Newport News Car Accident Lawyer

If you were injured in a car accident caused by someone else’s negligence, the experienced personal injury attorneys at Tronfeld West & Durrett are here to guide you through the legal process. We aim to help you recover fair compensation to cover your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages, so you can focus on healing.

Injured in a Car Accident in Newport News? Our Attorneys Can Help

In 2022, Newport News saw 3,274 vehicle collisions, according to the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles. These accidents impact thousands of people, and many victims are left not only dealing with injuries but also navigating the complexities of insurance claims, legal disputes, and negotiations.

As our case results show, at Tronfeld West & Durrett, we’ve been advocating for injured individuals in Virginia since 1972. We’re dedicated to securing fair compensation for our clients and making sure negligent parties are held accountable. Our attorneys carefully investigate every case, ensuring a personalized approach that accounts for the unique circumstances of your accident.

We assist with every aspect of your case, including interpreting insurance policies and fighting against unfair claims practices. If you’ve been involved in a car accident, we are here to help you find the justice and compensation you deserve.

For answers to your questions about a car accident in Newport News, call:
Phone 800-321-6741

For answers to your questions about a car accident in Newport News, call:
Phone Icon800-321-6741

Causes of Car Accidents in Newport News

Car accidents in Newport News happen for a variety of reasons, ranging from driver errors to mechanical failures or poor road conditions. To build a successful case and pursue compensation, it’s crucial to investigate the root cause of the accident.

Some common causes of car accidents in Newport News include:

Understanding the cause of the accident helps us determine fault and ensure that the injured party receives the compensation they are owed. Our attorneys are skilled in thoroughly investigating the specifics of your case to gather the evidence needed to support your claim.

Is Virginia a No-Fault State for Car Accidents?

No, Virginia is not a no-fault state for car accidents. This means that in Virginia, you must prove the other party was at fault in order to recover compensation for your damages. Unlike no-fault states, where your own insurance may cover some expenses regardless of fault, Virginia’s system requires the injured party to demonstrate that the other driver was negligent or reckless. This is where the expertise of a skilled attorney becomes crucial in navigating the legal complexities and ensuring you are compensated fairly.

Determining Fault

In Virginia, proving negligence is key to determining fault and recovering compensation. Negligence occurs when a person fails to act with the care that a reasonably prudent person would under similar circumstances.

The state follows the pure contributory negligence rule, which means that if you are found to be even 1% responsible for the accident, you will not be able to recover compensation from the other party. Therefore, proving that the other driver was fully at fault is essential.

Our attorneys conduct thorough investigations to determine fault, ensuring that we build a strong case that considers every factor, including your actions in the accident.

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What Are the Common Types of Car Accidents?

Car accidents vary in type and severity, with each type influencing the nature of injuries and legal strategies. Some common types of car accidents in Newport News include:

  • Rear-End Collisions: Often caused by distracted driving or tailgating. Even at low speeds, rear-end collisions can lead to injuries such as whiplash.
  • T-Bone or Side-Impact Accidents: These occur at intersections when one vehicle crashes into the side of another. They can be particularly dangerous because of the limited protection on the sides of vehicles.
  • Head-On Collisions: Among the most serious accidents, head-on collisions can result in catastrophic injuries or fatalities.
  • Single-Vehicle Accidents: These accidents may occur due to factors like poor road conditions or mechanical failures, and the driver may not always be at fault.

Your attorney will investigate the crash thoroughly to assess all factors that could affect your case and determine the liable parties.

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Common Car Accident Injuries

Car accidents can cause a range of injuries, from minor to life-altering. Common injuries include:

  • Whiplash
  • Broken bones
  • Head injuries
  • Back and spinal injuries
  • Soft tissue injuries
  • Internal organ damage
  • Burns

The injuries sustained in a car accident may require immediate and long-term medical care. By documenting your injuries and working with an experienced attorney, you can ensure that you are compensated for all your medical needs, including future treatments.

Damages You Can Recover After a Car Accident

After a car accident in Virginia, you may be entitled to recover several types of damages, which help cover the financial burdens caused by the accident.

Key damages you may be able to recover include:

  • Medical Expenses: This includes the cost of emergency treatment, surgeries, rehabilitation, ongoing medical care, and future medical costs.
  • Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you can recover lost income, including any future loss if your injuries lead to permanent disability.
  • Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical pain, emotional trauma, and loss of quality of life caused by the accident.
  • Property Damage: Compensation for vehicle repair or replacement, and damage to personal property inside the vehicle.

How Much Can You Recover in Damages From a Car Accident Lawsuit?

Determining the value of a car accident lawsuit involves evaluating multiple factors, including the severity of your injuries, the impact on your quality of life, and the financial losses you’ve incurred. At Tronfeld West & Durrett, we take a thorough approach to assessing the full scope of your damages and fight tirelessly to secure the maximum compensation you deserve.

