River Run Law Blog

How to Obtain an Auto Accident Report in Virginia

Jul 16, 2021 | By Brooke Alexander | Read Time: 4 minutes

Following an auto accident in Virginia, either the police or an involved party will file a police report. The Department of Motor Vehicles is the government agency responsible for keeping all accident reports. If the police respond to the accident scene, they will submit their report to the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles within 24 hours of completing their investigation. If you are involved in an accident, here is what you need to know about getting a copy of your Virginia accident report. We Can Help Get the Accident Report For You Your attorney can help you access your report and use it to build your accident claim. If you suffered an injury and were not at fault fill out the free and confidential form below so we can work on obtaining a copy of your accident report. Or, give us a call at 804-889-0500 to speak to an attorney about your accident report. Request Report What Does an Accident Report Contain? In Virginia, when law enforcement arrives at the scene of a crash, they have to fill out what is known as Form FR300P. Or in simpler terms, it is better known as a “Police Crash Report.” In this form, police record general information, driver information, passenger information, and vehicle information: General Information Date of the crash or accident, What day the crash took place, Time the crash took place, The location of the crash, Any landmarks near the incident, and How many cars were involved. Driver and Passenger Information The driver’s full name, Driver’s address, License number, The driver’s gender, Insurance company for the for the vehicle, and Any injuries that may have occurred. Vehicle Information The name of the vehicle owner, The address of the vehicle owner, The make, model, and year of the vehicle, The vehicles license plate number, The VIN number, Was the vehicle disabled in any way, Did the vehicle need to be towed? Repair cost estimate, How big the vehicle is, What was the speed right before the accident, The posted speed limit where the crash took place, and Number of passengers and their age range. Crash Information The weather at the time of the crash, What type of road the crash occurred on, Was a traffic controlled device used? I.e stop sign or traffic light, The condition of the road, and Could there have been any form of distraction. What Other Information will Law Enforcement Collect? Pictures. The officer who arrived on the scene will take any and all photos of the crash scene and the condition of the nevicles involved. Crash Diagram. Police have a space provided on the Police Crash Report where they can draw a diagram of the vehicle damage and why they believe the crash occurred. Witnesses. They will also take down names and descriptions from any persons that were a witness to the accident. Obtaining Copies of Virginia Traffic Accident Reports The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles maintains official records of all reportable crashes for a minimum of 36 months from the date of the accident. To request a copy of your report, you can submit a completed Information Request Form, called CRD 93, or a written request along with payment. Your request must contain the following information: Your involvement in the crash (driver, vehicle owner, injured party, etc.); Date and time of the accident; Location of the accident, such as the street and city or town and county; Name of the driver in the accident; and Your driver’s license number (mandatory if you were involved in the accident). Submit your request by mail to: Customer Records Work Center, Room 514Virginia Department of Motor VehiclesPost Office Box 27412Richmond, VA 23269 You can also submit your request by fax to 804-367-0390. If you want to request an accident report in person, check the Virginia DMV website for the nearest Customer Service Center to you. Requesting the Report from the Police Department that Responded to the Accident If you wish to get a copy of your report through the police department that responded to the accident, the easiest way is to visit that department’s website and request the report to be sent by mail or if you can pick it up in person. Accepted Payment Methods for Virginia Car Accident Reports The current fee for requesting a police report is $8. Please note that your payment will not be returned to you if the DMV cannot locate a police report matching the information you submit. That is why it’s crucial to ensure you have as much information as possible and the information you submit is correct. You cannot submit a credit card payment request if you are ordering a police report through the mail. You must include a check or money order. If you are ordering the report via fax, you can submit a completed form DMS 004, “License, ID Card and Records Payment Authorization.” Requests made at a DMV Customer Service Center can be made using a credit card, cash, check, or money order. Who Can Request a Virginia Accident Report? Releasing information in a police report is subject to Code of Virginia Sections 46.2-379 and 46.2-380. Section 46.2-380 allows an accident report to be released to someone involved in the crash or their authorized representative. Involved parties include: Driver or passenger; Other injured person; Attorney representing anyone involved or injured in the collision; Personal representative of an involved person, such as executor or next of kin; Parent or legal guardian of someone under 18 who was injured or killed; or Authorized insurance company representative. Section 46.2-379 allows the DMV to release limited information to someone authorized under state or federal law to access the report. Possible information to be released includes: Name and address of all drivers; Date, location, and time of the collision; Names of all injured parties; Names of all vehicle owners; Names of any witnesses; and The investigating officer’s name. Contact a Virginia Car Accident Attorney Were you or someone you love injured […]

