The attorneys at River Run Law recently settled a 7 figure case that went up to the cusp of trial. The case was mediated and settled for $1,025,000 and involved a client who was a passerby at an apartment complex when a roofing shingle flew off of the roof. After a complex investigation it was discovered that the apartment complex was having the roof repaired and it was alleged that the roofer failed to properly secure the shingles as they worked. The client's injuries included head injury, shoulder injury and a neck injury, all requiring extensive treatment. The client also suffered over a year of wage loss.
Suffering a serious injury can devastate your life. You need comprehensive medical care and the resources to keep you going until you can get back on your feet—and back to work. If someone else’s negligence or wrongful actions caused your accident, you deserve justice.
At River Run Law, we aggressively pursue justice and fair financial compensation for the wrongfully injured. We can assist you or a loved one with your personal injury claim, protecting your legal rights and holding the responsible party accountable for their actions.
You deserve to have a passionate advocate on your side. We service clients in Richmond, Virginia, and throughout the surrounding communities. When you don’t know where to turn for help, trust our experienced attorneys to get the job done for you.
Our boutique law practice leverages cutting-edge technology to provide a highly personalized level of service. We have built our practice on a foundation of trust, compassion, and responsive communication. With an extensive network of resources and a wealth of knowledge and experience behind us, we help ensure that you get the compensation you deserve for your injuries and other damages.
We offer a no-cost, no-obligation consultation for Richmond injury victims. When you trust us to handle your injury accident case, you never owe any legal fees until and unless we recover compensation on your behalf.
Contact us now to learn more or to speak with one of our experienced Richmond, VA personal injury lawyers.
Frequently Asked Questions for Richmond Personal Injury Attorneys
What Are the Benefits of Hiring a Personal Injury Attorney?
A personal injury lawyer in Richmond can offer many advantages in your case, including:
Negotiating with insurance companies on your behalf;
Protecting injury victims from settling for less than the claim is worth;
Preparing evidence that bolsters your claim;
Investigating the circumstances of your case; and
Communicating with the opposing party.
We will keep you informed about the progress of your case every step of the way. Hiring a personal injury lawyer in Richmond, VA, gives you the best chance of securing the level of compensation that you deserve.
How Do I Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer in Richmond?
Many personal injury attorneys offer free initial consultations. Use this time to feel out the attorney and determine if you can work with them. During the initial consultation, you can discuss the facts of your case and determine whether you qualify to bring a lawsuit. After the consultation, you do not have to hire the attorney you met with. You can schedule more consultations with additional lawyers and make a decision later. Make sure you know who will be handling your case – an attorney or a paralegal.
How Much Should a Personal Injury Attorney in Richmond Charge?
At River Run Law, we do not collect a fee unless and until we secure a judgment or settlement in your favor. That means if you do not receive compensation, neither do we. We will do everything in our power to ensure you receive the maximum settlement possible.
If you are thinking about hiring a personal injury lawyer, schedule a free consultation to discuss your case with one of our Richmond personal injury attorneys at River Run Law.
Can I File a Personal Injury Claim Without a Lawyer?
Technically, you can file a personal injury claim without an attorney. However, that does not mean that you should. Our personal injury attorneys are experienced in their field and have knowledge about these types of cases. Let us handle the complexities of the lawsuit while you focus on spending time with your family.
How Do I Select a Personal Injury Lawyer in Richmond, Virginia?
If you have started your search for a personal injury attorney in Richmond, VA, you have likely realized there are thousands of them. So how can you separate all the personal injury attorneys in Richmond? One way is through initial consultations, described above. Another way you can learn more about a personal injury lawyer is through their client testimonials. Client testimonials include reviews from former clients that hired the same attorney to represent them.
What our clients are saying about us
We knew our case was in good hands
"I was in a car accident that totaled my car and left me with significant medical bills. I wanted to file a lawsuit against the other driver. Casey came well recommended, and he took control of the whole process. He was very responsive and we were very happy with the settlement he obtained. He was attentive, easy to reach, and we knew our case was in good hands."
- J.T. | Car Accident, May 2021
Professionalism, Responsiveness
"I worked with Brooke Alexander who resolved my case with tremendous results. She took charge of my case and put me completely at ease. A great, friendly, professional attorney. I strongly recommend her services."
