Are you planning a trip to Virginia Beach?
Don’t forget to include accident prevention and response in your to-do list. Virginia Beach is a premier tourist destination, but accidents can happen, whether you’re walking down the boardwalk or staying at a hotel.
If you’re ever injured in Virginia Beach, your immediate actions after the accident can significantly impact your health and any potential legal claims. This guide outlines essential steps to take following an injury in Virginia Beach.
Injuries at the Virginia Beach Boardwalk
The Virginia Beach boardwalk is a public space maintained by the City of Virginia Beach. Always exercise proper safety measures when walking, biking, or enjoying activities on the boardwalk, including eating.
If you are injured, call 911 immediately if the injury is severe; examples include significant bleeding, fractures, or head injuries. If you don’t require 911 or an ambulance but still require medical attention, visit a Virginia Beach urgent care clinic or hospital immediately.
It’s critical to receive proper medical treatment as quickly as possible, including medical documentation of your injuries.
Prioritize your safety and medical attention. Afterward, document the incident as much as you can. If you were with another person or a group, they could document the scene for you.
If you’re considering a claim against a municipality, you’ll need strong evidence.
For example, if you slipped and fell on the boardwalk, take detailed photos and videos of the loose board, uneven pavement, or hazardous object that caused the fall. Likewise, document your injuries, even tracking the progression of the injuries over time.
Document the names and contact information of any witnesses.
Report your injury to the appropriate authority. Since the boardwalk is city property, you can file a Notice of Claim with the City Attorney’s office. This formal notice should include:
- Your contact information
- The date
- Time
- Specific boardwalk location where the incident occurred
- Description of the injury (and how it occurred)
Consider consulting with a personal injury lawyer. You can learn about practice areas by researching DM Injury Law, including slips and falls.
Proving liability against a city can be complex due to Virginia’s laws and sovereign immunity protections. An experienced attorney can determine if the city was negligent in its maintenance duties.
Be cautious with insurance companies. Don’t accept an initial settlement offer or provide a recorded statement before speaking with a lawyer.
Virginia Beach Hotel Injuries
Are you booking a hotel in Virginia Beach?
Be aware that hotel injuries fall under premises liability law, which can be tricky in Virginia.
After seeking medical attention, report the incident to hotel management. Fill out a written incident report and get a copy for your records. When speaking with hotel staff, stick to the facts and avoid admitting any fault.
Take clear photos and videos of the injury scene and the hazardous conditions that caused your injury; conditions may include:
- Wet floors without warning signs
- Broken handrails
- Poor lighting
Document your injuries and gather witness information from other guests or staff.
Avoid dealing with the hotel’s insurance company or accepting a quick settlement. A hotel may offer immediate compensation, like a free night’s stay, in exchange for a waiver of liability. Don’t sign or agree to anything (or accept money) before consulting a lawyer.
Virginia’s contributory negligence law is another factor.
This rule states that if you’re found to be even 1% at fault, you cannot receive compensation. Thus, legal expertise is essential to proving the hotel’s sole negligence. Lawyers can:
- Investigate accidents
- Negotiate with insurance companies
- File lawsuits
Virginia Beach typically imposes a two-year statute of limitations on these types of cases.
Enjoy a Safe Virginia Beach Vacation
Don’t let accidents derail your Virginia Beach getaway. Keep safety at the forefront of your mind, whether you’re at the boardwalk or a hotel. Have a list of emergency numbers ready, including emergency contacts and personal injury attorneys.
The best vacations put safety first!
Events