Car Accident

What to Do After a Car Accident Where You Were Not at Fault

Jul 9, 2021 | By Brooke Alexander | Read Time: 2 minutes

After the shock of experiencing a car accident, it is often difficult to know what to do after a car accident that is not your fault. However, there are multiple steps you can take to protect your legal rights in the immediate aftermath of a car accident. After a car accident when it’s not your fault, knowing what to do feels overwhelming. Contact a personal injury attorney to protect your rights after a car accident. Steps to Take After a Car Accident If someone else caused a car accident resulting in you suffering injuries or property damage, you may wish to seek compensation for your losses. Knowing what to do after a car accident that is not your fault may serve to strengthen your claim for damages. Document the Accident If physically able, document the accident scene to the best of your ability. Documenting includes undertaking the following steps: Take photographs of the vehicles involved and the area around the scene of the accident; Obtain the names, addresses, phone numbers, and insurance information for all drives involved; Obtain the names and contact information of witnesses to the accident scene; and Write down your recollection of the events leading up to and during the accident. It’s essential to obtain this information soon after an accident. Memories fade quickly, and recollections become less accurate over time. Additionally, witnesses may be difficult to locate if you do not obtain their information at the scene of the accident. Seek Medical Assistance A car accident may cause substantial damage to your vehicle but may also cause significant physical injuries. After a car accident, assess your physical state and seek medical assistance as soon as possible. In many situations, your minor injuries may indicate more significant bodily harm. Therefore, always seek the evaluation of a medical professional even if you believe you are unharmed. Contact Your Insurance Company Contact your insurance agent after a car accident that is not your fault. Notifying your insurance company of an accident allows you to begin the process of recovering. Most importantly, if the at-fault party in your accident is not insured, your insurance company will need to review your uninsured motorist coverage to cover your damages and, possibly, injuries. Obtain a Copy of the Police Report If the police reported to the scene of your accident, obtain a copy of the police report prepared by the responding officer. Carefully read over the report ensuring it accurately reflects the sequence of events. When the car accident police report reflects incorrect information, it’s vital to correct that information. A qualified car accident attorney assists clients in obtaining and reviewing car accident police reports to correct any mistakes. Contact Us The attorneys at River Run Law understand the devastation you can face after a traumatic car accident. To get back on your feet and on the road to recovery, you need the assistance of qualified legal counsel to work diligently on your behalf. The legal team at River Run Law provides aggressive legal representation to achieve fair financial compensation for our clients. We assist you every step of the way, so you can work on rebuilding your life. Contact us today for a free consultation and review of your legal options.

Car Accident

How to Get an Accident Report in Richmond, Virginia

Jul 9, 2021 | By Brooke Alexander | Read Time: 2 minutes

If you need to request a Richmond accident report related to an auto accident, you can request it directly from the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles. If you need to request an accident report for some other type of accident, you will need to request it through the correct police agency. Obtaining Auto Accident Reports in Richmond, VA To obtain a copy of an auto accident report in Richmond, you can submit a completed Information Request Form (CRD 93) or a written request along with a check or money order for $8. If you don’t use the form, your written request must contain the following details: Date and time of the auto accident; At least one driver’s name; Accident location details, such as street and city or town; Your involvement in the crash (are you the driver, injured party, vehicle owner, etc.); and Your driver’s license number, which is mandatory if you were an involved party. You need to mail your request to: Customer Records Work Center, Room 514 Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles Post Office Box 27412 Richmond, VA 23269 If you want to request your auto accident report in person, you need to visit a DMV Customer Service Center. There are four locations in greater Richmond: West Henrico, Richmond Central, Chesterfield, and East Henrico. If you don’t want to submit your request via mail or in person, you can also fax your forms to (804) 367-0390. Requesting a non-auto Accident Report, Richmond, VA Non-auto accident reports must be requested through the respective law enforcement agency. You must know which agency to request it through because every agency maintains separate records. Once you determine which agency is the correct one, you can choose the request method that works best for you. Most agencies will allow you to request a police report online, through the mail, and over the phone. Some agencies will allow you to request a police report in person too. If you need to request a police report through the Richmond Police Department, you can do so in person or through the mail. To get the police report in person, visit the Richmond Police Department headquarters lobby and go to window 4 of the Richmond Police Information Desk. Richmond Police headquarters is located at 200 West Grace Street. You can also fill out a form and mail it along with your $5 payment. Address your mail request to: RPD Records Unit 200 West Grace Street Richmond, VA 23220 You must use a money order or draft; they will not accept personal checks. The $5 should be payable to the City of Richmond. Try to include the incident number and all pertinent details. If they cannot locate a report with the information you provide, they will return your payment along with an explanation. Contact a Richmond Personal Injury Lawyer Are you requesting a police report or an auto accident report for an injury accident you were involved in? If so, you may need a legal advocate on your side. The Richmond personal injury lawyers at River Run Law can help you fight for the compensation you deserve. We routinely represent clients who were injured due to another party’s negligence. To learn more about our services, contact River Run Law today to schedule an initial consultation.

