Injury Attorney in Portsmouth, VA, Advocating for Maximum Client Recovery
When an unexpected accident disrupts your life, the consequences can be overwhelming. Medical bills, lost wages, pain, and emotional distress can place a tremendous burden on you and your loved ones. During such a critical time, you deserve a trusted advocate who can stand up for your rights and fight for the justice you deserve. As an experienced Portsmouth personal injury lawyer, James B. Feinman, Attorney at Law, is dedicated to guiding victims of negligence through the complex legal system with skill, compassion, and unwavering commitment.
Personal injuries affect more than just the injured individual, they impact entire families. The physical suffering, emotional strain, and financial hardships can create a ripple effect that lasts for years. Recognizing the life-changing nature of these challenges, Attorney Feinman approaches every case with the personalized attention it deserves, ensuring that clients feel supported and understood throughout the legal process.
At its core, personal injury law exists to protect people who have been harmed by the reckless, careless, or intentional actions of others. Whether the harm comes from a car accident, medical malpractice, slip-and-fall, or another preventable incident, the law provides a pathway for victims to pursue compensation and accountability. James B. Feinman, Attorney at Law, has built his reputation on ensuring that his clients receive the justice they are entitled to, no matter how challenging the fight may be.
Legal battles can feel daunting, especially when you are also coping with recovery. That is why having a strong advocate in your corner is invaluable. Attorney Feinman offers not only legal knowledge and courtroom experience but also compassionate guidance during one of the most difficult times in a client’s life. He believes that every injured person deserves more than cookie-cutter representation, they deserve a legal strategy tailored to their unique circumstances and needs.
At James B. Feinman, Attorney at Law, every case is handled with a combination of personalized service and aggressive advocacy. The firm is committed to pursuing the maximum compensation available while ensuring that clients feel heard and respected every step of the way. If you or someone you love has suffered due to another party’s negligence, now is the time to take action. Contact James B. Feinman, Attorney at Law, today through the online contact form to schedule your free consultation and take the first step toward justice and recovery.
Types of Personal Injury Cases James B. Feinman, Attorney at Law, Handles in Portsmouth, VA
With decades of legal experience, James B. Feinman, Attorney at Law, has built a reputation for providing aggressive, knowledgeable, and compassionate advocacy for accident victims. The firm understands that no two cases are the same and that each client deserves representation tailored to their specific circumstances. As a trusted injury attorney in Portsmouth, VA, Attorney Feinman has successfully handled a wide range of personal injury claims, helping clients recover the compensation they need to move forward with their lives.
Below are the types of personal injury cases the firm regularly handles:
- Portsmouth car accidents: Representing victims of negligent drivers to recover damages for injuries, lost wages, and medical expenses
- Portsmouth truck accidents: Pursuing claims against negligent trucking companies and drivers responsible for devastating crashes
- Portsmouth motorcycle accidents: Protecting injured riders from unfair blame and fighting for full and fair compensation
- Portsmouth pedestrian accidents: Advocating for pedestrians struck by careless or distracted drivers
- Portsmouth bicycle accidents: Helping bicyclists injured by motorists secure compensation for medical bills and property damage
- Portsmouth Uber accidents: Guiding victims of rideshare collisions through the complex insurance process
- Portsmouth Lyft accidents: Handling claims involving Lyft drivers and third-party insurance coverage
- Portsmouth catastrophic injuries: Representing clients who have sustained life-altering injuries, such as spinal cord damage or brain trauma
- Portsmouth construction accidents: Holding negligent contractors and property owners accountable for unsafe conditions
- Portsmouth dog bite accidents: Seeking justice for victims of dangerous animal attacks
- Portsmouth medical malpractice: Representing patients harmed by negligent doctors, nurses, or hospitals
- Portsmouth nursing home abuse: Protecting vulnerable seniors from mistreatment and neglect
- Portsmouth product liability: Taking on manufacturers and sellers of defective or dangerous products
- Portsmouth premises liability: Advocating for those injured due to hazardous conditions on another’s property
- Portsmouth slip and fall accidents: Helping victims injured by unsafe property conditions obtain fair compensation
- Portsmouth workplace accidents: Pursuing claims on behalf of employees injured while on the job
- Portsmouth workers’ compensation: Assisting workers in navigating the claims process and fighting denied benefits
- And more: Providing representation for a wide variety of injury-related cases tailored to each client’s situation
Attorney Feinman’s extensive background in litigation and negotiation allows him to anticipate the tactics used by insurance companies and defense attorneys. His goal is always to level the playing field and fight for maximum recovery for every client. No matter how complex or challenging the case, clients can count on James B. Feinman, Attorney at Law, for relentless advocacy and compassionate support.
