Traffic accidents are a common threat across the US, and data on crashes in Virginia reveals that the risks are significant for motorists. According to data compiled by the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (VA DMV), there are approximately 122,300 motor vehicle collisions every year statewide.

122,300. Up to 860 people lose their lives in these crashes, while another 61,800 individuals suffer injuries ranging from minor to severe. You may realize that you have legal remedies as the victim of a car accident, but you may not know where to begin with pursuing them.

Fortunately, you can trust Hampton Injury Law PLC to handle all requirements and necessary tasks involved with auto crash claims. Compensation is available to cover your physical, emotional, and financial losses, but the legal process can be complicated. A Poquoson car accident attorney will advocate on your behalf, so please contact the firm to set up a case evaluation. An overview of the relevant laws is also useful.

Common Causes of Virginia Traffic Crashes

The underlying cause of vehicle collisions is negligence, but the term means more than mere carelessness in the practice of law. To recover compensation, you must prove that the at-fault driver caused the accident because they failed to drive safely. Examples of driver negligence include:

• Running red lights and stop signs;
• Speeding;
• Driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs;
• Failure to yield;
• Improper lane changes; and,
• Texting, talking on the phone, surfing social media, and other forms of distracted driving.

Compensation for Victims

You suffer a range of consequences as a victim, and compensation is intended to help you recoup these losses. One category of damages covers your economic losses, such as costs of emergency care, surgery, hospitalization, rehabilitation, and other medical treatment. You may also qualify to obtain amounts for lost wages if you missed work because of being injured.

Another category of compensation is noneconomic damages, which applies to losses that are subjective and personal to the victim. These are damages that affect your quality of life, such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, scarring and disfigurement, and many more.

How the Legal Process Works

Your first step is filing a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company and attempting to settle. If the insurer will not pay a fair amount, you must take your case to court. A Virginia auto crash lawyer at Hampton Injury Law PLC will handle the process, including:

• Gathering evidence;
• Reviewing your medical records;
• Preparing a claim for the insurance company;
• Engaging in settlement negotiations with the insurer; and,
• Filing a lawsuit in court and taking your case to trial.

Contact a Poquoson Car Accident Attorney to Discuss Details 

As you can see, legal help is critical when going through the claims process after an auto crash. To learn more about your rights, please contact Hampton Injury Law PLC to set up a case evaluation. After reviewing your circumstances, a Virginia traffic collision lawyer can offer personalized advice and explain what to expect.