If you’ve been injured and are unsure whether you have a personal injury case, you’re not alone. In Virginia, you may have a valid claim if someone else’s negligence caused your injury and you suffered real harm as a result. This harm can be in the form of medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, or ongoing treatment needs. Personal injury cases require showing that another party failed to act with reasonable care and that their actions directly led to your injuries. Even injuries that seem minor at first can become more serious over time, so it’s important not to dismiss your situation too quickly.

Virginia also follows a strict contributory negligence rule, meaning if you are found even slightly at fault, you may be prevented from recovering compensation. Because of this, insurance companies often try to shift blame early. That’s why speaking with an experienced attorney is so important. Marks & Harrison has been serving Virginians for over 110 years, offering compassionate guidance and free consultations to help you understand your rights and determine whether you have a case. You don’t have to navigate this difficult time alone.

In Virginia, the general statute of limitations for most personal injury claims is two years from the date of the accident. This means you typically have two years to file a lawsuit, or you may lose your right to seek compensation entirely. While that may seem like plenty of time, building a strong case requires gathering medical records, accident reports, witness statements, and other critical evidence. Waiting too long can make that process even more difficult.

There are limited exceptions depending on the circumstances, such as cases involving minors or certain types of claims, but deadlines are strict. Virginia also follows the contributory negligence rule, which can make personal injury claims more complex. Speaking with an experienced attorney at Marks & Harrison as soon as possible helps ensure your rights are protected and that important deadlines are not missed.

Every personal injury case is unique, so there is no fixed average settlement amount. The value of your case depends on several factors, including the severity of your injuries, medical expenses (past and future), lost wages, impact on your ability to work, pain and suffering, and how the injury affects your daily life. In more serious cases, long-term care needs or permanent disability may significantly increase the value of a claim.

It’s also important to consider insurance policy limits and liability factors under Virginia law. Because Virginia’s contributory negligence rule can affect recovery, insurance companies often attempt to reduce or deny payouts. The skilled team at Marks & Harrison can evaluate the full scope of your damages and help ensure you pursue the maximum compensation available under the law.

In most personal injury cases, you will not have to go to court. The majority of claims are resolved through negotiated settlements with the insurance company before a trial becomes necessary. At Marks & Harrison, our attorneys work diligently to build strong cases and pursue fair settlements so our clients can avoid the stress and uncertainty of a courtroom whenever possible.

However, if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair amount, filing a lawsuit and going to court may become the best path to protect your rights. If that happens, Marks & Harrison will prepare you every step of the way and stand by your side throughout the process. Our priority is always your comfort, your recovery, and achieving the best possible outcome — whether that happens at the negotiation table or in the courtroom.

You do not need to suffer catastrophic injuries to file a personal injury claim. If someone else’s negligence caused you harm — whether it’s a broken bone, soft tissue injury, concussion, or more serious trauma — you may have the right to pursue compensation. What matters most is whether another party’s careless actions caused measurable harm.

That said, even injuries that seem minor at first can worsen over time. Adrenaline and shock often mask symptoms immediately after an accident. Seeking medical attention promptly not only protects your health but also documents your injuries, which is essential in building a strong claim. If you’re unsure whether your injury qualifies, speaking with an attorney at Marks & Harrison can provide clarity and peace of mind.

At Marks & Harrison, we understand that financial stress is one of the biggest concerns after an injury. That’s why we work on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay nothing upfront — no retainer fees, no hourly billing, and no out-of-pocket legal costs to get started.

Our fee is simply a percentage of the settlement or verdict we recover for you. If we don’t win your case, you owe us nothing. This allows you to focus on your recovery while we focus on pursuing justice on your behalf. It also means our success is directly tied to yours; we only get paid when you do.

The timeline for resolving a personal injury case varies widely. Some claims may settle within a few months, while others — especially those involving serious injuries or disputed liability — can take a year or longer. In general, it’s important not to settle too quickly before you fully understand the extent of your injuries and future medical needs.

Insurance companies often try to resolve cases quickly and for less than they may be worth. A careful, thorough approach helps ensure you are not left paying out of pocket later. The expert staff at Marks & Harrison can guide you through each step, keep you informed, and work toward a resolution that truly reflects your losses.

When you meet with Marks & Harrison for a personal injury consultation, you don’t need to have everything perfectly organized — but bringing certain information can help us evaluate your case more efficiently and thoroughly. Helpful items include any accident or police reports, photos or videos of the scene and your injuries, medical records or discharge paperwork, insurance information (yours and the other party’s), correspondence from insurance companies, and documentation of missed work or lost wages. If there were witnesses, their names and contact information can also be valuable.

Most importantly, be prepared to share your story. At Marks & Harrison, we understand this may be a difficult experience to talk about. Our team approaches every consultation with compassion and care. If you don’t have all the documents yet, that’s okay — we can help gather what’s needed. The goal of the consultation is to listen, answer your questions clearly, and help you understand your legal options so you can move forward with confidence.