At Tronfeld West & Durrett, we help victims of personal injury cases seek justice for negligent conduct. With decades of experience handling personal injury cases in Norfolk, our personal injury lawyers never back down when it comes to recovering damages and holding responsible parties accountable.
Many types of personal injury accidents cause physical, emotional, and financial damage to victims every year in Norfolk, while those who were negligent are not always being held accountable. If this is your case and you have been injured due to someone else’s negligence, you can take legal action to demand compensation for your damages and injuries.
Which Cases Can Our Norfolk Personal Injury Lawyers Help With?
Year after year, a staggering number of people across the city of Norfolk face the life-altering consequences of accidents—whether they are motor accidents, medical negligence, or many other cases. With decades of experience serving the community, we have assisted victims who went through life-altering consequences that tremendously affected their lives and their loved ones. This includes:
- Car accidents
- Truck accidents
- Other types of motor vehicle accidents
- Pedestrian accidents
- Premises liability cases (like slip-and-falls)
- Medical malpractice
- Nursing home abuse and neglect
- Product liability
- Dog bites
- Wrongful death
- Catastrophic injuries
- Truck accidents
We know the consequences of an accident with injuries could last for weeks, months, or even a lifetime. And when you have suffered injury from an accident that was the result of the negligence of another person or entity, you may not know what are your rights and options to claim compensation.
Our personal injury attorneys are here to help you figure out the best path toward justice, determining who is responsible for demanding accountability.
For answers to your questions about a Personal Injury in Norfolk, call:
800-321-6741
Negligence Causes of Personal Injury
Proving negligence is essential to build a strong case on your behalf and hold the responsible parties accountable. In this context, negligence is the failure to exercise reasonable care, resulting in harm to another person. It occurs when someone fails to assure the level of care that a reasonably prudent person would under similar circumstances.
If a driver speeds through a red light or your doctor prescribes the wrong medication, that can be classified as negligence, and you deserve to be compensated for the damages suffered.
Some examples of negligence we often hear at our law firm in Norfolk include:
- Failure to maintain property free from known hazards (also known as premises liability)
- Distracted driving
- Speeding
- Drunk driving
- Medical malpractice
- Defective products (also known as product liability)
If unfortunately, this is your case, it’s important to analyze the specific circumstances surrounding your case to hold responsible parties accountable.
Who is at Fault?
In many personal injury cases, determining the party at fault is not straightforward. For instance, while a driver might be primarily responsible for a car crash, factors such as a malfunctioning traffic light or an improperly marked construction zone can implicate multiple parties in the equation.
In some instances, even the injured party may also share some responsibility. Nevertheless, according to Virginia’s doctrine of pure contributory negligence (as outlined in the Virginia Code § 8.01-58), if the plaintiff is found even slightly at fault, they may not be able to recover any damages.
This makes it even more necessary to have a personal injury lawyer by your side to fight for your right to compensation.
To build a strong claim and prove negligence, a personal injury lawyer at Tronfeld West & Durrett, will investigate your case and collect compelling evidence to determine who is at fault.
Types of Damages You Can Recover After Personal Injury in Norfolk, Virginia
Even when the consequences of an accident may feel tangible and impactful for victims, calculating the damages properly can be challenging. Overall, there are two types of damages we can help you recover after a personal injury case: economic and non-economic.
Economic Damages
These damages cover all tangible, out-of-pocket expenses. They include financial losses that can be easily quantified, such as:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Property damage
Your lawyer will help you calculate the full extent of the economic damages you have suffered, to ensure you don’t settle for less compensation than you deserve.
Non-Economic Damages
On the other hand, non-economic damages include intangible losses, which often have also economic consequences for victims and their families. These might include:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of quality of life
- Loss of consortium
Although non-economic damages are more difficult to quantify, claiming compensation for them is just as important, because of the significant strain they can pose on victims’ lives.
