Car accidents can happen in the blink of an eye, leaving those involved facing a multitude of challenges, from physical injuries and emotional trauma to mounting medical bills and property damage. Amid this chaos, you may not know when to seek the help of an attorney.
While you may resolve minor fender benders through insurance claims alone, there are certain situations where having an experienced McLean car accident lawyer by your side can make a world of difference.
After a car accident, if you don’t know whether your case warrants legal representation, understanding the key factors to consider can help you make an informed decision and protect your rights.
In this blog, we’ll discuss situations when to seek the help of an attorney after a car accident and the timeframe in which you should reach out to one.
Circumstances When You Should Get a Lawyer for a Car Accident
Here are some situations under which you should hire a lawyer to handle your car accident claim:
Serious Injuries or Property Damage
If you or a passenger in your vehicle has suffered severe injuries, such as broken bones, traumatic brain injury, or spinal cord damage, it’s crucial to consult with an attorney.
Serious injuries often result in substantial medical expenses, lost wages, and ongoing rehabilitation costs. An experienced personal injury lawyer can help you pursue the compensation you deserve to cover these expenses.
Disputes with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies are in the business of making money, and they may try to minimize the amount they pay out on claims.
If you’re having trouble getting the insurance company to cover your medical bills or property damage, or if they’re offering an unfair settlement, an attorney can negotiate on your behalf to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Liability Is Unclear
Hire a car accident attorney to investigate the accident, gather evidence, and build a strong case.
Multiple Parties Involved
If your car accident involves multiple vehicles or parties, the legal situation can become complex quickly. An attorney can help navigate the legal process, determine who is liable, and ensure that the other party doesn’t unfairly blame you for the accident.
Long-Term Consequences
Some car accident injuries may have long-term consequences, such as chronic pain, disability, or disfigurement. If your injuries will have a lasting impact on your life, an attorney can seek compensation for future medical expenses, lost earning capacity, and pain and suffering.
Beware the Deadline for Filing a Car Accident Lawsuit in Virginia
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It’s important to remember that there is a time limit, known as the statute of limitations, for filing a personal injury lawsuit after a car accident. If a plaintiff fails to file their claim within the specified time period, they cannot take legal action because the court will refuse to hear the case.
With personal injury claims, such as those arising from car accidents, the statute of limitations determines how long an injured party has to file a lawsuit against the at-fault party. These time limits ensure that claims are brought forward in a timely manner while evidence is still available and memories are fresh.
Statutes of limitations vary by state and depend on the type of claim being filed. In Virginia, the statute of limitations for most car accident cases is two years from the accident date. This means that if you’ve been injured in a car accident in Virginia, you have two years from the accident date to file a lawsuit against the at-fault party.
It’s important to note that the two-year statute of limitations applies specifically to filing a lawsuit in civil court. However, it’s generally advisable to initiate the claims process with the relevant insurance companies as soon as possible after the accident to ensure a timely resolution.
There are some limited exceptions to Virginia’s two-year statute of limitations for car accident claims, such as cases involving minors or individuals with certain disabilities. However, it’s always best to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney to understand how the statute of limitations applies to your specific case and to ensure that you take action within the required timeframe to protect your legal rights.
Contact a Car Accident Lawyer You Can Trust
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Dealing with the aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming, especially if you’ve suffered serious injuries or are facing significant property damage. By understanding the situations and time frame for when to seek the help of an attorney, you can protect your legal rights and improve your chances of receiving the compensation you deserve.
If you or a loved one suffered injuries in a car accident in Virginia, don’t hesitate to reach out to the experienced McLean personal injury attorneys at Tysons Trial Law, PLLC. Our knowledgeable team can evaluate your case, guide you through the legal process, and fight to secure the best possible outcome for your situation. We offer free initial consultations and work on a contingency fee basis, which means you won’t owe us anything unless we win your case.
Remember, the sooner you seek legal representation after a car accident, the better positioned you’ll be to build a strong case and pursue the compensation you need to move forward with your life. Contact Tysons Trial Law, PLLC, today at (703) 888-5535 or through our online form for your free, no-obligation consultation and take the first step toward protecting your rights.