After A Car Wreck, Our Team of Car Accident Attorneys Will Fight For Your Fair Compensation
Last updated on October 14, 2026
Getting into a car wreck is a mess in more ways than one. Once the dust settles and you start to put the pieces back together again, you might also need a lawyer. An experienced car accident attorney can help if you have to deal with insurance companies. Personal injury lawyers can also help you pursue other avenues of compensation, such as Uninsured Motorist or Under Insured Motorist coverage. They can also help you negotiate a fair settlement and look out for your best interests. In Roanoke, car accident victims trust the personal injury attorneys Crandall & Katt, Attorneys at Law, to handle their car crash cases.
We handle all car accident cases on a contingency fee basis, which means you will owe us nothing for attorney fees* unless we obtain compensation for you.
Why Choose Crandall & Katt, Attorneys at Law to Be My Personal Injury Law Firm?
We are exclusively dedicated to the practice of personal injury law. As one of the largest plaintiffs’ personal injury law firms in Central and Southwest Virginia, we have been helping clients since 1979. We take pride in our reputation for offering effective and compassionate legal services. Our personal injury lawyers have extensive experience with state and federal personal injury courts throughout Southwest Virginia and are known in the community as caring and ethical professionals. Our cases are handled on a contingency fee basis–you won’t be charged for any attorneys’ fees* unless you receive compensation for your injuries. For your convenience, we offer evening and weekend appointments and can come to you if necessary. At Crandall & Katt, Attorneys at Law, we do everything we can to help our clients get their lives back on track after devastating injuries.
*Excludes court costs and expenses
Do You Need A Lawyer After A Car Accident?
Yes, legal guidance after a collision can make a meaningful difference in how your claim progresses and how well your rights are protected. An attorney can help determine the full scope of your damages, gather evidence before it disappears and communicate with insurers in a way that preserves the strength of your claim.
Attorney support can be particularly critical when injuries are serious, fault is disputed or when multiple drivers or commercial vehicles are involved. The right lawyer can also help you avoid common pitfalls, such as making statements or accepting compensation before you understand the long‑term impact of your injuries.
Additionally, working with counsel helps ensure that deadlines are met and negotiations are handled strategically. This allows you to focus on medical treatment while your attorney manages the demands of your case. Having an advocate typically levels the playing field and helps you pursue the compensation you are entitled to under Virginia law.
Dealing With Insurance Companies After A Crash
After a car accident, insurance companies often present themselves as helpful resources, but their primary goal is to limit what they pay out. Knowing how to interact with adjusters can protect your claim from unnecessary complications.
Recorded statements are one of the most common tools insurers use to shape the narrative of a crash. They may ask broad or leading questions that encourage you to speculate or provide incomplete answers. Since these recordings can be used to challenge your injuries or your version of events, it is wise to speak with an attorney before providing any statements.
Low settlement offers are another frequent tactic. Insurers may extend an early offer before your medical needs and income losses are clear. While a quick offer seems appealing during the stressful post-accident period, it may fail to account for ongoing treatment or the long‑term financial impact of the crash. Evaluating offers with legal guidance helps ensure that you do not accept compensation that undervalues your losses.
Delays can also occur when insurers request repeated documentation, conduct lengthy investigations or fail to respond promptly. This can place pressure on you to settle too fast. Having a lawyer help manage communication keeps the process moving and may prevent unnecessary obstacles while you work toward a fair resolution.
Our Roanoke Car Accident Attorneys Pursue the Compensation You Deserve – Over $400 Million Recovered Across Virginia
$12.5 Million
Brain injury victim hit by drunk driver of commercial vehicle
$7.0 Million
Motorcycle crash resulting in traumatic brain injury
$4.0 Million
Pedestrian hit by dump truck
$2.75 Million
Products liability case
$1.697 Million
Multiple broken bones and traumatic brain injury
$1.6 Million
Auto crash with brain injury and broken bones
$1.35 Million
Defective product resulting in arm amputation
$1.25 Million
Auto crash with paralysis
We Are Experienced Personal Injury Lawyers for All Causes of Car Wrecks
Car accidents happen every single day for all sorts of reasons. Car wrecks can range in severity, in part due to the cause and circumstances. Some of the common causes of car crashes that we litigate include:
- Texting While Driving Accidents
- Distracted Driving Accidents
- Drunk Driving Accidents
- Speeding Accidents
- Fatal Car Accidents (Wrongful Death)
- Ridesharing Accidents (Uber/Lyft)
Whatever the reason for your car accident, if you’ve been in a car wreck the experienced personal injury attorneys at Crandall & Katt, Attorneys at Law, can help. We want to help you put the pieces back together again.
