injuries can have short-term and long-term effects, ranging from mild confusion to severe cognitive impairments. Those suffering from TBIs may be unable to return to work or care for themselves.
Burns
High-speed collisions or accidents involving explosions can result in burn injuries. Burn injuries are complex and often require ongoing treatment and therapy.
Internal Injuries
Internal bleeding or damage to organs can occur during a car accident, even if there are no external signs of trauma. These injuries are dangerous because they are not immediately obvious and can worsen rapidly if not treated. The body’s response to trauma can sometimes lead to the formation of blood clots. These clots pose significant risks to cardiovascular health. They can travel to the heart, potentially causing a heart attack.
Available Damages in a Car Accident
You can recover damages after a car accident caused by someone else’s negligence. You can recover two main types of damages—economic and non-economic. A Virginia car accident attorney can evaluate your case to determine what you may receive.
Economic Damages
Economic damages refer to quantifiable losses incurred due to the accident, including the following:
- Medical bills: Expenses related to emergency care, hospitalization, surgery, and ongoing medical treatment
- Disability: If you are left disabled because of your injuries from the accident
- Lost wages: Lost income due to the time missed from work for recovery
- Nursing care: Services of a full-time nurse
- Physical therapy: Expenses for physical rehabilitation
- Vocational rehabilitation: Retraining in a new field of employment if you cannot continue in your previous job
- Lost job opportunities: Missed job opportunities, like a promotion or lost business
- Property damage: Repair or replacement costs for your vehicle or other damaged property
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages are more subjective and cover non-material losses resulting from the car accident:
- Loss of consortium: Deprivation of the benefits of a family relationship due to injuries
- PTSD: Psychological trauma because of the accident
- Pain and suffering: Physical and emotional stress caused by the accident
- Emotional distress: Anxiety, depression, and other emotional issues
- Physical disfigurement: If the accident leaves you with scars or other lasting physical changes
- Embarrassment: Social shame or stigma due to disfigurement or reduced abilities
- Reduced quality of life: Diminished ability to enjoy life or partake in activities and hobbies you used to enjoy
Your Virginia car accident lawyer can properly evaluate your damages and build a strong case to help you recover compensation.
How a Virginia Car Accident Attorney Can Help You
After a car accident, you must handle several tasks like medical appointments, auto repairs, and the emotional toll of the incident. Trying to deal with the legal aspects can be an unnecessary distraction. There may also be further nuances or complications, such as if you were in an accident while on active duty at one of Virginia’s military bases.
At Cooper Hurley Injury Lawyers, we understand this and are here to provide the support and guidance you need. The ways we can help with your car accident case include the following:
Helping You Prove Fault in Your Car Crash
Virginia Code § 8.01-58 states that the state operates under an “at-fault” system for car accidents, meaning the party responsible for the accident is also responsible for any resulting damage. Proving fault is critical for the success of your claim, and a misstep could severely limit your ability to recover damages.
Cooper Hurley Injury Lawyers are experts at navigating Virginia’s unique laws. Our law firm is the first to have access to this game-changing evidence.
Negotiating with Insurance Companies
The insurance company representing the at-fault party in your accident will likely try to minimize your compensation. Some insurers use underhanded tactics to convince you to take a settlement that does not include all the compensation you are entitled to.
Cooper Hurley Injury Lawyers is a law firm that never represents insurance companies. The legal team also knows all the tricks insurance companies use to get accident victims to settle for less than they deserve or even admit guilt.
One example is that the insurance adjuster will act like a victim’s friend and eventually get them to say something about the fault. In some cases, they may take the statement out of context, which may be enough to ruin your ability to recover compensation. Another trick insurance companies use is making the offer seem like the only one you will receive or telling you that you must accept it now or lose it forever.
Do not fall for these tricks. Our law firm is ready to negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf so you do not fall for the insurance company’s efforts to get you to accept less.
With the help of our personal injury attorneys, you can feel confident that you will know when to accept a settlement offer and when to fight for more. We can handle all negotiations with the insurance company to help alleviate some of the stress you experience.
