Roanoke Car Accident Attorneys

Dedicated to Protecting Your Right to Compensation

At Kalfus & Nachman, our trusted car accident lawyers in Roanoke have seen many Virginia families' lives turned upside down because of car crashes.

According to VDOT, Roanoke is among the top five counties in Virginia with the highest reported motor vehicle accident-related fatalities and injuries. Such mishaps frequently leave victims and their families with significant financial hardships due to medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost wages from missed work, property damage, and economic woes.

Thus, it is crucial that you immediately seek expert legal counsel to protect and learn about your rights. Being in a car accident can change a person’s life in an instant. In the days following, your highest priority needs to be recovery, and that requires financial resources.

Call (855) 880-8163 now or contact us online to schedule your free consultation with Kalfus & Nachman PC.

I’ve Been in a Car Accident in Roanoke: What Should I Do?

If you're in a car accident in Roanoke, it's vital that you follow these steps to safeguard your rights and ensure those hurt get help:

1. Stop immediately.
2. Check for injuries: The most important thing is to ensure everyone involved is safe. If there are injuries, call 911 immediately.
3. Secure the scene: If possible, turn on your hazard lights and move your car to a safe location out of traffic.
4. Call the police: Report the accident to the Roanoke Police Department by dialing 911. Except in accident alert conditions, you can call 9-1-1 to report an accident even if there are no injuries. Obtain police reports for the accident.
5. Do not make comments (except to the police).
6. Exchange information: Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver(s) involved. Do not admit fault at the scene.
7. Document the scene: If you are able, take pictures of the damage to your car, the other vehicles involved, and the surrounding scene.
8. Record witnesses: Get witness statements.
9. Report the accident to your insurance company: Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the accident and contact an attorney.
10. Seek medical attention: Visit a doctor you trust and obtain full documentation of all your injuries, no matter how insignificant—remember, some soreness now could indicate chronic pain years down the road.

After ensuring safety and completing initial accident steps, consider the broader implications of the incident on your ability to work and manage daily responsibilities. Consulting with a Roanoke auto accident lawyer at Kalfus & Nachman can provide clarity on potential compensation for time off work, ongoing medical treatments, and emotional distress. Understanding your rights and options can alleviate stress and help focus on your recovery journey.

Helpful Resources:

• Roanoke Police Department:
• How to File a Car Accident Report in Virginia

Helping You Build a Stronger Case with Roanoke Car Accident Attorneys

With severe injuries, you will have to contest with insurance companies to obtain the money you need to cover healthcare costs. These companies have vast resources and are used to defending their monetary interests by shifting the blame onto victims. It is crucial that you have an experienced personal injury attorney on your side who can help you demonstrate the veracity of your claim.

Kalfus & Nachman PC can help you demonstrate:

• The severity of your injuries
• The negligence of the other driver
• The direct relationship between their negligence and your injuries
• The other driver’s failure to prevent such an accident

No matter how clearly at fault the other driver may have been, you should never underestimate the ability of insurers to avoid paying a fair settlement. With decades of experience in practice, our team has seen the various strategies these companies use, and we know how to counter them effectively.

Building a strong case involves more than just demonstrating the immediate impact of an accident. Consideration of future implications, such as long-term medical care needs and potential impacts on earning capacity, is essential. Our team employs a holistic approach to case-building, examining every facet that could influence your well-being and financial stability. By providing this comprehensive support, we aim to help you achieve outcomes that truly reflect the full extent of your losses and needs.

Roanoke's Most Dangerous Highways & Crash Hotspots

Deadly is the word to describe these dangerous crash hotspots for drivers in Roanoke - highways I-81, I-581, and US 220. These roads run through Roanoke County and Roanoke City and have witnessed several high-profile fatal accidents over the years. So if you live near them, you should be aware of all possible hazards along these roads before heading out onto them yourself!

• Interstate-81 (I-81): Infamously known as the "Heroin Highway," I-81 witnesses a traffic volume of approximately 62,000 vehicles each day. Large trucks comprise 20% of this traffic, and the increased number of trucks raises the risk of accidents. According to a VDOT report, a whopping 35 percent of fatal accidents on I-81 involve a truck. Traffic volume and speed are to blame. Despite the I-81 widening work started along a five-mile stretch of both northbound and southbound I-81 in Roanoke County and the city of Salem, traffic congestion and delays related to motor vehicle crashes are frequent on I-81.
• Interstate-581 (I-581): Interstate-81's spur and completely overlapping US 220, I-581 is one of Virginia's most heavily traveled highways. It is a four-lane road from Richmond to Danville and serves the Roanoke Regional Airport, carrying about 52,000 vehicles daily at its peak and comprising 15% of truck volumes. It has had its fair share of problems with traffic congestion and crashes. Drivers trying to get in or out of the area quickly are often seen exceeding speed limits.
• U.S. Route 220 (US 220): Several businesses, residential homes, and schools in the immediate vicinity of US route 220 make it one of the busiest and most dangerous highways in Roanoke City. Sugar Bottom Rd, Electric Rd, and Elm View Rd are a few crash hotspots to watch out for on US-220. In addition to heavy traffic, the variation in vehicle types and speeds contributes to frequent accidents. Enhanced awareness and understanding of these roads can help drivers proactively avoid potential hazards.

If you have been involved in an accident on one of these highways, contact experienced and committed Roanoke car accident attorneys at Virginia's top-rated personal injury law firm, Kalfus & Nachman. We'll review the facts of your case, help you establish liability, and discuss the best course of action for you and your family. Call us for a free consultation today.

