Walking away from a car accident without visible injuries might leave you wondering whether you have any legal options. Can you still hold the other driver accountable? What if your car needs expensive repairs, or you're dealing with anxiety every time you get behind the wheel?

The answer is yes—suing for a car accident with no injury gives you a way to recover compensation when another driver's negligence leaves you with unexpected losses and stress.

After a no-injury crash, you shouldn't be left covering the costs on your own. Contact Smith Law Center at (757) 244-7000 or reach out to us online to discuss your case.

What You Can Sue for After a No-Injury Crash

You can sue for property damage. If your car sustained severe damage or was declared a total loss, you have the right to bring a claim against the at-fault driver. That can include repairs, replacement value, and the loss of use of your vehicle.

You can also sue for financial costs tied to the crash, such as rental cars, transportation while your vehicle is unavailable, or missed work directly connected to dealing with the accident.

These types of claims show that you can still take legal action after a crash without physical injuries. When another driver causes a collision by rear-ending you, speeding, running a red light, or driving distracted, they can be held financially responsible for the resulting damage. This is where car accident with no injury compensation becomes an important factor in making you whole again.

Can Emotional Distress Be Part of a Car Accident Claim?

Yes. Emotional distress is also a recognized claim in Virginia, and it does not require physical injuries. A crash can leave lasting psychological effects that go beyond the damage to your vehicle. 

How do you know if you're experiencing emotional distress? In the days and weeks after the crash, you may start noticing: 

• Intrusive thoughts or flashbacks,
• Difficulty sleeping or eating,
• Panic attacks or rapid heartbeat in traffic,
• Mood swings or persistent sadness,
• Avoiding driving or riding in vehicles,
• Trouble focusing at work or school, and
• Physical symptoms like headaches or fatigue.

These signs could point to post-traumatic stress, anxiety, or depression. If symptoms last more than a few weeks or interfere with your routine, it's worth seeking a mental health evaluation. A formal diagnosis can also strengthen your case if you decide to pursue a car accident lawsuit with no injury.

A car accident without injuries can still leave you with vehicle damage, extra expenses, and emotional distress. Can you sue someone for a car accident without injury? Yes—you can, and we can help you build that claim. Call Smith Law Center at (757) 244-7000 or message us online to schedule your free case review.

What Should You Do Right After a Car Accident With No Injuries?

Walking away from a crash feeling fine doesn't mean you can skip the important steps. The actions you take immediately after the accident can significantly impact your ability to recover full compensation.

• Get a police report, even for minor crashes. Many people think police won't respond to "fender benders," but most departments will send an officer when you emphasize property damage. The report creates an official record and often includes the officer's assessment of who was at fault for the crash.‍
• Document everything you can see. Use your phone to capture vehicle damage from multiple angles, street signs, traffic signals, skid marks, debris, and road conditions. Take wide shots showing the overall scene and close-ups of specific damage. These photos often become the most compelling evidence in your case.‍
• Collect witness details while they're still there. Bystanders who saw the crash can provide crucial third-party perspectives, especially if the other driver later changes their story. Get their full names, phone numbers, and a summary of what they witnessed.‍
• See a healthcare provider within 24 to 48 hours. Visit your primary care doctor or an urgent care clinic, regardless of how you feel at the time. Explain that you were in a car accident and ask them to document any symptoms, including emotional stress, headaches, or tension. Those records help demonstrate the connection between your symptoms and the accident.‍
• Report the crash to your insurance company, but be cautious. You're required to notify your insurer, but keep your statement factual and brief. Avoid speculating about fault or giving detailed recorded statements until you've spoken with an attorney. Insurance adjusters may use your words against you later.‍
• Contact an attorney before accepting any settlement offers. Insurance companies often make quick, low offers, hoping you'll settle before understanding your rights. An experienced attorney can evaluate whether the offer covers your actual damages and handle negotiations on your behalf.

Taking these steps protects your right to compensation and ensures you have the documentation needed to build a strong case. Don't let the other driver's insurance company convince you that "no injuries" means "no claim."

Should You File a Car Accident Lawsuit With No Injury?

Yes, if the crash left you with significant expenses or disruptions. Vehicle repairs, rental cars, and counseling sessions add up quickly, and you shouldn't be left to cover those costs alone. A lawsuit may allow you to recover:

• Repairs or the full value of your vehicle if totaled,
• Rental car or rideshare expenses,
• Mental health treatment related to the crash,
• Lost wages tied to appointments or symptoms, and
• Reduced quality of life.

Filing also holds the at-fault driver accountable when their actions were negligent or reckless. Virginia law allows these claims without bodily injury, but two key rules apply:

• Statute of limitations: You have five years from the crash date to file for property damage. Missing the deadline ends your right to sue.‍
• Contributory negligence: If you share any fault, you may recover nothing. For example, if you were distracted at a red light when another driver rear-ended you, that moment of distraction could block compensation.

An attorney can help determine whether your damages justify filing and ensure deadlines and defenses don't jeopardize your case. In many situations, pursuing a car accident with no injury settlement is the most effective way to recover what you've lost.

Talk to Smith Law Center About Your No-Injury Car Accident Claim

For over 75 years, Smith Law Center has represented Virginians affected by the aftermath of car accidents. We know that crashes without physical injuries can still leave you facing significant costs, including totaled vehicles and time away from work. 

Our attorneys have recovered over $1 billion for clients and are ready to help you pursue the compensation you deserve. Call (757) 244-7000 today or contact us online to set up your free case review.