ASK THE CAR CRASH EXPERTS
Jim Hurley, Personal Injury Lawyer
“Oftentimes, insurance companies will take advantage of people who have been injured in car wrecks. Because at the end of the day, the insurance companies, they really don’t care about you as they care about trying to save a dollar. At Cooper Hurley Injury Lawyers, we firmly believe that if you’re injured in a car wreck, you need to contact and talk to a personal injury lawyer so you know what you need to do, you know what to expect, and oftentimes a personal injury lawyer can help you get a great recovery.”
Benefits of Experienced Trial Attorneys
For some, the thought of going to trial is scary. However, we are ready to defend your case before a judge or jury.
You must prove the other party is to blame for your injuries. The process starts with the discovery process. The discovery stage begins after the complaint is filed, initiating the car accident lawsuit. Legal representatives on each side will gather information about the case during this stage. This includes medical records, photos, police reports, witness statements, and anything related to the accident.
The documents are requested from the respective facilities or the accident victim. The legal counsel for both parties will review the information to determine what evidence they will use in court. It is also possible to use the information to help determine negligence.
Virginia has car accident laws that are slightly different than other states. For instance, the state does not strictly require car insurance. Drivers can pay a fee to remain uninsured if they wish. Also, if you are found to be slightly at fault for the accident, you cannot receive monetary damages due to Virginia following the contributory negligence rule.
These laws and requirements make having an attorney helping with your case invaluable.
FAQs About Car Accidents in Virginia
Navigating the aftermath of a car accident can be a complex process. We understand the confusion surrounding the legal process. Here are some answers to some of the most common questions.
What is Contributory Negligence in Virginia?
Virginia is one of the few states still following a pure contributory negligence doctrine. Under this rule, if you are even one percent at fault for the accident, you are barred from recovering any damages. Working with an experienced Virginia car accident attorney to prove that you were not at fault is essential.
How Long Do I Have to File a Claim in Virginia?
Virginia’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including car accidents, is two years from the accident date. Missing this deadline could result in the court refusing to hear your case. Call our office as soon as possible to get started on your claim.
Ask The Car Crash Experts - What is the statute of limitations for auto accidents in Virginia?
Griffin O'Hanlon, Personal Injury Lawyer
“Statute of limitations is something that basically says if you haven’t filed a lawsuit by this date you’re forever stopped from doing so . However, there are some exceptions and circumstances that could alter that deadline, so it’s important to chat with a lawyer. Once you’ve filed the claim and are protected by that statute, you can seek various damages, as well as the things that are harder to put a dollar figure on such as pain, suffering, inconvenience, and mental anguish. It’s important to be aware of Virginia’s statute of limitations and consult a qualified lawyer to understand the types of damages you can pursue in your case.
How Long Will My Case Take?
The timeline for resolving a car accident case varies widely—from weeks to more than a year. Factors like the case’s complexity, the other party’s willingness to settle, and court availability will affect the timeline.
How Much Is My Car Accident Case Worth?
The value of a car accident case depends on several factors, including the severity of injuries, the extent of damages, and clarity regarding who was at fault. Experienced attorneys can provide an estimate based on similar cases and the specifics of your situation.
How Much Does a Car Accident Lawyer Cost?
Most car accident lawyers, including Cooper Hurley Injury Lawyers, operate on a contingency fee basis. You pay nothing upfront; your attorney takes a percentage of the settlement or verdict. If you do not win, you do not pay.
Can a Family File for Wrongful Death Due to a Car Accident?
If a loved one dies due to a car accident, family members may be eligible to file a wrongful death claim. This claim seeks compensation for medical bills, funeral expenses, loss of income, and other damages.
Contact a Virginia Car Accident Attorney from Cooper Hurley Injury Lawyers
If you are involved in a Virginia car accident, our attorneys are ready to provide you with the legal representation you deserve. We have a track record of success and will provide you with the same aggressive legal services we offer all our clients.
If you need legal services, reach the following office closest to you:
Do not settle for less than you deserve. Let Cooper Hurley Injury Lawyers guide you through the complex legal landscape and secure the compensation you rightfully deserve. Call us today to schedule a free consultation.
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