At Tronfeld West & Durrett, our Virginia Beach car accident lawyers are dedicated to helping you recover the compensation you deserve after a car accident disrupts your life. We simplify the claims process, ensuring you pursue an amount that fully addresses every aspect of your damages.

How Can a Virginia Beach Car Accident Attorney Help You?

Whether it be dealing with insurance companies, negotiating a settlement, or preparing for trial, a local lawyer can make all the difference in the outcome of your case.

At Tronfeld West & Durrett, we have been handling personal injury cases in Virginia since 1972, and our team has a deep understanding of Virginia’s car accident laws and regulations. We can help you build a strong case, gather evidence to support your claim and fight for the compensation you deserve.

According to the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, there were over 122,434 car accidents in Virginia in 2022, resulting in 59,400 injuries. If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Virginia Beach, it’s important to seek the advice of a personal injury attorney. Our specialized knowledge and experience can assist you through each stage of the legal process for pursuing compensation for your injuries and other losses. 

Settlement Value of Car Accident Lawsuits in Virginia

The average settlement for car accidents in Virginia varies based on the severity of the injuries. For minor injuries (Level I), settlements typically range from $21,000 to $42,000. For moderate injuries (Level II), the settlement value generally falls between $59,000 and $160,000. In cases of severe injuries (Level III), settlements can range from $198,000 to $525,000, reflecting the extensive impact and costs associated with more serious injuries.

For answers to your questions about a car accident in Virginia Beach, call:
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What Types of Damages Are Available Following a Car Accident in VA Beach?

If you’ve been injured in a car accident, you may be entitled to various types of damages. These can be categorized into economic and non-economic damages:

Economic Damages

  • Medical expenses: This includes all costs associated with medical treatment, from emergency care to ongoing rehabilitation.
  • Lost wages: Compensation for the income you’ve lost due to your inability to work.
  • Property damage: Costs for repairing or replacing your vehicle and any other damaged property.

Non-Economic Damages

  • Pain and suffering: Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.
  • Loss of enjoyment of life: If your injuries prevent you from participating in activities you once enjoyed.
  • Emotional distress: Psychological impact of the accident and injuries, such as anxiety or depression.
  • Loss of consortium: Compensation for the impact of the injuries on your relationship with your spouse.

At Tronfeld West & Durrett, we have a long-standing commitment to helping those injured in car accidents in Virginia Beach. With decades of experience, our team has successfully secured compensation for countless clients, enabling them to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.

What Causes Most Car Accidents in Virginia Beach?

Car accidents can be caused by a variety of factors, including driver error, vehicle malfunctions, and hazardous road conditions. However, if you have been injured in a car accident caused by someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and other losses. This also applies if you were injured in a ridesharing accident involving services like Lyft or Uber.

Some of the most common causes of car accidents in Virginia Beach include:

These unfortunate accidents can result in many types of injuries, from minor cuts and bruises to catastrophic injuries such as spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, burns, amputations, and internal injuries.

Each injury comes with its own set of medical, emotional, and financial challenges, and even minor ones can have a significant impact on your life, causing pain, discomfort, and lost wages.

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We Represent All Types of Car Accident Cases in Virginia Beach, VA

At Tronfeld West & Durrett, our Virginia Beach car accident lawyers have experience handling a wide range of accident cases, no matter how complex. Each accident comes with unique challenges, and we’re prepared to help you navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve.

We handle cases involving:

  • Rear-End Collisions: Often caused by tailgating or distracted driving, these accidents can result in severe neck and back injuries.
  • Head-On Collisions: Among the most dangerous types of crashes, often leading to catastrophic injuries or fatalities.
  • T-Bone Accidents: Frequently occurring at intersections, these collisions can cause significant damage and injuries.
  • Drunk Driving Accidents: Holding intoxicated drivers accountable for their reckless actions.
  • Hit-and-Run Accidents: Pursuing compensation when the at-fault driver flees the scene.
  • Rideshare Accidents: Navigating claims involving Uber, Lyft, or other rideshare companies.
  • Multi-Vehicle Pileups: Complex cases involving multiple parties and insurance companies.
  • Motorcycle or Bicycle Accidents with Vehicles: Protecting vulnerable road users injured by negligent drivers.

No matter the type of accident, we are committed to building a strong case, ensuring your rights are protected, and helping you secure the compensation you need to move forward.

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What Are Your Legal Options After a Car Accident in Virginia Beach?

If you have been injured in a car accident in Virginia Beach, you have legal options to pursue compensation. Depending on the circumstances of your accident, you may be able to:

File an Insurance Claim

In Virginia, all drivers are required to carry liability insurance. So, if you have been injured in a car accident caused by another driver’s negligence, you can file a claim with their insurance company to recover compensation for your injuries and other losses.

