Resources for Victims and Families of Accidents in Virginia

Accidents happen every day across Virginia, from I-95 pileups near Richmond to pedestrian collisions in Norfolk and workplace injuries in Roanoke. When serious injuries or fatalities occur, the aftermath can be overwhelming. Victims and families often face a mix of medical, emotional, and financial challenges—all while trying to make sense of their legal rights.

This guide brings together Virginia accident victim resources to help you take informed steps after a serious or fatal incident. Whether you’re seeking medical care, grief counseling, or a police report, these resources are designed to support you on the road to recovery.

Help for Injury Victims After Accidents in Virginia

If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence—whether in a car crash, slip-and-fall, or construction site accident—you may be entitled to compensation. Acting quickly helps preserve evidence and strengthens your case.

Emergency Medical and Trauma Care in Virginia

Virginia offers top-tier trauma centers and rehabilitation services, including:

VCU Medical Center – Richmond – Level I trauma care and rehabilitation
Inova Fairfax Medical Campus – Falls Church – Comprehensive emergency and specialty care
Sentara Norfolk General Hospital – Norfolk – Advanced trauma services
Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital – Roanoke – Emergency and neurosurgical care

For statewide healthcare access, visit the Virginia Department of Health.

Virginia Personal Injury Law Overview

Virginia uses a pure contributory negligence rule. This means if you are found even 1% at fault for the accident, you may not recover any damages. Because of this strict rule, it’s especially important to work with a knowledgeable attorney.

You may be able to recover compensation for:

Emergency room and follow-up care
Lost wages and earning potential
Pain and suffering
Long-term disability
Property damage

Most personal injury claims in Virginia must be filed within two years of the accident date.

Support for Families After Fatal Accidents in Virginia

The sudden loss of a loved one can leave a family emotionally devastated and financially unstable. If someone’s negligence or misconduct caused the death, Virginia law allows certain family members to seek justice through a wrongful death claim.

Grief Counseling and Bereavement Resources

Virginia provides a range of grief support options, including:

Full Circle Grief Center – Richmond – Counseling and support groups for families and children
Edmarc – Hampton Roads – Pediatric grief and hospice support
Hospice of the Piedmont – Charlottesville – Grief services and memorial programs
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call or text 988 for free 24/7 emotional support

Wrongful Death Lawsuits in Virginia

Under Virginia Code § 8.01-50, a wrongful death lawsuit must be filed by the personal representative of the deceased’s estate. The claim is made on behalf of surviving family members.

Compensation may cover:

Funeral and burial expenses
Medical bills related to the fatal injury
Loss of income and services
Loss of companionship and care
Mental anguish and sorrow

Wrongful death claims must be filed within two years of the date of death.

How to Get a Police Report After an Accident in Virginia

Police reports play a critical role in personal injury and wrongful death cases. They provide an official record of the accident and help establish who was at fault.

Requesting a Crash Report in Virginia

You can obtain a crash report through:

Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) – Visit https://www.dmv.virginia.gov
Virginia State Police (VSP) – Use the Crash Report Request form on their website
Local Law Enforcement Agencies – Contact the police or sheriff’s office that responded to the scene

Information needed to request a report includes:

Names of those involved
Date and location of the accident
Case or report number (if available)
A small processing fee (usually $8)

Most reports are available within 5 to 10 business days after the crash.

Financial and Social Services for Virginia Accident Victims

Accidents often bring financial hardship. Medical bills, missed work, and funeral expenses can quickly add up. Fortunately, Virginia offers support programs to help individuals and families stay afloat.

Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS)

You may be eligible for programs like:

Medicaid – Health insurance for low-income families
SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) – Monthly food benefits
TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) – Cash aid for qualifying families
Energy Assistance Program – Help with utility bills

Apply or learn more at https://www.dss.virginia.gov

Virginia Victims Fund (Criminal Injuries Compensation Fund)

If your injuries or your loved one’s death was caused by a crime—such as a DUI or hit-and-run—you may qualify for financial relief through the Virginia Victims Fund.

The fund can help with:

Medical treatment and counseling
Funeral and burial costs
Lost income
Emergency relocation or crime scene cleanup

Visit https://virginiavictimsfund.org or call 800-552-4007 to learn more.

Frequently Asked Questions About Accidents in Virginia

How long do I have to file a personal injury or wrongful death claim?

You have two years from the date of the injury or death to file most claims in Virginia. If you miss this deadline, your case may be dismissed.

What happens if I’m partially at fault for the accident?

Virginia follows pure contributory negligence, which means if you’re found even 1% at fault, you may not recover compensation. This makes legal representation especially important.

Why is a police report important?

A police report provides key evidence about how the accident happened, who was involved, and what officers observed at the scene. Insurance companies and courts often rely on these reports.

Who can file a wrongful death lawsuit in Virginia?

Only the personal representative of the deceased’s estate can file, but the claim benefits surviving family members such as spouses, children, and parents.

Should I speak with an attorney after an accident?

Yes. An experienced attorney can protect your rights, navigate Virginia’s strict negligence laws, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurers on your behalf.

Call a Virginia Accident Attorney Today

If you or a loved one has been seriously injured or killed in an accident, you deserve support, clarity, and compensation. A Virginia accident attorney can help you understand your legal options and fight for the justice you deserve.

An attorney can:

Request your crash report
Investigate who is legally responsible
Handle all insurance negotiations
File a claim before the legal deadline

Don’t wait. Call a Virginia accident attorney today to take the first step toward healing and financial recovery.

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