In this eye-opening episode of Coffee with Jim and Kim, Burnett & Williams attorneys Jim Williams and Kimberly J. Raab tackle one of the most misunderstood aspects of Virginia personal injury law – contributory negligence. If you’ve ever wondered whether you have a case after a car accident, slip and fall, or other injury, this episode is a must-watch. Virginia is one of just a few states where being even 1% at fault for your own injuries can mean you recover nothing. Jim and Kim explain why this legal doctrine creates such high hurdles for plaintiffs – and how they work to overcome them.
Through real-world examples like green-light crashes, slip-and-fall accidents, and even dart-out cases involving children, the hosts explore how facts, witness credibility, dash cam footage, and even the shoes you wear can impact the outcome. They also break down related legal concepts like assumption of the risk, supervening cause, and how minors are treated differently under the law. If you’ve been injured and think your actions might have contributed in any small way, don’t assume you’re out of options – this is the episode that shows you why it’s worth talking to an experienced attorney.