Common Injuries in Personal Injury Cases in Portsmouth
One of the most overwhelming aspects of a personal injury case is the physical toll that an accident can take on a victim. Beyond the financial and legal challenges, many individuals suffer from lasting health issues that can alter the course of their lives. By understanding the common injuries in slip and fall cases, car accidents, workplace incidents, and other preventable events, victims can better identify their own struggles and recognize the importance of seeking both medical treatment and legal guidance.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
Among the most severe outcomes of accidents are traumatic brain injuries, which can occur in types of injuries after a car accident, motorcycle crash, or fall. TBIs may range from mild concussions to severe brain damage, often resulting in cognitive impairments, memory loss, difficulty concentrating, and emotional changes. These injuries sometimes require lifelong care and rehabilitation.
Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis
Damage to the spinal cord can be catastrophic, frequently leading to partial or complete paralysis. Victims may face permanent disability, mobility limitations, and the need for ongoing medical support. In addition to the physical challenges, spinal injuries can cause emotional and financial strain on the entire family.
Fractures and Orthopedic Trauma
Broken bones and orthopedic trauma are among the common injuries in slip and fall cases as well as car accidents. These injuries may require surgery, extensive rehabilitation, or even the insertion of permanent hardware. Recovery can be lengthy and often involves missed work and significant pain.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Soft tissue damage, such as whiplash, sprains, or torn ligaments, can be deceptively serious. These injuries often arise from car accidents, workplace incidents, or falls. Though not always immediately visible on medical imaging, soft tissue injuries can lead to long-term discomfort, reduced mobility, and chronic pain if not treated properly.
Burns and Disfigurement
Accidents involving fires, chemicals, or defective products may result in severe burns. These injuries can cause lasting disfigurement, nerve damage, and psychological trauma. Reconstructive surgeries are often necessary, along with long-term physical and emotional healing.
Emotional and Psychological Harm
The consequences of an accident are not always physical. Many victims develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or depression after a serious accident. This type of emotional harm is just as real as physical injury and can affect every aspect of daily life. Recognizing and addressing these challenges is a crucial part of recovery.
How Pain and Suffering Are Calculated
One of the most common questions clients ask after an accident is, “How much is my pain and suffering worth?” Unfortunately, there is no simple or universal answer. Unlike medical bills or lost wages, which have clear financial values, pain and suffering damages are more subjective. Courts and insurance companies evaluate each case individually, considering multiple factors to determine fair compensation.
No Fixed Formula
Virginia law does not provide a set formula for calculating pain and suffering. Instead, the value of these damages is determined by looking at the specific facts of your case and the overall effect of the injury on your life. This means that two people with the same physical injury may receive very different settlements depending on how the injury impacts their daily living, work, and long-term health.
Key Factors That Influence Value
Several elements are considered when placing a value on pain and suffering damages:
- Severity of the injury: More serious injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries or spinal cord damage, typically result in higher awards.
- Recovery time: The length of time it takes to heal plays a major role. Prolonged or incomplete recoveries increase compensation.
- Permanent impact: If an injury causes lasting disability, disfigurement, or chronic pain, damages may be significantly higher.
