Being involved in a car accident is a traumatic experience, especially if it’s a rear-end collision. In Virginia, these types of accidents are all too common and can often result in serious injuries and financial losses for the victims. If you or someone you know has been injured due to the negligence of another driver, it’s important that you understand your rights so that you can pursue fair compensation for your damages. At Parrish Law Firm, our experienced Virginia rear end collision lawyers have successfully handled numerous cases involving rear-end collisions and will fight to get you the compensation you deserve. We understand how overwhelming this situation may be for victims and their families, which is why we strive to provide personalized legal services tailored to each unique case. Read on to learn more about what happens after being involved in a rear-end collision accident in Virginia and when you should contact an attorney for help with your claim.
What is a Rear End Collision and How Common Are They in Virginia?
A rear-end collision is a type of traffic accident that occurs when one vehicle crashes into the rear of another vehicle. These accidents can occur at any speed, from slow-moving traffic to high-speed highways, and can result in significant property damage and personal injury.
Rear-end collisions are relatively common in Virginia and can be caused by a variety of factors, including driver distraction, following too closely, aggressive driving, and inclement weather. In fact, according to the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, rear-end collisions are one of the most common types of accidents on Virginia roads.
In Virginia, the law generally presumes that the driver of the rear vehicle is at fault for a rear-end collision, as it is their responsibility to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of them and to be prepared to stop if necessary. However, there are some circumstances where the driver of the front vehicle may share some of the blame, such as if they suddenly and unexpectedly brake or if their brake lights are not functioning properly.
If you have been involved in a rear-end collision in Virginia, it is important to speak with a knowledgeable personal injury lawyer who can help you understand your legal rights and options. They can work to establish liability for the accident and help you pursue compensation for your damages, which may include medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Who Is At Fault for a Rear End Collision Accident in Virginia?
In Virginia, the law generally presumes that the driver of the rear vehicle is at fault for a rear-end collision. This is because it is the responsibility of the rear driver to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of them and to be prepared to stop if necessary.
However, there are some circumstances where the driver of the front vehicle may share some of the blame for the accident. For example, if the front driver suddenly and unexpectedly brakes, or if their brake lights are not functioning properly, they may be partially responsible for the accident.
It is important to note that fault for a rear-end collision is not always clear-cut, and there may be situations where both drivers share some of the blame. In these cases, Virginia law follows the principle of contributory negligence, which means that if a plaintiff is found to be even 1% at fault for an accident, they may be barred from recovering damages.
If you have been involved in a rear-end collision in Virginia and are unsure of who is at fault, it is important to speak with an experienced personal injury lawyer who can review the details of your case and help you understand your legal rights and options. They can work to establish liability for the accident and help you pursue compensation for your damages.
Virginia Rear End Collision Lawyer Near Me 571-229-1800
What Kind of Damages Can You Recover from a Rear End Collision Accident in Virginia?
If you have been involved in a rear-end collision in Virginia, you may be entitled to recover various types of damages, including:
- Medical expenses: You can seek compensation for any medical expenses related to the accident, including emergency room visits, doctor’s visits, hospital stays, surgeries, and prescription medication.
- Lost wages: If you missed work due to the accident or had to take time off for medical treatment, you can seek compensation for any lost wages or income.
- Property damage: You can recover the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle or other property that was damaged in the accident.
- Pain and suffering: If you suffered physical or emotional pain as a result of the accident, you can seek compensation for your pain and suffering.
- Punitive damages: In some cases, you may be able to recover punitive damages, which are meant to punish the at-fault driver for particularly reckless or egregious behavior.
The specific damages you may be able to recover will depend on the unique circumstances of your case. An experienced personal injury lawyer can review the details of your case and help you determine what types of damages you may be entitled to. You can talk with an attorney for FREE by calling the Parrish Law Firm at (571) 364-6346.
Steps to Take After Being Involved In A Rear End Collision Accident
If you have been involved in a rear-end collision accident in Virginia, it is important to take certain steps to protect yourself and your legal rights. Here are some steps you should consider taking:
- Call 911: If anyone has been injured in the accident or if there is significant property damage, call 911 immediately.
- Seek medical attention: Even if you feel fine after the accident, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible to ensure that you have not sustained any hidden or underlying injuries.
- Gather information: Get the name, address, phone number, and insurance information of the other driver involved in the accident, as well as the names and contact information of any witnesses.
- Document the scene: Take photos of the accident scene, including any damage to your vehicle and the other driver’s vehicle, as well as any skid marks or other evidence of the collision.
- Contact your insurance company: Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible, and provide them with all of the information you have gathered.
- Get a FREE consultation with a personal injury attorney: An experienced personal injury lawyer can review the details of your case, help you determine who is at fault for the accident, and work to help you recover the compensation you deserve.
It is important to remember that the steps you take after a rear-end collision accident can have a significant impact on your ability to recover damages. By following these steps and seeking legal guidance as soon as possible, you can protect your legal rights and work towards a successful outcome.
Complete a Free Case Evaluation form now
Understanding Your Rights as the Victim of a Rear-End Car Crash
If you are the victim of a rear-end car crash in Virginia, it is important to understand your legal rights. Here are some of the key rights you may have:
- The right to seek medical treatment: If you have been injured in the accident, you have the right to seek medical treatment and to have your medical bills covered by the at-fault driver’s insurance company.
- The right to seek compensation for your damages: You have the right to seek compensation for your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and other related costs.
- The right to pursue a personal injury claim: If the other driver was at fault for the accident, you have the right to pursue a personal injury claim against them and their insurance company.
- The right to legal representation: You have the right to seek the assistance of an experienced personal injury lawyer, who can help you navigate the legal process and work to ensure that you receive fair compensation for your damages.
It is important to remember that insurance companies and at-fault drivers may try to deny or downplay your claims in order to protect their own interests. By understanding your legal rights and seeking the guidance of a skilled personal injury lawyer, you can protect your interests and work towards a successful outcome.
When Should You Contact an Experienced Attorney for Help with Your Claim
If you have been involved in a rear-end car crash in Virginia, it is important to contact an experienced attorney as soon as possible to help you with your claim. At the Parrish Law Firm, we have a team of skilled attorneys who are dedicated to helping victims of car accidents receive fair compensation for their damages.
Here are some situations in which you should consider contacting our firm for help with your claim:
- You have sustained serious injuries: If you have sustained serious injuries in the accident, our experienced attorneys can help you pursue a personal injury claim to seek compensation for your damages.
- You are having trouble with the insurance company: If you are having trouble dealing with the insurance company, or if they are denying your claim or offering a low settlement, our dedicated team can help you negotiate with the insurance company or pursue legal action if necessary.
- You are unsure who is at fault for the accident: If there is a dispute about who is at fault for the accident, we can help you investigate the circumstances of the crash and determine who is liable.
- You are unfamiliar with the legal process: If you are not familiar with the legal process or if you are unsure how to navigate a personal injury claim, our attorneys can provide you with guidance and support throughout the process.
At the Parrish Law Firm, we are committed to helping our clients receive the compensation they deserve after a rear-end car crash. Contact us at (571) 364-6346 to schedule a FREE claim review and learn more about how we can help you with your claim.
Call or Text 571-229-1800 or Complete a Free Case Evaluation form
