July 9, 2026
Your First Consultation With a Harrisonburg Car Accident Lawyer: What to Expect
By Bethany Rishell Attorney | Cravens & Noll, P.C.
Many car accidents occur in Harrisonburg and the surrounding area, with a large number happening on I-81. If you’ve recently been in a car accident, the idea of sitting down with a lawyer might feel intimidating. But here’s the good news: Cravens and Noll offers free initial consultations. That first meeting is your chance to understand your rights, talk through your situation, and decide if the lawyer is a good fit for you. Think of it less like a test and more like a conversation. This blog will walk you through what to expect and how you can prepare so you feel confident heading into your first consultation.
Initial Case Review
The consultation usually starts with your story. Your lawyer will ask you to explain what happened, from the accident itself to what’s been going on since, including medical care, car repairs, lost work, and anything else that’s affected your life. Don’t worry about making it perfect; just give an honest account. This part is less about legal jargon and more about painting a clear picture of what you’ve gone through.
The attorney’s job at this stage is to figure out whether you have a case worth pursuing. They’ll listen carefully, ask follow-up questions, and get a feel for the details. Think of it as the groundwork for everything that comes next.
Sharing Key Documents & Evidence
The more information you bring, the better. This can include police reports, medical records, photos of the accident scene, insurance correspondence, and even notes you’ve kept about your recovery. If you don’t have everything gathered yet, that’s okay. Bring what you can, and your lawyer will help you understand what else will be useful down the road.
Many people are surprised to learn that even small details, such as a receipt from a rental car or texts from an insurance adjuster, can become important evidence. The consultation is a great time to organize and hand off anything you think might matter.
Explanation of Your Legal Rights
Laws around car accidents can feel complicated, but your lawyer will break them down for you in plain English. They’ll explain your rights when it comes to insurance claims, medical bills, and compensation for things like lost wages or pain and suffering.
This is one of the most valuable parts of the consultation: understanding where you stand legally. Even if you’ve read up on Virginia car accident laws online, hearing it directly from a professional who deals with these cases every day gives you clarity and peace of mind.
Case Strategy & Options
Once your lawyer has the facts, they’ll outline possible strategies for moving forward. That could mean negotiating directly with the insurance company, filing a lawsuit, or waiting to see how your recovery progresses before taking big steps.
Don’t expect every answer to be final in this first meeting. What you should expect is a roadmap, an overview of how the case could unfold and what paths are open to you. This is also when you can get a sense of your lawyer’s style. Do they seem aggressive in negotiation? Do they take a more measured approach? Finding a lawyer whose strategy matches your comfort level is just as important as the legal advice itself.
Fee Structure & Costs
Money is often one of the first concerns accident victims have, and it’s something your lawyer will address openly during the consultation. Most car accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. That means you don’t pay anything up front, and the lawyer only gets paid if they win your case.
You’ll want to ask what percentage they take, whether there are additional costs (like filing fees or expert witnesses), and how those expenses are handled.
Q&A Session
The consultation is not just for the lawyer to evaluate your case. It is also your chance to ask questions. Here are a few good ones to consider:
- How many car accident cases have you handled that are similar to mine?
- How long do cases like this usually take?
- What challenges do you see in my case?
- How do you prefer to communicate: phone, email, or in-person meetings?
The answers can help you feel confident in your decision and make sure you’re comfortable with the lawyer’s communication style and approach.
Next Steps After the Consultation
By the end of the meeting, you should have a clear idea of what comes next. Sometimes that means the lawyer will begin investigating right away, requesting records, or contacting insurance companies. Other times, they might advise you to focus on medical treatment first before moving forward with legal action.
Either way, you’ll leave the consultation knowing what you need to do on your end and what your lawyer will handle for you. That clarity can feel like a weight lifted off your shoulders after the chaos of a car accident.
Call Cravens & Noll Today
Meeting with a lawyer for the first time doesn’t have to be overwhelming. When you know what to expect, including reviewing your case, sharing documents, learning your rights, discussing strategy, and asking questions, you’ll walk into the consultation prepared and confident.
At Cravens & Noll PC, we’re here to help you through the entire process, starting with that very first conversation. We proudly serve clients in Harrisonburg, Richmond, Chesterfield, Henrico, and Colonial Heights. If you’ve been in a car accident and need trusted guidance, reach out today to schedule your free consultation.
At Cravens & Noll, an experienced Virginia law firm, we are Your Lawyers For Life and have protected and served the rights of over 30,000 people just like you throughout Virginia across 4 Decades in Business. This is why we have been voted one of The Best Law Firms and The Best Attorney in Richmond by the Richmond Times-Dispatch.
We know that every legal case is always…personal. No matter what you are facing right now our attorneys will provide the solutions you need, at a reasonable price. Whether divorce, personal injury, criminal charges, or bankruptcy. We work hard to be your lawyers for life. That means giving your individual case the one-on-one attention and care it deserves.
Our team of trusted and local lawyers will never give false expectations about the potential outcome of your case. You can count on a realistic assessment of your case, in order for you to make a sound decision.
With offices in Richmond and Harrisonburg, we will assist you with dedicated and professional legal advice. In times like this, you need answers, stability, and confidence. Our calculated approach quickly evaluates and stabilizes your situation immediately to prepare you for the legal matters ahead. Our goal as your attorney is that you feel immediate relief from the moment you contact us. We can meet with you face-to-face, by video, by telephone, or together in our office.
Contact our Virginia attorneys today for a consultation. At your appointment, we will ease the burden on your shoulders and provide you with options on how to proceed. Before taking a case, Cravens and Noll lawyers provide an initial consultation for clients.
July 1, 2026
Why State Minimum Auto Insurance Is a Financial Risk (And How to Protect Your Assets)
By David Noll, Managing Partner | Cravens & Noll, P.C.
We see it frequently. After a serious motor vehicle accident, individuals often assume that simply carrying a valid auto policy means their personal finances are fully protected. Many drivers choose the lowest legal limit available simply to satisfy state registration requirements, unaware that a low-limit policy can be a dangerous financial gamble.
To explore what a “state minimum” policy actually means, and the potential legal exposure it creates when a severe collision occurs, we sat down with Elle Bunn Lappan from Bunn Insurance to look at both the insurance and legal realities of coverage.
What Does “Cheap Insurance” Really Mean?
When shopping for budget auto insurance, it is common to focus entirely on the monthly premium. However, as Elle points out, true “cheap” insurance is rarely about what you pay; it is about what your policy actually covers.
“What we mean by cheap insurance is that a policyholder may be under-insuring themselves, their vehicles, and their personal property. It’s not necessarily about the premium they’re paying, but the actual dollar amount of coverage they are carrying in their policy.” — Elle Bunn Lappan, Bunn Insurance President
By selecting state minimum limits, a driver chooses a minimal safety net that can quickly prove insufficient in a severe crisis.
The Legal Reality: Virginia’s Limits vs. Modern Medical Expenses
Virginia auto insurance laws require mandatory minimum liability limits of $50,000 per person for bodily injury, $100,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage. Additionally, the Commonwealth requires uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage to match these liability thresholds.
While these requirements establish a standard baseline, a single overnight hospital stay, emergency surgery, or multi-vehicle collision can exhaust these limits within hours.
