Car Accident Lawyer Charlottesville VA

Need a car accident lawyer Charlottesville VA residents trust?

Car Accident Lawyer Charlottesville VA

If you have been in a car accident, you need the help of a car accident lawyer in Charlottesville, VA. In the United States, someone dies in a car accident an average of once every 15 minutes. Many of these car accidents occur not because of bad weather, traffic, or road construction – factors drivers have little control over – but because drivers violate safety rules and make careless choices. When that happens, victims may need to speak with a car accident lawyer Charlottesville, VA residents look to from MartinWren, P.C.

Behavior that Leads to Car Accidents

Drivers are required to follow all state and federal laws related to road safety, including speed limit regulations, alcohol consumption rules, cell phone use laws, and right of way directions. It is part of safe driving to behave with reasonable care. Unfortunately, many drivers fail to live up to their obligations.

Many drivers engage in a variety of risky behavior, including:

  • Distracted Driving: During the daylight hours, 660,000 drivers talk on their cell phones while driving, and many more send and receive text messages and emails. (NHTSA)
  • Speeding: One driver out of every five admits to traveling too fast to reach his destination as quickly as he can while behind the wheel. (NHTSA)
  • Drowsy Driving: A survey of drivers throughout the U.S. revealed that 4.2 percent of motorists reported falling asleep behind the wheel in the 30 days prior to completing the survey. (CDC)
  • Drunk Driving: Around 300,000 incidents of drunk driving occur every day. (MADD)

Other leading causes of motor vehicle crashes include a failure to yield the right of way, driving recklessly, and a failure to obey traffic signals such as stop signs and red lights. In any of these instances, it can be imperative that you contact a car accident lawyer Charlottesville, VA residents have relied on for years.

Car Accident Infographic

Behavior That Leads To Car Accidents Infographic

Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle crashes are often much more complex than ordinary car accidents. The injuries can be severe and insurance agents don’t always fully understand the physics of motorcycle movement. Car and truck drivers can be similarly unaware of how motorcycles move, and can misgauge speed or be completely unaware of their presence on the road. Insurance companies and drivers will usually attempt to blame the motorcyclist for the accident and resultant injuries.

Retain an experienced car accident lawyer Charlottesville, VA motorcyclists rely upon as soon as possible. Contact MartinWren, P.C. for a motorcycle accident lawyer, with offices in Harrisonburg and Charlottesville, VA, we will be there for you and your case.

Legal Action After An Accident

When a driver makes a careless choice or breaks the rules of the road, the law requires that motorist to be held accountable for the serious injuries or fatalities he or she causes. It is up to victims, however, to negotiate settlements with auto insurers or to pursue personal injury or wrongful death lawsuits in court. That’s when you’ll want to contact the car accident lawyer Charlottesville, VA residents have trusted on with their car accident cases.

The legal process can be overwhelming and complex. The civil justice system is often difficult to navigate, especially as you cope with injuries or grief. The benefit of having an experienced car accident lawyer in your corner is that you do not have to worry about the intricacies of the process.

The lawyers at our Harrisonburg and Charlottesville, VA law firms will obtain police records from the car accident scene, consult with accident reconstruction experts to testify on your behalf, interview witnesses, and gather evidence to support your case.  As your legal counsel, we take the important and necessary steps to prove your claim.

Burden of Proof

After your accident, it is important to determine if the driver who caused the collision broke the law or acted negligently behind the wheel.

If the driver’s negligent or careless actions caused the accident, the victim may be entitled to compensation for economic and non-financial losses.  However, you will need to prove negligence, and you must establish that the negligence was the direct cause of your collision. The Harrisonburg and Charlottesville, VA car accident lawyers at MartinWren, P.C. can review the circumstances of your accident and help you to determine if you meet the elements for a personal injury action.

