Morgantown Car Accident Lawyers 

Fighting For Car Accident Victims in Morgantown and Clarksburg

There were hundreds of car accidents in West Virginia last year—and 280 of those crashes were fatal for one or more people. Vehicle accidents can be serious and have far-reaching consequences for everybody involved, including the driver at fault, passengers, and pedestrians.

Whether your personal injury lawsuit involves a simple rear-end collision or a complex situation with a large commercial vehicle (such as 18-wheelers or tractor-trailers), we have extensive experience with these lawsuits. In general, these types of personal injury cases involve determining liability and awarding damages.

Common Causes of Car Accidents

Car accidents can be caused by a number of factors. Some have signs you can watch out for to help you avoid them, while others are out of your control and happen unexpected. Regardless, knowing what some of the common causes of car accidents are can keep you more aware of your surroundings while you're out on the road:

• Distracted driving (texting, eating, etc.)
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Reckless driving (speeding)
• Vehicle defects
• Road hazards
• Inclement weather
• Inexperience behind the wheel

Common Injuries in Car Accidents

Car accidents could lead to a wide range of injuries, from minor to life-threatening. Common injuries may include:

• Whiplash: Whiplash is one of the most common injuries in car accidents, especially in rear-end collisions. It often occurs when the head is suddenly jerked forward and backward, causing strain on the neck muscles and ligaments. Symptoms could include neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and dizziness.
• Broken Bones: The force of a collision can cause bones to break. Common fractures in car accidents include arms, legs, ribs, and collarbones. Depending on the severity, broken bones can require anything from casting to surgical intervention.
• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): TBIs range from mild concussions to severe brain damage. They occur when the head strikes an object or is subjected to a violent jolt. Symptoms might include headaches, confusion, memory problems, and loss of consciousness. Long-term effects can include cognitive deficits and personality changes.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Spinal cord injuries can lead to partial or full paralysis. These injuries are often life-altering, requiring extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation. Symptoms include loss of movement, loss of sensation, and chronic pain.
• Internal Injuries: Internal injuries, like organ damage and internal bleeding, are not always instantly noticeable after a car accident. These injuries can be life-threatening and demand prompt medical attention. Commonly affected organs which include the liver, spleen, and kidneys.
• Soft Tissue Injuries: Soft tissue injuries which include damage to muscles, tendons, and ligaments. They could lead to pain, swelling, and reduced mobility. Common examples include sprains, strains, and contusions.

What to Do After a Car Accident in West Virginia

Car accidents are stressful. If you have been in a car accident, you should do the following:

• Check yourself, any passengers, and others involved for injuries
• Get the other drivers’ information, including their name, contact information, and their insurance information
• Reach out to the police, fill out a police report, and get a copy of the report
• Take photos and document the scene of the accident, including any injuries and damage to your vehicle
• Gather any eyewitness statements
• Call your insurance company to inform them that you’ve been in an accident
• Reach out to an experienced Morgantown car accident lawyer to discuss your case