Every driver in Harrisonburg has a legal duty of care to operate their vehicle safely and prevent harm to others on the road. This fundamental obligation requires drivers to follow traffic laws, maintain proper lookout, and exercise reasonable caution under varying conditions. Virginia law establishes specific standards of care, including maintaining safe following distances, adhering to speed limits, and adjusting driving behavior during adverse weather. In personal injury claims, breaching this duty of care forms the foundation of negligence. Common breaches include distracted driving, failing to yield right-of-way, or driving under the influence, which can result in significant liability for resulting damages.

Legal Rights and Considerations

Virginia drivers must carry minimum insurance coverage and follow strict traffic regulations. The state's contributory negligence rule bars recovery if the plaintiff shares any fault, making duty of care evidence critical. Claims must be filed within two years of the accident date. Commercial drivers and rideshare operators face heightened duty of care standards. Compensation may include economic damages (medical bills, lost wages) and non-economic damages (pain and suffering). Government vehicles involve additional notice requirements and modified liability rules. An experienced Virginia personal injury lawyer will handle all aspects of the legal claim.

Click the links below to get information on car accident claims from attorneys with experience in your type of injury including:

• Harrisonburg spine injury attorney
• Harrisonburg brain injury lawyer
• Harrisonburg soft tissue injury attorney
• Harrisonburg fracture injury attorney.

Related Resources

Courts:

• Harrisonburg Circuit Court
• Rockingham County General District Court

Support Services:

• Virginia State Police Accident Reports
• Harrisonburg Police Department Traffic Division
• Valley Regional Traffic Safety Program

Legal References:

• Virginia Code § 46.2-853 (Reckless Driving)
• Virginia Driver's Manual
• Virginia Commercial Driver Requirements

Return to the Harrisonburg determining fault information page