Clarke County Car Accident Attorney
If you are in a car accident, your life can change in an instant. The Clarke County car accident lawyers at our firm understand this truth, having represented numerous of victims hurt in automobile collisions. Injuries you sustain in a collision can linger for weeks or months, sometimes even a lifetime, affecting your ability to work and live the life you previously enjoyed. Virginia car accident laws can be rather complicated, and many people are confused about what their rights are when they are involved in an incident in Clarke County. Fortunately, a Clarke County, VA car accident lawyer can help you and your family get things back on track.
In Clarke County and the rest of Virginia, you normally have two years from the date of your injury to file a lawsuit, or otherwise resolve your matter. A lawsuit is filed based on the legal claim that another person’s actions caused your injury. It is important to contact a Clarke County personal injury attorney as soon as possible so that you know your rights and can begin assembling documents and other important items to make your case.
Seeking Compensation
People who are injured in car accidents have at least three options for seeking compensation:
- They may file a claim with their insurance company.
- They may seek compensation from the other person’s insurance company.
- They may sue the other person or their insurance company for compensation.
People in Virginia usually make claims with their insurance company when the other person is uninsured. Virginia requires all insurance policies sold in the state to provide uninsured motorist protection, to protect Virginia motorists from those operating uninsured or under-insured vehicles.
When it is not clear who is legally at fault in an accident, it may be in your best interests to retain an attorney to assist you in receiving compensation. Insurance companies will sometimes attempt to settle, especially when an injured person could most likely prove that he or she was not at fault. Other times, it may be necessary to prove your case in court. Either way, an experienced Clarke County car accident attorney can provide guidance on what actions, decisions, and strategies are in your best interest.
Do I have a case?
Those who are injured in a car accident in Clarke County may not always be able to determine if they have a case against another person. Our experienced Clarke County, VA car accident lawyers can ascertain what right you may have to file suit and assist you in understanding the merits of your case.
Virginia follows the contributory negligence rule that states that people must look out for their own safety to avoid an accident. Even if the other driver was at fault for the accident, if you did not use the proper precaution to avoid the accident, you may actually be found partially negligent and responsible for your injuries. If you are found to be partially at fault for your accident, then you will be barred from recovery as a matter of law.
Even if you think that you were also negligent in the accident or that you cannot prove that the other person was at fault, you should contact an attorney. Clarke County personal injury lawyers have a better understanding of the law, and are experienced at building a case in court. An attorney will bring an unbiased eye to your case, assist you in understanding the law and how it applies to the facts of your case, and advocate zealously on your behalf.
Sometimes, accidents occur through no fault of either driver. Road or weather conditions can cause even the most cautious drivers to have an accident. Vehicle malfunctions are also common, including mechanical, electrical and braking systems. If you were injured in an accident like this, you should contact a lawyer to explore your options for seeking compensation. They will analyze your case with an experienced, professional eye and make sure that the at-fault party is held responsible for any damages that they cause you.
Do I need a Clarke County, VA car accident lawyer?
Insurance companies often prefer to settle out of court when they are the target of a lawsuit. Unfortunately, many people who have been injured accept offers without first contacting a lawyer. While the promise of a quick financial award may be tempting, the sum the insurance companies offer to unrepresented individuals is often far below what is actually needed to cover the accident victim’s medical bills, time off work, and other expenses, particularly when the injuries he or she has suffered are long-lasting.
Without proper representation, you cannot be sure that you are getting the compensation that you deserve. Insurance adjusters can be intimidating and can imply that the damages you are asking for are unfair even when they are not. When you contact a Clarke County, VA car accident lawyer at our firm, we will review your case, your medical documents and any other evidence you have and will determine the best course of action. Our initial consultation is free of charge to you, so call us today and let us help you get started on the road to justice.
