Step 1: Seek Medical Attention Immediately 

The first and most important step after any car accident is to seek medical attention, even if you don't think you've been seriously injured. Some injuries don't show symptoms until hours or days later. Getting checked out by a doctor will document your injuries for your insurance claim. A Virginia personal injury attorney can help refer you to medical professionals.

Our team of personal injury attorneys is resourceful, experienced, and knowledgeable regarding your rights. To learn more about how we can help you, call Altizer Law today at 540.345.2000. 

Can injuries get worse over time after an accident?

Yes, some injuries like soft tissue damage or internal bleeding get worse gradually before they show obvious symptoms. Always get checked by a doctor after any car crash no matter how minor it seems. A Virginia personal injury attorney can help you get the treatment you need.

Step 2: Report the Accident to the Police

Contact the police to report any car accident. This creates an official record with witness statements and citations that can help show fault later. Tell officers if you suspect the other driver was under the influence. Let a Virginia personal injury attorney handle communications with law enforcement going forward.  

Should I admit fault to the police after an accident? 

Never admit fault after an accident, even if you think you may have partially caused it. Let the police determine fault based on evidence and witness statements. Anything you say can come back to hurt your claim later. Let your Virginia personal injury attorney handle accident communications.

Step 3: Document the Scene Thoroughly  

Take photos of damage, injuries, skid marks, and any hazard that may have caused the crash. Get contact info and statements from any witnesses while facts are fresh in their minds. Ask officers for a copy of the accident report. A Virginia personal injury lawyer can obtain official photos, surveillance footage, and other evidence.

What kinds of evidence help a DUI accident claim?

Photos of property damage, injuries, and the accident scene are helpful. Witness statements, breathalyzer tests confirming intoxication, video footage, and the official police report can also provide valuable evidence. An experienced Virginia personal injury attorney knows what evidence carries the most weight.

Step 4: Contact Your Insurance Provider Quickly

You must contact your insurer promptly after any accident, even when you are not at fault. There are often strict notification deadlines outlined in insurance policies. Describe damages in detail and provide evidence. Ask what steps they require going forward. A qualified Virginia personal injury attorney can handle the insurance process for you.  

Do I need a lawyer to deal with my own insurance company?  

It often helps to have legal representation when dealing with insurers even when claiming your policy. Virginia personal injury attorneys have extensive experience negotiating settlements and appealing unfair offer amounts. They serve as your advocate.

Step 5: Consult a Personal Injury Attorney 

The best way to maximize your car accident injury claim and ease the burden on yourself is to hire an experienced Virginia personal injury attorney quickly after your accident. They can handle the entire process while you focus on recovery. A dedicated lawyer also sends the message you are serious about getting fully compensated.

When should I hire a Virginia personal injury attorney after an accident?

Contact an attorney immediately after seeking medical care. Virginia personal injury lawyers can start gathering evidence, communicating with insurers and witnesses, and protecting your rights immediately. The sooner you have representation lined up, the better your chances of a satisfactory claim result. Don't leave money on the table or make mistakes handling your claim.  

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How Much Does Hiring A Virginia Personal Injury Attorney Cost Upfront?

Most reputable personal injury firms work on contingency fees, meaning there are no upfront costs and the lawyer only gets paid if they recover compensation for you. The fee comes out of your final settlement or award amount.

2. Can I Still Get Compensation If I Was Partly At Fault In The Accident? 

Yes, Virginia follows "comparative negligence" rules meaning you can recover damages reduced by your percentage of fault. An experienced Virginia personal injury lawyer can help minimize the fault attributed to you.

3. What If The At-Fault Driver Didn’t Have Sufficient Insurance?  

Underinsured and uninsured motorist coverage under your policy may help pay for injuries when the at-fault driver's insurance won’t cover all damages. A Virginia personal injury attorney can help fully utilize all available policies.

4. How Soon After My Accident Should I File The Insurance Claim?

It’s wise to notify your insurer within 1-2 days of any major accident for which you wish to claim damages. However, depending on the case specifics, you typically have 30 days to several years before the statute of limitations expires to file the official injury lawsuit. Let your Virginia personal injury attorney worry about legal deadlines.  

5. How Can I Determine How Much My Injury Claim Might Be Worth?

The exact value depends on many factors - cost of medical treatment already and in the future, extent, and duration of lost wages from missed work, degree of pain and suffering, permanent disability or disfigurement, and more. Rely on the deep experience of a Virginia personal injury lawyer for an accurate damages assessment.

Call a Virginia Personal Injury Attorney Today

Suffering injuries and vehicle damage because of a negligent drunk driver adds insult to injury. Don’t go through the insurance claims process alone. A dedicated Virginia personal injury attorney can handle the entire process while you focus on healing. They work on contingency with no upfront fees, have experience maximizing case values, and know how to pressure insurers into offering fair settlements. If a settlement can't be reached, an attorney can take the case to court to compel adequate compensation. 

Altizer Law has navigated multiple personal injury claims throughout the years and helped our clients win their settlements. Call our team of experienced and results-driven lawyers today at 540.345.2000 for your free consultation.