York County Car Accident Lawyer
In the Commonwealth of Virginia, few areas are more captivating than York County, from its iconic waterfront views to its rich history. However, with a population of over 70,000 and countless visitors each year, this bustling area sees its fair share of challenges, particularly when it comes to vehicle accidents.
If you find yourself involved in a car accident in York County, you need a local, experienced attorney to help you get compensation for your injuries and damages. The team of attorneys at Huffman & Huffman Brothers-in-Law aims to help victims of automobile accidents rebuild their lives with aggressive representation and compassionate care.
Understanding the Risks: York County Car Accident Statistics
Motor vehicle crashes are common, and they range in severity from minor fender-benders to catastrophic collisions with fatalities. In 2023, the Virginia Highway Safety Office reported 127,597 motor vehicle crashes across the state. In York County alone, there were 1,011 crashes, resulting in 426 injuries and 11 fatalities.
How Do Car Accidents in York County Happen?
There are numerous causes for motor vehicle accidents, but some of the most common reasons for crashes in York County include:
- Not obeying the speed limit. In 2023, there were 166 speed-related crashes in the county, causing 80 injuries and six deaths.
- Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. In 2023, 45 accidents in York County involved alcohol use, causing 16 injuries and four deaths.
- Distracted driving. According to the York County Sheriff’s Office, there were 911 distracted driving-related accidents in 2023 and over 400 as of the first quarter of 2024.
No matter the cause, motor vehicle accidents have the propensity to be completely life-altering, leaving victims with lifelong injuries and, in some cases, taking lives. If you or a loved one has been involved in a car crash, a York County car accident attorney can help you rebuild your life.
What Are the Most Dangerous Roads and Intersections in York County?
Every town and city has problematic areas where accidents are more likely to occur. According to data from Virginia’s Traffic Records Electronic Data System, accidents are common at most major intersections along George Washington Memorial Highway, most notably at Victory Boulevard. Many accidents also occur on Interstate 64, just outside Williamsburg.
Crash data is compiled from police reports. Keep in mind that this crash data does not include crashes that were never reported. If you commute or frequently travel on York County roads, especially in these areas, you are at higher risk of being involved in an automobile accident.
What to Do After a York County Car Accident
If the unthinkable happens and you find yourself in a car accident, try to remain calm and follow these steps to stay safe and protect everyone involved.
- Move your car to the shoulder, if possible, to allow other cars the right of way on the road.
- Call 911 if you need an ambulance, or if someone else does.
- Ask for a police officer to be sent to the scene to file a report. Even if you think you can handle the damages on your own, it is extremely important to have a police report filed.
- Obtain contact information from the other parties, and collect their insurance information.
- If you see eyewitnesses, ask for their contact information. Eyewitness statements can be very useful if you need to prove liability or support your case.
- Contacting an experienced car crash attorney from the scene of your accident can help you understand exactly what to do next and streamline the process of filing a claim for your damages.
Once you’ve been cleared to leave the accident scene, head to the nearest medical facility to get a head-to-toe assessment, even if you do not think you are injured. Adrenaline can mask injuries like whiplash, and you’ll need care for them in the coming days and weeks.
How Can a Lawyer Help Me After a Car Wreck?
After a car accident in Virginia, it’s always a good idea to consider hiring a car accident lawyer, even if your injuries seem minor. It’s especially important to choose a lawyer who’s local to the area, as they’ll have intimate knowledge of local laws and regulations that may apply to your case. Having a lawyer on your side can prove beneficial in many ways, helping you:
- Collect evidence. Your attorney will gather police reports, CCTV and traffic cam footage, eyewitness statements, and all relevant information needed to support your claim.
- Determine liability. In Virginia, determining liability is important so that you can receive the compensation you deserve. Your attorney will help establish liability and fight to protect your rights.
- File your claim and communicate with the insurance company. Filing a claim on your own can result in clerical errors or missed deadlines that can result in a claim denial.
- Represent you in court. If your case is not able to be settled, your attorney will represent you in court.
- Maximize your settlement. Insurance companies may attempt to offer you a low-ball settlement. Having an attorney on your side gives you the best chance of negotiating fair compensation.
The team of attorneys at Huffman & Huffman have a track record of success and will work tirelessly to ensure your case has a successful outcome.
York County Car Accident Lawyer: FAQs
Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions we receive concerning York County, Virginia automobile accidents.
How Long After a Car Accident Can You File a Claim in York County?
In Virginia, you can file a claim for up to two years after the date of your accident. Filing your claim as soon as possible is best practice and ensures that any necessary evidence remains fresh.
What Compensation Can I Receive for a York County Car Accident?
There are many different types of compensation available for victims of car accidents. You may be entitled to both economic and non-economic damages like:
- Lost wages
- Medical bills
- Loss of future earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Wrongful death
Your attorney is the best person to help you understand which benefits you may be entitled to.
Can I Be Compensated If the Accident Was My Fault?
Virginia follows a strict contributory negligence rule. This means if you are found to be liable in any capacity for your accident, you may not be able to recover compensation from another party. This is why it is crucial to hire an attorney to help you establish liability and protect your interests so that you can receive the compensation you need and deserve.
Have You Been Involved in a York County Car Crash? Consult With an Attorney at Huffman & Huffman
If you’ve been in an accident, don’t wait. Contact the law offices of Huffman & Huffman today to ensure your claim is filed accurately and on time. We will work diligently to protect your right to collect for your damages and help you rebuild your life after your crash.