Car Accident FAQ

What can I get compensation for?

If you’ve been in a car accident, you may be facing physical, mental, and financial damages. When you file an auto accident claim in Virginia, you may be eligible to receive compensation for:

  • Medical Bills
    Our Norfolk car accident attorneys will calculate the bills related to your medical treatment and consult medical experts to estimate the cost of your future or ongoing medical care.
  • Lost Wages
    We’ll determine the cost of the time you’ve missed from work due to your injuries and the financial impact your injuries will have on your future earnings.
  • Pain and Suffering
    Mental and physical pain caused by your accident will be factored into your claim during settlement negotiations with the insurance company.

At Lowell Stanley Injury Lawyers, we’ve hammered down on profit-driven insurance companies for more than 30 years. Let us help you get the full amount of compensation you deserve after your car accident. Contact us today—dial (757) 459-CASH or complete our free online form to get started with your claim now.

Is there a deadline to file an auto accident lawsuit in Virginia?

Yes. The deadline to file a lawsuit, called the statute of limitations, is generally two years from the date of your car accident, but there are exceptions. Don’t wait to contact an attorney. Building a strong case takes time, and speaking with an attorney as soon as possible after your car accident can help protect your rights to file an injury claim.

Why should I hire a lawyer?

Insurance companies are large businesses with teams of attorneys fighting to protect their profits. Hiring an auto accident attorney helps ensure your voice gets heard during the claims process, so you have the best possible chance of getting maximum compensation for your claim.

At Lowell Stanley, we’re here to assist you with every step of your claim. Our Norfolk auto accident lawyers can:

  • Help you complete insurance company paperwork
  • Collect evidence and witness statements that strengthen your claim
  • Negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf
  • Accompany you to court appearances and depositions
  • File a lawsuit with the court if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement

When you hire Lowell Stanley, insurance companies will know you’re serious about getting the money you deserve. We’ve fought for thousands of injured Virginians, and we want to fight for you too.

Should I accept the insurance company’s settlement offer?

No. Insurance companies often try to quickly settle claims for fractions of what they’re worth. An experienced auto accident lawyer can review your case and determine the full value of your claim. Visit our Dealing With Car Insurance Companies page for tips on how to handle insurance adjusters after your accident.

What are punitive damages?

Punitive damages are applied to cases where malicious, careless, or reckless behavior results in accidents. These damages are intended to deter others from engaging in similar behavior in the future, and are separate from compensatory damages that reimburse victims for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

In Virginia, victims of accidents caused by drunk driving or DUI may pursue punitive damages.

How long will my case last?

The amount of time your case will take depends on a variety of factors, such as:

  • How long it takes to collect evidence related to your claim
  • The severity of your injuries
  • The level of cooperation from the insurance company
  • The court schedule in the district where your lawsuit is filed

At Lowell Stanley, we know you’re worried about paying your bills and supporting your family. We’ll do everything we can to ensure you get your money fast, so you can move on from your car accident.

How much does hiring a lawyer cost?

Lowell Stanley works on a contingency fee basis. That means that your case evaluation is free and there’s no out-of-pocket cost to begin your claim. Our services are billed as a fraction of your total settlement or award only if we win money for you.

Is auto insurance required in Virginia?

No. Virginia drivers aren’t required to carry auto insurance if they pay an uninsured motor vehicle fee to the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles. However, drivers who pay this fee have no insurance coverage when they cause accidents.

What if an uninsured driver caused my accident?

If you’re injured in an accident caused by an uninsured driver and you have insurance, you may still be able to file a claim. Uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage is required on all Virginia auto insurance polices to protect drivers when accident-related expenses exceed their policy limits.

At Lowell Stanley, our Norfolk car accident lawyers know how insurance companies work in Virginia, and we’re here to help if you have questions about your auto insurance policy after an accident. Contact us today and see how we can help.