Here is how a low-limit policy can impact you legally after a serious crash:
Scenario A: You Are Alleged to Be At Fault
If you are found liable for a severe accident and the injured parties incur medical bills exceeding $100,000, your insurance company’s obligation to pay is generally capped at your policy limit (e.g., $50,000). You could be held personally responsible for the remaining balance. If you have personal assets, such as a home, savings accounts, or future wages, the injured party may seek to target those assets through a personal lawsuit to satisfy a judgment.
Scenario B: You Are Not At Fault (The Underinsured Driver Problem)
If another driver causes a collision that injures you, but they carry only the bare minimum coverage, your own Underinsured Motorist (UIM) coverage becomes critical. Under Virginia law, you can stack your UIM limits to secure additional recovery. However, if you carry only the state minimum limits, your recovery from your own insurer may be capped at that low amount. If your medical expenses reach six figures, an inadequate policy can leave you with significant uncompensated losses.
The Property Damage Gap: A Common Hidden Vulnerability
Property damage minimums present another significant risk. If a policy only covers up to $25,000 in property damage, a driver may face personal exposure if they cause an accident involving a modern vehicle, an SUV, or a multi-car wreck.
As Elle frames the scenario. Imagine your own vehicle is valued at $10,000. But, if you cause an accident that totals a $75,000 modern SUV or luxury vehicle, your at-fault driver’s policy may leave a massive shortfall.
Without higher liability boundaries, the vehicle owner or their insurer could pursue you personally for the outstanding repair or replacement costs.
Real-Life Consequences: A Cravens & Noll Case Study
Virginia State Bar Required Notice: Case results depend upon a variety of factors unique to each case. Case results do not guarantee or predict a similar result in any future case.
To understand how quickly minimal insurance thresholds can dissolve, look at a case evaluated by the legal team at Cravens & Noll several years back.
While traveling on a narrow road, a vehicle crossed the center line and struck our client’s vehicle head-on. Due to the severity of the impact, our client required an emergency med-flight to VCU Medical Center, spending multiple days in intensive care. Her total medical expenses rapidly climbed past $250,000.
- The Problem: The at-fault driver was operating completely uninsured.
- The Shortfall: While our client carried a $100,000 policy—which was higher than the bare minimum standard at the time—it still fell significantly short of her actual $250,000 medical liability.
- The Legal Process: Because she received care at a state-supported medical institution without sufficient coverage to balance the debt, a statutory medical lien was placed against her legal claim. Our legal team aggressively negotiated with the medical providers to reduce the outstanding liens, allowing her to ultimately retain a portion of her recovery to assist in rebuilding her life.
Had a higher UIM threshold or an umbrella policy been in place, her medical liabilities could have been fully satisfied by the insurance carriers, minimizing her financial distress during her physical recovery.
Shocking Truth: Higher Protection Often Costs Pennies
A major misconception among drivers is that doubling or tripling policy limits will double or triple their insurance premiums. In reality, restructuring deductibles and adjusting liability maximums to safer levels typically adds only a nominal amount to a monthly premium.
- Allocating just a few extra dollars a month can frequently secure an additional $50,000 to $100,000 in bodily injury liability protection.
- A minor monthly adjustment can safeguard a household against personal asset exposure in the event of an unforeseen litigation process.
Protect Your Household: Request a Professional Evaluation
Relying solely on automated internet algorithms to select your coverage can leave critical gaps in your financial safety net. Evaluating your specific insurance needs requires a comprehensive look at your personal assets, your driving habits, and what you need to protect.
Recommended Steps to Take Today:
- Request a Comprehensive Insurance Audit: Reach out to an independent professional like Elle Bunn Lappan at Bunn Insurance for a comprehensive evaluation of your current policy thresholds.
- Review Asset Alignment: Speak with an experienced broker who can cross-shop coverage across multiple carriers to secure robust protection limits that align with your family’s financial needs.
- Understand Your Legal Options: If you or a family member has been injured in a collision and you are concerned about medical expenses outpacing available policy limits, contact the personal injury team at Cravens & Noll for a professional consultation.
David is a partner with Cravens & Noll and has been representing Virginians for over two decades, and is proud to have been awarded The Best Attorney in Richmond by the Richmond Times-Dispatch. His practice includes all matters regarding civil litigation including all family law matters, personal injury, and business law matters. Additionally, he represents individuals and families in the area of consumer bankruptcy.
David’s primary focus is working directly with his clients in order to strongly advocate the best possible result. He ensures that all attorneys at the firm follow the mission to be easily accessible to clients.
David and his family reside in Henrico County. When not working with his clients, David enjoys spending time with his family, running and training for half and full marathons, and as much time at the beach surfing with his children.
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June 29, 2026
Navigating Truck Accident Litigation in Harrisonburg: A Complete Guide
By Bethany Rishell Attorney | Cravens & Noll, P.C.
Truck accidents in Harrisonburg aren’t like typical fender benders. Especially when they occur on highway I-81. These crashes usually involve serious injuries, multiple parties who might share blame, and insurance companies that don’t back down easily. For someone already dealing with recovery, navigating the legal process can feel overwhelming. This guide walks through the steps of truck accident litigation in Harrisonburg so you know what to expect and how to protect your rights.
Why Truck Accidents Are More Complicated
When an accident involves an 18-wheeler or commercial truck, the stakes are higher. Trucks weigh tons more than passenger cars, which means injuries are often more severe. But beyond that, these cases are legally complex because responsibility doesn’t always fall on just one person. Unlike a regular car crash, where liability is usually pinned to a single driver, truck cases may involve the driver, the trucking company, the vehicle’s manufacturer, or even the cargo loaders. Each party has its own insurance carrier and legal team, which makes the process far more challenging.
Key Causes of Truck Accidents in Harrisonburg
Some of the most common reasons for truck crashes in the area include:
- Driver fatigue – Long hours on the road make exhaustion a constant risk.
- Improper maintenance – Skipping inspections or repairs can lead to brake failure or tire blowouts.
- Overloaded cargo – Unbalanced or overweight loads cause trucks to jackknife or tip.
- Distracted driving – Texting, eating, or adjusting navigation systems can all contribute.
- Hazardous road conditions – Sharp curves, construction zones, or poor weather can quickly turn dangerous when a truck is involved.
Understanding the cause is essential because it points to who may ultimately be responsible.
Who Can Be Held Liable in Truck Accident Litigation?
Liability in a truck accident isn’t always straightforward. Possible parties include:
- The truck driver, if they were negligent, speeding, or driving under the influence.
- The trucking company encourages unsafe schedules, skipped maintenance, and the hiring of unqualified drivers.
- The cargo company is investigating whether loading errors led to the crash.
- The manufacturer of a defective part, like brakes or tires, contributed to the wreck.
Since multiple defendants may be involved, determining liability is one of the first and most important steps in litigation.
Evidence in Truck Accident Litigation
Strong evidence is what sets apart a successful claim from a denied one. In truck accident cases, evidence may include:
- The truck’s black box data shows speed, braking, and hours driven.
- Maintenance logs and inspection records.
- Driver logs tracking hours on the road.
- Eyewitness testimony and police reports.
- Accident scene photos and video footage, if available.
Securing this evidence early is critical because companies may move quickly to protect themselves.
The Litigation Process in Harrisonburg
Here’s a simplified breakdown of how a truck accident lawsuit generally unfolds:
- Investigation – Collecting evidence and identifying liable parties.