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How a Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help You Get the Justice You Deserve
If you decide to claim justice after suffering from an injury, our team of personal injury lawyers in Norfolk can hear your story, analyze your case, and recommend the best course of action.
Investigating the Case
From collecting evidence to interviewing witnesses, a thorough investigation lays the groundwork for a solid case. At this stage, your attorney will thoroughly investigate your case to determine who is at fault and gather evidence to support your claim. Often, we also consult with medical experts (or other types of industry experts) to understand the full extent of the damages.
Negotiating a Settlement
Typically, resolving personal injury claims doesn’t need to involve taking the case to court. Your attorney will negotiate a fair settlement with the opposing party, saving you time, stress, and resources.
However, this is not always the case. If a settlement cannot be reached, it may be necessary to take the case to court, where a personal injury lawyer can represent you making strong arguments on your behalf.
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What The Average Settlement Includes In A Norfolk Personal Injury Case
Settlements are intended to comprehensively address the impact of your injuries, and they include a variety of financial and non-financial losses. Our mission is to ensure you receive compensation that truly reflects the extent of your hardships. Your personal injury lawyer will consider these types of damages in your claim:
Medical Expenses
One of the largest and most immediate components of a settlement is coverage for medical costs. This includes emergency room visits, surgery costs, hospital stays, rehabilitation, physical therapy, and any future medical needs related to the injury. For severe or long-lasting injuries, medical experts may need to provide testimony to estimate the cost of future treatments and ongoing care.
Lost Wages and Future Income
If your injury has caused you to miss work, you may be entitled to recover lost income. For cases where your ability to work is permanently affected, settlements often include compensation for future lost earning capacity. This requires a detailed analysis of your career, potential for advancement, and the ways your injury impacts your ability to continue working in your chosen field.
Pain and Suffering
Beyond tangible financial losses, personal injury settlements also account for pain and suffering. This includes compensation for the physical discomfort and emotional distress you’ve endured as a result of the accident. While calculating these damages is complex, factors such as the severity of your injury, duration of recovery, and impact on your quality of life are taken into consideration.
Property Damage
In cases where an accident also resulted in damage to your personal property—such as your vehicle in a car accident—you may be entitled to reimbursement for repair or replacement costs. The value of property damage is usually determined based on repair estimates or market value.
Additional Losses
Settlements can also address other losses, such as loss of companionship or loss of enjoyment of life. These types of damages are especially relevant in cases where the injury has led to a diminished ability to engage in activities you once enjoyed or affected your relationships with loved ones.
Negotiating a Fair Settlement
Insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts, which is why it’s critical to have a seasoned attorney advocating for your interests. At our law firm, we meticulously evaluate the full scope of your damages and build a compelling case to negotiate a fair and comprehensive settlement. We use medical records, expert opinions, and evidence of your losses to ensure you aren’t shortchanged.
Every personal injury case is unique, and the value of a settlement can vary widely based on the specifics of the accident and the extent of the injuries. Our experience in personal injury law has equipped us with the skills to anticipate challenges and counteract tactics used by insurance companies.
How Much Is My Personal Injury Case Worth?
Many elements, including how severe the injury is, who is clearly at fault, and the life impact on the victim, determine the value of a personal injury case. At Tronfeld West & Durrett, we’ve championed the rights of countless injured individuals, securing substantial settlements that reflect the full extent of damages.
Here are some of the most significant settlements we’ve achieved, as you can see in our case results:
- In a landmark case, we secured a $1.3 million settlement for a client who suffered a traumatic brain injury following an accident in a store.
- Our legal prowess was further demonstrated with a $10 million verdict in a case of negligent medical care. This verdict not only provided our client with the compensation they deserved but also set a strong precedent.
- We achieved a $19,450,000 settlement for a client involved in an auto accident due to another driver running a red light. This settlement represents one of the highest in Virginia for such cases, proving our ability to secure fair compensation for our clients.
If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, we’re here to help you navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve.
