Newport News Personal Injury Attorneys

Types of Personal Injury Cases in Virginia

Our firm handles a wide range of personal injury cases in Newport News, including:

• Car, truck, and motorcycle accidents
• Premises liability
• Medical malpractice
• Workplace accidents
• Defective products
• Wrongful death

Every case is different, but the laws governing liability and compensation remain strict—making it vital to have experienced representation.

Virginia Personal Injury Laws

Understanding Virginia’s personal injury laws is essential to protecting your case. Here are some key points every injury victim in Newport News should know:

Contributory Negligence Rule

Virginia follows one of the strictest negligence laws in the country: pure contributory negligence. This means if you are found even 1% at fault for your accident, you may be barred from recovering any compensation. Insurance companies often use this law to deny or reduce claims, making it critical to have a skilled attorney on your side.

Statute of Limitations

In most Virginia personal injury cases, you have two years from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit. Missing this deadline can permanently prevent you from seeking compensation, no matter how strong your case is.

Recovering Compensation

After a serious accident, you may wonder what damages you can recover. At Kalfus & Nachman PC, we fight to ensure our clients receive compensation for both financial and non-financial losses.

Economic Damages

These are measurable financial losses such as:

• Medical expenses (past, present, and future)
• Rehabilitation and therapy costs
• Lost wages and lost earning capacity
• Property damage

Non-Economic Damages

These cover intangible but equally important losses, including:

• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Loss of companionship (in wrongful death cases)

Punitive Damages

In rare cases where a defendant’s conduct is especially reckless or intentional, punitive damages may also be awarded as a way to punish wrongdoing and deter similar behavior.

Our job as your Newport News personal injury lawyer is to fully investigate your case, gather the necessary evidence, negotiate aggressively with insurance companies, and, if needed, present your case in court to secure the compensation you deserve.

Personal Injury FAQs

How much is my personal injury case worth?

The value of a case depends on factors like medical expenses, lost income, the severity of the injury, and the degree of negligence involved. Our team carefully evaluates each case to determine its potential value.

Do I really need a personal injury lawyer?

Yes. Because of Virginia’s contributory negligence rule, even a small mistake can cost you your entire claim. Having a lawyer increases your chances of receiving fair compensation.

How long will my case take?

Some cases settle in a few months, while others may take a year or more if they go to trial. The timeline depends on the complexity of the case and the willingness of the insurance company to negotiate fairly.

What if the insurance company offers me a settlement?

Insurance companies often make quick, lowball offers to save money. Always consult a lawyer before accepting any settlement to ensure you are being treated fairly.

What happens if my loved one dies in an accident?

If negligence caused your loved one’s death, you may be eligible to file a wrongful death claim. Our firm can help you pursue damages for funeral expenses, loss of income, and loss of companionship.