Attorney Advice: What Victims Should Do in the Moments After a Car Wreck

Whether a driver was involved in a small or large wreck, it is important that certain steps are taken. Anyone who has become a victim in a car accident, can rely on knowledgeable and compassionate legal services from a car accident lawyer Charlottesville, Virginia residents trust. Our law firm has seen just how much a car wreck can change a person’s life, for many months or years to come. Victims can help protect their interests by taking certain actions in the moments after a car wreck. Please read the following information for tips on how to respond while still at the scene:

Talk with the Other Driver (But Not Too Much)

It is imperative to the success of your car accident claim to gather information from the other driver. You will need to write down their first and last name, driver’s license number, phone number, insurance carrier, and policy number. Be sure to copy this straight from their identification or insurance card, as some people who are at-fault for an accident may be tempted to give you false information.

You can talk with the other driver, but not too much in the sense that no statements should be made about who was responsible for the wreck happening. Never accept or state blame. Keep things as cordial as you can until police can arrive to further assess the situation.

Gather Key Pieces of Evidence (Photographs and People)

Before leaving the scene, take pictures and videos of anything related to the wreck. This could be things like objects flown from the car, broken windshields, glass on the ground, damage to both vehicles, visible injuries, and street signs. Photographs and people alike can be used as proof if you choose to take legal action against the driver who hit you.

An Charlottesville, VA car accident lawyer is likely to suggest that you simply obtain a witness’ contact, and then follow up with them at a later time for an official statement. The situation may be too tense to request an official statement. Plus, your attorney can ask questions to confirm they can help, not hurt, your lawsuit.

Call for an Ambulance

It should go without saying that getting medical attention in the moments after a car accident is crucial to both your health and finances. If you were to delay receiving medical care, your injuries may worsen and you may be less likely to get the compensation you need in the civil lawsuit. The fact is, if you postpone getting medical care, the other driver’s attorney may question why you didn’t go to the hospital if your injuries were as serious as you claim.

We can help you fight for the financial restitution needed to recover both physically and financially from the car wreck. Call us today for a free, no-strings-attached consultation with an attorney at MartinWren, P.C.

Car Accident Lawyer for Facial Injuries

As a car accident lawyer Charlottesville, Virginia residents trust, we have seen the devastating effects of collisions. Broken bones, sprain, internal injuries, and head trauma are unfortunately all too common. However, so are facial injuries.

Although newer cars come equipped with better safety measures to protect the body, the face can remain exposed while driving. When an accident occurs, windshield fragments may fly into the face, the head could slam into the steering wheel, or an airbag could detonate and cause facial bruising. In the event if facial injuries in a car accident, you should consult a car accident lawyer from MartinWren, P.C. to determine whether or not compensation is available.

The Most Common Types of Facial Injuries Sustained in Car Accidents

Broken Bones – The head and face are comprised of 14 different bones that could become broken in a car accident. A broken facial bone could lead to an injured eye, sinus cavity, mouth, or brain. Oftentimes a broken facial bone can cause extreme pain, chronic pain, and cosmetic issues.

Deformed Face – Even after the face is treated, it is possible that it will not heal correctly; thereby causing appearance problems, low self esteem, and a decrease in the quality of life.

Scarring – When glass or sharp objects penetrate the face, the chances of scarring occurring is high. Scars are often permanent and can be a constant reminder to the victim of what happened.

Burns – If the accident led to a fire, anyone involved could be burned by the heat, flames, or smoke.

Eye Damage – The eyes are a vulnerable part of the face. In a car accident the eyes could become scratched or blinded leading to a host of visual impairments.

5 Tricks Insurance Companies Use After a Car Accident

1. Calling You and Asking How You’re Feeling

After a car accident, the other driver’s insurance company will often attempt to contact you. A common trick is for adjustors to ask seemingly innocent questions such as, “Hi, how are you doing today?” or “How are you this morning?”

They want you to answer something like “Great, thanks,” out of politeness. They turn around and use those words against you to try to throw out your injury claims.

As any car accident lawyer in Charlottesville, VA will tell you, you’re under no obligation to speak with that insurer. Either hang up right away or tell adjusters to contact your lawyer at Martin Wren, P.C. Attorneys at Law.

2. Denying Legitimate Claims

What if you’re dealing with your own insurance company after an accident? Don’t think they’re on your side. Even your own insurer wants to save money. Sometimes, insurance companies stoop so low as to reject claims they 100% know are legitimate.