- Lifestyle disruption: Injuries that prevent someone from working, caring for their family, or enjoying hobbies and activities are valued more heavily.
Virginia’s Verbal Threshold Limitation
For auto accidents in Virginia, the state’s verbal threshold limitation may come into play. This legal standard restricts claims for pain and suffering unless the injury reaches a certain level of seriousness, such as significant scarring, permanent disability, or substantial loss of bodily function. This rule makes it critical to have an experienced advocate who can present strong evidence of the impact your injuries have had on your life.
Common Calculation Methods
While there is no universal formula, insurance companies and courts often use one of two common methods:
- Multiplier method: This approach multiplies the total of your economic damages (like medical bills and lost wages) by a number between 1.5 and 5, depending on the severity of your injury. For example, a serious spinal injury might be assigned a multiplier of 4 or 5.
- Per diem method: This method assigns a daily dollar amount for the pain and suffering you endure and multiplies it by the number of days you are expected to experience symptoms or limitations.
Will I Have to Go to Court?
Many accident victims worry about whether pursuing a personal injury claim will mean standing before a judge or jury. While this is a valid concern, the truth is that most cases never make it to trial. Understanding how settlements and court proceedings typically work can give you peace of mind as you consider your legal options.
Most Cases Settle Before Trial
The vast majority of personal injury claims are resolved through negotiation rather than litigation. In fact, studies show that about 90–95% of personal injury cases settle out of court. When liability is clear and your damages are well-documented, insurance companies may offer a fair settlement early in the process. This allows you to avoid the time, stress, and expense of a courtroom battle while still receiving the compensation you deserve.
When a Trial Becomes Necessary
Although settlement is common, there are situations where taking your case to trial may be the best, or only, option. For example:
- Disputes over fault: If the insurance company or defendant refuses to accept responsibility, a trial may be necessary to prove liability.
- Disagreements on damages: Even when liability is accepted, insurers often undervalue the true cost of your injuries, pain, and suffering.
- Unreasonable settlement offers: If the other side refuses to negotiate in good faith, going to court may yield better results.
- Strategic advantage: In some cases, a trial may position you for greater compensation, especially if evidence strongly supports your claim.
We Prepare Every Case as if It Will Go to Court
At James B. Feinman, Attorney at Law, we approach every personal injury case with the mindset that it may ultimately go before a judge or jury. This preparation not only ensures that we are always ready for trial but also puts pressure on insurance companies to negotiate seriously. When insurers know your lawyer is fully prepared to fight in court, they are far more likely to make a fair settlement offer.
Most importantly, you are never forced into court. Attorney Feinman will explain your options at every stage, provide clear recommendations, and only proceed with litigation if you decide it is in your best interest. You can feel confident knowing you have a strong advocate by your side, whether your case ends in a settlement or a verdict.
How Insurance Companies Undervalue Claims
Insurance companies often present themselves as being “on your side,” but their primary goal is protecting their bottom line. This means they routinely use strategies designed to reduce or deny payouts to injury victims. Without experienced legal representation, many people accept far less compensation than they truly deserve. As your advocate, James B. Feinman, Attorney at Law, levels the playing field and protects you from these tactics.
Quick Lowball Settlement Offers
One of the most common tactics insurers use is offering a fast settlement shortly after the accident. These offers may seem attractive when you are facing medical bills and lost income, but they are often far below the true value of your claim. Accepting too soon can leave you without enough funds to cover ongoing treatment, rehabilitation, or future complications.
Recorded Statements Used Against You
Insurance adjusters may request a recorded statement under the guise of “clarifying details.” In reality, these conversations are often designed to trip you up and use your own words against you later. Even innocent comments can be twisted to downplay your injuries or shift blame. Having an attorney handle communication ensures your rights remain protected.
Delays or Denials of Legitimate Claims
Another tactic is stalling, delaying the claims process to pressure victims into settling out of frustration. In other cases, insurers may outright deny valid claims, forcing victims to fight for benefits they are entitled to under the law. These bad-faith practices can be overwhelming without skilled legal intervention.