- Filing the claim – Starting the official lawsuit.
- Discovery – Both sides exchange documents, evidence, and witness testimony.
- Negotiations – Many cases settle before trial, but negotiations can take time.
- Trial – If a fair settlement isn’t reached, the case may go before a jury.
Each stage takes patience, but knowing the process helps you stay prepared.
Types of Compensation Available
Victims of truck accidents on the highway I-81 in Harrisonburg may be entitled to several forms of compensation, such as:
- Medical expenses – Hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, and long-term care.
- Lost wages – Income lost during recovery, as well as future earning potential.
- Pain and suffering – Physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
- Property damage – Repairs or replacement of your vehicle and belongings.
The severity of injuries and the details of the accident often dictate how much compensation may be pursued.
Why Local Legal Representation Matters
Truck accident litigation isn’t something you want to take on alone. Local attorneys who know the Harrisonburg courts, judges, and insurance defense tactics can make a big difference. They understand the regional nuances, know how to gather the right evidence quickly, and can anticipate the strategies of opposing counsel. Having that hometown advantage ensures you’re not fighting an uphill battle in unfamiliar territory.
Contact Cravens & Noll for Expert Assistance
If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident in Harrisonburg, you don’t have to figure out the legal system by yourself. The attorneys at Cravens & Noll PC are here to guide you through every step, from investigation to settlement or trial. With offices in Harrisonburg, Richmond, Chesterfield, Henrico, and Colonial Heights, they’re ready to help protect your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.
At Cravens & Noll, an experienced Virginia law firm, we are Your Lawyers For Life and have protected and served the rights of over 30,000 people just like you throughout Virginia across 4 Decades in Business. This is why we have been voted one of The Best Law Firms and The Best Attorney in Richmond by the Richmond Times-Dispatch.
We know that every legal case is always…personal. No matter what you are facing right now our attorneys will provide the solutions you need, at a reasonable price. Whether divorce, personal injury, criminal charges, or bankruptcy. We work hard to be your lawyers for life. That means giving your individual case the one-on-one attention and care it deserves.
Our team of trusted and local lawyers will never give false expectations about the potential outcome of your case. You can count on a realistic assessment of your case, in order for you to make a sound decision.
With offices in Richmond and Harrisonburg, we will assist you with dedicated and professional legal advice. In times like this, you need answers, stability, and confidence. Our calculated approach quickly evaluates and stabilizes your situation immediately to prepare you for the legal matters ahead. Our goal as your attorney is that you feel immediate relief from the moment you contact us. We can meet with you face-to-face, by video, by telephone, or together in our office.
Contact our Virginia attorneys today for a consultation. At your appointment, we will ease the burden on your shoulders and provide you with options on how to proceed. Before taking a case, Cravens and Noll lawyers provide an initial consultation for clients.
June 18, 2026
Commercial Vehicle Accidents in Virginia: Who is Liable When a Delivery Truck Hits You
By David Noll, Managing Attorney | Cravens & Noll, P.C. | Richmond and Harrisonburg, Virginia
Every day across Virginia, commercial vehicles travel busy roads delivering packages, transporting goods, and supporting businesses. From major highways near Midlothian and Henrico to local roads in Colonial Heights and Harrisonburg, delivery trucks have become a common sight. While these vehicles play an important role in commerce, they can also pose significant dangers when accidents occur.
If you have been injured in a collision involving a delivery truck, one of the first questions you may have is: Who is liable for my injuries and damages? Determining responsibility in a commercial vehicle accident is often more complicated than in a typical car accident. Understanding how liability works can help protect your rights and ensure you pursue the compensation you deserve.
Why are Commercial Vehicle Accidents Different?
Unlike accidents involving two private drivers, commercial vehicle crashes often involve multiple parties. Delivery trucks are typically owned, operated, maintained, and insured by companies with substantial resources and legal teams dedicated to protecting their interests.
When a commercial vehicle causes an accident, victims may face severe injuries due to the truck’s larger size and weight. Common injuries include traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, broken bones, internal injuries, and long-term disabilities. Medical bills, lost income, and emotional trauma can quickly become overwhelming.
An experienced injury lawyer can investigate the accident and identify all potentially liable parties.
Who is Potentially Liable in a Delivery Truck Accident?
The Truck Driver
In many delivery truck accidents, the driver’s insurance coverage may be a primary source of compensation for injured parties. When a collision occurs, an investigation will determine whether the driver’s actions contributed to the crash and whether their insurance policy applies to the resulting damages.
Depending on the circumstances, coverage may be available for losses arising from issues such as traffic violations, driver error, inattention, fatigue, or other factors that played a role in the accident. If the driver is found legally responsible, their insurance policy may help cover medical expenses, lost income, property damage, and other related losses.
The Delivery Company
The company that employs or contracts with the driver may also bear responsibility. Under Virginia law, employers can often be held liable for the actions of employees who are acting within the scope of their employment.
Additionally, a delivery company may be directly liable if it:
- Failed to properly train drivers
- Hired an unqualified driver
- Encouraged unsafe driving practices
- Failed to enforce safety regulations
- Neglected vehicle maintenance
Large corporations and delivery companies may attempt to minimize their liability after an accident. Working with a knowledgeable personal injury law firm can help ensure critical evidence is preserved and investigated.
Vehicle Owners and Maintenance Providers
Sometimes the truck involved in the accident is owned by a third party or leased from another company. If poor maintenance contributed to the crash, the vehicle owner or maintenance provider could share responsibility.
Examples include:
- Brake failures
- Tire blowouts
- Steering malfunctions
- Defective lights or signals
A thorough investigation may uncover maintenance records and inspection reports that reveal negligence.
Manufacturers of Defective Parts
In some cases, the accident may result from a defective vehicle component. If a faulty brake system, tire, steering mechanism, or other part contributed to the collision, the manufacturer may be liable under product liability laws.
Identifying defective equipment often requires expert analysis and accident reconstruction.
What Can Help Establish Liability?
Commercial vehicle accident cases often involve extensive evidence beyond what is available in a typical car accident claim. Important evidence may include:
- Driver logs and schedules
- Electronic tracking data
- GPS records
- Vehicle maintenance records
- Company safety policies
- Dash camera footage
- Witness statements
- Police reports
- Black box data
The sooner an accident lawyer becomes involved, the better the chances of preserving this valuable evidence before it disappears.
Virginia’s Contributory Negligence Rule
Virginia follows a strict legal doctrine known as contributory negligence. Under this rule, if an injured person is found even partially at fault for an accident, they may be barred from recovering compensation.
Insurance companies frequently attempt to use this rule to deny valid claims. They may argue that the injured victim contributed to the accident in some way, even when the commercial driver was primarily responsible.
Because of this challenging legal standard, it is essential to consult with a skilled car accident lawyer as soon as possible after a commercial vehicle collision.
What Compensation May Be Available?
Victims of delivery truck accidents may be entitled to recover compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Future medical treatment
- Lost wages
- Loss of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Property damage
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
Every case is unique, and the value of a claim depends on factors such as injury severity, liability, and long-term impacts on the victim’s life.
Why Legal Representation Matters
Commercial trucking companies and their insurers often begin investigating accidents immediately. Their goal is frequently to limit financial exposure rather than fully compensate injured victims.