- Jessica | Slip and Fall, Jan. 2021
Professionalism, Quality, Responsiveness, Value
"The River Run Law Firm team is truly professional, and a pleasure to work with! Casey is full of knowledge, very responsive, and brings a sense of ease to an intimidating circumstance. He is a trustful guide, whom you can rely on through the entire process. I cannot imagine going through this experience without him, and I would highly recommend to all!"
- Robin | Workers Compensation, Dec. 2020
Professionalism, Quality, Responsiveness, Value
"I was working with another law firm prior to Brooke taking over my case. Brooke made me comfortable through out the whole process. Brooke did not know deep down inside I was a little worried with me not knowing too much about her. I’m going to be the first to say. Sometime you have to leap in on faith like I did. Brooke performed Outstanding work, she made me feel very comfortable and most of all she didn’t leave me feeling uncertain about any decision made. You guys are HIGHLY RECOMMENDED! If I can give more than 5 stars I would have done it with NO hesitation."
- Christine | Car Accident, Dec. 2020
Professionalism, Responsiveness
"Casey, and the team at River Run Law handled my case with the upmost professionalism. From start to finish they kept me up to date with where we were and what the next steps would be. I was never blindsided by anything. Couldn’t recommend them more highly!"
- Rodes | General Practice, Dec. 2020
Professionalism, Quality, Responsiveness, Value
"I wish it were more words to describe River Run Law & Attorney Casey Ariail ! Hands down ABSOLUTELY the best ! You feel like you’ve known him your whole life & he’s very easy to speak with . It wasn’t a time I felt in the dark about my case & any questions at any time I could call & actually get a response most of the time I call & if Mr. Casey Ariail didn’t answer the first time I always receive a return call within 15 to 30 minutes . I haven’t had a better experience with a Law Firm ! I’ll DEFINITELY be working with them for the years to come !"
- Chelse | Car Accident, Nov. 2020
River Run Law Blog
Learn more about the laws in the state of Virginia.
How Long Does It Take to Get Your Car Accident Settlement?
Feb 23, 2026 | By Brooke Alexander | Read Time: 6minutes
After a crash, one of the most common questions people ask is: How long does it take for a car accident settlement? Unfortunately, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. In Virginia, the timeline for a car accident settlement can vary widely depending on the details of the case, such as the severity of injuries and the insurance company’s willingness to negotiate. Understanding how long it takes to get settlement money can help set realistic expectations and reduce frustration during what is often a stressful recovery period. While some claims resolve in a matter of months, others may take significantly longer, especially when injuries or liability are in dispute. Unsure How Long Your Settlement Will Take? Every car accident case is different, and timelines can vary depending on injuries, insurance investigations, and liability disputes. If you’re facing medical bills, lost wages, or delays from the insurance company, River Run Law can guide you through each step. We provide clarity, support, and proactive legal guidance to help you move forward with confidence. 100% Free Consultation Key Takeaways: Car Accident Settlement Timeline Car accident settlements can vary widely in duration, depending on the complexity of the case, severity of injuries, and insurance negotiations. Minor accidents with clear liability may resolve within a few weeks to months, while serious or disputed cases can take a year or longer. Gathering medical records, accident reports, and documentation of damages early helps speed up the claims process and strengthens your position. Delays in settlement often occur due to ongoing medical treatment, insurance investigations, or disputes over liability and compensation amounts. Consulting an experienced car accident attorney can guide you through the process, handle communications with insurers, and work to maximize your settlement while reducing stress and uncertainty. Why Car Accident Settlement Timelines Vary Every accident is different, which means every settlement timeline is different. Even crashes that seem similar on the surface can move at very different speeds once insurance companies and evidence are involved. Several factors influence how long car accident settlements take, including the extent of injuries, the availability of documentation, and whether fault is clear or contested. The Role of Medical Treatment in Settlement Timing One of the primary factors influencing settlement timing is access to medical care. In most cases, it is crucial to understand the full scope of injuries before resolving a claim. Settling too early can create problems if injuries worsen or require additional treatment later. Because of this, settlement discussions often do not begin until: This process alone can take weeks or months, depending on the severity of the injuries. See what our clients have to say about our services: Insurance Company Review and Investigation Insurance companies rarely issue settlements immediately. After a claim is filed, the insurer will investigate the accident, review medical records, assess property damage, and evaluate liability. This review process affects how long