Colonial Heights Car Accident Attorney

There are some important steps you should take after any type of motor vehicle accident. Our car accident attorneys say that after an accident, you should:

• Check yourself and any passengers for injuries 
• Call 911 immediately if major injuries are discovered
• If possible, move yourself and your vehicle out of harm’s way
• Call the local authorities to report the accident
• While waiting for the authorities, exchange information with any other drivers involved
• Document the scene by taking photos of any damage or injuries
• If the police respond, ask them how to obtain a copy of the accident report
• If you think your accident was the result of negligent or distracted driving, tell the responding officers 
• Call your insurance agent to report the accident and begin the claims process
• Call the Commonwealth Law Group for help with your Colonial Heights accident

A lawyer will be able to use the information you provide to determine the value of your claim and what your logical next steps may be.

Every motor vehicle accident claim is unique. The facts about your crash, including the number of vehicles involved as well as the extent of your injuries, can all play a role in determining what an auto accident attorney might say your case is worth. 

When determining this number, our lawyers will take the following factors into account:

• Your current and future accident-related medical expenses
• Lost wages and potential loss of earnings
• Any necessary physical therapy or long-term care
• Pain and suffering

Your lawyer should be taking all these things into account when determining a fair value for your claim. The accident lawyers at Commonwealth Law Group have experience estimating the value of a car accident claim and then fighting for every dollar our clients deserve.

Under Virginia law, you have two years to initiate a personal injury claim against a driver who may have been at fault in your accident. If you wait too long, you may forfeit your right to seek a legal remedy for your injuries and related expenses.

According to Virginia’s contributory negligence rule, a person cannot collect any damages if they were in any way responsible for the accident. 

This means that if a court finds you even 1% responsible for your accident, you will not be able to recover any expenses. This includes compensation for property damage, medical expenses, and pain and suffering.

For this reason, it is of particular importance that you are represented by a seasoned auto accident lawyer who can fight against any attempts by an insurance company to blame you for your accident.

It is common for an insurance adjuster to approach an accident victim with a settlement offer. These often promise quick money, but they come with an agreement on your part that you will not bring any lawsuits against the insurance company or their client in the future. 

A quick settlement normally results in the victim collecting far less money than they might receive if they had hired an attorney.

In addition to helping secure more financial damages, an attorney can:

• Offer resources to thoroughly investigate your accident claim
• Provide legal advice based on knowledge and experience
• Connect you with medical experts who can help determine how long it may take for you to heal
• Negotiate with other attorneys and insurance companies on your behalf
• Represent you in a trial if that becomes necessary

Most auto accident claims are settled through negotiations. Because of this, experienced car accident lawyers will know how to use thorough preparation techniques to place you in a strong negotiating position. If negotiations fail, they will have no fear of facing your opposition in the courtroom to maximize your compensation.