How Much Will Hiring A Personal Injury Lawyer Cost?
At Tronfeld West & Durrett, we’ve structured our fees to alleviate financial stress, making quality legal representation accessible to everyone.
Contingency Fee Arrangement
We operate on a contingency fee basis, which means you won’t pay any legal fees unless we win your case. If we successfully recover compensation, our fee is typically a percentage of your settlement or court award. The exact percentage depends on the complexity of your case, and we are upfront about this from the start, ensuring there are no hidden costs. This fee structure allows you to focus on your recovery without the added worry of legal bills.
No Upfront Costs or Retainers
Many people are unaware that hiring a personal injury attorney in Norfolk doesn’t require a large financial commitment upfront. We advance all costs related to building your case, including investigation expenses, expert witness fees, and any court filing costs. Our approach is simple: if we don’t win your case, you owe us nothing. This model empowers you to pursue justice, even if financial resources are tight.
Free Initial Consultation
We believe everyone deserves access to legal advice, which is why we offer a free case evaluation. During this initial meeting, we’ll listen to your story, review the circumstances of your injury, and provide a preliminary assessment of your case. This consultation gives you the chance to learn about your rights, understand the potential value of your claim, and decide whether our firm is the right fit—all at no cost to you.
We invest in your case because we believe in your right to fair compensation. To discuss your situation, reach out to us and see how we can assist you.
When to Hire a Norfolk Personal Injury Lawyer
After an accident, many people feel uncertain about whether they need legal representation or if they should handle the claim on their own. In Norfolk, having a knowledgeable personal injury lawyer on your side can make a substantial difference, especially when you’re dealing with insurance companies that prioritize minimizing payouts.
1. Immediately After a Serious Injury
If you’ve sustained severe or life-changing injuries in an accident, seeking legal representation as soon as possible is crucial. Complex injuries often require a detailed understanding of medical treatments and the long-term impact on your health and quality of life. An experienced personal injury attorney at our law firm can work with medical professionals to evaluate your case thoroughly and ensure your future medical needs are accurately factored into the claim.
2. When Liability is Disputed
In many cases, the at-fault party may contest liability or try to shift blame onto you. This is particularly concerning in Virginia, which follows a strict contributory negligence rule. Under this rule, if you’re found even slightly at fault for the accident, you may be barred from recovering compensation. Having a personal injury lawyer helps to investigate the accident, gather necessary evidence, and build a solid case to demonstrate that you bear no responsibility.
3. When Insurance Companies Offer a Quick Settlement
Insurance companies often attempt to offer quick settlements to accident victims in the hopes that they’ll accept a lower amount than they deserve. If you receive an initial offer from an insurance company, it’s wise to consult with a personal injury lawyer before accepting. Attorneys can evaluate whether the offer is fair or if further negotiation is needed to cover all your losses.
4. If Your Injuries Have Long-Term Consequences
Sometimes, injuries don’t immediately show their full impact. What seems like a minor injury at first could evolve into a condition requiring long-term care or result in permanent disability. If your ability to work or perform everyday activities is compromised, a lawyer can help ensure your settlement or court award reflects the full extent of your losses, including future medical expenses and diminished earning capacity.
5. When Evidence Needs to Be Preserved
Crucial evidence, such as surveillance footage, eyewitness testimony, or physical evidence from the scene, can degrade or become harder to obtain over time. Our personal injury lawyers in Norfolk know the importance of acting quickly to preserve this evidence, which can strengthen your case and increase the likelihood of a favorable outcome.
6. If You Are Unfamiliar with the Legal Process
Personal injury claims involve a series of complex legal steps, including filing the appropriate paperwork, negotiating with insurance companies, and potentially litigating in court. Any misstep in this process can jeopardize your case. A skilled personal injury lawyer in Norfolk will handle the legal complexities, keep you informed, and work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for your situation.