Economic Damages

Economic damages refer to the tangible, easily quantifiable financial losses you have suffered as a result of the accident. These damages often include:

  • Medical expenses: Compensation for current and future medical costs related to your injuries, such as hospital stays, surgeries, physical therapy, medication, and any necessary long-term care. Even minor injuries can lead to costly treatments over time, and we ensure these are factored into your claim.
  • Lost wages: Reimbursement for income you lost while recovering from your injuries, including missed workdays, reduced hours, or unpaid leave. If your injuries prevent you from returning to work, you may also be eligible for compensation for diminished earning capacity.
  • Property damage: Coverage for the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle and any other personal property damaged in the accident. We work to make sure that every expense related to property damage is accounted for, down to the smallest repair.
  • Out-of-pocket expenses: Any other costs directly related to your injury, such as transportation to medical appointments, hiring in-home care, or modifying your home to accommodate a disability. These expenses can add up quickly, and we make sure they are included in your claim.

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages compensate you for the intangible losses that don’t have a specific dollar amount but significantly impact your quality of life. These damages can be more complex to quantify but are equally important:

  • Pain and suffering: Compensation for the physical pain and emotional anguish you’ve experienced as a result of the accident. This category considers both the short-term pain and any ongoing discomfort you may endure.
  • Emotional distress: Anxiety, depression, PTSD, or other psychological effects stemming from the accident. Serious crashes can leave lasting mental scars that affect your daily life and relationships, and we work to ensure these emotional impacts are recognized.
  • Loss of enjoyment of life: If your injuries prevent you from engaging in activities you once enjoyed, such as hobbies, sports, or spending time with family, you may be compensated for this loss. We highlight how your life has changed to ensure these damages are fully accounted for.
  • Loss of consortium: Spouses or family members may be eligible for compensation if your injuries have negatively impacted your relationship, such as the loss of companionship, affection, or support.

Punitive Damages

In cases where the at-fault driver’s behavior was particularly egregious, such as driving under the influence or engaging in reckless driving, the court may award punitive damages. These are meant to punish the defendant and deter similar behavior in the future. While punitive damages are rare, we explore every possible avenue to maximize your compensation.

Factors That Influence the Value of Your Case

Every car accident case is unique, and several factors will influence how much compensation you may recover:

  • Severity of injuries: More severe injuries typically result in higher compensation. Courts and insurance companies will consider how your injuries affect your daily life and future prospects.
  • Clear evidence of liability: The stronger the evidence proving the other party’s fault, the more likely you are to receive full compensation. This is why we emphasize collecting comprehensive evidence, from eyewitness statements to surveillance footage.
  • Long-term impact: If your injuries have a lasting impact, such as a permanent disability or ongoing medical treatment, this will increase the value of your case. We work with medical experts to project your future needs and associated costs.
  • Insurance policy limits: The at-fault party’s insurance coverage may cap the amount you can recover. However, we investigate all potential sources of compensation, including your own insurance policies or additional liable parties, to ensure you receive what you’re entitled to.

At Tronfeld West & Durrett, our car accident lawyers grasp the profound financial and emotional impact a car accident can have on your life. With decades of experience and a track record of successful settlements and verdicts, we’re here to provide the strong, unwavering legal support you need to move forward.

What You Can Do After a Crash

After a car accident, taking the right steps can protect your rights and strengthen your potential claim. Here are the actions you should consider:

  1. Ensure Safety and Seek Medical Attention: Move to a safe location if possible and call emergency services. Even if you feel fine, get a medical evaluation to identify potential injuries that may not be immediately apparent. This medical record can be critical evidence.
  2. Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Exchange contact information with the other driver(s) and collect witness details if available.
  3. File a Police Report: A police report provides an objective account of the accident and can serve as valuable evidence when filing a claim.
  4. Notify Your Insurance Company: Inform your insurance provider about the accident, but avoid providing detailed statements without consulting an attorney.
  5. Consult with a Car Accident Lawyer: An experienced lawyer can guide you through the legal process, help you understand your rights, and work to secure the compensation you deserve.

How to Prove Negligence in a Car Accident Case

Proving negligence is key to winning a car accident claim. In Virginia, this involves demonstrating the following elements:

  1. Duty of Care: Show that the at-fault driver had a responsibility to operate their vehicle safely and obey traffic laws.
  2. Breach of Duty: Provide evidence that the driver violated this duty, such as by speeding, running a red light, or texting while driving.
  3. Causation: Establish a direct link between the driver’s breach of duty and the accident that caused your injuries.
  4. Damages: Prove that you suffered losses—such as medical bills, lost wages, or pain and suffering—as a result of the accident.

Evidence such as witness statements, surveillance footage, police reports, and expert testimony can strengthen your case. A skilled attorney can gather and present this evidence to support your claim.