Car Accident

Texting While Driving Overview

Jul 9, 2021 | By Brooke Alexander | Read Time: 3 minutes

One of the biggest distractions of our time is cell phones. However, texting while driving causes many accidents each year across Virginia. Many may not understand the danger of distracted driving. However, the consequences of texting while driving can be catastrophic. If you suffered injury in a car accident due to a driver texting and driving, contact an experienced personal injury attorney today to begin your road to recovery. What Are the Texting and Driving Laws in Virginia? The Virginia texting and driving law provides that it is illegal to operate any motor vehicle while using any handheld communication device to communicate or read an email or text message sent to you. However, the law does not prohibit most individuals from using a mounted handheld device to speak via Bluetooth and to use for navigation. However, the texting and driving law imposes different restrictions for different age groups. For example: All drivers are banned from texting while driving; Drivers under the age of 18 and bus drivers are prohibited from any cell phone usage while driving; and Drivers over the age of 18 may use their phones while driving as long as they are not sending or receiving text messages. Fines exist for violating the Virginia texting and driving laws. However, the bigger danger lies in the potential harm to others caused by distracted driving. What Are the Dangers of Texting and Driving? Texting while driving causes multiple accidents per year. The three categories of distracted driving caused by texting and driving include the following: Visual. Looking down at a phone and off the road and surroundings may cause potentially catastrophic consequences in mere seconds. When a person takes their eyes off the road for only five seconds when going 55 miles per hour, the individual may drive the length of a football field. Manual. If someone takes their hands off their steering wheel to send or receive a text message, this impairs their ability to control the vehicle. They may be unprepared to handle a sharp turn, sudden brake, or other vehicles. Cognitive. A distraction from a text message not only physically takes attention away from driving but also mentally takes away attention. Cognitive distractions reduce one’s ability to react to changes in the road or other driver behaviors. Texting and driving accidents occur every day. If you’ve suffered injuries and property damage due to distracted driving, contact an experienced personal injury attorney to assess your rights. What to Do After Texting and Driving Accidents Immediately following an accident involving distracted driving, there are multiple steps to take to protect your rights. These steps include the following: Seek medical attention; File a police report; Take photos of the accident scene; Obtain the name, contact information, and insurance information of the other parties involved in the accident; Obtain the names and contact information for any witnesses to the accident; and Contact a personal injury attorney. If the other driver was texting while driving and caused your accident, consult with a personal injury attorney and review your legal options. A personal injury attorney assists in filing a personal injury claim or lawsuit to recover your damages. Contact Us Those involved in texting and driving accidents should not get away with harming others as a result of their unlawful choices. People are injured every year due to distracted driving. When you hire an experienced personal injury attorney from River Run Law, you hire an aggressive and passionate advocate working to protect your rights. If you suffer injury in an accident caused by texting while driving, we can assist in analyzing your case and work to obtain the compensation you deserve. Contact the attorneys at River Run Law today for a free consultation to review your legal options with our team!

Car Accident

How Much Will a Car Accident Lawyer Cost Me in Virginia?