However, insurance companies are often more concerned with their bottom line than with fairly compensating accident victims. That’s why it’s important to have a lawyer on your side: they know how to negotiate effectively, which is crucial for receiving the compensation you deserve.

How long does an insurance company have to settle a claim in Virginia?

In Virginia, insurance companies are generally required to settle a car crash claim within 45 days, as per the state’s Bureau of Insurance. If special circumstances arise that extend this timeframe, the insurance company must provide regular updates to the claimant, along with valid reasons for the delay.

Personal Injury Lawsuit

If the insurance claim doesn’t result in adequate compensation, filing a personal injury lawsuit is the next logical step. This involves proving the other party’s negligence and quantifying your damages.

The legal expertise of our personal injury lawyers can serve you to do both, and they will also help you with crafting and filing all the necessary paperwork to pursue a lawsuit after a car accident.

Your situation is unique, and so is our approach to your case. We invite you to reach out to us for a personalized evaluation of your case. 

Let us guide you through these critical decisions, ensuring that your rights are protected and your compensation reflects the true cost of your losses. With our firm by your side, you can focus on your recovery while we handle the legal complexities.

Our attorneys are adept at calculating the full spectrum of your entitled compensation, factoring in not just the immediate medical expenses but also the often-overlooked elements such as emotional distress, future care costs, and loss of earning capacity. We leverage our negotiation expertise to confront insurance companies, countering their tactics with evidence-backed demands.

Virginia Car Accident Statistics

According to the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, there were over 5,000 motor vehicle accidents in the last year alone. Among these incidents, over 1,500 involved injuries or wrongful deaths, showing us the severe impact these accidents can have on individuals and families.

Moreover, there were over 3,000 cases resulting in property damage, which is an important factor we consider at the moment of calculating fair compensation to claim

Common Virginia Beach Car Accident Injuries

We know from experience that car accidents can lead to an array of injuries, each presenting its own medical, emotional, and financial challenges. Common injuries include:

  • Whiplash
  • Fractures and Broken Bones
  • Head and Brain Injuries
  • Spinal Cord Injuries
  • Cuts and Lacerations
  • Burns
  • Internal Injuries
  • Amputations

Our team understands that even minor injuries can have a significant impact on your life, causing pain, discomfort, and lost wages. Severe injuries often require long-term medical treatment and rehabilitation, which can be both costly and emotionally draining. We’ll consider all of these factors at the moment of determining how to calculate compensation to help you move forward with your life.

Determining Liability for Your Virginia Beach Car Accident

Liability for a car accident in Virginia Beach can rest on one or more parties, depending on the circumstances of the crash. Drivers who exhibit negligence, such as speeding, distracted driving, or driving under the influence, are often held responsible. However, other factors like defective vehicle parts, poorly maintained roads, or even the actions of a third party could contribute to the accident. Identifying all liable parties is crucial to maximizing your compensation, and our experienced attorneys will thoroughly investigate your case to ensure no detail is overlooked.

Can I Still Receive Compensation if I’m Partially at Fault for My Virginia Beach Car Accident?

Virginia adheres to a strict contributory negligence rule, meaning you may be barred from recovering compensation if you are found even slightly at fault for the accident. Unlike states with comparative negligence laws, Virginia requires you to prove that the other party was entirely responsible for the crash. This makes it crucial to build a strong case and counter any claims that you contributed to the accident.

Here’s what you need to know about contributory negligence in Virginia:

  • Zero Fault Required: To recover compensation, you must demonstrate that you bear no responsibility for causing the accident.
  • Burden of Proof: The at-fault party’s insurance company may attempt to shift blame onto you, which is why strong evidence and legal representation are essential.
  • Legal Defense Strategies: Skilled attorneys can help disprove claims of shared fault by gathering evidence, consulting experts, and presenting a compelling argument on your behalf.
  • Impact on Settlements: Even minor accusations of fault can drastically impact your ability to recover compensation under Virginia law.

Our experienced attorneys understand these challenges and are committed to protecting your rights, ensuring you have the best chance to secure the compensation you deserve.

When Should You Call an Attorney After a Car Accident?

After a car accident, reaching out to a lawyer early can be critical in protecting your rights and building a strong case. Acting quickly ensures that key evidence is preserved, and it gives you an advocate who can manage the complex legal process on your behalf. Here are some key reasons to contact an attorney immediately:

  • Preserving Evidence: Time-sensitive evidence, like video footage or witness testimony, can quickly disappear. An attorney ensures that crucial evidence is collected and maintained.
  • Understanding Your Rights: Many accident victims are unsure of their legal rights after a crash. An experienced lawyer can clarify your options and guide you in the right direction.
  • Handling Legal Procedures: Navigating the legal process alone can be overwhelming, especially while recovering from injuries. An attorney can manage the paperwork, filings, and legal deadlines.
  • Dealing with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies are focused on minimizing payouts. A lawyer will negotiate on your behalf to seek the compensation you deserve.

