Manassas Car Accident Lawyer

Fighting for the Injured in Prince William County, Fairfax County, and Arlington

If you have been in an accident, you may have numerous questions and concerns. Where do I start? How do I know if I have a case? How can I afford an attorney? These are just a few of the questions that may be running through your mind.

At Portner & Shure, P.A., we take great pride in our strong track record of success, including over $400 million in verdicts and past settlements. Whether at a negotiating table or in a courtroom, our experienced car auto accident attorneys will fight for the full and fair compensation you deserve.

Our Manassas car accident lawyers are ready to help you. If you've been injured in an accident, contact us at (410) 995-1515 for a free consultation.

How Do I File a Car Accident Claim in Virginia?

If you've been involved in a car accident in Virginia and need to file a claim, here's a general outline of the steps involved.

• Ensure Safety and Gather Information: After a car accident, prioritize safety. Move to a safe location, if possible, and check for injuries. Call the police to report the accident. Collect important information from the other driver(s) involved, including their name, contact details, insurance information, license plate number, and driver's license number. Also, gather contact information from any witnesses.

• Notify Your Insurance Company: Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the accident. Provide them with accurate and detailed information about the incident. Follow their instructions on the specific documentation they require and any deadlines for filing a claim.

• Medical Treatment: If you've sustained any injuries, seek immediate medical attention. Even if you don't feel injured, it's advisable to get a medical evaluation to rule out any underlying issues. Keep records of all medical treatment, including bills, prescriptions, and doctor's reports, as they may be needed for your claim.

• Document the Accident: Take photos of the accident scene, damage to vehicles, and any visible injuries. Make detailed notes about the circumstances surrounding the accident, such as the date, time, location, weather conditions, road conditions, and any other relevant details. This documentation will support your claim.

• Obtain a Copy of the Accident Report: Request a copy of the accident report from the police department that responded to the scene. This report contains important details about the accident, and your insurance company will likely require a copy when processing your claim.

• Cooperate with the Insurance Adjuster: An insurance adjuster will be assigned to your case. Cooperate with them, provide accurate information, and answer their questions truthfully. However, it's important to remember that their goal is to minimize the insurance company's liability, so you may want to consult with an attorney before providing a recorded statement.

• Consult an Attorney (If Necessary): If the accident resulted in significant damage, severe injuries, or a dispute over fault, it may be beneficial to consult with a personal injury attorney. They can provide legal guidance, negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf, and ensure you understand your rights and options.

• Follow Virginia's Laws and Statutes: Familiarize yourself with Virginia's laws and statutes regarding car accidents, insurance requirements, and the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim. This information will help you understand your rights and ensure you meet all necessary deadlines.

What Is the Car Accident Injury Compensation in VA?

In Virginia, car accident injury compensation can vary based on several factors, including the severity of the injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and the impact on the victim's quality of life. Virginia follows a "fault" system for car accidents, meaning the at-fault party is responsible for compensating the injured party.

Economic Damages

Economic damages refer to the financial losses resulting from the accident. This can include medical expenses, hospital bills, rehabilitation costs, prescription medication, property damage, and lost wages due to the inability to work. These damages are generally easier to quantify, as they have a direct monetary value.

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages are more subjective and cover the physical and emotional impact of the accident. Examples include pain and suffering, mental anguish, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and disfigurement. Determining the monetary value of these damages can be more challenging, as they are not easily quantifiable.

Modified Comparative Fault in VA

Virginia follows a modified comparative fault rule, specifically the "contributory negligence" standard. This means that if an injured party is found to be even 1% at fault for the accident, they may be barred from recovering any compensation. However, if the injured party is determined to be less than 50% at fault, their compensation may be reduced proportionately to their degree of fault.

VA Car Accident Statute of Limitations

In Virginia, there is a statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim resulting from a car accident. Generally, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. It's crucial to adhere to this timeline, as failing to file within the statute of limitations may result in the loss of your right to seek compensation.

Insurance Coverage

Virginia requires all drivers to carry minimum liability insurance coverage. The minimum requirements are $25,000 per person for bodily injury, $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $20,000 per accident for property damage. If the at-fault driver's insurance coverage is insufficient to compensate for your damages, you may consider pursuing a claim under your own insurance policy if you have appropriate coverage, such as uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.

What Is the Next Step?

If you have been injured in an accident, we strongly urge you to contact our experienced Manassas car accident lawyers. At Portner & Shure, our team can help evaluate your case, negotiate with insurance companies, and help you pursue a claim to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. We can help you understand your legal options and can help you file a claim!

We are ready to help you. Call us today at (410) 995-1515.