Virginia is one of the four states (besides the District of Columbia) in the US that follows the “contributory negligence” rule for car accidents. This means that if someone has even the slightest role in causing the accident, they cannot get any compensation at all. Expectedly, this rule can be confusing and complicated, given that it is possible to have multiple parties at fault. If you were injured in such an accident in Virginia, you should consider hiring a reliable lawyer at the earliest. Law firms like The Jackson Law Group specialize in handling accident claims, so you can expect tremendous support right from the first meeting.
When to hire a car accident lawyer?
In your best interests, it is wise to consult a lawyer as soon as possible after the accident. Even if you had a share of fault, let the lawyer know, and they can guide you on the possible outcomes of the case. Also, don’t make the mistake of assuming that your injuries are not severe. Sometimes, the impact of an accident may not be apparent right away. Consider hiring a lawyer, if
- Your sustained serious injuries
- You are likely to suffer from temporary or permanent disabilities
- There is no clarity on fault
Questions to ask a car accident lawyer
If you are meeting an attorney for the first time for your case, you may think of asking a few questions, like –
- How long have you been a personal injury lawyer?
- What percentage of your practice is dedicated to car accident claims?
- Do you have experience of trial?
- What percentage of your car accident cases are settled outside of court?
- What is your success rate?
- Will you handle the case personally?
- What do you think my claim is worth?
Things to know
Many personal injury attorneys in Virginia take car accident cases on a contingency basis. If they win, they get a fixed percentage of the settlement amount, typically not exceeding 50%. However, if the lawyer doesn’t win the case, you don’t pay anything at all. Keep in mind that there could be other costs related to court filing and investigation. Depending on the case, your lawyer may advance certain expenses, which can be settled later. Make it a point to discuss all aspects of the case in depth before hiring a lawyer, including the financials.
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