Statistics show that, over the past few decades, the number of fatalities in traffic accidents has fallen substantially. Still, car accidents continue to claim far too many lives. In Virginia, during 2012, 741 victims were killed in car accidents and 65,114 victims were injured. There were 121,763 car accidents reported in Virginia during 2012. During 2013, 700 victims were killed in car accidents in Virginia. A total of 63,384 victims were injured in car accidents in 2013 and an overall total of 120,282 car accidents were reported in Virginia during 2013.
A car accident can be an unexpected and serious disruption in the lives of victims. Depending on the nature and severity of the accident, victims can suffer a wide range of damages. Because both injuries and death can result from a car accident, different types of legal options, and different types of damages, may be available to victims to meet their individual needs.
The legal process, and the damage recovery process, is designed to compensate victims for damages they have suffered. Depending on the circumstances, damages can include medical expenses, funeral expenses, lost wages, lost-earning capacity, lost prospect of inheritance, loss of support and services and pain and suffering damages, among other types of damages as the situation dictates. There are different legal options for victims to pursue for the recovery of damages depending on the nature of the harm suffered. Options can include a personal injury claim for damages or a wrongful death claim for damages.
The circumstances of each car accident are unique. Likewise, each victim of a car accident faces unique challenges. Though the legal system may at times seem overwhelming, it is able to offer personalized options and attention to ensure the unique needs of each victim are met and that victims are protected.
Source: DMV.Virginia.gov, “2014 Virginia Traffic Crash Facts,” accessed Sept. 14, 2015