An experienced local injury lawyer can level the playing field by:
- Conducting an independent investigation
- Gathering and preserving evidence
- Consulting with experts
- Negotiating with insurance companies
- Pursuing litigation when necessary
Having strong legal representation can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
Contact Cravens & Noll After a Commercial Vehicle Accident
If you or a loved one has been injured in a delivery truck accident in Midlothian, Henrico, Colonial Heights, Harrisonburg, or anywhere throughout Virginia, it is important to understand your rights and legal options.
The attorneys at Cravens & Noll have extensive experience helping accident victims navigate complex personal injury claims involving commercial vehicles. Whether the accident was caused by a negligent driver, delivery company, maintenance provider, or vehicle manufacturer, our team is committed to pursuing the compensation our clients deserve.
When facing serious injuries and mounting expenses, you should not have to take on large corporations and insurance companies alone. Contact Cravens & Noll today to speak with an experienced injury lawyer and learn how our personal injury law firm can help protect your future after a commercial vehicle accident.
At Cravens & Noll, we will be your lawyers for life.
Frequently Asked Questions About Delivery Truck Accidents in Virginia
1. What should I do immediately after a delivery truck accident in Virginia?
After a delivery truck accident, your first priority should be seeking medical attention, even if your injuries seem minor. Call law enforcement and document the scene with photos and video. If possible, do not move your vehicle until after photo and video are taken. Gather contact information from witnesses and avoid discussing fault with insurance representatives. Contacting an experienced personal injury attorney early can help preserve important evidence and protect your legal rights.
2. Can I sue a delivery company if one of its drivers caused my accident?
Potentially, yes. In many cases, a delivery company may be held liable for accidents caused by drivers who were acting within the scope of their employment. Depending on the circumstances, the company may also be responsible for negligent hiring, inadequate training, poor vehicle maintenance, or other safety failures that contributed to the crash.
3. How long do I have to file a delivery truck accident claim in Virginia?
Virginia generally imposes a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims arising from motor vehicle accidents. However, certain circumstances can affect filing deadlines. Because waiting too long can jeopardize your ability to recover compensation, it is important to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible after the accident.
4. What if the insurance company says I was partially at fault for the accident?
Virginia follows a strict contributory negligence rule. This means that if you are found even slightly responsible for the accident, you may be barred from recovering compensation. Insurance companies often raise this defense to reduce or deny claims, making it especially important to have an attorney investigate the accident and advocate on your behalf.
5. How much is a commercial vehicle accident case worth in Virginia?
The value of a commercial vehicle accident claim depends on several factors, including the severity of your injuries, the cost of medical treatment, lost wages, future care needs, pain and suffering, and the impact the injuries have on your daily life. Because every case is unique, an attorney can evaluate your specific circumstances and help determine the compensation you may be entitled to pursue.
David is a partner with Cravens & Noll and has been representing Virginians for over two decades, and is proud to have been awarded The Best Attorney in Richmond by the Richmond Times-Dispatch. His practice includes all matters regarding civil litigation including all family law matters, personal injury, and business law matters. Additionally, he represents individuals and families in the area of consumer bankruptcy.
David’s primary focus is working directly with his clients in order to strongly advocate the best possible result. He ensures that all attorneys at the firm follow the mission to be easily accessible to clients.
David and his family reside in Henrico County. When not working with his clients, David enjoys spending time with his family, running and training for half and full marathons, and as much time at the beach surfing with his children.
May 14, 2026
Injured in a Truck or Car Accident on I-81 Near Harrisonburg? Here Is What You Need to Know
By Bethany Rishell Attorney | Cravens & Noll, P.C.
If you live in or around Harrisonburg, you already know that Interstate 81 is not just a highway. It is part of your daily life. Whether you are commuting to work, heading to campus at JMU, or running errands in Rockingham County, chances are you are merging onto I-81 on a regular basis.
But I-81 isn’t like most highways. It carries an unusually heavy volume of tractor-trailers, far more than many other roads in Virginia, and that constant mix of passenger vehicles and freight traffic changes how it feels to drive. Add in the hills, curves, and congestion, and it’s no surprise that crashes, especially involving large trucks, are something many local drivers have seen firsthand. As a personal injury attorney in Harrisonburg who has handled accident cases across the Shenandoah Valley for years, I want to share a few things I wish more people understood before they ever call a lawyer.
Why I-81 Accidents Are Different
Here is something that surprises a lot of people: roughly 41% of all trucking traffic in Virginia travels on I-81 according to VDOT. That is more than I-95 through Northern Virginia and more than I-66. The highway was designed in the 1950s for far less traffic, and the rolling terrain of the Shenandoah Valley makes it even harder for semi-trucks to maintain consistent speeds on the hills between Staunton and Harrisonburg.
The result is a fatal accident rate on I-81 that is nearly double that of other Virginia interstates. We see multi-vehicle pileups, rear-end collisions at exit ramps, and jackknife trucks in bad weather far too often. When a fully loaded tractor-trailer hits a passenger vehicle, the injuries are almost always severe.
If you or a family member has been hurt in a truck accident or car accident near Harrisonburg, the legal situation is more complicated than a typical fender bender. Trucking companies have their own lawyers and insurance teams working the moment a wreck happens. You should have someone in your corner just as quickly.
The Insurance Company Is Not Looking Out for You
I cannot tell you how many times a new client has come into our Harrisonburg office after already receiving a settlement offer in the mail. Usually, it arrives within days of the accident, before the person even knows the full extent of their injuries. It looks like help. It feels like a relief. But it is almost always the bare minimum the insurance company thinks they can get away with.
Insurance adjusters are trained to sound sympathetic, but remember, their job is to close your file quickly and cheaply. Once you accept that check, it is final. Even if new injuries surface weeks later, your physical therapy stretches on longer than expected, or you find out you cannot return to work at all. That signed agreement does not reopen.
Our approach at Cravens & Noll is simple. We help our clients slow down, get the full picture, and make sure nothing is left on the table. We look beyond the accident report. We dig into what this injury means for your life, your ability to work, your family, and your long-term health. And we handle communication with the insurance company so you are not pressured into a decision before you are ready.
What to Do After an Accident on I-81
If you are involved in a crash on I-81 or anywhere in the Harrisonburg area, here are the steps that matter most in the days that follow.
- Get medical care right away, even if you feel fine. Adrenaline can mask pain for hours or even days. Some of the most serious injuries from vehicle accidents, including soft tissue damage, concussions, and internal bleeding, do not show symptoms immediately. A medical record from that first visit also becomes important evidence later.
- Document everything. Photos of vehicles, the road, your injuries. Names of witnesses. Notes on how you feel each day. These details fade fast, and they matter when building a personal injury claim.
- Be careful with insurance statements. You are not required to give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance company. Anything you say can and will be used to reduce your compensation. Talk to an accident attorney in Harrisonburg before you talk to them.
And remember, Virginia’s statute of limitations for most personal injury cases is two years. That may sound like a long time, but building a strong case takes time, and waiting too long can cost you.
Why a Local Personal Injury Law Firm Matters in Harrisonburg
Truck accident litigation in Harrisonburg is not the same as handling a case in Richmond or Northern Virginia. The courts are different. The judges are different. The roads are different. I-81 through the Shenandoah Valley has specific hazards, from steep grades near Staunton to congested merges around Route 33 and Exit 247, that someone unfamiliar with this area simply will not understand the way a local attorney does.
