In April, our client was driving east on Featherstone Road in Prince William County. She slowed down to make a left turn and got into a car accident. The person driving behind her didn’t slow down and hit the back of her car.
How Rear End Accidents Happen In Virginia
Rear-end accidents in Virginia usually happen when a driver doesn’t keep a safe distance and crashes into the car in front. This often happens because the driver is distracted, like texting, making sudden stops, speeding, or driving in bad weather. In Virginia, the law usually blames the driver who hit the back of the other car for not paying attention and controlling their car properly.
The person who hit our client’s car was charged with following too closely. He didn’t show up in court and was found guilty.
Traffic Infraction Penalties for Rear-End Accidents
In Virginia, if you’re charged with following too closely, it’s a traffic violation. The penalties include:
- Fines: Usually around $30 plus court costs.
- Demerit Points: The DMV adds four points to your driving record, which stay for three years.
- Increased Insurance Premiums: These points can make your insurance more expensive.
Repeat offenses or serious cases might lead to more severe penalties, like losing your driver’s license. It’s important to talk to a traffic lawyer if you’re charged with this. You can read about other Virginia traffic penalties here.
The Hip Injury Caused Surgery
Our client had bad hip pain from the accident and needed surgery.
Hip surgery can fix hip joint problems without replacing the whole hip. One type is hip arthroscopy, where small cuts are made, and a camera is used to guide the surgery. Another type is hip resurfacing, which reshapes and covers the top of the thigh bone with metal to keep more of the natural bone. These surgeries help reduce pain, improve movement, and delay the need for a total hip replacement.
The case settled for $125,000 to our client for her injuries, which might not fully heal. Each case is different and depends on factors like the insurance coverage available.
The BenGlassLaw Accident Team
Brian Glass leads the BenGlassLaw personal injury team.
More information about car accident cases and legal representation.