May 26, 2021 | By Brooke Alexander | Read Time: 3 minutes

In Virginia, you have the right to pursue monetary compensation for injuries you suffered in a car accident caused by the wrongful acts of another. Indeed, you will want to get the most money possible for any settlement, and you should. After suffering painful and debilitating injuries that have kept you out of work and left you in dire financial straits, the desire to make the other person pay for your loss is perfectly natural. A larger settlement will not make your physical and emotional pain go away, but it will make your life a little easier. You may think that one way to get the most out of your settlement is by handling the claim yourself instead of hiring a lawyer. If that is the case, you need to ask the top Virginia car accident lawyer; how much a car accident lawyer costs in Virginia. The answer might surprise you. If you have questions or think you may have a claim, contact the experienced team at River Run Law today. We offer free consultations. Virginia Car Accident Lawyer Explain Possible Service Fees Lawyers have three options when charging fees for their services. Depending on the attorney’s practice area, level of expertise, and other factors, an attorney can charge an hourly rate of $250 or more. Attorneys who charge hourly rates take a retainer from their clients and then charge down that retainer for costs and fees at the end of each month. Alternatively, lawyers can charge a flat fee for services. Either of these options means that you must dig into your pocket and pay for a lawyer’s services with your hard-earned money. Virginia car accident attorneys charge their clients on a contingency fee basis. In its simplest terms, the fee is contingent upon you winning a settlement from the case. The lawyer does not get paid if you do not win your case. Therefore, they have an incentive to fight to protect their rights. Advantages of a Contingency Fee Arrangement The contingency fee arrangement is advantageous to you and your attorney. This benefits you because you do not have to spend any money out of pocket to hire an attorney. You and your attorney agree on the contingency percentage. Your attorney will deduct the fee from your settlement. Additionally, a top-notch Virginia auto accident lawyer will advance your litigation costs. That means you do not have to pay out of pocket for: Filing fees, Medical records duplication fees, Deposition fees, Transcripts, and Expert witness fees. Your lawyer will explain that the costs associated with pursuing a car accident claim may be necessary to spend in your situation so that you could make a more persuasive claim. You would have to pay these costs if you represented yourself. Contingency fees also act as an incentive to your attorney to do everything in their power to maximize your award. In other words, they make more money if you win more money. Furthermore, your attorney does not have to worry about billing you for services rendered. As a result, your attorney can focus more on building a strong case for you. Contingency fees ultimately promote justice. Contingency fees allow accident victims to have the services of a passionate Virginia car accident lawyer regardless of their net worth. Without these arrangements, injured people who do not have enough money to hire a lawyer might not pursue a claim for damages. Remember, justice is for everyone and not just for those with money. Other Issues to Consider If You Are Concerned About How Much a Car Accident Lawyer May Cost An exceptional Virginia car accident lawyer knows how to get the largest settlement for you. Getting the largest settlement for you obligates your attorney to: Gather all of the evidence available in your case including, photographs, accident reports, witness statements, and other evidence from the accident scene; Interact with the other driver’s insurance company on your behalf (they cannot speak to you if you have a lawyer); Review all your evidence with you; Retain expert witnesses if necessary; Negotiate a settlement for you; File a case in court if a just settlement is not reached; Ensure you comply with the statute of limitations; and Ensure that all your medical bills and other costs from your accident are paid from the proceeds. The best Virginia car accident lawyers take the time to ensure that you and your family receive the care you need. We want you to return your life to the way it was before your accident. Without an exceptional car accident lawyer from Virginia, you would have to worry about all these issues on your own while trying to get your life back on track. Contact Experienced Virginia Car Accident Lawyers Today At River Run Law, we proudly serve our clients’ best interests. We want every person victimized by the wrongful actions of another to experience justice. Call our firm today at 804-889-0500 or visit our website to schedule a free consultation. We would be happy to answer all questions, including, how much does a car accident lawyer cost in Virginia. Let us help you win a just and fair settlement for your Virginia car accident claim.

Car Accident

Is it Important That I Hire a Car Accident Lawyer Who Is Near Me?

