Federal Government Gives Virginia the Initial Green Light to New Proposed Toll on I-95

Author: Attorney David M. William, Jr.

Fredericksburg personal injury lawyer David M. Williams, Jr.

On September 19, 2011, Virginia Governor Bob McDonnell announced that the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has authorized the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) to move forward with the Governor’s plan to toll I-95.  Although there are a number of turnpikes, and other roads, that charge motorists, the interstate system has been largely free of tolls since its birth.  This has… [ read more ]

What You Should Know About Auto Insurance in Virginia

Make Sure You Have The Right Auto Insurance Coverage

Author: Bill Bootwright

Bill Bootwright, Claims Consultant

New technology, computers, Smartphones, tablets, etc., mean we can now purchase car insurance without the traditional face-to-face meeting or phone call with an agent.  The problem with purchasing insurance online is that you may not know what you’re actually paying for and how it may protect you. You don’t get the advice of an agent who can explain your… [ read more ]

How Safe is Your Vehicle?

Insurance Institute of Highway Safety’s Top Safety Picks for 2011

Author: Gayle C. Bragg

Gayle Bragg

You’ve got your eye on a new vehicle because it’s sporty or maybe luxurious. How safe is that vehicle that you will be making payments on for several years? Will it protect you and your family if you are involved in an automobile crash? If you are searching for a new car it might be worth your time… [ read more ]

CRIMINAL/TRAFFIC CHARGES FROM AN ACCIDENT: Effect on a Personal Injury Case

FAQ: Are a police officer’s charges important to the outcome of a personal injury case?

Richmond Accident Lawyer J. David Douthit

Author: Attorney J. David Douthit

Many times our personal injury clients are upset when the police officer does not place charges against the driver our clients feel caused the auto accident, or when the officer does place charges but they are dismissed at traffic court.  Usually, however,… [ read more ]

FAQ: Why Do I need To Contact An Attorney Promptly After An Accident?

The Importance of Prompt Investigation After an Accident

Chesterfield injury lawyer Trent S. Kerns

Author: Attorney Trent S. Kerns

How can you prove that a product was defective without the product in a product liability case?  How can you prove that a condition was unsafe if the condition has been altered or removed?  Many [ read more ]

Car Insurance Policies: Liability and UM (Uninsured Motorist) Coverage Limits

Robert L. Mertig, Claims Consultant

Author: Claims Consultant Robert L. Mertig

Many states have minimum limits for automobile liability insurance.  In Virginia, this minimum is $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident.[1] Because car insurance can be expensive, many people are tempted to purchase only the minimum.  There are good reasons, however, to purchase  limits that exceed the 25/50 state minimum.

First, the insurance company’s responsibility is to pay the limits of liability… [ read more ]

Driving a Car Without Permission – What is Covered by Insurance?

Mechanicsville Car Accident Attorney

Author: Attorney Christopher A. Meyer

Most people know that their motor vehicle insurance policy covers them for accidents due to their fault when they are driving the car on the policy.  Many of us also sometimes  drive someone else’s car.  Do you know whether, when you are operating someone else’s vehicle, you are covered by either the insurance on that car… [ read more ]

Distracted Driving and Young Drivers

Richmond personal injury attorney Courtney Van Winkle

Author: Attorney Courtney A. Van Winkle

With summer in full swing there are plenty of young drivers on the road enjoying their new found freedom.  As the number of young drivers increases, unfortunately so does the risk of automobile accidents.  According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the leading causes of… [ read more ]

New Ethics Rule 1:18 – Permitting Lawyers to Defend More Injured Persons

Mechanicsville Car Accident Attorney

Author: Attorney Christopher A. Meyer

On June 21, 2011, and effective immediately, the Virginia Supreme Court adopted a new provision in the Rules of Professional Conduct.[1] This amendment to the Rules changes the ethics in Virginia concerning conflicts of interest and potential new clients.

Under the old rules, when an attorney met with a prospective client and decided not… [ read more ]

New Virginia Law Sets Tougher Penalties for Teens Who Drink and Drive

Fredericksburg personal injury attorney David M. Williams, Jr.

Author: Attorney David M. Williams, Jr.

A new Virginia law increasing the consequences for underage drinking and driving went into effect July 1, 2011.

The 2011 Virginia General Assembly unanimously passed a bill establishing a “zero tolerance” (0.02% BAC) for underage drinking and driving by making it punishable as a class 1 misdemeanor. The punishment for teens that drink and drive… [ read more ]