Discouraging Victims From Hiring Lawyers
Insurance representatives may imply that involving a lawyer will complicate or delay your claim. In reality, their goal is to prevent you from accessing professional legal advice that could reveal the true value of your case. An experienced attorney ensures you are not taken advantage of and that you pursue every dollar of compensation available.
How Our Portsmouth Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help
When you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, choosing the right attorney can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. At James B. Feinman, Attorney at Law, we combine decades of legal experience with a personalized approach to every client’s unique circumstances. As a trusted Portsmouth personal injury lawyer, Attorney Feinman provides the knowledge, resources, and determination necessary to guide victims through the legal process and pursue maximum compensation.
Comprehensive Legal Consultation and Case Evaluation
Every successful case begins with a careful assessment of the facts. Attorney Feinman offers thorough consultations to review the details of your accident, evaluate liability, and determine the strength of your claim. This initial step ensures that you fully understand your rights and options before moving forward.
Skilled Negotiation with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies are notorious for undervaluing or denying claims. Attorney Feinman has extensive experience negotiating with adjusters and corporate defense lawyers, ensuring that his clients are not pressured into accepting less than they deserve. By presenting clear evidence and strong arguments, he works to secure a fair settlement that covers both economic and non-economic damages.
Aggressive Litigation Support When Necessary
While many cases are resolved through settlement, some require litigation to achieve justice. Attorney Feinman is a seasoned trial lawyer who prepares every case as if it will go to court. This readiness not only strengthens his negotiating position but also ensures that clients have a fierce advocate in the courtroom if a trial becomes necessary.
About Personal Injury Accidents in Portsmouth
Accidents can happen anywhere, but certain locations in Portsmouth see a higher number of personal injury cases due to heavy traffic, large numbers of visitors, or hazardous conditions. Understanding where and why these accidents occur helps explain why legal guidance is so important for local residents.
Busy streets like High Street, London Boulevard, and Effingham Street are common sites of car, pedestrian, and bicycle accidents, largely due to high traffic volume and frequent congestion. Interstate 264 and other major highways that run through the city also contribute to serious motor vehicle collisions, particularly those involving large trucks.
Public spaces such as Portsmouth City Park and Paradise Creek Nature Park may become the backdrop for slip and fall injuries, bicycle accidents, or other incidents when property owners fail to maintain safe conditions. Similarly, Portsmouth’s vibrant waterfront areas, shopping centers, and restaurants carry the risk of premises liability accidents if safety codes are not properly followed.
Workplaces in Portsmouth, especially those tied to shipbuilding, maritime work, and construction, are also common sites of serious injuries. From falls and machinery accidents to repetitive stress injuries, workers face unique risks that often lead to workers’ compensation claims or third-party liability cases.
Because accidents occur across so many different settings, having a trusted advocate is essential. James B. Feinman, Attorney at Law, is a seasoned injury attorney in Portsmouth, VA who understands both the local environment and the legal complexities of these cases. His knowledge of the community, combined with extensive experience in personal injury litigation, makes him uniquely qualified to serve accident victims in Portsmouth.
Contact the Experienced Portsmouth Personal Injury Lawyer at James B. Feinman, Attorney at Law, for a Free Case Evaluation
When you or someone you love suffers an injury caused by another’s negligence, having skilled legal representation can make all the difference. With decades of experience advocating for accident victims, James B. Feinman, Attorney at Law, is a trusted Portsmouth personal injury lawyer who is committed to protecting your rights and securing the compensation you deserve. His dedication to personalized service and aggressive advocacy ensures that every client receives the support they need during one of the most difficult times of their life.
If you have been injured in Portsmouth, don’t wait to get the help you need. Contact James B. Feinman, Attorney at Law, today to schedule your free case evaluation. You can reach out by calling the office directly or by completing the convenient online contact form. Take the first step toward justice and recovery by putting an experienced advocate on your side.