The Challenges in Proving Negligence

Proving negligence in a car accident case can be complex and requires substantial evidence. Here are some of the common challenges victims face:

  1. Lack of Clear Evidence: Gathering sufficient evidence to demonstrate the at-fault driver’s actions can be difficult, especially if the accident was not witnessed or recorded. Key evidence, such as surveillance footage or witness statements, may not always be available.
  2. Virginia’s Contributory Negligence Law: Virginia follows a strict contributory negligence rule, which means that if the injured party is found to be even 1% at fault for the accident, they may be barred from recovering any compensation. This can make proving the other party’s sole responsibility particularly critical.
  3. Disputes Over Liability: The at-fault driver or their insurance company may dispute your version of events, claiming that you were partially or fully responsible for the accident.
  4. Complex Accident Scenarios: Multi-vehicle accidents or accidents involving poor road conditions, defective vehicles, or weather-related factors can complicate the process of assigning liability.
  5. Bias Against the Victim: Insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts by questioning the severity of injuries or suggesting pre-existing conditions contributed to the claimant’s suffering.
  6. Lack of Legal Expertise: Without a thorough understanding of legal procedures and the standards for evidence, it can be challenging to effectively prove negligence in court.

Proving negligence requires both legal expertise and a strategic approach. Working with an experienced attorney can significantly improve your chances of obtaining fair compensation.

When Should I Get a Lawyer for a Car Accident in Virginia?

It’s crucial to consult with a car accident lawyer as soon as possible after the incident. The sooner you get legal help, the better your chances of gathering the necessary evidence and protecting your rights. A lawyer can help ensure that your claim is filed within the statute of limitations, which in Virginia is two years from the date of the accident.

Additionally, an attorney will handle the negotiations with the insurance company, preventing them from unfairly denying your claim or offering inadequate compensation. They can also guide you through the legal process if your case goes to trial.

What Are the Benefits of Hiring a Local Attorney?

Choosing the right legal representation after a car accident is a decision that can significantly impact your case’s outcome. Working with a local attorney provides distinct advantages, especially when dealing with the complexities of Norfolk’s legal system. At Tronfeld West & Durrett, our experience extends beyond the courtroom—we are deeply invested in the local community and leverage our regional expertise to benefit each client we represent.

In-Depth Knowledge of Local Laws and Procedures

Our attorneys are well-versed in Virginia’s specific regulations and have an intimate understanding of how to handle cases efficiently within the local framework. This comprehensive knowledge allows us to anticipate challenges and craft strategies that are specifically tailored to our clients’ needs.

Established Relationships Within the Local Legal Community

Our years of experience practicing law in Norfolk have allowed us to cultivate strong professional relationships with judges, court staff, and local experts. These connections can facilitate smoother communication and provide valuable insights into the best approach for your case. While we can’t control outcomes, our familiarity with the local legal community equips us to represent you more effectively.

Access to Local Experts and Resources

Building a compelling case often involves enlisting experts, such as medical specialists, accident reconstructionists, or vocational analysts. Our local network means we can quickly connect with reputable professionals who can provide crucial testimony and evidence to strengthen your claim. These resources can be the difference between a fair settlement and a dismissed case.

Prompt and Personalized Service

Being local means we’re never far away when you need us. Our attorneys are readily available to visit accident scenes, gather evidence, or meet with you in person. At Tronfeld West & Durrett, we pride ourselves on providing a level of personalized service that larger, out-of-town firms may struggle to match. Your case will always receive our full attention, and we are committed to keeping you informed every step of the way.

What Are Your Legal Options After a Car Accident?

After a car accident in Newport News, you have two main legal options:

  1. Pursuing a Settlement: Most car accident claims are resolved through settlement negotiations. This involves working with the insurance company or at-fault parties to agree on a fair compensation amount.
  2. Filing a Lawsuit: If a car accident settlement isn’t possible or if the offer is insufficient, you may need to file a personal injury lawsuit. This process involves going to court where a judge or jury will determine liability and compensation.

The Statute of Limitations for Car Accidents in Virginia

In Virginia, you have two years from the date of the car accident to file a lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to seek compensation. This is why it’s important to act promptly, especially when dealing with medical treatments and insurance claims. Consulting with a Newport News car accident lawyer early ensures that you meet deadlines and have a strong case.

The Process of Handling Car Accident Cases

Once you decide to pursue legal action, these are the typical steps involved:

  1. Initial Consultation and Case Evaluation: We assess your case, review the facts, and discuss potential outcomes.
  2. Investigation and Evidence Gathering: Our team will collect police reports, witness statements, and medical records to build a strong case.
  3. Negotiation and Litigation: We negotiate with the opposing party or, if necessary, proceed to court to fight for the compensation you deserve.

Our Car Accident Lawyers in Newport News Can Help You Claim the Compensation You Deserve

If you’ve been involved in a car accident, Tronfeld West & Durrett is here to help you navigate the legal process. From investigating the accident to negotiating with insurance companies, we’ll guide you every step of the way. Our goal is to ensure you receive fair compensation for your damages.

Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and find out how we can help with your case.

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.