Alexandria Car Accident Lawyers

The bustling city of Alexandria, Virginia is a thriving metropolis just outside Washington, D.C.. The city is populated mostly by those working in and around the nation’s capital, including the Department of Defense.

In addition, the city houses numerous hotels and restaurants that are ideal locations for tourists looking to explore Washington, D.C, and the surrounding areas. To accommodate these people, the city has three major highways. There are other major roads running east and west through the city.

With so many people coming in and out of the city, the chance of a car accident increases significantly. When you are involved in an accident in Virginia, you can file a claim against the at-fault driver. It is one of several options available to you. Those involved in an accident should speak with a Alexandria car accident lawyer to discuss legal options.

How Can I Recoup Losses After a Car Accident in Virginia?

Virginia is an at-fault state, meaning you are free to file a personal injury claim against a driver who is liable for the collision. To prove your case, you must show negligence on the part of the at-fault driver. That means they did not behave in a manner that is consistent with the actions of a reasonable person in a similar situation.

When you file a claim against another driver, it will be up to you to establish that the other driver holds a legal responsibility to you and their fellow drivers. Given the complex legal matters involved, it is best to speak with an Alexandria car accident lawyer before moving forward on your case.

You do not have to file a claim directly with the at-fault driver. There are two other options available to you. You can file a claim with your own insurance to recoup your losses. Your insurance will then file a subrogation claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance. You can also file a third-party claim directly with the at-faulty driver’s insurance.

You should be wary that Virginia’s statute of limitations is two years from the date of your accident. If you fail to file a claim within this two-year window, it could jeopardize your chance of collecting any compensation for your injuries.

What Can I Recoup for My Car Accident?

Regardless of whether you file a claim with your insurance, the at-fault driver’s insurance, or file a personal injury claim with the driver directly, you are eligible to collect on the same compensation. The compensation you might be able to claim for your car accident includes:

• Medical bills: When you are hurt in an accident, you will have to seek treatment, including doctor visits, therapy, medication, and possible surgery. These can become expensive, and you can seek compensation to recoup these losses.
• Lost wages: Treating your injuries could mean time away from work and money you are not earning. That could be money your family relies on for day-to-day activities. You can receive reimbursement for the wages you would have earned had it not been for your accident.
• Car repairs: When you are in a car accident, your car could suffer significant damage which will cost money to fix. You can get that money back through your claim.
• Pain and suffering: You can seek compensation for your injuries beyond just repayment for your medical expenses. The amount you request will depend upon the severity of your injuries.

It is important to note that Virginia is one of the few states that uses a contributory negligence rule when determining how to divide up compensation for an accident. Be warned it is one of the strictest methods. Under this rule, you cannot bear any responsibility for an accident in order to collect compensation.

In other words, if you file a claim against a driver you believe to be liable for your injuries and the judge finds that you were at least one percent responsible for the accident, then you cannot collect compensation. That is why it is essential to have an Alexandria car accident lawyer on your side.

What Are Common Injuries Associated With Car Accidents?

Injuries are always possible whenever you are involved in a car accident. A few of the more common car accident injuries include:

• Back and neck injuries: Whiplash is a common injury associated with car accidents due to the sudden change in direction. Not as common, yet more severe are injuries to your spinal cord, which can result in partial or complete paralysis.
• Head injuries: These injuries might not be as apparent right away, which makes them potentially more dangerous, Severe brain trauma can have a lasting impact on you and how you live.
• Internal injuries: Damage to your internal organs and bleeding can happen during an accident. These are not easily apparent, making it essential that you are examined by a doctor soon after your accident.
• Rib and torso injuries: Your ribs are your first line of defense when you suffer an impact, and their job is to protect your vital organs.
• Lacerations and burns: Sharp metal can cause deep lacerations, while fire and other hot metal can lead to burn injuries.
• Broken bones: Broken bones are common in car accidents. Your bones are fragile and will break easily at the first sign of tension. Getting your limbs caught can also lead to broken bones.

When you are involved in a car accident, not all injuries are apparent right away. It is essential that you have yourself evaluated by a doctor as soon as possible. Failure to accurately diagnose an injury could delay any treatment you might receive and could also impact your claim.

How Can a Lawyer Help Me With My Case?

After a car accident, a lawyer will protect your rights and help you explore the best legal options in your case. For this reason, it is important to speak with a lawyer after a car accident.

A lawyer can do the following:

• Gather the evidence necessary to prove the liability of another driver while disproving any liability associated with you. Evidence can include statements from eyewitnesses, photos or video surveillance from the scene, accident reports, and more.
• Collaborate with a team of trusted professionals who will evaluate your situation and calculate the accurate number of losses that could take place.
• Negotiate with all parties involved in the case, including other lawyers and insurance companies, to reach a fair and just settlement.
• Prepare for trial if necessary.

An Alexandria car accident lawyer will be able to advise you and help you decide how best to proceed following a collision.

Alexandria Car Accident Lawyers at the Law Offices of Duane O. King Are on Your Side After a Car Accident

If you have been injured in a collision in Alexandria, Virginia, you may have several legal options. Our Alexandria car accident lawyers at the Law Offices of Duane O. King will help you determine what is the right path for you. Call us at 202-331-1963 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. We have offices located in Washington, D.C., Alexandria, Virginia, and National Harbor, Maryland, and we serve clients throughout Prince George’s County, including Laurel, Beltsville, Adelphi, College Park, Greenbelt, Mitchellville, Woodmore, Greater Upper Marlboro, Springdale, Largo, Bowie, Capitol Heights, District Heights, Forestville, Suitland, Seat Pleasant, Clinton, Oxon Hill, Temple Hills, and Fort Washington.