If you’ve been hurt in a car accident in Norfolk, you need a lawyer who understands the local courts, how insurance companies operate, and what it takes to win.
At the Law Offices of Richard J. Serpe, PC, our Norfolk car accident attorneys are dedicated to helping injured victims recover the compensation they rightfully deserve. With nearly four decades of success in personal injury law, we handle everything from minor fender benders to serious, life-altering collisions.
We know how overwhelming it can be to deal with insurance adjusters and navigate Virginia’s legal system—especially when you’re in pain and trying to heal. Unfortunately, insurers often take advantage of people who are unfamiliar with the claims process, offering lowball settlements or denying claims altogether.
When you work with our firm, you don’t have to face this fight alone. Our legal team will handle every step of the process so you can focus on your recovery. And if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, we can file a lawsuit and pursue the compensation you are owed.
Norfolk Car Accident Lawyer Richard Serpe
For nearly 40 years, Norfolk car accident lawyer Richard Serpe has been fighting for the rights of crash victims across Virginia.
Known for his relentless advocacy and deep commitment to justice, he has built a reputation as a trusted and results-driven personal injury attorney. A substantial portion of his legal career has been devoted to protecting and representing innocent children harmed by negligence.
Best Personal Injury Lawyers in Norfolk (2020 – Present)
Best Car Accident Lawyers in Norfolk (2025)
Norfolk Car Accident Client Review
“Within seconds of meeting with Richard Serpe, he identified a number of potential mistakes I was making – many of which could have been quite costly. He was meticulous in his gathering of evidence, he was thoughtful in how he handled documentation. There were days when I couldn’t focus on the future because the present was just too challenging. Richard often checked in on me, took phone calls and emails and was incredibly responsive. He took all the heat so I could focus on recovery. I can’t imagine how I would have been able to make it through this process without having Richard and his team by my side.” – Melissa B.
Norfolk Car Accident Cases We Handle
Our car accident lawyers have successfully represented clients in all kinds of car crash cases throughout Norfolk. Our legal team knows how to build a strong case and deliver results. With decades of experience, we’re can assist with many different types of car wreck cases.
Common hotspots for Norfolk car accidents include Granby Street, Virginia Beach Boulevard, Hampton Boulevard, Brambleton Avenue, Tidewater Drive, Military Highway, Northampton Boulevard, and Little Creek Road.
Additionally, Norfolk’s busy highways and interstates like Interstate 64 (I-64), Interstate 264 (I-264), and Interstate 464 (I-464) are also frequent locations of car wrecks due to high speeds and heavy traffic volumes.
Rear-End, T-Bone, and Head-On Collisions
Rear-end accidents are some of the most common car crashes in Norfolk. They often happen because of careless driving like tailgating, texting behind the wheel, or not stopping in time. When a driver fails to keep a safe distance or pay attention, they can be held legally responsible for the crash and your injuries. Victims of rear-end collisions often suffer from whiplash, neck and back injuries, concussions, broken bones, and facial injuries caused by airbags or impact.
T-bone (side-impact) crashes usually occur at intersections when a driver runs a red light, ignores a stop sign, or fails to yield the right of way. These accidents can cause devastating injuries, including traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, broken ribs and bones, and internal organ injuries. Because the sides of vehicles offer less protection, T-bone accidents often lead to serious and long-term harm.
Head-on collisions are among the most dangerous types of crashes. They typically happen when a driver crosses the center line or drives the wrong way. These high-impact wrecks can cause life-threatening injuries, such as brain trauma, spinal injuries, multiple fractures, and internal bleeding. If another driver failed to stay in their lane or lost control of their vehicle, you have the right to hold them accountable.
Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents in Norfolk can be especially dangerous because riders have far less protection than people in cars or trucks. These crashes often happen when drivers fail to notice motorcyclists, make unsafe lane changes, follow too closely, or turn left in front of an oncoming bike. Even when riders follow all the rules of the road, they’re often at the mercy of distracted or reckless drivers.
Common causes of motorcycle crashes include speeding, impaired driving, distracted driving, and failure to yield the right of way. When another driver’s negligence leads to a crash, the results can be devastating. Motorcyclists may suffer from traumatic brain injuries, road rash, broken bones, spinal injuries, and severe internal trauma. Recovery can take months or even years, and medical bills can pile up fast.
Pedestrian and Bicycle Accidents
Pedestrian and bicycle accidents in Norfolk often happen when drivers fail to pay attention, ignore traffic signals, or don’t give people enough space to share the road safely. Whether you’re walking in a crosswalk or biking in a designated lane, a distracted or reckless driver can cause serious harm in an instant.
Common injuries from these types of accidents include fractures, head trauma, spinal cord injuries, road rash, and internal bleeding. Even a low-speed impact can lead to long-term pain, costly medical treatment, and emotional distress.
