Every day, countless vehicles traverse the roads of Richmond. While many drivers adhere to the rules, there are those who push the limits, letting the thrill of speed cloud their judgment. Speeding, often dismissed as a minor infraction, can lead to catastrophic injuries or even wrongful death in the worst scenarios. The consequences of a speeding accident aren’t just metal and shattered glass; it’s the lives irrevocably altered, dreams cut short, and families left struggling with loss or life-altering injuries.
If you or a loved one has been a victim of such an accident, understanding your rights and seeking justice is essential to finding the justice you deserve. At Tronfeld West & Durrett, we’ve witnessed the devastation speeding can cause, and we’re here to stand by your side, offering guidance, support, and relentless representation.
What to Do After a Speeding Accident in Richmond, Virginia
Speeding accidents are sadly too common in the streets of our city and represent only a small view of an issue that is affecting the whole State of Virginia. According to the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, there were 24,877 speed-related crashes in Virginia in 2022, resulting in 13,051 injuries and 441 fatalities.
If unfortunately you are involved in such an accident, it’s important to follow a few steps in order to ensure everyone’s safety but also to protect the evidence that will help to build a strong case on your behalf:
Here are the steps to take after a speeding accident to protect your rights and be able to claim compensation for your losses:
- Preserve evidence: Protect valuable evidence by taking photos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage and injuries. Collect contact information from witnesses.
- Contact the police: Report the accident to the police as soon as possible. They will create an official accident report, which is crucial to present a personal injury claim.
- Seek medical attention: Even if injuries seem minor, seek immediate medical evaluation. This documents your injuries and provides evidence for pursuing compensation.
- Consult with a personal injury lawyer: Seek guidance from a personal injury lawyer at Tronfeld West & Durrett in Richmond who can evaluate your case and provide guidance on the best options to follow.
- Notify your insurance company: Contact your insurance company to report the accident and initiate the claims process promptly.
Once we evaluate your case and calculate the fair amount you should claim to recover damages, we can proceed to claim the compensation you are entitled to receive.
For answers to your questions with a speeding accident serving Richmond, call:
800-321-6741
Holding Responsible Drivers Accountable – Liability for Speeding Accidents
Before filing a personal injury claim, it’s important to consider the responsibilities of each party involved. Even when you are found a victim of the accident, you can be found partially guilty, limiting the possibility of getting compensation.
In Virginia, fault in personal injury cases is determined based on the concept of contributory negligence. 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 as outlined in the Virginia Code § 8.01-58.
The Role of a Speeding Accident Attorney When Multiple Parties Are Involved
When multiple parties are involved in a speeding accident, pinpointing liability becomes a layered and intricate process. While the speeding driver typically stands at the forefront of blame, there are scenarios where other parties can be held accountable. This might include vehicle manufacturers whose defective components contributed to the crash or even local government bodies that neglected essential road maintenance.
In such intricate scenarios, a seasoned attorney becomes invaluable. We can advocate for your rights, ensure that all responsible parties are held accountable, and guide you through the legal process, maximizing your chances of securing the justice and compensation you deserve.
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Damages Available for Speeding Accident Victims
Victims of speeding accidents face a spectrum of losses, both tangible and intangible. In this situation, they are able to pursue compensation for several damages, including:
Medical Expenses
From immediate emergency care to prolonged therapies, medical bills pile up quickly. These often include hospitalization, surgery, rehabilitation, medication, and ongoing medical care, among other costs.
An experienced personal injury lawyer will help you calculate the full cost of your medical expenses. For this, remember to keep a detailed record of all the medical costs related to the accident.
Lost Wages
A speeding accident often means time off work, leading to lost wages and financial instability for the victims and their families.
However, if you’ve been unable to work due to your injuries, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages. This can include both past and future lost wages, as well as lost earning capacity if your injuries have impacted your ability to work in the future.
Pain and Suffering
Beyond the concrete injuries, the emotional trauma and mental anguish of a speeding accident are debilitating. In this sense, pain and suffering damages are designed to compensate you for the physical and emotional pain you’ve experienced.
This can include compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of quality of life.
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Legal Options for Speeding Accident Victims in Richmond, Virginia
If you’ve been injured in a speeding accident in Richmond, Virginia, you have several legal options available to you, such as:
- Filing a personal injury lawsuit
- Negotiating a settlement with an insurance company
- Pursuing a claim through your own insurance company
No matter what course of action you decide to take, our team of experienced personal injury lawyers can help you understand the best tactics for your case and pursue fair compensation for your losses.
Why You Need a Richmond Speeding Accident Lawyer
At Tronfeld West & Durrett, we have a proven track record of success representing victims of personal injury cases, including speeding accidents. In our 51+ years of experience, we’ve secured compensation for victims all over Virginia, as you can see in our case results.
In fact, a lawyer’s expertise can be the difference between a successful claim and a missed opportunity.
So, if you’ve been involved in a speeding accident in Richmond, seek legal help as soon as possible! A
An experienced speeding accident lawyer can help you understand your legal options in Richmond, gather evidence to support your case and pursue fair compensation for your losses. Contact us today to evaluate your options in a free initial consultation.
FAQs Related to Speeding Accidents in Richmond, Virginia
Why Is Virginia So Strict on Speeding?
Virginia is known for having some of the strictest speeding laws in the country. This is due in part to the state’s contributory negligence law, which can make it difficult for injured parties to recover damages if they’re found to have contributed to the accident in any way.
Is 80 Mph Reckless Driving in Virginia?
Yes, driving at 80 mph or more, regardless of the posted speed limit, is considered reckless driving in Virginia.
Is It Worth Fighting a Speeding Ticket in Richmond, Virginia?
While each case is unique, challenging a speeding ticket, especially with legal counsel, can lead to reduced penalties or even dismissal.
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