Sensible Solutions, Strategic Counsel

Recovering From A Car Accident Is A Challenge You Don’t Need To Face Alone

A car crash is a devastating surprise. The statistics around cars are clear on the dangers of driving, but no one really thinks it will happen to them until it does. Then, in addition to all the medical care they need, they’ll likely need to talk to a car accident attorney.

My name is Melissa Kelley, and I am a car accident attorney. I’ve worked on both sides of injury claims, for 20 years as a litigation manager for insurance and the last five as an attorney. I’m familiar with the process and the tactics used to minimize the claims of my clients in Hampton Roads. I work now to get you the help and care necessary to recover.

The Challenges Ahead In A Car Accident Claim

If you’ve found yourself fighting to recover after an injury in a car accident, the injury you have may be one of the least of your concerns in the long term. Make no mistake: a car crash injury is significant and painful and can impact you for the rest of your life. But there are many other concerns that will come along with it:

  • Loss of transportation
  • Hospital bills
  • Disagreements with insurance companies
  • Lost time at work
  • Emotional difficulties
  • Property damage and loss

The industry of personal injury response is, in many ways, pitted against you. I’m not. I’m on your side, and I will work hard for you to solve your problems and find a good way forward.

How , Helps You

Perseverance and consistency are best for people facing these massive problems and troubles in their most vulnerable times. As a lawyer and counselor, I take a personal interest in my clients’ struggles and difficulties and address them one at a time.

I get to work by:

  • Investigating your accident: Analyzing evidence, recovering accident photos, and speaking to witnesses takes skill and practice.
  • Negotiating with insurance: My experience on both sides of these discussions benefits you by knowing how to approach the other side.
  • Going to court: As a litigator, I’ve developed the strength needed to fight in the courtroom for your best needs.
  • Helping you find care: I’m a professional in this area, and I know so much about how to find the right medical or psychological care after an accident.

I’m happy to bring these services to you and build a better future for you. Your needs matter to me.

You Need Answers To Your Questions

Your greatest struggle after a car accident is questions. As a motor vehicle accident lawyer, I’ve seen many of my clients struggle to look for the right way forward. Knowledge is powerful. Below are the questions my clients often ask me first:

Do I need to call the police after a car accident?

Virginia law makes it a misdemeanor to skip reporting an accident to the police if there is an injury. However, if you or the other driver are not hurt, there is no penalty. But assuming there is no injury may be a mistake as many injuries aren’t apparent until much later after an accident.

What if the at-fault party did not have auto insurance at the time of the car accident?

Virginia requires all drivers to carry uninsured motorist insurance. If you have an accident with someone in that position, then your insurance carrier will reimburse you for the accident.

How do insurance companies settle auto claims?

There is often a lot of back and forth between insurance companies and claimants. They investigate the crash, obviously, and try to offer a “fair” settlement. However, what the insurance company sees as fair is always profit-driven and not always as fair to you as necessary.

I’m Here To Fight For Your Compensation

Compassion and advocacy are what you need right now. I will work hard for you during your case to secure your just compensation. And I’ll keep working as your auto accident lawyer for as long as possible. Call me at or send an email using this form.