Car accidents happen in seconds, but their consequences can last a lifetime. If you’ve been injured in a crash in Fairfax, you’re likely facing medical bills, lost income, and physical pain. CHASENBOSCOLO helps accident victims recover the compensation they deserve. Our experienced attorneys have recovered over $1.1 billion for injured clients since 1986. We work on a contingency basis, which means you pay nothing unless we win your case. Call (301) 220-0050 today for your free consultation.
Why Choose CHASENBOSCOLO for Your Fairfax Car Accident Claim
When you’re injured in a car accident, you need an attorney who understands both the law and the insurance companies’ tactics. CHASENBOSCOLO brings 30+ years of combined experience handling auto accident cases throughout Northern Virginia. Our team includes multiple Super Lawyers and AV-rated attorneys recognized for legal excellence and ethical standards.
We’ve handled hundreds of car accident cases, from minor injuries to catastrophic crashes. Our attorneys have recovered millions in settlements and verdicts for clients just like you. We know how insurance adjusters work, and we know how to build cases that get results. More importantly, we treat every client like family. Your recovery is our priority, and we’re available 24/7 to answer your questions and guide you through the process.
What Happens After a Car Accident in Fairfax, VA
The moments after a car accident are critical. Your actions now can affect your case later. Here’s what you should do:
At the accident scene, prioritize safety first. Move to a safe location if possible, and call 911 if anyone is injured. Exchange information with the other driver, including name, phone number, address, insurance details, and vehicle information. Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Get contact information from witnesses who saw the crash. Understanding what to do after an accident is crucial for protecting your claim.
Report the accident to the police and obtain a copy of the police report. Seek medical attention immediately, even if you feel fine. Some injuries don’t show symptoms right away. Document all medical treatment, including doctor visits, tests, and prescriptions. Seeking prompt medical care strengthens your case significantly.
Don’t discuss the accident with the other driver’s insurance company without an attorney present. Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts. They may ask you questions designed to reduce your claim’s value. What not to say to an insurance adjuster is critical knowledge. Contact CHASENBOSCOLO before speaking with any insurance representative. We’ll handle all communications and protect your rights.
Types of Damages You Can Recover
Virginia law allows you to recover several types of damages after a car accident:
Economic damages cover your financial losses. These include all medical expenses related to your injuries, from emergency room visits to ongoing physical therapy. You can recover lost wages for time missed from work during recovery. If your vehicle was damaged, you can claim repair costs or the vehicle’s fair market value if it’s totaled. You can also recover future medical expenses if your injuries require ongoing treatment.
Non-economic damages compensate you for pain and suffering. This includes physical pain, emotional distress, anxiety, depression, and loss of enjoyment of life. If your injuries prevent you from participating in activities you loved, you can recover compensation for that loss. These damages recognize that injuries affect more than just your wallet.
Punitive damages are available in limited situations. Virginia allows punitive damages when the at-fault driver’s conduct was reckless or intentional. For example, if the other driver was driving under the influence or street racing, punitive damages may apply. These damages punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct in the future. Note: Virginia courts reserve punitive damages for extreme cases, and the willful/wanton standard is a high bar to meet. Punitive damages in DUI cases are governed by Virginia Code § 8.01-44.5 when BAC is 0.15% or higher.
Common Causes of Fairfax Car Accidents
Understanding what caused your accident helps us build a stronger case. The most common causes of car accidents include:
- Distracted driving (texting, phone use, eating, adjusting the radio)
- Speeding and reckless driving
- Impaired driving (DUI/DWI)
- Drowsy driving
- Weather-related accidents (rain, snow, ice)
- Mechanical failures (brake failure, tire blowouts)
Distracted driving is the leading cause of accidents in Virginia. Drivers who text, check social media, or use their phones are taking their eyes off the road for critical seconds. Speeding reduces reaction time and increases crash severity. Impaired drivers can’t react quickly or judge distances accurately. Drowsy drivers fall asleep at the wheel, causing serious crashes.
Understanding the cause of your accident is important because it helps establish fault. CHASENBOSCOLO investigates every accident thoroughly to determine what happened and who caused it.
Understanding Virginia’s Contributory Negligence Rule
Virginia has a strict rule about shared fault in accidents. If you’re found to be even 1% at fault for the accident, you cannot recover any compensation. This is called “pure contributory negligence,” and it’s one of the harshest rules in the country. Virginia Code § 8.01-58 provides limited exceptions where contributory negligence is not a complete bar to recovery in specific circumstances.
This rule makes legal representation critical. Insurance companies will try to blame you for the accident to avoid paying your claim. They’ll argue that you were speeding, distracted, or failed to avoid the crash. Even if their argument is weak, it could cost you everything. Understanding contributory negligence is essential for protecting your rights.
CHASENBOSCOLO builds strong cases that minimize or eliminate claims of your negligence. We investigate thoroughly, gather evidence, interview witnesses, and consult with accident reconstruction experts when necessary. We know how to counter the insurance company’s arguments and prove that the other driver caused the accident.
Settlement vs. Going to Trial: How Our Fairfax Car Accident Attorneys Can Help
Most car accident cases settle before trial. Settlements offer several advantages: they resolve your case faster, you receive compensation sooner, and you avoid the uncertainty of a jury verdict. Settlements also cost less in attorney fees and court costs. Understanding how car accident settlements work helps you make informed decisions.
However, sometimes the insurance company refuses to offer fair compensation. When that happens, we’re prepared to take your case to trial. Our attorneys have extensive trial experience and aren’t afraid to fight for you in court. We’ve recovered millions in jury verdicts for clients whose cases didn’t settle. Avoiding the insurance company’s first offer is an important consideration.
The decision to settle or go to trial depends on your specific situation. We’ll discuss both options with you, explain the pros and cons, and help you make the best decision for your case. Either way, CHASENBOSCOLO is ready to fight for the compensation you deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Contact CHASENBOSCOLO for A Free Consultation About Your Fairfax Car Accident Claim
You don’t have to face the insurance company alone. CHASENBOSCOLO is here to help. We offer free consultations with no obligation. During your consultation, we’ll listen to your story, answer your questions, and explain your options.
Our Fairfax office is located at 8280 Willow Oaks Corporate Drive, Suite 810, Fairfax, VA 22031. Call (301) 220-0050 to schedule your free consultation. We’re available 24/7 to help you. Don’t wait! Contact us today.