According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), in 2019, 831 people were killed in car accidents in the state of Virginia. If you’ve been injured in a car accident, you may wonder whether a Petersburg, VA car accident attorney can help. The aftermath of a car accident can be a very difficult time. You may be injured—perhaps so severely that you are unable to return to work for weeks, months, or even longer than a year. Your medical bills may be piling up and you may be unable to pay even your normal minimum monthly bills.

You may not even be sure you can obtain the medical treatments you need and may need in the future. All of this is because a negligent driver was careless, distracted, or reckless. An experienced attorney from Tronfeld West & Durrett can take a significant burden from your shoulders. We will handle the legal aspects of your car accident, giving you time to heal from your injuries.

How Can I Help My Petersburg Car Accident Attorney?

After your Petersburg, VA car accident, there are steps you can take that will significantly benefit your attorney and improve your chances of a favorable outcome. These actions can vary depending on the severity of your injuries, but some steps should always be followed when possible:

  • Seek medical attention immediately. Ensure you and anyone else involved receive prompt care.
  • Document the scene. If you’re physically able, take photos of the accident scene, including the license plate of the other vehicle, after calling 911.
  • Get witness contact information. If there are any witnesses, record their details to assist with your case.
  • Call the police. Even for minor accidents, having an official report is essential for determining liability.
  • Exchange insurance information. Be polite but avoid discussing the accident or admitting fault. A statement like “I’m sorry” can be misinterpreted as an admission of guilt.
  • Notify your insurance company. Report the accident to your insurer as soon as possible and document the call’s details (time, representative’s name).
  • Keep a journal. Write down everything you remember about the accident while your memory is fresh.
  • Maintain a file. Keep receipts for medical expenses, gas, meals, lodging, and anything else related to your recovery.

By following these steps, you help your Petersburg, VA car accident attorney secure the best settlement possible on your behalf.

For answers to your questions about a car accident in Petersburg, call:
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What Are the Most Common Types of Car Accident Injuries?

Car accident injuries vary depending on the specifics of the accident, but certain injuries occur frequently, some of which can be catastrophic. These include:

  • Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and spinal cord injuries, both of which can result in permanent disability.
  • Whiplash, is a common but often overlooked injury. As a soft-tissue injury, whiplash can be hard to prove with imaging, but it can cause long-term symptoms like neck pain, dizziness, chronic headaches, and difficulty concentrating.
  • Head injuries, such as concussions, may also occur, along with cuts, scrapes, and broken bones.
  • Burns, scarring, and facial disfigurement can result from car accidents, causing both physical and emotional trauma.

Regardless of the severity, an experienced Petersburg, VA car accident attorney can help you navigate the complex process of obtaining compensation for your injuries and getting your life back on track.

Recoverable Damages in a Petersburg Car Accident Lawsuit

In a Petersburg car accident case, you may be entitled to recover several types of damages. Your attorney will work to secure compensation for:

  • Medical expenses: Past, present, and future medical bills related to your injury.
  • Lost wages: Compensation for time lost from work due to your injuries.
  • Pain and suffering: Compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.
  • Permanent disfigurement or disability: If your injuries result in long-term or permanent physical effects, you may be entitled to damages for this impact on your quality of life.
  • Emotional damages: This may include anxiety, depression, or trauma resulting from the accident.

Your Petersburg car accident attorney will determine the full extent of damages you are entitled to and fight to ensure you receive a fair settlement.

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Tips for Dealing with Insurance Adjusters

Insurance adjusters often try to minimize the amount they pay on a claim, which is why it’s important to be careful when interacting with them. Here are a few tips for dealing with insurance adjusters:

  • Don’t provide a recorded statement without your attorney present. Adjusters may try to get you to say something that could hurt your case.
  • Avoid agreeing to a settlement right away. Insurance companies often offer low settlements early in the process, hoping you’ll accept without fully understanding your needs.
  • Be cautious with written communications. Any written statement or document you sign may be used against you later. Consult your attorney before signing anything.
  • Know your rights. Your attorney can help you understand what you’re entitled to and ensure you aren’t taken advantage of during settlement negotiations.

By having legal representation, you protect your interests and avoid the pitfalls of dealing with insurance companies on your own.

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How Are Damages Calculated?

Your Petersburg, VA car accident attorney will calculate the damages you’re entitled to by considering multiple factors, such as:

  • Medical bills: Both current and future medical expenses related to your injuries.
  • Lost income: Any wages you’ve lost due to time away from work, plus potential future lost income if your injuries affect your earning capacity.
  • Pain and suffering: This compensates you for the physical and emotional pain you’ve endured as a result of the accident.
  • Disability: If your injuries cause permanent disability, you may receive compensation for this ongoing impact on your life.

Understanding Comparative Negligence in Petersburg

Virginia follows a contributory negligence rule, meaning that if you are found to be even 1% at fault for the accident, you may be barred from recovering damages. It’s crucial to work with an experienced attorney who can help determine fault and argue on your behalf to protect your ability to receive compensation.

How Much Should I Expect from My Car Accident Settlement?

While it’s difficult to give a precise figure for your settlement, a personal injury attorney can provide you with a ballpark estimate based on the specifics of your case. Generally, if you are represented by an attorney, you are more likely to receive a fair settlement, as insurance companies are less likely to lowball an offer when they know an attorney is involved.

How Long Does a Car Accident Settlement Take?

The timeline for a car accident settlement varies depending on many factors. For straightforward cases, settlements may be reached in just a few months. For more complex cases, such as those involving long-term injuries or multiple parties, the process can take longer. Factors that affect the timeline include:

  • Liability issues: If fault is disputed, the case may take longer to resolve.
  • Evidence: The quality and availability of evidence can impact the length of your case.
  • Treatment plans: Uncertainty about future medical treatments can delay settlement.
  • Insurance company responses: Slow responses from insurers can also prolong the process.
  • Attorney involvement: A skilled attorney can help expedite negotiations.

Typically, once a fair settlement is reached, you may receive your compensation within six weeks.

How Can a Tronfeld West & Durrett Petersburg Car Accident Attorney Help?

Attorneys Jay Tronfeld and Wiley Latham serve Petersburg, VA, and can help you if you’ve been injured in a car accident caused by a negligent driver. The window for seeking recovery is limited, so having an experienced attorney on your side from the start can be invaluable. Our team is committed to ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve, and we work tirelessly to protect your rights throughout the process.

If you’ve been injured in a car accident, contact Tronfeld West & Durrett today to speak with a knowledgeable Petersburg car accident attorney. We’re here to help you recover and move forward.

Call or text 804-862-1234 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.