Tractor-Trailer Accidents
Crashes involving tractor-trailers or other large commercial trucks can be catastrophic. Truck drivers and trucking companies must follow strict safety rules — but when they cut corners, the results can be devastating. Driver fatigue, poor maintenance, or violations of traffic laws often lead to serious truck wrecks. Victims may suffer spinal injuries, traumatic brain injuries, crush injuries, or even wrongful death.
A skilled Norfolk truck accident lawyer can investigate what went wrong, determine who’s responsible, and fight to hold negligent drivers or companies accountable.
Norfolk Car Accident Settlements
The value of a Norfolk car accident settlement depends on several key factors, including insurance coverage, the details of the crash, who was at fault, the severity of the injuries, and the type and duration of medical treatment required. Every case is unique, but victims may be entitled to various forms of compensation based on the physical, emotional, and financial toll of the accident.
Here are some of the most common types of compensation available in Virginia car accident claims:
Medical Expenses: From emergency room visits and ambulance rides to surgeries, hospital stays, and long-term rehabilitation, medical costs can escalate quickly. Accident victims have the right to seek compensation for both current and future medical expenses related to their injuries.
Lost Wages & Future Earnings: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to recover wages lost during your recovery. In more serious cases, compensation may also include loss of future earning potential if your ability to work has been permanently affected.
Pain and Suffering: Car crash injuries often cause lasting physical pain and emotional distress. Victims may be compensated for the extent of their suffering, including the impact on their quality of life and long-term well-being.
Wrongful Death: If a loved one was killed in a Norfolk car accident, surviving family members may be eligible to pursue a wrongful death claim. This can include compensation for funeral costs, final medical expenses, lost future income, and the emotional pain of losing a family member. Our compassionate legal team is here to help you navigate this difficult time and fight for the justice your family deserves.
Examples of Our Car Accident Settlements
$1.6 Million: Drunk driver causes severe leg injuries
$300 Thousand: Drunk driver hits pedestrian crossing the road
$300 Thousand: Client rear-ended by a drunk driver
$270 Thousand: Client rear-end accident on I-264
Statute of Limitations (Legal Deadlines)
If you’ve been injured in a Norfolk car accident and wish to pursue a personal injury claim, the clock starts ticking on the day of the accident.
In Virginia, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit is two years from the date of the crash. This means you have a strict two-year window to take legal action against the at-fault driver or other responsible parties.
However, if a local government or municipality is involved, such as if the accident was caused by a city vehicle or occurred due to a poorly maintained public road, you may be required to file a formal notice of claim within six months, which is much shorter than the standard statute of limitations.
Failing to file your claim within this time frame can result in your case being permanently barred regardless of how strong your evidence or how serious your injuries may be. It’s important to act promptly to preserve your legal rights, gather necessary documentation, and ensure that crucial evidence doesn’t disappear over time.
Do I need an attorney for a Norfolk car accident?
After a serious car crash, many victims find themselves overwhelmed. Not just by physical pain and medical bills, but by the legal and financial complexities that follow. Insurance companies may pressure you into accepting a lowball settlement, while important evidence can disappear quickly if not preserved. That’s where an experienced Norfolk car accident lawyer can make all the difference.
From the moment you hire legal representation, we become your advocate. We will protect your rights and work to secure the compensation you need to recover and move forward. Whether you’re dealing with aggressive insurance adjusters, confusing paperwork, or uncertainty about the true value of your claim, a lawyer can step in to handle the legal burdens so you can focus on healing.
Here are a few ways our Norfolk car accident attorneys can protect your right to compensation:
Conduct an investigation and determine the potential value of your claim
Protect you from abusive insurance company tactics
Help you to avoid costly mistakes that could ruin your case
Negotiate with the insurance company for a favorable financial recovery
File a lawsuit if the insurance company won’t offer a fair settlement
With a knowledgeable attorney by your side, you can feel confident that your case is being handled with the skill and dedication it deserves—giving you the best possible chance at a full and fair settlement.
How long will a Norfolk car accident case take?
Many factors determine how long it will take to settle a car accident case. These steps can vary depending on the case, so there is no cut-and-dried answer to questions about how long the Virginia car accident injury claims process takes.
Here are a few of the more important steps in our process:
Initial consultation. Clients who schedule their initial meeting with our Norfolk auto accident lawyer share their stories and learn of their legal options. A discussion of the person’s rights leads to a decision about whether to work together. If the person wishes to hire our law firm, they’ll sign an agreement allowing us to represent them.
Investigation. Our legal team will work to investigate the accident that caused your injuries. We’ll be looking into medical records, statements of witnesses, the police accident reports, and photographs taken at the scene. In some cases, we may even hire experts to better understand what led to the incident.
Settlement negotiations. In order to receive a fair settlement from your insurance company, we compile a demand package that contains pertinent results from the investigation. Most cases are resolved at this point, but if your injuries are severe, these negotiations could go on for quite some time. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, a lawsuit may need to be filed.
Resolution. Filing a Norfolk car accident lawsuit puts your case into the hands of the court system. Although this does kick-start preparations for a jury trial, your attorney may continue to negotiations.