Apr 28, 2021 | By Brooke Alexander | Read Time: 3 minutes

Although you always hope it won’t happen to you, you never know when you might be involved in a car accident. In fact, there are approximately 6 million car accidents in the U.S. each year. So what do you do if you are injured in a car accident in or near Richmond, Virginia? It’s no secret that involvement in a car accident can result in severe injuries, both physical and emotional. And often, the process toward recovery can be long and daunting. If you or a loved one has sustained injuries in a car accident in Virginia, we want to help. Regardless of precisely where your accident occurred, River Run Law has the tools, resources, and experience necessary to fight for your rights. And while we are located in Richmond, our Virginia car accident attorneys have helped clients throughout the Commonwealth on their pathway to recovery. So don’t wait—contact us today to discuss your case and see how we can help you. So How Important Is It Really That I Hire a Car Accident Lawyer Near Me? These days, many people know that hiring an attorney can be a great first step toward pursuing valuable compensation in the aftermath of a serious accident. But many accident victims still wonder, Is it important that I hire a car accident lawyer who is near me in proximity? It is certainly important to hire an attorney for your case who is licensed in your state. However, you may not necessarily have to hire the closest firm to you—especially in today’s day and age, where technology continues to advance and doing things virtually and remotely has become more and more common. Thus, when you are searching for the right firm for your car accident case, physical proximity should not be the only factor you consider in making your decision. Rather, here are some additional qualities and characteristics to look for in selecting a car accident attorney: General litigation experience; Experience handling car accident cases, specifically; Ability to negotiate effectively on your behalf; and Willingness to put you, the client, first above all else. So while there may be some benefit to having an attorney that is near you, it is not everything. Make sure to select a lawyer for your car accident only after taking into account all other relevant factors as well. How a Car Accident Attorney Can Help Some people mistakenly believe that hiring an attorney for a car accident case is a waste of money. Instead, they may attempt to save money by negotiating with insurance companies and navigating the case on their own. However, this is successful less often than you might think. A personal injury attorney who handles car accident cases day in and day out knows what to expect and will be able to more effectively and efficiently handle your claim on your behalf. An experienced car accident lawyer can help you: Gather facts and evidence; Analyze your case and explain your legal options moving forward; Determine what damages you may be entitled to recover; Negotiate with opposing parties and their insurance companies; Draft and file any necessary court paperwork; and Prepare for and take your case to trial when necessary. Don’t feel like you have to handle your car accident case alone. In fact, hiring an attorney can help you save time and money in the long run. Why Should I Hire River Run Law? With so many attorneys to choose from, you may be wondering, why should I choose River Run Law over another car accident lawyer near me? At River Run Law, we are prepared to travel throughout Virginia to provide well-deserved legal representation to those in need. No matter where you are located, you can count on us to provide quality services for your car accident case. Here are a few things that we believe set River Run Law apart from the rest: We have an entire practice area dedicated exclusively to helping car accident victims in need; Our attorneys have decades of combined experience handling complex legal matters; We operate our firm with the utmost professionalism while also striving to provide a relaxed and stress-free process for our clients; and We are honored to have received many positive reviews and testimonials from our former clients. If you are searching for a law firm that will fight zealously for your rights, look no further than River Run Law. Contact Our Team of Personal Injury Attorneys Today Being involved in a car accident can be scary. And dealing with the aftermath can be complicated, stressful, and emotionally draining. Let us take some of the weight off your shoulders. No matter where in Virginia you are located, River Run Law is standing by and ready to help. We are available in person or by phone, email, or video conference. So, contact us online or call us at 804-889-0500 today for a free consultation. Let’s discuss your case and see what we can do to help you recover.

Truck Accident

How Long Does It Take to Settle a Semi-Truck Accident in Virginia?

