When someone causes a vehicle accident in Virginia due to road rage, the episode is considered a criminal offense. The charges and the severity of the penalties worsen if the collision seriously injured someone. The criminal charges do not result in payment to the injured person, however. The person’s automotive insurance company is responsible for providing a settlement, but insurers often begin by making a relatively low offer. Auto accident attorneys in Virginia Beach, VA are crucial for helping accident victims in these situations acquire reasonable financial compensation.
Research has found nearly 2,000 reported accident cases connected with aggressive driver behaviour, categorized as road rage. The driver may follow too closely, deliberately cut someone off in traffic in a retaliatory move, or even try to run someone off the road. In the legal realm, road rage cases tend to be more complex than many other vehicle accident cases. That’s because of the criminal element and intent involved. Auto accident attorneys in Virginia Beach, VA may need to speak with law enforcement investigators as well as prosecuting and criminal defense attorneys. As with other car accident incidents, the lawyers may also want to speak with eyewitnesses.
The settlement should cover all medical costs as well as lost wages while the injured person cannot work. Physical therapy and rehabilitation should be paid for by the insurer. If the patient must stay in a skilled nursing facility after leaving the hospital, that is another expense to be covered in the settlement. Vehicle repair should also be covered, and replacement value provided if the car or truck is a total loss.
The insurance policy will have a maximum allowable amount to be paid for liability in the aspects of property damage and personal injury. If the expenses are above that maximum, the injured person may want to file a lawsuit against the driver if this is a reasonable action. A law firm such as Price Perkins Larkin may recommend filing a civil suit if the at-fault driver has assets that could be used to pay for damages above and beyond the insurance maximum. Real estate, boats and RVs, retirement plans and stock holdings are examples.