Whether your case is resolved in a few months or takes longer due to litigation, our goal remains the same: to maximize your compensation and support you every step of the way.
Contact Our Norfolk Car Accident Lawyers
When it comes to navigating the complexities of a Norfolk car accident, having a knowledgeable advocate on your side can make all the difference.
The Law Offices of Richard J. Serpe, PC brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of securing favorable settlements for their clients.
If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Norfolk and need an attorney that will fight for your rights and work tirelessly to achieve the best possible result, contact our office for a free consultation at 757-233-0009. No legal fees unless we settle or win your case.
I was severely injured by medication produced by a top corporate entity. I was unable to continue working, the whole situation seemed hopeless. The team at Serpe law offices was
- Suzanne, Google Review
I strongly and sincerely recommend Richard J. Serpe
“I strongly and sincerely recommend Richard J. Serpe. Understanding, Compassionate and trustworthy. They are very knowledgeable and they WILL GET THE MOST compensation for your case. I was just looking
- Norma, Manassas, VA
A settlement that changed my life
“After a major maritime accident on the water, I was scared and didn’t know where to turn. The Law Offices of Richard Serpe and his great staff treated me with
- Eddie, Norfolk, VA
Compassionate, Dedicated and Attentive
“I would like to express my sincere appreciation for the excellent legal Services I received fron Attorney Richard J Serpe’ Law Firm. Mr. Serpe and staff were compassionate , dedicated
- Jackie, Chesapeake, VA
Hard Work and Zealous Devotion
“A tip-top law firm led by one of the finest lawyers I know. In addition to the usual qualities of hard work and zealous devotion to the cause, Richard Serpe
- Attorney Patrick Malone, D.C.
He listened carefully to our concerns and gave us honest legal advice
“My husband and I worked with Richard for the past year and had a wonderful experience. At our first meeting, he did not push us to sign anything or make
- Kelli, Portsmouth, VA
Richard Serpe, and his staff did a thorough investigation into the dog owner
My 7-year-old daughter was outside playing with friends in front of our home when she was viciously attacked by our neighbor’s Rottweiler. The Rottweiler dug a hole under the fence,
- Shaniqua, Winchester, VA
Absolute trust
“My experience with Richard Serpe can be summarized in two words, “absolute trust.” I came to Mr. Serpe on the advice of a friend after a car hit me while
- Don, Virginia Beach, VA
Such a wonderful group of people to have by your side
Such a wonderful group of people to have by your side! Genuinely cares and wants to help you and your family 🙂
- Allena, Eastern Shore of VA
Richard acted as my advocate, my friend, my partner and my champion
Within seconds of meeting with Richard Serpe, he identified a number of potential mistakes I was making – many of which could have been quite costly. Throughout the entire process,
- Melissa Baumann, Norfolk, VA
You will feel better — instantly
“I endorse this lawyer. Richard is an extremely intelligent person and a very kind man. Not only is Richard a top-notch attorney, but he also is very compassionate one. You
- Art Serratelli, Virginia Beach Immigration Lawyer
I am very satisfied!
“I highly recommend this Personal Injury Law Firm. They kept me in the loop with everything going on and gave honest advice. I am very satisfied!”
- Hallie, Williamsburg, VA
Mr Serpe is a kind, considerate professional
Mr Serpe is a kind, considerate professional I would recommend to anyone who needs legal help recovering from an auto accident or other personal injury. I really enjoyed working with
- Janine, Virginia Beach, VA
Richard Serpe was the answer to our prayers for finding justice in the legal system
Richard Serpe was the answer to our prayers for finding justice in the legal system. Our fight against the Chinese over the course of six years was emotional and difficult
- Liz & Steve, Virginia Beach, VA
Absolutely amazing what he has done for me!
“My experience with Richard was great. He put in the time and effort to get what I needed done and in months he worked a miracle that I didn’t expect!
- Michael, Google Review
Richard Serpe was able to get an excellent recovery for my daughter
When my daughter suffered an injury from lead poisoning, I did not know where to turn. There did not seem to be many lawyers who could help. The landlord responsible
- Angela W., Richmond, VA
Thank you Richard Serpe and your firm
This firm has been beside us through the whole process from when we first found out that our home had been built with Chinese drywall until justice was served. They
- Elizabeth C., Virginia Beach, VA
The people who work for him were always great to work with
Richard Serpe handled the case for my daughter for injuries she received over 10 years ago. The people who work for him were always great to work with! They responded
Pedestrian Injured on Colley Ave & West 47th in Norfolk
On September 17, 2025, around 9:45 a.m., a pedestrian was critically injured in a crash involving a city-owned vehicle at the intersection of West 47th Street and Colley Avenue in
For nearly 40 years, Norfolk car accident lawyer 
Our car accident lawyers have successfully represented clients in all kinds of car crash cases throughout Norfolk. Our legal team knows how to build a strong case and deliver results. With decades of experience, we’re can assist with many different types of car wreck cases.
When it comes to navigating the complexities of a Norfolk car accident, having a knowledgeable advocate on your side can make all the difference.