car accident cases take to resolve, especially if the insurer requests additional information or disputes aspects of the claim. Delays are common, particularly in cases involving significant injuries or higher compensation demands. Liability Disputes Can Extend the Timeline When liability is clear, settlement discussions may move more quickly. However, if fault is contested, the process often slows down. Disputes may involve: Resolving these issues can take additional time and may require further investigation or legal action. Injured in a Car Accident? Get Legal Guidance Now Car accident claims can take weeks, months, or even longer depending on injuries and insurance negotiations. You shouldn’t have to navigate this alone while managing medical bills and lost wages. River Run Law will review your case, explain the settlement process, and ensure your rights are protected. We handle the legal complexities so you can focus on recovery. Every consultation is completely free and confidential. 100% Free Consultation How Lawsuits Affect Settlement Timing Not all car accident cases result in lawsuits, but when negotiations stall, filing a lawsuit may become necessary. Litigation introduces new deadlines, procedures, and timelines that can extend the overall process. While filing a lawsuit does not automatically mean a case will go to trial, it often adds months to the timeline. However, it can also create pressure that leads to meaningful settlement discussions. How Long Does It Take to Get Settlement Money? Even after a settlement is reached, payment is not immediate. Many people understandably want to know how long it takes to receive a check once an agreement is finalized. After a settlement is agreed upon, additional steps typically include: This phase can take several weeks, depending on how quickly paperwork is completed and funds are issued. Typical Settlement Timelines (With Important Caveats) While every case is different, general timelines often look like this: These are not guarantees or predictions. They are broad ranges intended to illustrate the significant variations in timelines that can occur depending on the circumstances. Why Rushing a Settlement Can Be Risky Quick settlements are not always better settlements. Accepting an offer before the full impact of injuries is known can leave accident victims responsible for future medical costs or lost income. Understanding the claims timeline includes recognizing when patience can protect long-term recovery rather than delay it. How River Run Law Approaches Settlement Timing At River Run Law, settlement timing is guided by the specifics of each case, not arbitrary deadlines. As a boutique Virginia personal injury firm, River Run Law uses modern technology, clear communication, and a personalized approach to help clients understand where their case stands and the factors that are influencing the timeline. Rather than focusing solely on speed, our emphasis is on strategy, documentation, and making informed decisions that align with a client’s recovery and financial needs. Clients are never charged upfront legal fees and only owe fees if compensation is recovered. Setting Realistic Expectations After a Car Accident How long does it take for a car accident settlement? The most accurate answer is that it depends on your injuries, your recovery, and the details of your case. While waiting can be difficult, understanding the […]
Back Pain After Car Accident: Should You See a Doctor?
Feb 18, 2026 | By Casey Ariail | Read Time: 7minutes
After a crash, people often wonder whether soreness alone justifies medical care. Doctors typically recommend evaluation when discomfort lingers, worsens, limits movement, or appears alongside numbness, weakness, or headaches, all of which can impact your daily life. Early care also creates medical documentation that links auto-accident back pain to the collision. Understanding back pain after a car accident starts with taking symptoms seriously and seeking medical advice before minor issues become long-term problems. That’s where guidance can help. River Run Law’s Richmond-based personal injury attorneys guide people facing uncertainty after crashes, helping them understand how medical care, timing, and documentation work together. We offer free, no-obligation consultations for anyone who wants to discuss their situation, ask questions, and decide on next steps without pressure. Key Takeaways: Don’t ignore delayed symptoms. Delayed onset back pain is common after collisions, even low-speed crashes. Get evaluated when pain affects movement, sleep, or work. Early care can identify a soft tissue injury, lumbar strain, or signs of a bulging/herniated disc. Watch for nerve-related symptoms. Sciatica, radiating leg pain, numbness, or weakness can signal nerve involvement and needs prompt assessment. Imaging may be appropriate based on symptoms. Providers may recommend X-ray, CT, or MRI to clarify the injury and guide treatment. Follow through with treatment. Physical therapy (and sometimes coordinated chiropractic care) can improve function and reduce long-term problems—when matched to your diagnosis. Keep clean medical documentation. Consistent records and avoiding gaps in care help create a clear picture of what changed after the crash. Back Pain After a Car Accident: When to See a Doctor The best time to see a doctor for back pain after a car accident is as soon as symptoms begin to interfere