If involved in a car accident with another party, you must be aware of the state’s car accident laws to protect your rights. Here are ten things you should know about Virginia car accident law:
1. If Your Accident Involves a Pedestrian or Bicyclist, it is a Hit-And-Run
If you hit another driver, even if that person gets injured, you can face serious criminal charges. You could be charged with a hit-and-run if you hit another driver and fail to stop and exchange information. If hurt in an accident, you might even face charges for injury by vehicle.
2. You may Have to Give Out of Pocket for Damages
In Virginia, your insurance company will only pay for medical bills and car damage if there is proof that the other party was negligent. If you’re involved in a car tragedy, talk to an attorney about your rights to ensure that your insurance company does not ignore the fact that an accident occurred.
3. Help is Available for Injured Bicyclists
Virginia law protects the rights of bicyclists, pedestrians, motorcyclists, and others injured in accidents. If you’re involved in a car accident with another party and it results in injury or death, this information could help you win compensation through a personal injury claim against the other driver.
4. You Can Sue for Damages When Your Car is Damaged
If you crash your car into another vehicle or object, you may be able to sue for damages. If you’re involved in a car tragedy, talk to an attorney about your legal options.
5. Virginia Law Protects Against Reckless Driving
If you get injured in a car accident and it turns out that the other driver was acting recklessly on the road, you can file a personal injury claim against that driver. If your car gets damaged in a car accident, you may be able to sue for its repair costs.
6. It is Against the Law to Run the Red Light
Most drivers think they can illegally run through a red light and not face any legal repercussions, but Virginia law states that this is not the case. If you’re involved in a tragedy and another operator runs a red light, you may be able to record a civil claim against them for their reckless behavior on the road.
7. You Need Not Have to be the Operator of a Car to File a Claim
In Virginia, you can file a claim against the other driver if you are riding in the passenger seat or are in your vehicle but were not driving at the time of the crash. If you’re in an accident caused by somebody else, consult with an attorney about filing a personal injury claim.
8. Filing an Insurance Claim isn’t Always Easy
The process for filing an insurance claim differs for each insurance company and each policy. Before determining whether you are entitled to compensation, consult an attorney about your legal options.
9. You Need Proof of the Accident
When it comes to filing a claim for car accident damages, there is no place for circumstantial evidence. You need hard evidence that proves that a car accident occurred and that you were involved in the crash. When filing an insurance claim, many factors get considered under the law.
10. Even If You weren’t at Fault, You Might Still Receive Compensation
If you are not at fault in a car accident, that doesn’t mean that your insurance company will take no responsibility. If you get hit by another driver, show proof of the accident to an insurance adjuster. In many cases like these, insurance companies offer a reasonable car accident settlement that is fair for both parties.
These negotiations are usually handled between an insurance company’s adjuster and the other party involved in the accident. You could be entitled to reimbursement for damage to your car or medical bills as a result of your injury.
Most states’ car accident laws are similar, but there are always exceptions to the rules. If involved in a car accident, consult with an experienced Virginia car accident attorney to learn more about your legal options and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.