There is no exact script to follow when it comes to filing an insurance claim after a Virginia auto accident, but there are a few important details that are common to nearly all car accident claims. Keeping these in mind can help you get through the filing process as smoothly as possible.  

First and foremost, be sure to get contact and insurance information from any other drivers who were involved in the crash. You will need this information to file a claim, regardless of who was at fault. You may also need it for a police report. In addition, if there were any witnesses, get their contact information as well. Their account of what happened could make a big difference in the outcome of your claim.

It’s also a wise to be familiar with your insurance policy. You should be aware of what coverage you are paying for and what is not covered by your policy.

In a stressful situation such as a car accident, people are often quick to assign blame. On the other hand, people sometimes are too quick to claim responsibility. Whether the accident was your fault or not, it’s important not to admit any type of liability at the scene of the accident. It is up to the police, the insurance companies, and any attorneys that might be involved in the case to determine who caused the crash. Sometimes more than one driver is responsible, and then it must be decided how much each driver contributed to causing the incident.

You should also avoid waiting too long to file your insurance claim. Most insurance companies have a limit as to how long after an accident they will accept a claim. If you let too much time elapse, your claim could be denied.

Dealing with insurance companies in the aftermath of a car accident in Virginia can be frustrating and at time even intimidating. Having an experienced personal injury attorney help you navigate the claims process can ease the stress and help you feel more confident that you’ll be treated fairly. Call our office nearest you today and request a free consultation. We’re here to help.

Richard A. Dulaney
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Richard has over 30 years of experience in personal injury law.

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Working with Andrew and his team has been--without exception--one of the most pleasant, productive, and professional experiences of my adult life. I was seriously injured in an accident in July, 2018, in Virginia. I was driving a company vehicle that was registered in Maryland, for a company that was based in Wisconsin. And I live in New Jersey, where my personal vehicles are insured. The several jurisdictions involved presented a very unique case that demanded an experienced and nuanced strategy. I found Andrew Thomas (of Dulaney, Lauer, & Thomas) through some online research. And it is noteworthy that Andrew has worked the other side of the aisle--he used to work with insurance companies. Andrew took on my case with the assurance that he would work it with no less energy than he does each of his cases. At each turn, and with each question I had, Andrew and Paralegal Misty kept me informed, returned my calls, provided detailed explanations, and kept me feeling like I was in the loop and there was an eventual end to our journey. Nearly five years after the accident, we settled out of court for a significant sum in recognition of my personal injuries. The settlement was much more than I had expected. And without Andrew & Misty, I am sure the award would have been much less. If you are looking for professionalism, knowledge, dedication, answerability, responsiveness, integrity, and human-level communication from a personal injury attorney--look no further. You have found him. Thank you, Andrew and Misty. Gary Daley
I'm grateful for all your work . . . Roger V. (Remington, VA)