with how you move, work, or rest. Delaying makes sense emotionally, but it does not always make sense medically. Car crashes commonly cause injuries that worsen over time, especially when the spine absorbs sudden force. There are certain warning signs you should be on the lookout for that suggest you seek medical care sooner rather than later, including: Timing also matters beyond health. Medical records created soon after a crash help establish a clear connection between the accident and the symptoms. When care begins weeks later, insurers often question whether the crash caused the condition or whether something else intervened. What Causes Back Pain After a Car Accident? Back pain after car accidents often traces back to force, not speed. Even low-speed collisions can push the spine beyond its normal range of motion, straining tissues that support posture and movement. The body absorbs that force unevenly, which explains why symptoms may appear hours or days after the event rather than at the scene. Reasons why auto accident back pain develops after a crash can include: These injuries do not always announce themselves immediately. Adrenaline masks pain, and the body often compensates at first by tightening nearby muscles. As that compensation fades, stiffness turns into soreness, and soreness can become persistent pain. In other words, the absence of immediate pain does not mean the absence of injury. It simply means the body needed time to register what happened. How Do Doctors Evaluate Auto Accident Back Pain? When someone seeks care for auto accident back pain, doctors focus on function, progression, and mechanism rather than pain level alone. The goal is to understand how the crash affected the spine and surrounding structures, not just where it hurts on the day of the visit. A medical evaluation usually begins with questions about timing, movement, and daily limitations. Providers often ask when symptoms started, how they have changed, and which activities make them worse or better. That context helps distinguish routine muscle strain from injuries that need closer attention. During the exam, doctors commonly assess the following: Medical providers document symptoms while they remain closely tied to the crash. That documentation supports treatment decisions and establishes a timeline that insurers often scrutinize later. An evaluation also confirms the type of injury and the appropriate recovery path. Back Pain After a Car Accident: What to Do Next? When you’re experiencing back pain after a car accident, what to do starts with paying attention to how your body responds in the days that follow, not pushing through discomfort or hoping that it will resolve on its own. A few practical actions help protect both your health and your options: Together, these steps create a steady record of what you’re experiencing and how it affects daily life. Medical providers rely on that continuity to guide treatment, and insurers often look to the same timeline when evaluating claims. Acting when pain begins to interfere with movement, work, or rest helps preserve both your health and the factual record of what followed the crash. Talk with River Run Law About Your Next Steps If you’re dealing with back pain after a car accident and are unsure what comes next, a quick conversation can help you get oriented. River Run Law’s Richmond-based personal injury attorneys regularly work with people navigating medical treatment, insurance questions, and time away from work after crashes. Our firm values expertise over status and authenticity over insincerity, taking a straightforward, people-first approach to serious injury work. We offer free, no-obligation consultations, listen carefully, and focus on mapping a path forward that fits your situation rather than pushing a one-size-fits-all solution. When you’re ready to talk, River Run Law is here to help you move forward. Legal References Used to Inform This Page: To ensure the accuracy and clarity of this page, we referenced official legal and other resources during the content development process. Frequently Asked Questions About Back Pain After a Car Accident in Virginia Should I see a doctor for back pain after a car accident, even if it feels mild? › Why early evaluation matters Yes—many Virginia crash injuries start as soreness and become delayed onset back pain after the adrenaline wears off. A medical visit helps rule out more serious issues and documents symptoms early. Common reasons “mild” pain is […]
Overview of the Christopher King Seatbelt Law in Virginia
Feb 17, 2026 | By Brooke Alexander | Read Time: 6minutes
Some drivers and passengers in Virginia have heard of the Christopher King Seatbelt Law, but fewer understand what it actually requires or how it can affect an injury claim after a crash. The Christopher King Seatbelt Law changed how seat belt use is enforced in Virginia and plays an important role in both traffic stops and personal injury cases. Understanding this law helps clarify not only your obligations as a driver or passenger, but also how an insurance company may raise the issue of seat belt use after a car accident. While seat belt laws are designed to improve safety, they can also influence how insurance companies evaluate injury claims. Confused About Virginia’s Seatbelt Law? The Christopher King Seatbelt Law changed how police conduct traffic stops, but it doesn’t change your rights after a crash. If you’ve been injured, you still have options to pursue compensation for your injuries and losses. River Run Law can help you understand how this law applies to your situation and make sure your legal rights are protected. 