How a Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help if Your Loved One Was Killed in a Virginia Crash

How to Proceed After a Fatal Accident in Virginia

The tragic loss of a loved one in an accident fatality can be devastating for loved ones left behind. If someone else is at fault for the crash, you may be entitled under Virginia law to seek compensation for this horrific loss. Though no amount of money can bring back a loved one, ensuring that justice is served and receiving just compensation for your loss can help soften the blow.

Virginia Accident Fatality Statistics

Accident fatalities are an unfortunate reality everywhere. Even the most careful drivers could be the victim of someone else’s negligence.

• In 2023, there were 907 fatalities on Virginia’s roadways. While fatalities are slowly trending downwards, each loss of life is a tragedy.
• The leading causes of most accident fatalities include speeding, alcohol-impaired driving, and distracted driving, which includes texting and driving, drowsy driving, and trying to multitask while driving.
• Pedestrian fatalities have unfortunately been on the rise, at 173 in 2022, emphasizing the need for heightened awareness by and for pedestrians.

Immediate Steps After a Fatal Accident

If you find yourself in the unfortunate situation of losing a loved one in a fatal accident, there are several steps you should take immediately or as soon as possible:

1. Contact law enforcement. Call 911 immediately to report the accident. Ensure that a police report is filed, which will be an important piece of evidence in future legal proceedings.
2. Seek medical attention. Always seek medical treatment after being in an accident, even if you feel fine. Keep copies of any bills or records related to your visit. 
3. Gather evidence. While on the scene, or even after the accident, take photos of the location where the accident happened. If possible, include pictures of different angles of the vehicles involved. Note road conditions, weather, time of day, and any signs or signals around the crash site. 
4. Collect contact information from witnesses. They may be able to provide firsthand accounts of what they saw.
5. Notify the insurance company. Inform the insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. Stick to the facts of the case and don’t offer more information than what you are asked. While the accident may appear to be someone else’s fault, you never know what others will allege after a crash. They could place some of the blame on your loved one. 

Consult a Personal Injury Lawyer

We recommend booking a consultation with a personal injury lawyer with experience in lawsuits seeking compensation after an accident fatality. An experienced lawyer can explain your options for pursuing compensation for your loss.

Benefits of Hiring a Personal Injury Lawyer After a Fatal Accident

• Experience. A lawyer with experience in handling fatality cases cannot be overestimated. Families are vulnerable and emotional after a tragic loss. Your lawyer will have experience with the courts, the time it typically takes for a case like yours, and what compensation you may be entitled to under Virginia law. 
• Procedures. They understand how to follow all the proper procedures of the law regarding documents, filing paperwork, and keeping your case moving. 
• Negotiation. Lawyers are skilled negotiators who can take the pressure off of you. Insurance companies may be out to get you to settle quickly and for as little as possible so they can close claims quickly. Your lawyer can handle these negotiations and fight for what you deserve.
• Compensation. A skilled lawyer advocates for you and will fight to ensure you receive compensation for damages suffered as a result of the accident, including reimbursement of medical expenses, funeral costs, lost income, and pain and suffering.
• Processing your loss. Having a lawyer handle your case allows you to focus on grieving and healing from the loss of your loved one while they manage the legal aspects of your case.

The loss of a loved one in a fatal accident is a huge tragedy. If you find yourself in this unfortunate situation, take steps to protect your rights and consult with an experienced Virginia personal injury lawyer who can guide you through the process of seeking justice.