At Cravens & Noll, we have been part of the Harrisonburg community for years. Our firm was founded in 1995, and we have been serving the people of the Shenandoah Valley for years. We know the local courts. We know the roads. And we know what it takes to stand up to large trucking companies and their insurance teams on behalf of Valley families.
If you have been hurt in a vehicle accident on I-81 or anywhere in the Harrisonburg area, we are here to help.
Questions? Schedule Your Consultation with Bethany Rishell, Today! Phone: 540-246-0684
At Cravens & Noll, an experienced Virginia law firm, we are Your Lawyers For Life and have protected and served the rights of over 30,000 people just like you throughout Virginia across 4 Decades in Business. This is why we have been voted one of The Best Law Firms and The Best Attorney in Richmond by the Richmond Times-Dispatch.
We know that every legal case is always…personal. No matter what you are facing right now our attorneys will provide the solutions you need, at a reasonable price. Whether divorce, personal injury, criminal charges, or bankruptcy. We work hard to be your lawyers for life. That means giving your individual case the one-on-one attention and care it deserves.
Our team of trusted and local lawyers will never give false expectations about the potential outcome of your case. You can count on a realistic assessment of your case, in order for you to make a sound decision.
With offices in Richmond and Harrisonburg, we will assist you with dedicated and professional legal advice. In times like this, you need answers, stability, and confidence. Our calculated approach quickly evaluates and stabilizes your situation immediately to prepare you for the legal matters ahead. Our goal as your attorney is that you feel immediate relief from the moment you contact us. We can meet with you face-to-face, by video, by telephone, or together in our office.
Contact our Virginia attorneys today for a consultation. At your appointment, we will ease the burden on your shoulders and provide you with options on how to proceed. Before taking a case, Cravens and Noll lawyers provide an initial consultation for clients.
April 27, 2026
What Types of Insurance Coverage Are Available for Your Personal Injury Claim in Virginia?
By David Noll, Managing Attorney, Cravens & Noll, P.C.
After a car accident in Virginia, most people assume the insurance process is straightforward. You file a claim, the insurance company reviews it, and you get paid what you deserve.
If only it worked that way.
The truth is, understanding what coverage is actually available to you is one of the most important things you can do before you sign anything or accept a single dollar. Virginia’s insurance laws have changed significantly in recent years, and the rules are not always in your favor.
Our team at Cravens & Noll has handled thousands of personal injury cases across Richmond, the Tri-Cities, and the Shenandoah Valley, and we have seen firsthand what happens when injured people navigate this process alone.
Here is what you need to know about the types of insurance coverage available for personal injury claims in Virginia, and why having an experienced accident attorney in your corner matters more than ever.
Virginia Now Requires Every Driver to Carry Insurance
For years, Virginia had a unique and frankly frustrating loophole: drivers could pay a $500 fee to the DMV and legally operate an uninsured vehicle. That option is gone. As of July 1, 2024, Virginia joined almost every other state in the country by requiring all registered vehicle owners to carry auto liability insurance. If you are caught driving without it, you face a $600 noncompliance fine, potential license suspension, and a requirement to carry an SR-22 certificate for three years.
This change is good news for accident victims, but it does not mean every driver on the road carries enough coverage to fully compensate you after a serious crash. That is where understanding the layers of available coverage becomes critical.
Required Coverage in Virginia: Updated 2025 Minimums
Virginia raised its minimum liability coverage requirements effective January 1, 2025. These are now the legal minimums every insured driver must carry:
- Bodily Injury (BI): $50,000 per person / $100,000 per accident. This coverage, carried by the at-fault driver, pays for your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages up to the policy limit. The old minimum was $25,000 per person, which is woefully inadequate for serious injuries. The new limits are a step in the right direction, but they still may not cover everything after a catastrophic crash.
- Property Damage (PD): $25,000 per accident. This covers damage to your vehicle and other property caused by the at-fault driver.
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Bodily Injury (UM/UIMBI): Minimum limits of $50,000 per person / $100,000 per accident, matching your BI limits. This coverage activates when the at-fault driver either has no insurance or does not have enough to cover your losses. Importantly, Virginia law changed the way UIM is calculated: it now pays in addition to the at-fault driver’s coverage rather than being reduced by it. That means more money available to seriously injured victims.
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Property Damage (UM/UIMPD): Minimum limit of $25,000 per accident. This is the property damage equivalent of your UM/UIMBI coverage.
Keep in mind: these are floors, not ceilings. Many drivers still carry only the bare minimum, and medical bills from a serious accident in Virginia can easily exceed these numbers. The stronger your own uninsured/underinsured coverage, the better protected you are.
FR-44 Policies: Higher Requirements After a DUI Conviction
Drivers convicted of a DUI in Virginia are required to carry an FR-44 policy for a minimum of three years. These policies require double the standard minimum limits: $100,000 per person and $200,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $50,000 for property damage. If you were injured by a drunk driver, it is possible the at-fault driver carries higher limits than you might expect, which can affect how much compensation is ultimately available.
Optional Coverage That Can Make a Real Difference
Virginia law does not require drivers to carry every type of coverage. But the optional coverages below can be the difference between full recovery and a financial crisis after a serious accident:
- Medical Payments Coverage (MedPay): This pays your medical expenses regardless of fault, which means it applies even if you caused the accident. Limits typically range from $500 to $10,000. It can also cover funeral expenses in the event of a fatality. If you have MedPay on your own policy, you should access it, but do not let a hospital redirect the billing to your auto insurance in a way that drains these funds prematurely. Our team can help you protect these benefits.
- Comprehensive and Collision Coverage: These cover damage to your own vehicle, whether from a crash, theft, or another event. Both come with deductibles. If the at-fault driver’s property damage coverage is insufficient to cover your vehicle loss, your own collision coverage can step in after you pay your deductible.
What the Insurance Company Is Not Telling You
Here is something that does not appear in any insurance brochure: the adjuster calling to take your statement is not working for you. Their goal is to settle your claim quickly, at the lowest possible number, before you know the full cost of your injuries.
That check they offer early in the process looks appealing when bills are piling up. But once you sign a release, that is final, even if your condition worsens, even if you need surgery six months from now, even if you cannot return to work. The insurance company knows this. They are counting on you not knowing it.
Our job at Cravens & Noll is to slow that process down, get the complete picture, and make sure nothing is left behind. We calculate the real cost of your accident: not just the emergency room bill, but follow-up care, physical therapy, lost income, and the long-term impact on your life. Then we fight for that number, and the insurance companies know we are ready to take it to trial if negotiations fall short.
Talk to a Personal Injury Attorney in Richmond Before You Sign Anything
You do not have to figure out which coverage applies, which adjuster to call, or whether an offer is fair, all on your own. That is exactly what our team at Cravens & Noll is here for. We have spent decades in Virginia personal injury law, we know how these claims work, and we know when an insurance company is not being straight with you.
If you have been injured in an accident on I-95, in the Tri-Cities area, or anywhere in Central Virginia, contact our team for a free consultation. You will speak directly with an attorney, no intake coordinators, no runaround. There is no fee unless we recover compensation for you.