100% Free Consultation Key Takeaways: Christopher King Seatbelt Law The Christopher King Seatbelt Law in Virginia requires all front-seat passengers and drivers to wear seatbelts at all times. Failure to wear a seatbelt can result in traffic citations, fines, and potential increased liability in car accident claims. Seatbelt use significantly reduces the risk of serious injury or death in car crashes by restraining occupants during collisions. Parents and guardians are legally responsible for ensuring that children under 18 are properly restrained in vehicles. Following seatbelt laws and educating passengers improves overall safety and can strengthen legal claims after an accident by demonstrating compliance with safety regulations. What Is the Christopher King Seatbelt Law? The Christopher King Seatbelt Law is Virginia’s primary seat belt enforcement law. It allows law enforcement officers to stop a vehicle solely for a seat belt violation, rather than requiring another traffic offense first. Before this law took effect, seat belt violations were secondary offenses, meaning police could cite a driver for a seat belt violation if they had stopped the driver for another offense. The change was intended to increase seat belt usage and reduce serious injuries and fatalities on Virginia roads. Why the Law Was Created The law is named in memory of Christopher King, a teenager who was killed in a car crash in Virginia. The goal of the legislation was to encourage consistent seat belt use by making enforcement more proactive. Virginia lawmakers focused on data showing that seat belts significantly reduce the risk of severe injury and death. By allowing primary enforcement, the law aimed to change driving behavior and improve overall roadway safety. See what our clients have to say about our services: How the Law Works in Practice Under current Virginia seat belt laws, drivers and front-seat passengers are required to wear seat belts. Law enforcement officers may initiate a traffic stop if they observe a seat belt violation, even if the driver is not breaking any other traffic laws. Violations typically result in a fine, but no demerit points are added to a driver’s record solely for failing to wear a seat belt. Do These Seat Belt Laws Apply to Everyone? Most drivers and front-seat passengers are required by law to wear seat belts in Virginia. There are limited exceptions, such as certain medical conditions or specific vehicle types, but these are narrowly defined. Children are subject to separate child restraint laws that impose additional requirements based on age, weight, and height. How Seat Belt Use Affects Injury Claims One of the most common concerns after a crash is whether failing to wear a seat belt will prevent someone from recovering compensation. Insurance companies may argue that injuries would have been less severe if the driver or passenger had worn a seat belt. However, that argument does not absolve a negligent driver who caused the crash of their responsibility. Understanding how Virginia seat belt laws intersect with injury claims often requires a close examination of the facts, medical evidence, and the accident circumstances. Seat Belt Law vs. Fault in an Accident It is important to distinguish between seat belt compliance and fault. Failing to wear a seat belt does not cause an accident. Instead, negligent actions such as speeding, distracted driving, or failure to obey traffic signals are typically at fault. While seat belt use may come up during settlement discussions, it does not excuse another party’s dangerous driving behavior. Injured in a Crash and Unsure What Comes Next? The Christopher King Seatbelt Law impacts how traffic stops are handled in Virginia, but it doesn’t change your right to seek compensation after an injury. If you were hurt in a collision and have questions about how this law relates to your case, you shouldn’t navigate it alone. River Run Law can review your accident, clarify the legal issues, and help you understand your rights and options. Our experienced attorneys are here to support you every step of the way so you can focus on your recovery. 100% Free Consultation Common Misconceptions About the Law There are several misunderstandings surrounding the Christopher King Seatbelt Law, including the belief that not wearing a seat belt automatically voids an injury claim or guarantees fault. Neither is true. After a serious accident, insurance companies often seek ways to reduce payouts. Seat belt use is one factor they may try to scrutinize, especially in cases involving significant injuries or when an attorney does not represent the accident victim. However, Virginia law says insurance companies cannot factor in seat belt use when determining negligence or quantifying damages. Instead, the insurance company must prove negligence to deny an injury claim. Understanding Virginia’s seat belt laws helps injured individuals anticipate these arguments and protect their rights. Frequently Asked Questions About Seat Belts and Injury Claims in Virginia Questions about seat belt use often come up after a car accident, especially when injuries are involved. While the Christopher King Seatbelt Law governs enforcement, Virginia law […]
