Experienced Car Accident Attorney in Portsmouth, VA

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If you were hurt in a crash on I-264 near Victory Boulevard, Frederick Boulevard, or anywhere else in Portsmouth, VA, you may have the right to pursue compensation. Bangel, Bangel & Bangel, L.L.P. is a car accident attorney firm rooted in Portsmouth, VA, and has been representing injured people and their families since 1915. The firm only represents individuals, never insurance companies or big businesses, and offers a free, confidential consultation so you can understand your options without any obligation. Call us today at 757-397-3471 to get started.

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What to Do After a Car Accident in Portsmouth, VA

The steps you take immediately after a crash can directly affect your claim. Portsmouth, VA's busy corridors, including I-264, High Street, Victory Boulevard, Frederick Boulevard, and the Downtown Tunnel approach near the Norfolk Naval Shipyard, see frequent collisions. 

If you are involved in one, try to follow these steps:

  1. Call 911 and stay at the scene until police arrive and a report is filed.
  2. Seek medical attention right away, even if you feel fine, since some injuries appear hours or days later.
  3. Document the scene with photos of vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
  4. Get the names and contact information of all witnesses present.
  5. Do not give a recorded statement to any insurance adjuster before speaking with a car accident attorney.


That last point is critical. A recorded statement made before you fully understand your injuries or Virginia's fault rules can be used against your claim.

How Is Fault Determined in a Portsmouth, VA, Car Accident?

Virginia follows a pure contributory negligence rule, one of the harshest fault standards in the country. If you are found even partially at fault for the crash, you may be barred from recovering any compensation at all. Because insurers understand this rule well, adjusters may work quickly to assign you a share of blame. An experienced car accident attorney in Portsmouth, VA, can help build the evidence needed to establish that the other driver was fully at fault, which is the foundation of any successful Virginia car accident claim.

Damages You May Be Able to Recover

A successful car accident claim in Virginia may allow you to pursue compensation for several categories of loss, which can often include:

▸ Medical expenses, including emergency care, hospitalization, surgery, physical therapy, and future treatment.

▸ Lost wages from time missed at work during recovery.

▸ Reduced earning capacity if your injuries affect your ability to work long-term.

▸ Pain and suffering, including both physical pain and emotional distress.

▸ Property damage to your vehicle and any personal belongings damaged in the crash.


Wrongful death damages may also be available if a family member was killed in a Portsmouth, VA, car accident. Our personal injury attorneys can review your situation and help you understand what compensation may apply.

Virginia's Two-Year Statute of Limitations

Virginia law gives most car accident victims two years from the date of the crash to file a personal injury lawsuit (Va. Code § 8.01-243). Missing this deadline may result in your case being dismissed entirely. Waiting too long also hurts your ability to gather evidence, locate witnesses, and counter contributory negligence arguments. Different deadlines may apply in cases involving government vehicles, wrongful death, or injuries to minors, so speak with an attorney about your situation promptly.

Car Accident Attorney Frequently Asked Questions 

  • Do I Need a Car Accident Attorney for a Portsmouth, VA, Car Accident?

    You are not required to hire one. Under Virginia's contributory negligence rule, even slight fault can end your claim, so representation matters.

  • How Much Does It Cost to Hire Bangel, Bangel & Bangel, L.L.P.?

    Consultations are free and confidential. For fee arrangements, call 757-397-3471 or request a quote directly from Bangel, Bangel & Bangel, L.L.P.

  • What If the Insurance Company Asks for a Recorded Statement?

    Do not give one before speaking with a car accident attorney. Adjusters seek answers, assigning partial fault, which in Virginia can bar recovery entirely.

  • What If I Was Partially at Fault for the Crash?

    Fault must be proven. An experienced attorney can challenge fault assignments, gather supporting evidence, and present a stronger case than you could alone.

  • How Long Will My Car Accident Case Take?

    Timelines vary with injury severity, fault complexity, and whether the case settles or goes to trial. Your attorney can estimate after reviewing your crash.

Talk to a Portsmouth, VA, Car Accident Attorney Today

Bangel, Bangel & Bangel, L.L.P., has represented injured people throughout Portsmouth, VA, and the Hampton Roads region for over 100 years. The firm holds an A.V. Martindale-Hubbell peer review rating, has been listed in "The Best Lawyers in America" and "Virginia Super Lawyers" directories, and has served on the Board of Governors of the Virginia Trial Lawyers Association. The firm represents only individuals, never insurers or corporations.



If you or someone you love was hurt in a car accident, contact Bangel, Bangel & Bangel, L.L.P. today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Call 757-397-3471 or reach the Suffolk office at 757-934-1240 to speak with a car accident attorney in Portsmouth, VA, who is ready to help.