We Are Skilled Litigators In The Most Common Injuries Suffered In Car Accidents
Car accidents can be minor fender benders and maybe not even cause an injury or that much damage. But other times, the damage can be major, and the injuries can be devastating. Common injuries from car crashes can include:
- Brain Injuries
- Broken Bones & Fractures
- Burn Injuries
- Loss of Limbs/Vision/Hearing
- Spinal Cord Injuries, Jarring to the neck and spine from whiplash
- Bumps, bruises and cuts
- Soft tissue injuries to muscles, tendons and ligaments
- Internal injuries such as bleeding, or damage to internal organs
- Concussions, head injuries and Traumatic Brain Injuries
Even in a car wreck where there isn’t much damage to the vehicle, there can still be injuries. It is important to get medical treatment, even if you don’t think your injuries are that big of a deal. Seeking medical treatment helps to document the details and any medical records can be important for determining damages in your personal injury case.
Roanoke Car Accidents Often Entail Injury – Statistics And Information
According to the Virginia DMV, in 2021, Roanoke County had 1,335 car accidents. Of these, 7 were fatal and 552 involved a personal injury.
Some of the most common causes of accidents in Roanoke County involved alcohol and speeding, with 77 accidents caused by a driver under the influence (DUI) and 250 accidents caused by speeding.
If you were among this group of victims, contact Crandall & Katt, Attorneys at Law today. Because our practice is statewide, our attorneys are ready to advocate for you no matter where your accident occurred.
Frequently Asked Questions About Car Accident Law
How long do I have to file a claim after my accident?
You have exactly two years from the date of the crash to file a lawsuit in most cases in Virginia. Other states may have different requirements.
How does fault impact my case?
Virginia is an “at-fault” state. This means that the person who is injured in a car accident files suit against the at-fault driver. Depending on the at-fault driver’s insurance policy, their insurance company may get involved in the case.
I was partially at fault for my accident. Is there any way I can get compensation?
Virginia follows the contributory negligence rule. That means that a driver who was partially at fault for a car accident is not entitled to compensation. But it may be that you did not really contribute to the accident, due to mechanical issues or other extenuating circumstances so you could potentially have a claim. Whatever your situation, you should speak with a lawyer at our firm. In a free consultation, we can review your case and explain your options.
“Even a seemingly simple accident may have come about through a complex chain of events. If your accident was not really your fault, my law firm will work tirelessly to obtain full and fair compensation for you.” – Daniel L. Crandall
I was hit by an uninsured driver. What are my legal options?
In Virginia, uninsured motorist coverage is mandatory for all drivers, yet some are not insured. If you have auto insurance, your uninsured motorist coverage can provide a source of compensation. In order to receive a fair payment from your insurance company you may need a legal advisor to help you navigate the claims and legal process. At Crandall & Katt, Attorneys at Law, we understand auto insurance. We will work hard to help you obtain all of the compensation you are entitled to.
I was injured while riding as a passenger in a friend’s car. Can I get compensation without having to sue my friend?
What is the minimum amount of car insurance required in Virginia?
Virginia law requires every motorist to (a) carry minimum insurance or (b) pay an uninsured motor vehicle (UMV) fee to the state for the right to drive at their own risk.
- If you opted to pay the UMV fee and caused an accident, you would be personally liable for damages. That is a big gamble unless you have the financial means to pay for a serious accident.
- If you opt to buy insurance, the minimum liability coverage under Virginia law is $30,000 in bodily injury or death to one person and $60,000 in total bodily injury/death per accident, plus property damage coverage of up to $20,000.
If you are the victim of an accident and the other driver carries only the minimum insurance, you may be covered by your own Underinsured Motorist (UIM) policy. Your insurance may pay the difference if your losses exceeded their coverage.
What can I expect if the driver who hit me has the minimum insurance required by Virginia law?
In Virginia if the car wreck was the other driver’s fault, their insurance will cover your injuries and damages. But sometimes, the other driver doesn’t have enough insurance to cover all of the expenses and bills. In this case, Virginia law will now allow for the injured person to seek additional damages from their own underinsured motorist policy to cover the difference.
Why should I call an attorney if I am already reporting the accident to my insurance company?
Insurance companies make their profits by keeping their claim costs low, and your insurer does not necessarily have your best interests at heart. What you say to the insurance claims agent could be used to minimize the value of your claim.
By contrast, a lawyer at our firm can provide you with an objective evaluation of your case and explain what we can do to maximize the value of your claim. That is why a specialist in personal injury like the professionals at Crandall & Katt, Attorneys at Law, may have tools to obtain maximum compensation for a claim.
Do I have to file a lawsuit and go to court?
Filing a lawsuit does not necessarily mean there will be a trial. The lawsuit is mostly a formality to protect your rights. It puts the other party on notice to provide certain information (such as insurance coverages) and to preserve certain evidence. If you don’t file a lawsuit before the statute of limitations expires (2 years in many cases), you could forfeit your rights to compensation. Most auto accident cases are settled out of court, but yours could be the one that goes all the way to a judge or jury trial. It is important to hire a proven trial lawyer who has the ability, willingness, and resources to try cases.
What damages are awarded in a car accident?
Every case is unique. There are two main categories of damages.
Economic damages refer to medical expenses, future care needs, lost wages and future earnings – the measurable financial impact.
Noneconomic damages refer to less tangible harm such as compensation for disfigurement, disability, pain and suffering, or diminished quality of life.