Why Hiring an Attorney Early is Beneficial
Engaging a personal injury lawyer early in the process allows your attorney to conduct a comprehensive investigation, consult experts, and strategize effectively from the beginning. At Tronfeld West & Durrett, our attorneys are dedicated to protecting your rights and ensuring that you are not taken advantage of by insurance companies. We take the time to understand your unique circumstances and fight for the full compensation you deserve.
If you or a loved one has suffered an injury in Norfolk, the sooner you contact a qualified personal injury lawyer, the stronger your case can be.
Steps to Take After a Personal Injury
Following a personal injury, it’s crucial to understand your legal options to make informed decisions. At our law firm, we guide our clients through the complexities of building a strong case and navigating personal injury lawsuits in Virginia.
Each case is unique for us. No matter the size of the case, we offer a free initial consultation with an expert attorney to help you determine which legal option is best. Overall, these are the steps we recommend you to follow to protect your rights:
- Seek medical attention: Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s essential to have a medical professional evaluate you. All the medical documentation you can add will help you support a personal injury case.
- Document everything: Keep detailed records of medical visits, expenses related to your injury, and any lost wages.
- Consult with a personal injury lawyer at Tronfeld West & Durrett: Before navigating insurance claims or settlements, consult with a lawyer to understand your rights and the best course of action. We will help you ensure you are not negatively affecting your case by reporting to insurance companies.
- Report the incident: Whether it’s a car accident or an injury on someone’s property, ensure the incident is officially reported.
Dealing With Insurance Companies
Dealing with insurance companies post-injury is a critical phase where strategic communication can define the outcome of your claim. At Tronfeld West & Durrett, we specialize in transforming this often adversarial negotiation into an opportunity for rightful compensation.
Understand Your Coverage and the Insurer’s Motivations
Insurance companies operate on a profit model, which inherently motivates them to settle claims for as little as possible. Recognizing this, our approach is to meticulously review policy details, identifying all potential options for compensation. This enables us to anticipate the insurer’s strategies and prepare counterarguments that align with your best interests.
Accurate and Comprehensive Documentation
The cornerstone of a strong insurance claim is irrefutable evidence. We guide our clients in gathering comprehensive documentation, including medical records, expert testimonies, and proof of income loss. This paperwork not only corroborates the claim but also assesses the extent of fiscal, physical, and emotional damage endured.
Strategic Communication
Communicating with insurance adjusters is fraught with nuances that can significantly impact the outcome of your claim. Our legal team advises clients on the dos and don’ts of interacting with insurers, helping them report an accident to the insurance company correctly. We often take the lead in these discussions, ensuring that your statements are accurately represented and that your rights are protected throughout the process.
Evaluating Settlement Offers
Insurance companies frequently extend initial settlement offers that fall short of covering the full spectrum of the claimant’s losses. We employ a rigorous evaluation process to assess these offers, comparing them against the long-term financial needs and the emotional toll on the injured party. Our expertise in Virginia’s personal injury law positions us to successfully negotiate for a settlement that fully compensates our clients for their injuries.
While we strive to secure fair settlements out of court, our preparation is comprehensive, always keeping the possibility of litigation in mind. This readiness to escalate to trial, if necessary, positions us strongly in negotiations, signaling to insurance companies our commitment to achieving justice.
Our Attorneys Can Help You Maximize Your Recovery for Personal Injury in Norfolk
Filing a personal injury claim after being injured is a process that includes several stages—from collecting evidence to negotiating with insurance companies and potentially going to trial. We know this is often a hard process if you are dealing with the consequences of the accident. But also, we can testify how essential it is to get a fair amount of compensation that covers all your damages.
If you were injured due to someone else’s negligence in Norfolk, Virginia, we can help you throughout this process. Tronfeld West & Durrett team has assisted thousands of injured clients since 1972, and we can help you get the justice you deserve. Don’t hesitate to contact us for a free consultation to review the details of your case and talk about your legal options.
Call or text 800-321-6741 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form