This is a stalling tactic. The insurer hopes you’ll get frustrated and give up. They want you to sign the first settlement they offer out of desperation, even if it’s unfair. When you have a car accident lawyer in Charlottesville, VA by your side, you don’t have to put up with those shenanigans. We can help you even if your claim has been previously rejected.

3. Checking Your Social Media

You have to be careful with what you post on social media in the days following the accident. Insurance companies may gather photos and record statements you make to try to create the false narrative that you’re inventing your injuries. Don’t give them the ammunition. Always speak with a car accident lawyer in Charlottesville, VA, before discussing the accident with friends, co-workers or anyone else on social media.

4. Offering You a Low Settlement

Insurers know you don’t have much experience with car accident claims. Most people don’t know how much medical costs from injuries can add up to over the years. Don’t accept the insurance company’s offer. Contact an experienced lawyer for help. At Martin Wren, P.C. Attorneys at Law, we can help you know how much your case is really worth and how large a settlement you need for your injuries.

5. Saying That You Don’t Have a Choice

If the insurance company tells you that you have to accept their settlement or you’ll lose your insurance coverage, don’t believe you. Doing that is illegal. You always have the freedom to reject a settlement and have your lawyer negotiate a better offer or file a lawsuit.

Medical Care for Facial Injuries Sustained in Car Accidents

As a car accident lawyer in Charlottesville, VA knows, most victims with facial accidents will need ongoing medical treatment to mend broken bones, treat burns, or address tissue damage. If negligence was a factor, medical care, such as the following treatments, may be included in a claim:

  • Surgery
  • Eye removal or replacement
  • Stiching
  • Tissue enhancement
  • Skin grafting
  • Cosmetic surgery or repair
  • Medication
  • Therapy and rehabilitation

These types of treatments are very costly and painful. Some will take months or years to complete. This is one reason why it is so important to retain a good car accident lawyer who will factor in these ongoing expenses into your claim.

A Car Accident Lawyer for Facial Injuries

It is common for an insurance adjuster to alleged the facial injuries are not serious or will not require ongoing care or treatment. Without a car accident lawyer on your side, who can argue against their bold statements, you could risk losing money you need and deserve.

The Benefits of Having a Car Accident Lawyer in Charlottesville, VA

Attempting to obtain compensation yourself following a car accident rarely provides good results, even if you’re dealing directly with your own insurance company. Virginia laws are complex and it’s easy to make mistakes. Having the assistance of a car accident lawyer in Charlottesville, VA can provide countless benefits.

1. Professional Legal Expertise With Car Accidents

There are things you should do and things you should avoid after a car accident. For example, making certain statements can seem like an admission of guilt even though you’re not at fault. Your car accident lawyer in Charlottesville, VA can help you navigate this situation, helping you build a strong case that makes it easier to get the full compensation you’re looking for.

2. Answers to Your Questions

It’s common for drivers and injured parties to feel confused after a car accident. Perhaps you’re unsure of the next steps you should take or you wonder how much money your case is worth. At Martin Wren, P.C. Attorneys at Law, we’re happy to answer your questions, helping you understand your options and what the advantages are.

What questions should you ask? It’s smart to get as much information as possible about your case when you meet with your car accident lawyer in Charlottesville, VA. Find out if you qualify for additional benefits or if you should take the other driver to court. The more information you have, the better equipped you are to make a wise decision that fits your needs and the needs of your family.

3. Someone on Your Side

Many drivers are surprised when they discover that their own insurance company is more interested in the bottom line than providing a fair settlement offer. Insurance companies frequently try to pressure drivers into settling for an extremely low payout. At Martin Wren, P.C. Attorneys at Law, we view things differently. We look out for your interests and negotiate on your behalf with insurers to obtain a settlement that provides the compensation and care you require.

4. Legal Representation in Court and Help With Evidence Gathering

Successfully arguing a car accident case in court requires extensive evidence. It’s often necessary to gather medical documents, interview witnesses, locate police reports and put together a solid argument in court. Your car accident lawyer in Charlottesville, VA can handle all of this, including representing you in court. This can give you peace of mind, letting you focus on recovering physically and emotionally while your lawyer takes care of the legal details.

