How can I recover damages for an auto accident in Virginia? Auto accidents are scary and can often be overwhelming. You’re likely facing medical bills, possible vehicle repairs, and other costs. If you didn’t cause the accident, you shouldn’t have to pay for those things. Under Virginia law, it’s your legal right to seek damages.
What Counts as Damages?
Damages is another word for the costs of the accident. If you have been hurt in a car accident, you need to speak to a personal injury attorney. You may be able to recover damages such as:
- Medical costs. This includes hospital bills, doctor visits, examinations, prescriptions, surgery, rehabilitation, and physical therapy.
- Vehicle repair costs. This includes damage to your car, motorcycle, bicycle, or another type of vehicle that was damaged. If your vehicle is totaled, this includes replacement costs.
- Lost wages. If you had to take time off work to recover from your injuries, or you have a decreased capability to work, you can recover these lost wages.
- General damages. These are harder to calculate because they depend on how your life was impacted by the accident. It includes things like pain and suffering, physical impairment, disability, lowered quality of life, mental anguish, depression, anxiety, disfigurement, and loss of companionship.
- Punitive damages. Punitive damages may be awarded if the person at fault for the accident shows willful misconduct, fraud, malice, or willingly put other people in danger. Think of it as another punishment for acting recklessly, like in a drunk driving accident.
How Much Money Can I Recover After an Auto Accident in Virginia
That really depends on the severity of the accident. Some settlements and judgments are only for a few thousand dollars. A few are in the millions. Most are somewhere in between. If you have been injured in a car accident, it’s important that you speak to an attorney about your case and how you can recover damages.
If you are in need of an attorney’s advice, please contact John Cook at Cook, Craig, and Francuzenko today. Our firm has attorneys who specialize in a variety of practice areas. With over 100 years of combined experience, we are seasoned professionals ready to help you.
