Your Rights After an Accident in Virginia

After an auto accident, insurance companies often move quickly with estimates, repair recommendations, and settlement discussions.

Virginia law provides important consumer protections during the claims process. This page explains your rights, what insurers are expected to do, and what you should understand before repairs begin.

Virginia Uses a Fault Based Insurance System

Virginia follows a fault based insurance system. This means the driver who caused the accident is generally responsible for property damage and related losses.

Because fault matters in Virginia, how liability is established can affect repair decisions, claim handling, and recovery options.

You Have the Right to Choose the Repair Shop

In Virginia, insurance companies may recommend repair facilities, but they cannot require you to use a specific shop.

Choosing your own repair shop does not void coverage, reduce payment, or eliminate your right to proper repairs.

Insurance Cannot Pressure Your Repair Decision

Insurers are not allowed to misrepresent your rights or use unnecessary delays to influence where your vehicle is repaired.

Statements suggesting repairs will take longer, be lower quality, or not be guaranteed because of your shop choice reflect insurer preferences, not your legal rights.

What Insurers Are Expected to Do During the Claim

Virginia insurers are expected to investigate claims promptly, communicate clearly, and handle settlements in good faith.

If an insurer denies part of a claim or needs additional information, it should explain the reason in understandable terms.

Initial Estimates Are Often Incomplete

Initial insurance estimates are usually written to move the claim forward, not to identify every repair step needed to restore the vehicle.

Missing procedures, inspections, and documentation are common, especially on photo based estimates.

Safety Systems Must Be Considered

Modern vehicles rely on cameras, sensors, radar, and advanced driver assistance systems to operate safely.

These systems can be affected by even minor accidents and may not show warning lights when inspection or calibration is required.

Need Help Reviewing a Virginia Estimate

EstiVerify reviews insurance estimates for missing repairs, underwritten procedures, and safety related items before repairs begin.

Related topics: Virginia Total Loss | Virginia Diminished Value