Car accidents are unfortunately common on the roads and highways of Roanoke, Virginia. According to data from the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, over 6,000 car crashes in the Roanoke region in 2021 alone. These accidents can result in serious injuries, property damage, and tragically even fatalities.
As a leading Virginia car accident lawyer, the legal team at our firm has assisted countless clients who have been hurt in preventable collisions. This article will look closely at some of the most common causes of auto accidents in the Roanoke area.
Our team of personal injury attorneys is resourceful, experienced, and knowledgeable regarding your rights. To learn more about how we can help you, call Altizer Law today at 540.345.2000.
Distracted Driving - A Leading Cause of Virginia Car Accidents
Distracted driving is one of the top causes of car crashes in Roanoke and across Virginia. Distracted driving is any activity that takes a motorist's attention away from safely operating their vehicle. Some hazardous distractions include texting, using apps, adjusting vehicle controls, eating, applying makeup, and interacting with passengers. According to the NHTSA, sending or reading a text takes your eyes off the road for 5 seconds - at 55 mph, that's like driving the length of a football field with your eyes closed. Contact an experienced Virginia car accident lawyer to discuss your legal options if a distracted driver has injured you.
Proving Distracted Driving Caused Your Crash
You must prove the other motorist was negligent to recover compensation after a distracted driving accident.Virginia's skilled personal injury lawyer can help gather key evidence like cell phone records, witness testimony, and traffic camera footage to demonstrate the at-fault driver was distracted when they hit you. Your attorney can also work with accident reconstruction experts to analyze the crash scene and show how the other party's inattention led to the collision.
Speeding and Aggressive Driving Are Major Accident Risks
Speeding and aggressive maneuvers are another leading cause of car accidents on Roanoke roads. According to Virginia traffic laws, all MS must follow posted speed limits and drive safely according to the conditions. However, only a few drivers exceed the limit or go too fast in poor weather, heavy traffic, or construction zones. Speeding makes it harder to control a vehicle safely and increases stopping distances - a recipe for severe high-speed collisions. Aggressive driving behaviors like tailgating, unsafe passing, and sudden lane changes are also hazardous. A Virginia personal injury attorney can help you seek justice and fair compensation if a speeding or reckless driver has hit you.
How Speeding Impacts Accident Severity
The faster vehicles travel, the more severe a resulting accident is likely. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, a crash that is easily survivable at 40 mph can be fatal at 50 mph or more. The extreme forces generated in high-speed collisions can cause devastating injuries like traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and crushed limbs. That's why it's so critical for drivers always to obey posted speed limits. When speeding drivers cause catastrophic injuries, an experienced car accident attorney in Virginia can help victims recover the substantial compensation they need and deserve.
Drunk Driving Remains a Serious Problem in Roanoke
Despite strict laws and extensive public awareness campaigns, drunk driving accidents continue to happen with alarming frequency in the Roanoke area. Alcohol impairs judgment, slows reaction times, and makes it much harder for intoxicated motorists to operate their vehicles safely. According to Virginia accident data, alcohol was a factor in over 25% of traffic fatalities in 2020. These senseless tragedies are entirely preventable if people simply make the responsible choice not to get behind the wheel after drinking. For those injured by drunk drivers, a knowledgeable car accident lawyer in Virginia can help hold the intoxicated motorist fully accountable.
The exact compensation available will depend on the specific circumstances of your accident and resulting injuries. An experienced personal injury attorney in Virginia can thoroughly assess your case and fight for every dollar you deserve.
Contact a Knowledgeable Virginia Car Accident Lawyer
If you've been injured in a Roanoke car accident that wasn't your fault, the dedicated legal team at our Virginia personal injury law firm is here to help. We have extensive experience successfully handling car accident claims and know what it takes to get results for our clients. When you hire us, you'll have a fierce legal advocate in your corner every step of the way. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with a top Virginia car accident lawyer. We look forward to making a difference for you and your family.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I'm injured in a Virginia car accident?
If you are hurt in an auto accident, your priority should be seeking medical attention, even for minor injuries. See a doctor immediately, follow their treatment advice, and contact a Virginia personal injury lawyer to discuss your legal rights and options.
How much does it cost to hire a car accident lawyer in Virginia?
Most car accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay no upfront costs and only owe a fee if they recover compensation for you. With this arrangement, anyone can afford high-quality legal representation after a crash.
What is the statute of limitations for car accidents in Virginia?
In most cases, you must file a personal injury lawsuit in Virginia two years from the accident date. But it's best to contact a car accident lawyer as soon as possible to avoid losing valuable evidence.
Can I still recover compensation if I was partially at fault for the accident?
Under Virginia law, accident victims found to be even 1% at fault are barred from recovering any compensation. An experienced car accident attorney can work to demonstrate the other driver was 100% to blame.
Should I accept an insurance settlement offer after a Virginia car accident?
You should only accept an insurance settlement if you speak to a knowledgeable personal injury lawyer. Insurance companies try to pay out as little as possible, but an attorney can negotiate for a fair settlement that fully meets your needs.
Work with a Car Accident Lawyer
Altizer Law has navigated multiple personal injury claims throughout the years and helped our clients win their settlements. Call our team of experienced and results-driven personal injury lawyers today at 540.345.2000 for your free consultation.
Comments