Apr 21, 2021 | By Brooke Alexander | Read Time: 4 minutes

If you or a loved one suffered injuries in a truck accident, you may be wondering how long it takes to settle a semi-truck accident. People involved in truck accidents can suffer life-threatening injuries and leave victims with long-term or permanent issues. Injuries sustained in truck accidents often require significant medical procedures and rehabilitation to heal properly. Unfortunately, medical expenses pile up quickly in these cases. A Virginia truck accident attorney can help you recover the compensation you deserve for your injuries and other damages. Contact us today for a free consultation. Semi-Truck Accidents in Virginia Virginia traffic statistics indicate that 2,484 traffic collisions involving large trucks occurred in 2019. Forty-eight of the accidents involving large trucks resulted in a fatality. The majority of Virginia’s large truck collisions occurred in Fairfax County. Common Truck Accident Injuries A semi-truck pulling an empty trailer weighs approximately 35,000 lbs. Passenger vehicles, on the other hand, weigh between 2,750 lbs and 4,000 lbs. The weight discrepancy between the two leads to devastating consequences in the event of a collision. Common injuries seen in semi-truck accidents include: Traumatic brain injury, Broken bones, Whiplash, Spinal cord injuries, Burns, Abrasions, Nerve injuries, Internal organ damage, Dislocated joints, Paralysis, and Loss of limbs. The size and magnitude of semi-trucks impact every accident that involves one. If you suffered injuries in a collision with a semi-truck in Richmond, contact the experienced Virginia truck accident lawyers at River Run Law today for a free consultation. What Damages Can I Recover in a Truck Accident Case? Victims of truck accidents are entitled to seek compensatory damages designed to cover the economic and non-economic losses that you suffered because of the accident. Recovering damages can help you and your family pay the bills and expenses associated with semi-truck accidents. Economic damages can include: Current and future medical expenses; Loss of earning capacity; Childcare expenses; Property damage to your vehicle; and Rehabilitation costs. The court requires proof of these damages for compensation to be awarded. Non-economic damages include: Pain and suffering, Physical disfigurement, Loss of consortium, and Mental anguish. Severe accidents can result in significant awards of non-economic damages. In cases of extreme negligence or wrongdoing, courts award punitive damages that are designed to punish the party responsible for the accident. The River Run Law team will fight to guarantee you receive the compensation you are owed. Common Causes of Semi-Truck Accidents in Virginia Commercial accidents account for 3.8% of all vehicle crashes in Virginia. Virginia defines a commercial vehicle as a vehicle that: Has a gross vehicle weight rating or gross combination weight rating of 10,001 pounds or more; Is designed or used to transport nine or more people; or Is displaying a hazardous materials placard. Thus, semi-trucks operating in Virginia are considered commercial vehicles. Overall, 4,922 accidents occurred involving commercial vehicles in Virginia in 2019. The most common factors contributing to commercial vehicle accidents include: Improper lane change, Following too closely, Failure to yield, Distracted driving, Driver fatigue, Ignoring traffic signs or signals, Improper backing, Improper turn, and Speeding. Truck accidents occur for a multitude of reasons, many of which are purely accidental. However, when accidents are caused by another person’s negligence, they should be held responsible. The nature of the truck driving business enhances the risk of negligence occurring. Trucking companies incentivize quick delivery times. Therefore, truck drivers aim to beat deadlines and arrive ahead of schedule. Unfortunately, some drivers place speed over safety. Virginia Truck Driver Regulations The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) imposes hours-of-service regulations on commercial truck drivers in an attempt to curb driver negligence. The regulations include: An 11-hour driving limit after 10 consecutive hours off duty for property-carrying drivers; A 10-hour driving limit after 10 consecutive hours off duty for passenger-carrying drivers; A mandated 30-minute driving break for every 8 hours of driving for property-carrying drivers; Property-carrying drivers are prohibited from working more than fourteen consecutive hours; and Passenger-carrying drivers are prohibited from working more than fifteen consecutive hours. Despite these regulations, trucking companies offer bonuses to drivers who meet high mileage quotas and encourage long hours and workweeks. In accidents involving semi-trucks, multiple factors may exist that contributed to the collision. A semi-truck accident attorney can help you determine which parties should be held liable. Who Is Liable in Truck Accidents? Semi-truck accidents present complexities that do not often exist in regular car accident cases, including the possibility that multiple parties are liable for your injuries. Truck Driver The most obvious party facing liability is the truck driver. Hundreds of thousands of accidents occur every year due to operator error. Truck drivers make mistakes just like regular drivers, and when those mistakes cause you to suffer injuries, the driver can be held liable. Trucking Company Semi-trucks and their attached trailers are typically owned by the company that employs the truck driver. Thus, issues stemming from improper maintenance of the semi-truck itself could fall on the company, rather than the driver. Proper maintenance of semi-trucks prevents issues like worn tires and defective breaks that lead to hundreds of accidents every year. Additionally, trucking companies employing drivers must ensure that the drivers meet necessary qualifications. For example, semi-truck drivers must possess a commercial driver’s license (CDL) to legally operate a commercial vehicle. A trucking company allowing an employee without a CDL to operate a commercial vehicle would be considered negligent. As previously mentioned, the FMCSA passed regulations designed to reduce truck driver fatigue while driving. Trucking companies are prohibited from disregarding the regulations or encouraging their employees to disobey the regulations. Proof that a trucking company influenced a driver to go against FMCSA regulations could result in liability for the company in the event of an accident. Accepting a Settlement Offer After a Truck Accident Most truck accident cases settle before entering a courtroom. After investigating your case, we will present a demand to the insurance company for the party liable in the accident. We will negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf, convincing them that we will not settle […]

Car Accident

What to Do After a Car Accident in Virginia [Step By Step]