In rare cases, punitive damages may be awarded if the at-fault party was egregiously reckless or indifferent. Our lawyers are adept at gauging the true worth of your injury claim and documenting those damages so that you are compensated as fully as possible.
How long will it take to get results?
This depends on many factors. Be assured that we will work diligently to obtain results for you as quickly as we can. However, it is usually preferable to wait until the course of medical treatment has been completed before settling a claim. This ensures that all medical costs and other reimbursable losses are included in the claim.
If the insurance company is reasonable a car accident claim can be settled. But sometimes, cases go all the way to trial and that can take months or even more than a year after treatment has finished. Hiring an experienced personal injury law firm, like Crandall & Katt, Attorneys at Law, can greatly increase your chances of resolving your case as fast as possible.
Can I represent myself in an accident case?
You certainly have the right to do so. But chances are the insurance companies will take advantage of the situation and you. An accident claim involves many different elements, all of which require careful analysis. Issues of causation, liability and the damages you are entitled to can be highly complex. In addition, there may be insurance coverage that you don’t know about which could provide compensation. Without an experienced attorney on your side, you may not receive all of the compensation you deserve.
Can I afford an attorney? How much do your legal services cost?
Crandall & Katt, Attorneys at Law, accepts all personal injury and wrongful death cases on contingency. This means you will not be charged any attorney fees* unless, and until, your case is settled or you receive compensation. So, it costs nothing upfront. We receive a percentage of the recovery and don’t get paid until the client does.
What should I do if I have been involved in an accident?
If you are involved in an accident and have sustained injuries, please follow the eight steps outlined below. We will answer all your questions and provide you with the information you need before you consult with your insurance company.
- Telephone your attorney’s office immediately.
- Do not discuss the details of the accident with anyone except your attorney.
- Keep all relevant medical evidence such as pill bottles, prescriptions, etc.
- Take photographs of the vehicle and of any injuries sustained.
- Prepare and keep an updated record of all medical care providers. Include all doctors and hospitals and list the corresponding date of treatment.
- When you speak to a new treating physician, make sure to explain how you suffered the injuries and relate them to the accident.
- Discuss with your attorney your medical care, treatment and any concerns that you may have regarding your case.
- Be sure to provide your attorney’s office with a current telephone number and mailing address and keep them current with your attorney’s staff.
Gather as much information as you can. Medical and police reports will be important for filing a claim.
What are some mistakes that I should avoid after an accident?
Even if it’s a minor accident, it’s a mistake not to call the police. It’s also a mistake not to seek medical attention if you were not immediately injured, some car accident injuries appear weeks after a car crash, so seeing a medical provider immediately can help you if your symptoms have a late onset. It is also important not to say too much at the scene of the accident. It is a mistake to admit that it was your fault. It is also important to contact a personal injury attorney as soon as possible to help protect your rights and in many cases, to preserve evidence, witness statement, etc.
Do I have a case?
If you were injured or a family member was killed due to the negligence of another party, you may be entitled to claim compensation for your economic and noneconomic losses. Every personal injury case involves numerous issues involving causation, liability, insurance coverage and others, so it is not possible to provide a definitive answer to this without a careful review of the facts in your case.
What Not To Do After A Car Accident In Virginia
Due to the shock and confusion that follow a car crash, you can make a wrong decision that can seriously lower your ability to recover compensation. In Virginia, understanding how to act after a car accident is very important. Below, we explain the most common and costly mistakes to avoid. If you have been in a wreck, never:
- Admit fault at the scene: After an accident, the statements you make can be misinterpreted as an acceptance of responsibility. It is important to note that Virginia follows a pure contributory negligence rule, meaning that if you are found even 1% at fault, you cannot recover compensation.
- Fail to call the police: A police report provides an official record that is critical for your claim. Without this documentation, insurance companies may dispute your claim.
- Fail to seek medical attention: The accident shock may mask pain, and some injuries, such as whiplash, may not show symptoms right away. Failure to seek immediate treatment not only puts your health at risk but also gives insurance companies an excuse to argue that your injuries were not caused by the accident.
- Miss a chance to collect evidence: Failing to collect evidence immediately can significantly weaken your case. As such, take photos of vehicle damage, road conditions and injuries and obtain contact information from the witnesses.
- Fail to call a car accident lawyer: Insurance companies are skilled at minimizing payouts, and they may take advantage of you if you lack legal support. An experienced car accident lawyer understands Virginia law and knows how to counter insurance tactics.
- Speak with your insurance without a lawyer’s guidance: While you should notify your insurance company of the accident, providing detailed statements without legal support can be risky. Insurance adjusters may ask you some questions, and your responses can later be used against you.
- Settle too quickly with the insurance: Take time to document the full extent of your injuries, future medical needs or lost income.
- Post on social media: Insurance companies routinely monitor social media accounts for posts they can use to challenge injury claims. Photos or comments may be used as evidence that you are not seriously injured.
Working with our experienced Roanoke car accident lawyer can help you avoid all these mistakes. We will gather all the necessary evidence, preserve it and help ensure you recover your rightful compensation.
Call us today at 888.699.7611 or 800-LAW-8000 for a free consultation with a lawyer.
