Wheeling, WV Car Accident Lawyers
Dealing with the aftermath of a car accident can be complicated and unpredictable, and awareness of your legal rights and local laws can matter. Our team of skilled injury attorneys in Wheeling, WV, can help you identify everyone’s role in this convoluted process, and get you the compensation you deserve for injuries suffered in a car accident. For a complimentary case evaluation, please get in touch at your earliest convenience.
What Should You Do After an Accident in Wheeling, WV?
After a motor vehicle accident in Wheeling, West Virginia, victims should immediately call 911. It’s crucial to seek medical treatment promptly and keep vehicles in place unless they pose a safety hazard. Exchanging insurance and driver’s license information is important, but avoid sharing excessive personal details. If you are able to take photos, documentation may come in handy when we are fighting for a fair settlement on your behalf.
If witnesses are present, collect their contact information and provide it to the police. Additionally gather contact details of any witnesses and provide this information to the police. Although there are legal requirements for reporting a car accident in West Virginia, it is suggested to always report accidents regardless of the dollar amount. If you fail to report your accident and the damages end up being over $1,000, you could unintentionally violate the law.
In addition, it is a good idea to get a medical evaluation following an accident. Commonly, accident victims do not feel their injuries until days later. Going to an emergency room or urgent care facility after the accident will ensure you receive proper medical treatment. The information you receive from medical professionals regarding your injuries is a good paper trail if you decide to seek legal compensation.
West Virginia Automobile Insurance Minimum Requirements
To drive legally in West Virginia, you must have a valid insurance policy for your vehicle. Drivers must have liability insurance of $25,000 per person with a maximum of $50,000 per accident. However, many drivers violate this law.
If you are involved in an accident and the other driver lacks insurance or has insufficient coverage to compensate for your damages, your insurance must step in. Even if you believe you are at fault or concerned about inadequate coverage, it’s a good idea to consult with a Wheeling, WV attorney. We are well-versed in the area’s laws and can provide valuable guidance.
Additionally, you may still be eligible for compensation, even if you are partially at fault for the accident. West Virginia follows a modified comparative fault law, which allows you to recover damages if you are not greater than 50% at fault. However, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault.
What Types of Compensation Can I Receive After a Car Accident?
When pursuing compensation after a car accident, several types of damages may be available depending on the specifics of your case. Below are some categories that may be reimbursable. Damages range from direct financial losses to non-economic harms.
Economic damages are tangible losses that have a direct financial impact on the victim. These include medical expenses (both current and future), lost wages due to inability to work, property damage (such as vehicle repair or replacement costs), and other out-of-pocket expenses related to the accident and recovery.
Non-economic damages are more subjective and compensate for intangible losses that don’t have a specific monetary value. These can include pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and loss of consortium (impact on personal relationships).
In cases involving severe negligence or malicious intent, punitive damages may also be sought. Punitive damages are intended to punish the at-fault party and deter similar behavior in the future. The availability and limits of these damages can vary depending on state laws and the specific circumstances of the accident.
Above are just a few of the many reimbursable expenses. Contacting a qualified injury attorney in Wheeling, VA, to learn more about these and other reimbursable costs is essential. It is imperative that you keep all receipts regarding expenses related to a car accident so that you have proof of your damages. This will help when your attorney is negotiating settlement amounts and presenting your case to the jury.
Contact a Wheeling, WV Car Accident Attorney
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, time is of the essence. As in all jurisdictions, there is a statute of limitations for reporting a car accident in WV. Missing this legal time frame can mean forfeiting your right to legal compensation.
At Miley Legal, we pride ourselves in first-class client care. We’ve been representing accident victims for many years, and we understand what it takes to win. Contact us today to meet with one of our experienced local attorneys. We will be happy to walk you through every step of the process.