Apr 14, 2021 | By Brooke Alexander | Read Time: 4 minutes

There are an estimated 6 million car accidents in the United States every year, resulting in approximately 3 million injured victims. Despite these statistics, being involved in an accident is always a shock. The fact remains that nobody ever gets in their car expecting to be involved in a collision. As a result, people often do not know what to do after a car accident in Virginia. Of course, it’s true that the moments immediately following a car accident can feel like a blur. Nevertheless, it is important to know what to expect and what steps to take. Doing so can not only better protect you and your passengers from further injuries, but can also increase your chances of receiving compensation to help you recover. Want more information on what to do after a car accident in Virginia? The injury attorneys at River Run Law are ready to help. Contact our team today to discuss what options you may have to pursue recovery. The Five Steps You Should Always Take If You Are Wondering What to Do After a Car Accident in Virginia Navigating the aftermath of a Virginia car accident can feel overwhelming. Unfortunately, nobody has the ability to anticipate when an accident might occur. However, by being prepared and knowing what steps to take, you can reduce some stress in the event you ever are involved in an accident. Here are the 5 steps you should be prepared to take after involvement in a motor vehicle accident on Virginia roadways. 1. Pull Over and Check for Injuries Your safety and that of your passengers should always be your first priority. Thus, the first thing you should do if at all possible is pull your vehicle over. Failure to do so can sometimes result in further damage or injuries to you and others. Especially after an accident on the highway or a busy road, where oncoming traffic may not have sufficient time to react, it is imperative that you get your vehicle out of harm’s way. Once your vehicle is in a safe place, check yourself and your passengers for any severe or life-threatening injuries. If there are any such injuries, call 911 immediately to get an ambulance at the scene as soon as possible. And no matter what, never leave the scene of an accident. Even if you do not notice any injuries or you believe that there is little to no property damage, leaving the scene of an accident can constitute a hit-and-run, which can only make matters more complicated for you moving forward. 2. Contact the Authorities Regardless of whether you notice any injuries after your accident, you should still contact the authorities and report the accident. While contacting the authorities might feel intimidating, doing so can actually be a great benefit to your potential legal claim moving forward. When you report an accident to law enforcement, they will create a formal accident report. This accident report will likely include: Names of the parties involved, Names of the parties’ insurance carriers, Types of vehicles involved in the accident, and Opinions regarding the cause of the accident. All this information can be extremely useful in proving who was at fault in causing the accident. It can also provide valuable information regarding the actual parties involved and whether and to what extent they may carry liability insurance. However, it is more than just a good idea to contact the authorities after your Virginia car accident. In fact, doing so may be required. Under Virginia law, the driver of any vehicle involved in an accident must report the accident to law enforcement immediately if it results in injury to or death of any person. Failure to do so constitutes a Class 4 misdemeanor. Thus, even if you are uncertain whether an injury or death has occurred, it is best to call law enforcement to the scene just in case. 3. Gather Any Relevant Evidence Available at the Scene Even after you do call law enforcement, it may be worth taking steps to collect certain information on your own before they arrive. Often, some of the best evidence is available right at the scene in the minutes immediately following the accident. If you are able to do so, try to gather some of the following evidence and information: Photos of the scene, Names and insurers of parties involved, and Names, contact information, and statements of any witnesses to the accident. Often, collecting this information can lead to valuable evidence in support of your claim. 4. Seek Immediate Medical Attention It is crucial to seek medical attention as soon as practicable after your Virginia car accident. Even if you do not notice any severe pain, some accident victims experience shock and do not feel their injuries until later. In other cases, injuries may be internal and not visible to the naked eye. Additionally, diagnosis and treatment by a medical professional can be used to determine and calculate what monetary damages you may be entitled to recover. Thus, it is always important to get checked out by a medical professional just in case. 5. Contact a Virginia Car Accident Attorney Lastly, you should always consider contacting an attorney after a car accident. People often wonder whether hiring an attorney is actually helpful. Many accident victims attempt to navigate the car accident claims process on their own in an attempt to save money. In reality, hiring a car accident attorney can be a great way to not only save money but also maximize your potential recovery moving forward. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you gather evidence, negotiate with opposing parties and insurance companies, and prepare to take your case to trial when a settlement is not possible. In short, contacting a Virginia car accident attorney is one of the best things you can do for your case. So if you’re wondering what to do after a car accident in Virginia, don’t forget to take this step. Looking for More Information on What to Do After a Car Accident in Virginia? Look no […]

Firm News

River Run Law Partners with Local School to Honor Black History Month

Mar 13, 2021 | By Brooke Alexander | Read Time: < 1 minute

As proud members of our community, River Run Law values involvement in its local events. We truly enjoy interacting with our neighbors and fellow Virginians. Further, as dedicated stewards of justice, our attorneys are humbled to participate in teaching and learning events within the community, including celebrating and honoring Black History Month. We believe that February is an important time to reflect and learn. In a culmination of these values, River Run Law is pleased to have had the opportunity to partner with Richmond Public Schools in their Black History Month activities by providing copies of Barack Obama’s “Of Thee I Sing,” to an RVA Schools elementary class. This children’s book is an important depiction of the diversity across the U.S. The receiving class’s teacher, Mrs. Carpenter, said she wanted to give the students this book because it shows how our country is “made up of people of every kind.” Plus, the former president is Mrs. Carpenter’s school’s namesake, so the book choice is even more meaningful to the receiving students. Our attorneys are happy to be part of encouraging acceptance and understanding among the next generation of students. We are grateful and humbled by our experience virtually discussing this book and Black History Month with Mrs. Carpenter’s class.

Car Accident

When Should I Consider Hiring a Lawyer After a Car Accident in Virginia?