At Cravens & Noll, we will be your lawyers for life.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the minimum auto insurance requirements in Virginia in 2025?
As of January 1, 2025, Virginia requires all drivers to carry at least $50,000 in bodily injury coverage per person, $100,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage. Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage must match those limits. Virginia also eliminated the option to drive uninsured by paying a DMV fee, effective July 1, 2024.
What does uninsured motorist coverage pay for in Virginia?
Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage pays for your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages when the at-fault driver has no insurance. Underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage applies when the at-fault driver has insurance but not enough to cover the full cost of your injuries. Under Virginia’s updated law, UIM now pays in addition to whatever the at-fault driver’s policy covers.
Should I use MedPay or my health insurance after a car accident?
If you are hospitalized after a car accident, always use your health insurance first. Medical providers may ask you to assign your auto insurance benefits to them, but doing so can reduce the funds available for your overall personal injury recovery. Your MedPay benefits should remain accessible to you directly. Talk to an attorney before filling out any assignment of benefits forms at the hospital.
How long do I have to file a personal injury claim in Virginia?
Virginia’s statute of limitations for most personal injury claims is two years from the date of the accident. Missing this deadline generally means losing your right to sue. It is important to contact an accident attorney well before that deadline, because building a strong case takes time.
Do I need a lawyer if the insurance company already made me an offer?
Yes, especially if you have significant injuries. An early settlement offer from an insurance company is almost always the minimum they believe they can settle for, not the full value of your claim. Once you accept and sign, the case is closed. A personal injury attorney can evaluate whether the offer is fair based on the true cost of your injuries, and negotiate for full compensation before anything is signed.
At Cravens & Noll, an experienced Virginia law firm, we are Your Lawyers For Life and have protected and served the rights of over 30,000 people just like you throughout Virginia across 4 Decades in Business. This is why we have been voted one of The Best Law Firms and The Best Attorney in Richmond by the Richmond Times-Dispatch.
We know that every legal case is always…personal. No matter what you are facing right now our attorneys will provide the solutions you need, at a reasonable price. Whether divorce, personal injury, criminal charges, or bankruptcy. We work hard to be your lawyers for life. That means giving your individual case the one-on-one attention and care it deserves.
Our team of trusted and local lawyers will never give false expectations about the potential outcome of your case. You can count on a realistic assessment of your case, in order for you to make a sound decision.
With offices in Richmond and Harrisonburg, we will assist you with dedicated and professional legal advice. In times like this, you need answers, stability, and confidence. Our calculated approach quickly evaluates and stabilizes your situation immediately to prepare you for the legal matters ahead. Our goal as your attorney is that you feel immediate relief from the moment you contact us. We can meet with you face-to-face, by video, by telephone, or together in our office.
Contact our Virginia attorneys today for a consultation. At your appointment, we will ease the burden on your shoulders and provide you with options on how to proceed. Before taking a case, Cravens and Noll lawyers provide an initial consultation for clients.
September 1, 2020
Pedestrian Injuries From Driver Recklessness
According to the CDC, 5,977 pedestrians were killed in traffic accidents in 2017. That translates to one death every 88 minutes in the United States.
Pedestrian injuries and deaths from traffic accidents are unfortunately all too common. More often than not, they’re caused by reckless drivers putting other lives in danger, either by drinking, speeding, driving recklessly, inattentively or using a cell instead of operating their vehicle..
If you have been injured or know someone who was killed or seriously injured due to reckless driving, you are entitled to pursue a personal injury lawsuit. In this blog, we’ll go over what causes these accidents and what pedestrians can do to hold reckless drivers accountable.
What Counts as Reckless Driving in Virginia?
The definition of reckless driving is fairly universal and self-explanatory. In Virginia law, reckless driving is defined as someone who drives their vehicle “on any highway recklessly or at a speed or in a manner so as to endanger the life, limb, or property of any person.”
Within this definition, reckless is defined as “a careless disregard by the driver of a motor vehicle for the consequences of his act and an indifference to the safety of life, limb or property.”
This definition begs the question, what specifically counts as reckless driving?
There are some fairly common examples:
- Speeding
- Distracted driving
- Driving under the influence
- Failing to follow traffic laws and signs
- Ignoring weather conditions
What Are The Costs For The Driver?
If a driver causes an accident while doing any of these actions, they may be considered a reckless driver and can be charged as such.
Reckless driving is a class one misdemeanor and can lead to many penalties. Legally, these include a $2,500 fine, suspended license, and in extreme cases, jail time. Monetarily, reckless driving can cause an increase in your automobile insurance and loss of a job due to a conviction.
The charges can get more severe depending on the circumstances of the accident. If the driver was under the influence of alcohol or drugs, they’ll also be charged with a DUI. If the driver left the scene without exchanging information, then they could be charged with hit and run.
If the accident leads to a victim’s death, the driver could be charged with vehicular or involuntary manslaughter. This charge is only applied in extreme cases, where the driver’s recklessness goes beyond simple negligence, or there was a fatality or serious injury involved.
What Are The Costs For The Pedestrian?
While a reckless driver does face consequences after causing an accident or death, the damages towards the pedestrian can be worse and longer lasting.
There are the physical damages that a victim faces from being hit by a car. These can range from bruises and scratches, and escalate to broken bones or lost limbs. Worst all, a reckless driver can cause someone to lose their life.
Beyond the physical damages, there are economic damages that a victim of reckless driving can sustain. These include:
- Hospital bills
- Physical therapy treatment
- Medical accessories like crutches or wheelchairs
- Job loss due to injuries
- Replacement or repair of personal property
- Future medical expenses and lost wages
Both physical and economic damages can lead to emotional damages, such as:
- The pain and suffering caused by the accident
- Loss of personal interactions due to injuries
- Loss of a limb or a sense, like hearing or sight
- Inability to perform simple tasks in your day-to-day life
How Do I Hold A Reckless Driver Accountable?
If you’ve suffered any of the damages listed here, or want to discuss the effects a reckless driving accident has had on your life, you need to speak with an experienced attorney.
The attorneys at Cravens and Noll are well-versed in personal injury law, specifically in reckless driving accidents. Our lawyers will work with you to make sure you receive the compensation you need and deserve after a horrible accident.
Let us be your guide. We have a proven track record of success at trial and pretrial settlement negotiation. If your case is worth a million dollars, we are the lawyers to call.
Call or email us to schedule a consultation today.
At Cravens & Noll, an experienced Virginia law firm, we are Your Lawyers For Life and have protected and served the rights of over 30,000 people just like you throughout Virginia across 4 Decades in Business. This is why we have been voted one of The Best Law Firms and The Best Attorney in Richmond by the Richmond Times-Dispatch.
We know that every legal case is always…personal. No matter what you are facing right now our attorneys will provide the solutions you need, at a reasonable price. Whether divorce, personal injury, criminal charges, or bankruptcy. We work hard to be your lawyers for life. That means giving your individual case the one-on-one attention and care it deserves.
Our team of trusted and local lawyers will never give false expectations about the potential outcome of your case. You can count on a realistic assessment of your case, in order for you to make a sound decision.
With offices in Richmond and Harrisonburg, we will assist you with dedicated and professional legal advice. In times like this, you need answers, stability, and confidence. Our calculated approach quickly evaluates and stabilizes your situation immediately to prepare you for the legal matters ahead. Our goal as your attorney is that you feel immediate relief from the moment you contact us. We can meet with you face-to-face, by video, by telephone, or together in our office.