By contacting the legal team at Tronfeld West & Durrett promptly, you can ensure your rights are safeguarded and your case is positioned for success from the start. We will work tirelessly to help you navigate the legal process and maximize your compensation.

How Can a Virginia Beach Car Accident Lawyer Help You?

A car accident can turn your life upside down, leaving you with injuries, financial strain, and legal complexities to navigate. Hiring a skilled attorney can relieve much of the stress, allowing you to focus on your recovery while increasing your chances of securing the compensation you deserve.

When you trust Tronfeld West & Durrett with your Virginia Beach car accident case, we will:

  • Provide clear, straightforward answers to your questions and guide you through each step of the process.
  • Conduct a detailed investigation to determine the cause of the accident and identify liable parties.
  • Collect and examine key evidence, such as police reports, medical documentation, video footage, property damage details, black box data for commercial vehicles, and any available physical evidence from the scene.
  • Interview witnesses and gather their testimony to support your claim.
  • Collaborate with accident reconstruction experts, medical professionals, and other specialists to strengthen your case.
  • Defend you against any claims of shared fault or contributory negligence that could reduce your compensation.
  • Negotiate with the insurance company to pursue a settlement that accurately reflects the value of your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

While we aim to reach a fair settlement through negotiation, we are fully prepared to take your case to court if needed. Our seasoned trial attorneys have a proven track record of success in the courtroom, and we will fight tirelessly to secure the best possible outcome for you.

Let Tronfeld West & Durrett handle the legal complexities so you can focus on healing. We’re here to protect your rights and work for the compensation you deserve.

What Is the Time Limit to Pursue Compensation After a Virginia Beach Car Accident?

In Virginia, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim after a car accident is generally two years from the date of the accident. This means you must file your lawsuit within this time frame, or you risk losing your right to pursue compensation. However, there are exceptions that may alter this timeline depending on the circumstances of your case.

Key considerations about Virginia’s statute of limitations:

  • Two-Year Deadline: Most personal injury claims, including those for car accidents, must be filed within two years.
  • Property Damage Claims: If you are seeking compensation for property damage only, the statute of limitations is five years.
  • Exceptions: Certain factors, such as injuries to minors or cases involving government entities, may modify the filing deadline.
  • Importance of Acting Quickly: Evidence can fade, witnesses may become unavailable, and delays can weaken your case.

To ensure your claim is filed on time and handled correctly, contact an experienced Virginia Beach car accident lawyer as soon as possible. Our team will work to preserve your rights and help you seek the compensation you deserve.

How Much Is Your Virginia Beach Car Accident Case Worth?

The value of a car accident claim can vary widely depending on several factors. While the National Safety Council reported that the average cost of a car accident involving visible injuries in 2020 was around $345,000, and that number can rise to over $1.25 million for crashes resulting in a disabling injury, these figures are just general estimates.

To understand what your specific car accident case might be worth, it’s important to consider:

  • How have your injuries impacted your daily life and overall well-being?
  • Are your injuries expected to heal completely, or are they permanent?
  • What kinds of medical treatments are required for your recovery?
  • Has your ability to work or earn an income been affected by the accident?
  • What steps did you take to lessen the impact of your injuries?
  • How old were you at the time of the crash?
  • Who is responsible for the accident, and what insurance policies apply?
  • Does contributory negligence play a role in your case?

The attorney representing you can also significantly influence the amount of compensation you receive. An experienced Virginia Beach car accident lawyer can assess these factors and work to ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve based on your case’s circumstances.

Choose a Virginia Beach Auto Accident Lawyer Who Will Stand Up for Your Rights

Choosing the right attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. At Tronfeld West & Durrett, we understand the challenges that come with being injured in a car accident, and we are here to help.

So, after a car accident in Virginia Beach, don’t hesitate to reach out to us to schedule a free consultation with one of our experienced personal injury attorneys. During this consultation, we’ll determine if you have a case, outline the legal avenues available to you, and answer all the questions you may have. Contact us today to start your journey toward pursuing justice.

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What Are the Most Common Types of Personal Injury Claims?

Automobile accidents are, by far, the most common type of personal injury claim. There are more than 17,250 car accidents every day in the United States, and many of those accidents are the direct result of negligence or carelessness on the part of a driver. Auto accidents can cause injuries that result in lifelong medical issues and pain. Therefore, holding the careless driver responsible is extremely important.