Hit-and-run accidents leave victims grappling with mounting costs, all while the responsible driver tries to escape accountability. Without the immediate presence of the at-fault party, legal processes become challenging. However, partnering with a Virginia Beach car accident lawyer can substantially improve your chances of securing fair compensation.

Our team of experienced attorneys at Tronfeld West & Durrett has been handling car accident cases since 1972. After a hit-and-run accident in Virginia Beach, we can offer you legal strategies tailored to your unique circumstances and comprehensive support through each step of the process.

Experienced Virginia Beach Hit-and-Run Attorneys Ready to Assist You

At Tronfeld West & Durrett, we manage the claims process for you—conducting investigations, collecting evidence, handling insurance negotiations, and building a strong case to maximize your recovery. Here’s what sets us apart:

  • Decades of combined experience in personal injury law: We have over 50 years of experience managing hit-and-run accident claims, delivering proven strategies to protect victims’ rights.
  • Proven success in resolving hit-and-run cases favorably: We’ve helped countless Virginia residents achieve hundreds of millions in settlements and verdicts. See our case results for examples of successful outcomes.
  • Personalized, client-focused legal strategies: Every case is unique, and we take the time to provide effective representation by tailoring our approach to meet your individual needs.

We offer a free consultation, where an experienced attorney will evaluate your case. During this meeting, your personal injury lawyer will discuss potential legal strategies, outline the steps needed to pursue compensation and help you understand what to expect as we work to build a strong case on your behalf.

For answers to your questions about a hit and run in Virginia Beach, call:
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Understanding Hit-and-Run Accidents in Virginia Beach

A hit-and-run accident occurs when a driver involved in a collision fails to stop, provide information, or offer assistance as required by law. Under § 46.2-894 of the Virginia Code, drivers must:

  1. Stop at the scene of the accident.
  2. Provide their name, address, driver’s license number, and vehicle registration information.
  3. Render reasonable assistance to injured parties and report the incident to law enforcement.

Penalties for Leaving the Scene of an Accident in Virginia

Leaving the scene of an accident is a criminal offense in Virginia and can result in felony charges, up to 10 years in prison, significant fines, and potential license suspension. The severity of these penalties depends on the accident’s nature and severity:

  • Property damage: If the accident results in property damage exceeding $1,000, it’s classified as a Class 5 felony, punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $2,500.
  • Injury or death: Accidents involving injury or death also constitute a Class 5 felony with similar penalties.
  • Unattended property: Failing to report damage to unattended property can lead to charges ranging from a Class 4 misdemeanor to a Class 1 misdemeanor, depending on the damage’s extent.

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Steps to Take After a Hit-and-Run Accident in Virginia Beach

Taking prompt and appropriate actions following a hit-and-run accident can improve your chances of recovering compensation. Here are the essential steps you should take:

1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Prioritize your health by getting a thorough medical evaluation, even if injuries aren’t immediately visible. Some injuries, such as concussions or internal damage, may not show symptoms right away.

2. Contact Law Enforcement

Report the accident to the police as soon as possible. An official accident report is crucial for documenting the incident, initiating an investigation, and supporting your legal claim.

3. Gather Evidence

If you can, document the scene by taking photos of vehicle damage, injuries, and surrounding areas. Collect witness contact information and note any details about the fleeing vehicle, such as its make, model, color, or license plate number.

4. Notify Your Insurance Company

Inform your insurer about the accident but avoid making detailed statements or accepting blame. Consult with an attorney first to ensure you protect your claim.

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Determining Liability in Hit-and-Run Cases

Proving liability in a hit-and-run accident can be challenging when the at-fault driver remains unidentified. At Tronfeld West & Durrett, our hit-and-run attorneys utilize every available resource to help clients pursue compensation. We focus on the following avenues:

  • Uninsured motorist coverage: Many insurance policies include uninsured motorist coverage, allowing victims to file a claim under their own policy to recover damages.
  • Third-party liability: In certain cases, other parties—such as vehicle owners, employers, or manufacturers—may share responsibility for the accident.
  • Legal investigation: Our team works closely with law enforcement, reviews evidence, and leverages resources like surveillance footage to identify the responsible driver whenever possible.

Common Injuries in Hit-and-Run Accidents

  • Whiplash and neck injuries
  • Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Fractures and lacerations

Some of these injuries can have life-altering consequences, leading to long-term medical care and mounting bills. Whether the injuries result from a rear-end collision accident or another type of crash, pursuing legal action ensures victims can recover compensation for these costs, providing financial relief and the resources needed to move forward

Compensation Available to Hit-and-Run Victims

After a hit-and-run accident in Virginia Beach, and with the help of an experienced lawyer, you can build an evidence-backed case to claim the following damages:

Economic Damages

  • Medical expenses: Compensation for current and future medical treatment, surgeries, and rehabilitation.
  • Lost wages: Covers income lost due to recovery time and diminished earning capacity.
  • Property damage: Reimbursement for vehicle repairs or replacement.

Non-Economic Damages

  • Pain and suffering: Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress.
  • Loss of consortium: Addressing the impact on familial relationships and quality of life.

Our team’s lawyers work with medical and financial experts to assess each client’s medical care, financial losses, and long-term recovery needs. This allows us to build a claim that accurately reflects your costs and pursue maximum compensation.

Virginia’s Statute of Limitations for Hit-and-Run Accidents

Under Virginia Code § 8.01-243, hit-and-run accident victims generally have two years from the accident date to file a personal injury claim. For property damage, the deadline extends to five years.

Remember that failing to file within this timeframe means losing your right to compensation altogether. While the deadline can seem generous, building a strong case takes time and there are many potential delays, so it’s recommended to act promptly.

Partner With a Virginia Beach Hit-and-Run Accident Lawyer at Tronfeld West & Durrett – No Fee Unless We Win Your Case

After a hit-and-run accident in Virginia Beach, pursuing compensation may be overwhelming and complex. However, you don’t have to navigate the legal system alone. Here’s what we offer:

  • Extensive experience: Over five decades of successfully handling hit-and-run cases and achieving favorable outcomes for Virginia residents.
  • Client-centered approach: We provide personalized strategies tailored to each client’s unique circumstances and needs to ensure the best possible outcome.
  • Proven results: We’ve secured hundreds of millions in settlements and verdicts, providing clients with the financial resources needed to move forward and rebuild their lives.

We offer a free consultation with one of Tronfeld West & Durrett’s attorneys. During this initial meeting, your hit-and-run lawyer in Virginia Beach will evaluate your case, outline your options, and begin developing a strategy to pursue the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to get started.

Call or text 800-321-6741 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form

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.