Contact our Virginia attorneys today for a consultation. At your appointment, we will ease the burden on your shoulders and provide you with options on how to proceed. Before taking a case, Cravens and Noll lawyers provide an initial consultation for clients.
May 7, 2020
Make Sure To Take These Photos After a Car Accident
If you have ever been in a car accident, you know those first few moments after the accident are very emotional. You are probably not thinking about taking photos or preserving the evidence you may need after an accident. Your first instinct might be to get angry if you know the accident was not your fault. After those first few moments, you will begin to evaluate your health and whether you sustained any injuries.
Once you know you are okay, your next instinct will be to check on your passengers. Are the children okay? Is your spouse okay? If everyone in your car is well, the next thought might be to check on the well-being of the passengers of the other car(s) involved in the accident.
Once you know everybody is okay, it is time to start gathering information. Unfortunately, some people forget to take photos of the accident scene. These photos can be crucial to your claim with the insurance company, and your attorney wants to see these photos too.
The next time you’re involved in an automobile accident, these are the photos you want to capture:
Photos of All Drivers and Passengers
Take pictures of anyone involved with the accident. This includes not only all of the people in your vehicle, but also the people in other vehicles too. You also want to take photos of other people at the scene such as officers, medical personnel, and especially witnesses. It is always good to get as much documentation as possible of other people involved at the scene of the incident.
Why You Should Take Pictures of Everyone
While it may seem cumbersome to take photos of everyone at the scene, there are many instances where stories change after everything is cleaned up. Suddenly, people in the other car claim they have whiplash, or there’s an extra passenger you never saw at the scene that day. Some people will try to take advantage of the insurance companies by claiming injuries to get a payout. By taking photos of all the parties involved, you will know for sure who actually was involved in the accident.
If anyone has visible injuries, you may want to take photos of the injuries of all parties if possible. This will provide documentation of the injuries right after they occurred.
Photos at Different Angles and Distances
Again, you want to have as much photo documentation as possible after an accident. Start with photos all around the accident scene. Inspect the road for debris from the cars, skid marks, road defects, and any other feature which might have been a determining factor in the accident.
Get Photos Before Tow Trucks Arrive
Once the tow trucks and the police arrive, the vehicles are going to be moved, so you want to try to take photos of the resting place of all vehicles. Take enough photographs so any lawyer, claims representative or anybody investigating the accident can visualize where the vehicles stopped after the crash. This photographic evidence will help further substantiate your account of how the accident occurred.
Consider the Weather
If it is a really cold day, this may play a role in the accident. Take photos of ice on the roadways. If there was a downpour or thunderstorm at the time of the crash, take a short video documenting this too. If one of the vehicles crashed due to blinding sunlight, you want to document this too.
Watch the Traffic Signals
In addition, take a few minutes to watch the traffic signals if the accident occurred near a major intersection. Are the lights working correctly? Are the traffic lights out because of a bad thunderstorm? Take photos of the intersection including the lights, and take short videos if you notice anything unusual about the traffic lights.
Is there a disagreement about who had the green light? See if there are witnesses who saw who had the right of way.
Get Photos of Traffic Lanes and Signs
In addition to the vehicles and the traffic signals, you also want to take a few moments to capture images of the traffic lanes and highway signs at the intersection. Capture an image of a yield sign or a stop sign, especially if a sign is partially obscured by a tree or other object.
Get Photos of Driver Information
Finally, you should take photos of the other driver’s license and insurance card. Be especially wary if the other driver doesn’t want to give you their insurance information. This could be because they are uninsured.
Contact an Attorney
After the event is over, you probably need to seek legal counsel. The attorneys at Cravens & Noll, P.C. have been representing parties involved in car accidents all over Virginia for 30 years. We have a team of lawyers and injury trained legal assistants who will represent and assist to make sure you are fairly compensated for your damages and injuries.
Contact us today to begin the process of getting your life back in order!
At Cravens & Noll, an experienced Virginia law firm, we are Your Lawyers For Life and have protected and served the rights of over 30,000 people just like you throughout Virginia across 4 Decades in Business. This is why we have been voted one of The Best Law Firms and The Best Attorney in Richmond by the Richmond Times-Dispatch.
We know that every legal case is always…personal. No matter what you are facing right now our attorneys will provide the solutions you need, at a reasonable price. Whether divorce, personal injury, criminal charges, or bankruptcy. We work hard to be your lawyers for life. That means giving your individual case the one-on-one attention and care it deserves.
Our team of trusted and local lawyers will never give false expectations about the potential outcome of your case. You can count on a realistic assessment of your case, in order for you to make a sound decision.
With offices in Richmond and Harrisonburg, we will assist you with dedicated and professional legal advice. In times like this, you need answers, stability, and confidence. Our calculated approach quickly evaluates and stabilizes your situation immediately to prepare you for the legal matters ahead. Our goal as your attorney is that you feel immediate relief from the moment you contact us. We can meet with you face-to-face, by video, by telephone, or together in our office.
Contact our Virginia attorneys today for a consultation. At your appointment, we will ease the burden on your shoulders and provide you with options on how to proceed. Before taking a case, Cravens and Noll lawyers provide an initial consultation for clients.
April 14, 2018
When Should I See a Doctor After a Car Accident?
The most important aspect of a personal injury case is the facts. How the law applies to those facts is critical too, but the chances your case will break new legal ground is almost zero. Facts are normally the main reason why a case wins or loses, a settlement is considerable or disappointing. If you’re involved in a vehicle accident in the Richmond, Chesterfield, Henrico and Harrisonburg areas, the cause of your injuries, their extent and long term impact are very important facts in a lawsuit seeking compensation for those injuries.
That’s why you should get medical attention as soon as possible after your accident. If you’re injured or feel so shaken up you shouldn’t drive, after the police arrive, ask for an ambulance if one isn’t already there. If you’re unconscious, semi-conscious or suffered a serious injury the police officer should call for one without you even asking.
See a doctor as soon as possible
If you feel OK and you can drive your vehicle, as soon as possible after the accident, whether that’s directly from the accident scene or no later than the following day, either see your physician or if he or she isn’t available, go to a local medical clinic or hospital emergency department.
This is necessary so whatever injuries you’ve suffered can be addressed as quickly as possible. You may also have injuries that you’re unaware of because you could literally be numb to them because of the stress of the situation. Tests, x-rays, CT scans or MRI’s could be needed to find what, if anything, is wrong with you and if so, what that problem is and what should be done about it.
The exam, tests and treatment help document important facts for your case too. They will establish that the trauma of the vehicle accident caused your injuries, their extent and how they impact you. You may also need to follow up within days of your medical care because some injuries won’t show themselves until some time passes.
Medical records help you prove your case
The longer you delay in seeing a medical professional, the greater the risk the insurance company representing the other party will claim your injuries weren’t caused by the accident. The insurance company may claim you slipped and fell at home, were injured at work or involved in another accident involving a different driver.
Also, with the delay you risk the claim that you’re to blame that the injuries you suffered are so bad. You didn’t act like a reasonable person to get medical attention promptly. As a result you aggravated the injuries, the situation worsened and the insurance company won’t want to pay for your mistakes.
