In the bustling streets of Richmond, hit-and-run accidents can shatter the peace of our community, leaving victims in a maze of legal complexities and often, mounting medical bills and days of work lost.
When the responsible party disappears, the weight of injustice can be overwhelming. But at Tronfeld West & Durrett, we stand by your side, offering a beacon of hope and expertise to help you hold the guilty accountable. With years of experience navigating the intricacies of personal injury law, we’re committed to ensuring that you receive the justice and compensation you deserve.
What Is a Hit and Run Accident?
A hit-and-run accident occurs when a driver involved in an accident, whether at fault or not, decides to leave the scene without providing their details or assisting the injured. According to recent reports, Richmond is experiencing a concerning jump in the number of fatal crashes, and in many cases, we see victims dealing with drivers who run away from the scene to avoid the legal consequences of their negligence.
This act is not only morally reprehensible but also a violation of the Virginia Code § 46.2-894, which mandates drivers to stop and report in the event of an accident.
A driver has the duty to stop not only in accidents involving other vehicles but also pedestrians or property. But if as a victim you have to deal with a reckless driver, you may have the right to demand accountability and compensation.
For answers to your questions with a hit and run accident serving Richmond, call:
800-321-6741
Who Is at Fault After a Hit and Run Accident in Richmond, Virginia?
Determining fault in a hit-and-run accident isn’t always straightforward, as the responsible driver may not be immediately identified. Typically, the driver who fled the scene is at fault. However, proving this requires concrete evidence such as eyewitness testimonials, surveillance footage, or forensic data.
In Virginia, fault in personal injury cases is determined based on the concept of contributory negligence, as covered in the Virginia Code § 8.01-58. This means that if the injured party is found to have contributed to the accident in any way, they may not be able to recover damages at all.
Nevertheless, it’s still possible to hold the responsible driver accountable for their actions. To prove liability in a hit-and-run accident, it’s important to gather as much evidence as possible to build a strong case. In this scenario, an experienced personal injury lawyer can help you gather and present this evidence to support your claim.
Suffered Injuries After an Accident? You Have Legal Options to Secure Compensation
Understanding your rights and options allows you to pursue legal action and get fair compensation for your injuries and damages. Your lawyer will help you understand which are your best options in a free initial consultation that will serve as a guide to making informed decisions regarding your case.
What Legal Options Do You Have After a Hit and Run Accident?
After a hit-and-run accident, you can file a civil lawsuit against the perpetrator, if identified. Also, you can also claim from your own insurance under the uninsured motorist coverage, which is designed to protect you in the event of an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver.
No matter what option you choose to take legal action, we can guide you through the whole legal process and ensure you receive fair compensation that covers all the damages caused by the accident.
What is the Statute of Limitations for Filing a Claim After a Hit and Run Accident?
In Virginia, victims have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit (according to the Virginia Code § 8.01-243).
Taking this statute of limitations into account when filing a claim after a hit-and-run accident is crucial. In fact, missing this window will endanger your right to compensation, so be sure to act quickly because the process can take longer than you expect according to the circumstances surrounding your case.
Injuries Related to Motor Accidents You May Be Entitled to Claim
From whiplash to more severe injuries like brain injuries, the spectrum of potential harm in hit-and-run accidents is vast and can have long-lasting consequences. Under Virginia laws, victims of hit-and-run accidents may be entitled to compensation for a wide range of injuries, including catastrophic injuries (like spinal cord injuries), broken bones, and even wrongful death.
Recognizing the type and extent of your injuries is essential in determining the compensation you deserve. A personal injury lawyer will help you calculate those damages and set a fair amount that covers medical bills, including future expenses.
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Damages You May Be Entitled to Claim After a Hit and Run Accident in Richmond
Victims of hit-and-run accidents can claim both economic and non-economic damages. This includes a variety of damages, including but not limited to:
- Medical expenses.
- Lost wages.
- Pain and suffering.
- Property damage.
- Emotional distress.
In general, damages are calculated based on the severity of your injuries, the cost of your medical treatment, and the impact of the accident on your life. In this scenario, concrete evidence like expert testimonies, medical records, and job-related documents play a crucial role in calculating damages.
Still, calculating the fair amount you should demand is a complex process, as you must consider punitive damages and reckless behavior. In this scenario, your attorney will help you assess the impact of the damages to ensure you’re not settling for less than you deserve.
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How to Claim Fair Compensation After a Hit and Run Accident in Richmond Virginia
There are several steps you can take to protect your legal rights and pursue fair compensation after a hit-and-run accident in Richmond. Overall, these are the steps you should take:
- Report the accident: Notify the police immediately and make sure to keep a copy of this report, since it will be instrumental in any future legal proceedings.
- Seek medical attention: Even if your injuries seem minor, get a medical evaluation, since some injuries manifest symptoms later and the medical records will also serve as evidence.
- Gather evidence: Collect as much evidence as possible from the scene of the accident, including witness statements, photos, and any other pertinent information.
- Notify your insurance company: Inform your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. This is crucial for any potential claims.
- File a claim: Work with your lawyer to build a strong case with the evidence collected, calculate damages, file a claim, and pursue fair compensation for your losses.
Contact a Richmond Hit and Run Accident Attorney and Claim the Justice You Deserve
After a hit-and-run accident in Richmond, it’s important to seek legal help as soon as possible. We know that experiencing an accident and needing to deal with the extra burden of a driver who doesn’t want to be held accountable is something that you shouldn’t do alone.
An experienced hit-and-run accident lawyer can help you understand your legal options in Virginia, gather evidence to support your case, and pursue fair compensation for your losses, including the emotional damage it could cause.
At Tronfeld West & Durrett, we have over 51 years of experience representing clients in personal injury cases. If you’re looking for a personal injury lawyer with experience in Richmond’s law, contact us today. Don’t let a hit-and-run accident derail your life and let us help you get back on track and recover the compensation you deserve.
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