Top Causes of Roanoke Car Accidents & Their Prevention

Auto accidents are one of the most common causes of personal injury in Roanoke, VA. Following are some of the leading causes of car accidents in Roanoke:

• Speeding and Aggressive Driving
• Distracted Driving
• Driving Under the Influence
• Tailgating - Following Too Closely
• Failure to Yield
• Improper Left Turns
• Improper Lane Changes
• Falling Asleep at the Wheel or Fatigued Driving
• Running Red Lights
• Defective Vehicles and Vehicle Parts

Key Virginia and Roanoke Crash Statistics

The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) has released 2021 National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) traffic safety facts, with some interesting statistics to help you understand how serious auto accidents are in Virginia and Roanoke. Here are some of the critical crash statistics:

• Ten people lost their lives, and 653 suffered injuries in 1,714 Roanoke Traffic Crash in 2021.
• Approx. 6% (103) of crashes were alcohol-related, with two fatalities and 45 injuries reported.
• 17% of accidents (289 crashes) were speed-related in Roanoke.
• Three deaths and 128 injuries were reported in Roanoke’s speed-related crashes.
• Virginia saw a 12.2% increase in 2021 crashes over 2020.
• 14.3% increase in traffic fatalities, with 968 deaths reported.
• Speed-related crashes jumped 9.5% over 2020 in VA.
• VA's unrestrained occupant crashes increased by 11.3%.
• 11.2% increase in distracted driver-involved crashes in Virginia.

Frequently Asked Questions about Auto Accidents in Roanoke

How Does Comparative Negligence Work in Virginia?

In Virginia, the principle of pure contributory negligence applies, which is distinct from comparative negligence systems used in many other states. This means if you are found to be even 1% at fault in causing an accident, you could be barred from recovering any damages. It's a strict rule that highlights the importance of gathering clear evidence and having robust legal representation when pursuing a claim.

This rule underscores the necessity of meticulous accident documentation and comprehensive legal support. At Kalfus & Nachman PC, we assist clients in gathering necessary evidence and presenting a compelling narrative that minimizes any assigned fault. Our legal approach aims to clarify the specific details and circumstances surrounding your accident to optimize potential compensation outcomes under Virginia law.

Why Are Personal Injury Consultations Important?

Personal injury consultations are critical for understanding your legal rights and options after an accident. These meetings provide an opportunity to discuss the incident's details and explore potential avenues for compensation. It's a chance to ask questions and gain insights into how your claim might proceed, without financial obligation, given that initial consultations are typically free.

During a consultation at Kalfus & Nachman PC, you receive a preliminary assessment of your case, helping to identify the strength of your claim and the steps required to move forward. It's an informative session that offers peace of mind and direction, ensuring that you make informed decisions about your legal path after an accident.

What Damages Can Be Recovered After a Car Accident in Roanoke?

After a car accident, Virginia law enables you to recover various types of damages, covering both economic and non-economic losses. Economic damages include tangible losses such as medical bills, property repair costs, and lost wages due to the inability to work.

Non-economic damages, however, aim to address more subjective experiences, like pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment in life. The latter can be more challenging to quantify, emphasizing the importance of detailed documentation and narratives to articulate the full extent of your post-accident challenges.

Having comprehensive legal support is beneficial in presenting these damages effectively. Our team focuses on creating a detailed account of your experiences, ensuring that all potential areas of recovery are explored and that you receive compensation reflective of your actual losses and hardships.

Is It Worth Hiring a Lawyer for a Minor Accident?

The decision to hire a lawyer, even for a minor accident, can significantly influence the efficiency and fairness of the outcome. Even seemingly minor accidents can involve complexities and unforeseen challenges, such as hidden vehicle damages or delayed personal injuries.

Engaging legal representation ensures that your claim is thoroughly evaluated, and your rights are safeguarded throughout the process. The guidance of a skilled attorney can prove invaluable in negotiations with insurance companies, often leading to more satisfactory settlements than initially anticipated.

At Kalfus & Nachman PC, we offer initial consultations to help determine whether pursuing legal action is beneficial in your specific case, providing clarity and professional insight tailored to your needs.

What Are the Top Mistakes to Avoid After an Auto Accident?

After an auto accident, several mistakes can impact your potential to claim damages. Avoid admitting fault at the scene, even casually. Stay organized by keeping all records, from medical reports to repair estimates, and ensure timely reporting to both the authorities and your insurance company.

Overlooking the importance of proper legal advice is a crucial misstep. Without it, victims may accept settlements that do not adequately cover their damages. At Kalfus & Nachman PC, our dedicated team provides guidance to navigate these situations, ensuring that pivotal steps are taken to maximize recovery and avoid detrimental errors.

How Long Do I Have to File a Compensation Claim in Virginia?

In Virginia, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim following an auto accident generally allows two years from the date of the accident. This time frame is critical, and delays may forfeit your right to seek compensation.

The timeframe emphasizes the importance of prompt action following an accident. Early consultation with legal counsel ensures timely evidence gathering and claim processing, positioning you well to seek just compensation. At Kalfus & Nachman PC, our approach focuses on swift and thorough case management, meeting all legal timelines effectively.

Call Our Firm Today

The truth is there is no such thing as too much preparation for your Roanoke car accident case. Where possible, you should gather all the evidence you can to prove your side of the story. If you were injured in a car accident because someone else failed to drive responsibly, call the Roanoke car accident lawyers at Kalfus & Nachman PC for a free consultation about what to do next. We have secured damage awards in the millions of dollars for our clients, and we are committed to helping you obtain the best possible settlement for your situation.

The sooner you call Kalfus & Nachman PC, the more time we will have to strategize for your case and ensure you have everything you need to bring a successful lawsuit. Don’t wait to get started. Call (855) 880-8163 now.