Feb 24, 2021 | By Casey Ariail | Read Time: 4 minutes

Speaking with a Highly Qualified Car Accident Lawyer Right Away Will Give You the Best Chance of Winning With so much information available on the internet, it might be easy to assume that you could learn how to handle your car accident claim. You might even wonder, Should I hire a lawyer after a car accident in Virginia? Car accident claims can be very complicated. You could miss something important and give up valuable rights without even realizing it. Hiring an experienced and well-qualified Virginia car accident lawyer as soon after your wreck as possible is the first step to recovering financial compensation. A reputable and accomplished Virginia auto accident lawyer will understand how to protect your rights. Your lawyer is the only person who has your best interest at heart. You cannot trust an insurance company to do the right thing for you and your family. When Is the Best Time to Hire a Lawyer After a Car Accident in Virginia? The hours and days right after a car crash can be very confusing. That is understandable. A short time ago, you were driving along minding your business, probably thinking about a million different things at once. Out of nowhere, a negligent driver slams into you and radically changes your life. Now, you must deal with a mountain of medical bills, car repair bills, and lost wages on top of your life’s other expenses. You never planned for this, and you certainly do not deserve it. Therefore, It is perfectly natural to wonder what is going to happen to you in these circumstances. At this point, you might wonder, Should I hire a lawyer after a car accident in Virginia? Taking the Wrong Path Could Lead to Financial Disaster You face a tough choice. You know you need to get back on your feet again financially. On the other hand, you might need to continue with medical treatments instead of returning to work. The money is going out of your wallet faster than it is coming in. So what do you do? Insurance companies know when to strike. The other driver’s insurance company might offer you a quick settlement. The offer may be enticing. It is undoubtedly hard to resist. In your moment of vulnerability, you might decide to accept the low-ball offer the negligent driver’s insurance company offered you. On the other hand, you know that hiring a lawyer might take longer for the case to settle. But hiring a lawyer to represent you after a Virginia car accident is the best way to protect your rights. Hiring a Virginia car crash lawyer will give you the best chance to win a just and fair settlement. Accepting a Quick Settlement Could Be Disastrous for You You could lose valuable rights if you agree to a quick settlement. The insurance company will have you sign a waiver of future claims before you receive your settlement check. You cannot go back to the insurance company and demand more money if you released them from further liability. You need to consider what would happen if you took the quickest settlement and released the insurance company, only to find out later on that your injuries never healed completely. Who will you turn to if you need surgery after you accepted a quick and easy resolution without having a dedicated Virginia car wreck lawyer look at your case first? If you did not have an experienced Virginia auto accident attorney review your case, how do you know you received a fair settlement? What will you do if you waived your rights? Handling the Claim Yourself Does Not Save Money You may think representing yourself and saving money on lawyers’ fees might be the best way to maximize your financial award. It is a good idea in theory. However, the results are quite different in reality. When you hire a Virginia car wreck lawyer to represent you, you have an unwavering advocate who works only for you. Your lawyer has a duty to act in your best interests. An insurance company’s representatives cannot act in bad faith toward you by lying, misleading, or misrepresenting your claim’s value. But insurance companies have no duty to protect your best interests. Dealing directly with the insurance company is not the same as having a dedicated accident lawyer from Virginia handle your claim. Hiring a lawyer is no guarantee that you will win. But you can rest assured that you will be in a much better position if you have a lawyer protecting your rights after a Virginia car crash. What a Virginia Car Accident Attorney Can Do for You and Your Family If you are still asking, Should I hire a lawyer after a car accident in Virginia? you should consider what a car accident lawyer will do for you. A car accident lawyer understands what evidence is available and how to gather it. Without a lawyer acting on your behalf, you would have to track down the evidence to make your claim. Remember, you have the burden of proof if you pursue an auto accident claim. The insurance company does not have to disprove your case. Instead, you must prove it with concrete evidence. Here are some other tasks a lawyer would perform for you: Interview you and the witnesses involved; Gather physical evidence like photographs and surveillance footage; Assemble your medical records; Retain expert witnesses to testify about the crash, your injuries, and your future expected losses; Negotiate with the other driver’s insurance company; Apprise you of all developments in your case; Help you understand the relevant law, including ensuring that you satisfy the statute of limitations; Field all inquiries from insurance companies; and Take your case to trial if necessary. These are just some of the numerous responsibilities a Virginia car accident lawyer undertakes when you engage their services. The Virginia Car Accident Lawyers at River Run Law Can Help You Maximize Your Financial Award The only person who could answer the question, “should […]

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