Front-end car accidents in Beckley are among some of the most dangerous and damaging motor vehicle collisions. These crashes can cause significant damage to vehicles and cause injury, and if you are involved in one, receiving a fair settlement is critical for your recovery.
An experienced car crash attorney at Jan Dils can help you fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact our law firm now to learn how we can assist with your insurance claim.
What Is a Front-End Car Accident?
A front-end collision occurs when the front of one vehicle hits the front of another. These types of accidents may also occur when the front of a vehicle collides with an object, like when a car hits a light pole in a parking lot or an animal crossing the road.
Several different factors may lead to front-end collisions. Certain negligent driving behaviors like distracted driving, drunk driving, aggressive driving, swerving, and speeding can increase the chances of front-end car accidents. Additionally, poor road and weather conditions may lead to a loss of vehicle control.
A front-end crash can be serious, causing injuries to Beckley drivers and vehicle damage. Soft tissue injuries, whiplash, bruises, cuts, broken bones, and traumatic brain injuries are common. In severe accidents, catastrophic injuries like spinal cord injuries, amputations, and even wrongful death may occur.
Filing a Car Accident Claim
After a front-end crash, filing a claim is crucial to recovering injury compensation. Those involved in an accident will want to take action as soon as possible to secure their rights to compensation. Individuals involved in a head-on car accident should:
- Report the crash to the appropriate authorities and contact emergency services.
- Ensure the safety of those involved and seek prompt medical attention.
- Exchange information with other drivers.
- If possible, take photos and videos of the scene and vehicle damage.
- Gather documentation of damages and injuries including photos, medical bills, receipts, and records.
- Get in contact with a knowledgeable attorney as soon as possible.
In most cases, the at-fault party will pay the cost of damages, but a lawyer can assist with filing an insurance claim with the responsible party’s insurance. It is important to note that injured parties in Beckley, WV have just two years to file a lawsuit for a front-end car crash. While there are a few exceptions to this rule, it is critical to take prompt action after a crash, so an attorney can help make a timely claim filing.
Damages Available After a Crash
Head-on car accidents can cause physical and mental injuries and property damage. Compensatory damages, including financial and non-financial losses, may be available, including for medical expenses, lost past and future wages, and emotional distress. Punitive damages may be available in few cases where the responsible party acted in an egregious manner.
In general, there is no cap on the amount of compensatory damages for front-end accidents in Beckley. However, in catastrophic injury and wrongful death cases, non-economic damages are capped at $500,000. Punitive damages are also limited under the law.
Additionally, a person may still recover compensation even if he or she is partially responsible for the crash. Under West Virginia’s modified comparative negligence rule, a person can recover as long as his or her percentage of fault is 49 percent or less. Any damage award will be reduced by the assigned percentage of fault.
Call a Beckley Lawyer to Get Help After a Front-End Vehicle Collision
Front-end car accidents in Beckley can cause significant vehicle damage and injuries. If you or a loved one were injured in a collision, you need to be aware of your legal rights. An experienced lawyer can provide valuable legal assistance through the claim process.
At Jan Dils’ Personal Injury law firm, our dedicated team of attorneys understand how important fair compensation is to our clients. Contact us now to learn more when you schedule a free, private consultation.