Most vehicle accident injury cases are based on the legal theory of negligence. In these cases the plaintiff has the burden of showing several elements.
- The defendant owed the plaintiff a legal duty to do, or not do, something given the situation (the defendant should not run stop signs).
- The defendant violated or breached that duty (he or she ran the stop sign).
- That breach was, in fact, the cause of the accident (the truck driven by the defendant didn’t stop at the stop sign and collided into the plaintiff’s car).
- The breach was the legal or proximate cause of the accident.
- As a result of the accident the plaintiff suffered injuries and resulting damages.
- Under Virginia law, the plaintiff can receive compensation for those types of injuries.
The plaintiff has the burden of proving all these elements, including number five. Even if there is strong evidence establishing one through four, without being able to prove injuries were caused in the accident, there is no case. Getting medical attention as soon as possible after an accident will help you prove there’s a connection between the accident and your injuries, as well as establishing how severe they are and their impact on your life.
Call our office as soon as possible after your vehicle accident, too
Cravens & Noll handles all types of vehicle accidents for our clients. Not only can we protect your legal rights, we can help you get the medical care you need and deal with the insurance company so you can focus on recovery and living your life. For the individual attention you deserve and a full explanation of your rights, call Cravens & Noll’s Richmond, Chesterfield, Henrico and Harrisonburg offices at (804) 330-9220 for a free consultation.
At Cravens & Noll, an experienced Virginia law firm, we are Your Lawyers For Life and have protected and served the rights of over 30,000 people just like you throughout Virginia across 4 Decades in Business. This is why we have been voted one of The Best Law Firms and The Best Attorney in Richmond by the Richmond Times-Dispatch.
We know that every legal case is always…personal. No matter what you are facing right now our attorneys will provide the solutions you need, at a reasonable price. Whether divorce, personal injury, criminal charges, or bankruptcy. We work hard to be your lawyers for life. That means giving your individual case the one-on-one attention and care it deserves.
Our team of trusted and local lawyers will never give false expectations about the potential outcome of your case. You can count on a realistic assessment of your case, in order for you to make a sound decision.
With offices in Richmond and Harrisonburg, we will assist you with dedicated and professional legal advice. In times like this, you need answers, stability, and confidence. Our calculated approach quickly evaluates and stabilizes your situation immediately to prepare you for the legal matters ahead. Our goal as your attorney is that you feel immediate relief from the moment you contact us. We can meet with you face-to-face, by video, by telephone, or together in our office.
Contact our Virginia attorneys today for a consultation. At your appointment, we will ease the burden on your shoulders and provide you with options on how to proceed. Before taking a case, Cravens and Noll lawyers provide an initial consultation for clients.
May 22, 2017
Summer Accident Guide
The lawyers of Cravens & Noll with 5 locations representing throughout central Virginia, want everyone to be safe and free from harm. Regretfully, the world is a dangerous place and chances are that one-day a careless or reckless person will injure you or a loved one. Accidents can happen to anyone, anytime, anywhere.
When an accident happens, we are here to help you and your family. After obtaining medical care for yourself and others, some important first steps will help protect your legal interest. You should gather and retain as much information as possible. Take photographs or videos.
Be careful about what you say. Document your injuries. Then Immediately contact Cravens & Noll directly at (804) 258-1631 for a free case evaluation.
The following further suggestions are applicable to most types of accidents.
Be Calm
Stay calm and alert. Accidents are unexpected and can generate powerful emotions. Remaining calm and clear-headed will allow you to more objectively take positive actions. Try to be polite and cordial. Do not become hostile to the others who may be involved.
Call 911 for the Police and Medical Care.
Always call the police or other responsible authorities when involved in an accident. Always request medical assistance for those injured. Always report your injuries no matter how slight. Injuries frequently become worse. Seek prompt medical attention.
Do Not Discuss the Accident
Do not take blame for the accident. Exchange information required by law but do not make any other statements. Cooperate with the authorities but do not make any damaging comments. Anything you say can be used against you. Remember that you have a right to talk with a lawyer before making any statements.
Preserve the Scene
The scene of an accident is the place or location where the injury occurred. It includes the actual physical location plus any physical evidence, items, articles, machinery, products, vehicles, and anything tangible that helps explain the cause of an accident. It is extremely important to call the police or other authorities that are responsible for investigating the accident or resulting injuries. Take complete photographs and videos of the scene, including the resulting injuries.
Gather the Record Information
Get the names, addresses and telephone numbers of all witnesses. Many witnesses of accidents leave without giving any information. Do not rely on the investigating officials to obtain this information. Keep notes of all important facts.
Preserve all Evidence
Evidence includes all tangible and intangible items or information pertaining to the accident. It includes, for example, statements, cars, machines, items, clothing, photographs, videos, scene photographs, medical records, bills, and so forth. Keep all evidence in a secure location. Do not destroy or discard anything. Know where all relevant physical items are located. Do not give authority to anyone to remove, obtain, possess, or destroy anything.
Injuries and Damages
You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. Awarding monetary damages is the law’s method of putting the wrongfully injured party, as closely as possible, into a position equal to that position before he or she was injured. You may have the right to recover money for damages such as pain and suffering, temporary and permanent disability, reasonable expenses for medical and hospital care, future expenses for medical care or rehabilitation, loss of income, and damages to property. Be sure to document all your injuries.
Your Insurance Company
You must promptly report the accident to your company. Failure to do so could result in a loss of coverage. It is prudent to talk to your attorney first. Remember their interest may not be the same as yours. When an accident happens, they are a business, and you are an expense.
Any other Insurance Company
The biggest mistake people make is talking to the other insurance company. Trained adjustors or attorneys always represent insurance companies. Remember your interest is not their interest. You are their expense. They want to get out of a claim as quickly and as cheaply as possible, no matter what the consequences are to you. Protect yourself. Do not give them a statement, particularly a recorded statement. Do not sign anything for them. You are not required to talk to the other insurance company.
Cravens & Noll handles all types of accidents. For the individual attention you deserve and a full explanation of your rights, call Cravens & Noll for a free consultation.
At Cravens & Noll, an experienced Virginia law firm, we are Your Lawyers For Life and have protected and served the rights of over 30,000 people just like you throughout Virginia across 4 Decades in Business. This is why we have been voted one of The Best Law Firms and The Best Attorney in Richmond by the Richmond Times-Dispatch.
We know that every legal case is always…personal. No matter what you are facing right now our attorneys will provide the solutions you need, at a reasonable price. Whether divorce, personal injury, criminal charges, or bankruptcy. We work hard to be your lawyers for life. That means giving your individual case the one-on-one attention and care it deserves.
Our team of trusted and local lawyers will never give false expectations about the potential outcome of your case. You can count on a realistic assessment of your case, in order for you to make a sound decision.
With offices in Richmond and Harrisonburg, we will assist you with dedicated and professional legal advice. In times like this, you need answers, stability, and confidence. Our calculated approach quickly evaluates and stabilizes your situation immediately to prepare you for the legal matters ahead. Our goal as your attorney is that you feel immediate relief from the moment you contact us. We can meet with you face-to-face, by video, by telephone, or together in our office.
Contact our Virginia attorneys today for a consultation. At your appointment, we will ease the burden on your shoulders and provide you with options on how to proceed. Before taking a case, Cravens and Noll lawyers provide an initial consultation for clients.