The Legal Landscape Of Distracted Driving In Virginia

When driving through Virginia, a Charlottesville, VA car accident lawyer knows that the roads demand respect and full attention, more so due to the strict laws the state has put in place regarding distracted driving. For those who reside in or pass through Virginia, understanding these laws is pivotal not just for legal compliance, but also for ensuring the safety of oneself and others on the road. If you need help after becoming injured by a distracted driver, call MartinWren, P.C.

Defining Distracted Driving In Virginia

Distracted driving encompasses any activity that diverts a driver’s attention away from the primary task of driving. Virginia’s laws are particularly stringent on this front. The state has been proactive in setting clear guidelines on what constitutes a distraction while driving. One of the primary focal points of Virginia’s laws is the use of handheld personal communication devices, specifically targeting text messaging and emailing while driving.

Handheld Devices And The Law

In Virginia, a Charlottesville car accident lawyer knows it is unlawful for any person to operate a moving motor vehicle on the highways while using handheld personal communication devices to send, read, or write text messages or emails. This prohibition stands firm for drivers of all ages and is considered a primary offense, meaning an officer can pull you over solely for this infraction.

It’s worth noting that Virginia makes a distinction between talking on the phone and text-based communication. While the latter is strictly prohibited, the former is permissible with exceptions. For instance, drivers under the age of 18 and school bus drivers are prohibited from using cell phones in any capacity while driving.

Exceptions To The Rule

Like most laws, there are certain exemptions. Virginia’s distracted driving laws accommodate situations where handheld devices are used:

  • In the official scope of one’s employment, like law enforcement officers or emergency vehicle operators.
  • When the vehicle is lawfully parked or stopped.
  • To report an emergency.

Consequences Of Distracted Driving In Virginia

Violating Virginia’s distracted driving laws can lead to steep penalties. A first offense typically results in a fine, while subsequent offenses can lead to heightened fines. Beyond the financial penalties, it’s essential to recognize the broader implications. Distracted driving convictions can impact insurance premiums, and more gravely, result in serious accidents or harm.

We Fight Against Distracted Driving

Understanding and navigating Virginia’s distracted driving laws can be intricate. This is where our experienced team steps in. With our profound knowledge of Virginia’s traffic laws and our commitment to keeping roads safe, we consistently strive to guide and educate drivers, ensuring both legal compliance and safety.

Prioritizing Safety And Knowledge 

Safety on the roads is a shared responsibility. While individual vigilance is paramount, understanding the legal landscape is equally crucial. With the complexities of Virginia’s distracted driving laws, having informed guidance can make all the difference. We are dedicated to offering this very guidance and support. If you or someone you know needs clarity on these laws, or unfortunately, faces repercussions from a distracted driving incident, reach out to us. Together, let’s champion the cause of safer roads in Virginia. Give MartinWren, P.C. when you are ready to work with a trusted Charlottesville car accident lawyer.


Contact a Car Accident Lawyer Charlottesville VA Trusts

You will not owe any legal fees unless we recover money for you.

The experienced team at MartinWren, P.C. can assist you in making your car accident claim. To reach our Harrisonburg, VA office, contact us at (540) 437-0001. We serve clients throughout Virginia.

Call or contact Jonathan T. Wren or Robert E. Byrne, Jr. at (434) 817-3100 to speak with a Charlottesville, VA car accident lawyer to schedule your free consultation and get your case started.

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We serve clients throughout Virginia — from Charlottesville and Central Virginia to metropolitan Richmond; Harrisonburg and the Shenandoah Valley to Roanoke; and the cities of Hampton Roads to the Northern Virginia cities of  Fairfax, Alexandria and Arlington.

To speak with one of our attorneys, please call us at (434) 817-3100.

Our Virginia personal injury lawyers at MartinWren, P.C. have a statewide practice and offer free consultations at a time and location that is convenient for you.  We will gladly meet with you at your home or at the hospital, even on nights and weekends.

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