There are many types of road accidents but merging accidents happen far too often. These accidents happen when a vehicle enters a major highway such as I-95 in Virginia or D.C. and misjudges when to merge with the fast moving traffic. This error of judgment could cause loss of life and serious injuries, all of which could be preventable if the driver merging paid more attention and put more thought into his or her action.
Fortunately, anyone who is injured as a result of this poor judgment may be entitled to file a claim for personal injury compensation. However, this process isn’t necessarily that easy and a personal injury attorney can help to ensure the true value of the injuries is compensated.
I-95 in Virginia and D.C.
Throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia, I-95 extends for 179 miles between Virginia's borders with North Carolina and Maryland. Although I-95 was planned in the first place to act as a highway throughout Washington, D.C. it was eventually diverted to the eastern part of the Capital Beltway.
It goes into the Capital Beltway at the Springfield Interchange and goes over the Woodrow Wilson Bridge into Washington, D.C. and on the Beltway into Maryland. The route of the I-95 between Fredericksburg, Virginia, and Springfield, Virginia, has come to be known as one of the highways with the most congestion in the United States.
What to Do If Hit While Merging On I-95
If another driver hit your vehicle while merging on I-95 and you were injured and/or your vehicle was damaged, you can’t recover any damages unless you have clear evidence as to who caused the accident. All states set time limits for filing lawsuits. In Virginia, for a personal injury case it is two years from the date of the accident and in Washington DC it’s set at 3 years.
Also, both jurisdictions still use the age old law of contributory negligence, which means when if you are injured in either state and you are found to be partially to blame for the accident even if it’s as little as 1% you can’t expect to receive any compensation at all from the at-fault driver’s insurer. Your personal injury lawyer can help you get the compensation you are rightfully entitled to in a merging accident that caused you an injury but was not your fault.
Evidence to Gather If Hit While Merging On I-95
If you and your attorney decide that you have a high probability of winning a personal injury claim after a merging accident, you must gather together sufficient evidence to show who is to blame for your injuries.
This can include police officers’ reports, witness’ statements, and reports from your physician explaining the nature of your injuries and the medical treatment you are receiving. You should also have all the receipts for medical costs. Any repairs completed on your auto will also need relevant receipts.
Hire a Personal Injury Attorney
A personal injury lawyer is essential because his or her experience can help you through the personal injury claim process and will ensure the at-fault driver’s insurer pays the full value of your claim. Use the free case evaluation on this page to find an attorney that can best help you receive the compensation you deserve.
