Best Car Accident Lawyers in Brookline, MA

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Brookline, Massachusetts?

  The non-emergency hotline of the Brookline Police Department is 617-730-2222.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Brookline, Massachusetts?

  You can obtain a copy of the accident report made by the Brookline Police Department by submitting a request. Under the Public Records Law, there is no specific request form format; however, the document must contain a concise and reasonable description of what type of document is requested, along with your contact information. You can submit the completed form by (1) sending it in online at recordsdivision@brooklinema.gov; and either by (2) mailing it or (3) dropping it by in person at Brookline Traffic Division, 350 Washington St. Brookline, MA 02445; during business hours.

• What are the minimum car insurance requirements in Brookline?

  Massachusetts mandates that drivers in Brookline obtain the four primary insurance policies to cover their recovery costs in the event of an auto accident. (a) bodily injury liability coverage; (b) uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage with a minimum limit of $20,000 per person and $40,000 per accident; (c) Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage of $8,000 per person, per accident; and (d) property damage liability within $5,000 per accident.

• How much do car accident lawyers in Brookline charge?

  In Brookline, attorneys frequently take cases involving auto accidents on a contingency fee basis and under time-based payment arrangements. A personal injury lawyer's hourly rate is typically $183, and they charge a contingency fee of more than 40% of the settlement they obtain. There may be some law firms that bill more or less than this. Expect that out-of-pocket expenses like filing fees, travel costs, printing costs, etc. will not be covered by such agreements.

• Who is liable for paying your medical bills following a car accident in Brookline?

  Your auto insurance company will cover your medical bills up to $8,000 under the Personal Injury Protection (PIP) policy you selected. If your expenses exceed the limit, you can rely on your private health insurance, ERISA, or MassHealth plan, which can provide up to $2,000 in financial assistance. If you do not have private health insurance, you will be responsible for paying the unpaid amounts to the healthcare provider. Furthermore, if you successfully recovered one, you can use your settlement award to pay for your medical expenses.

• Why should you not speak with the other party's insurance provider after a car accident in Brookline?

  Insurance adjusters in Brookline may use unethical tactics to manipulate or pressure you into making incriminating statements that can be used against you to devalue your car accident compensation claim. Insurance companies can require you to participate in an Examination Under Oath, a formal cross-examination proceeding that is recorded, so that you won’t be able to change your statements. Hiring an attorney will assist you in dealing with deceptive insurance providers and recovering the maximum amount of compensation you are entitled to.

• What circumstances can allow you to seek additional compensatory damages after a car accident in Brookline?

  Brookline adheres to the no-fault state legislature. Under this system, car accident victims cannot sue or hold the at-fault driver liable for any pain, suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, or future healthcare costs, even if the insurance compensation is inadequate. Victims may only seek additional financial compensation from negligent drivers under the following circumstances: (1) specific injuries: broken or fractured bone, permanent and serious disfigurement, hearing loss, eye damage, and amputation; (2) medical expenses exceeding $2,000; and (3) wrongful death claim.

• How do I choose a car accident lawyer?

  To select a car accident lawyer, consider the lawyer's experience, focus, and reputation. While nearly any attorney can negotiate with insurers for a settlement, not all attorneys have amassed experience litigating a claim in a court of law. Choose an attorney with a background that includes car accident claimants; it's helpful if the attorney is focused on personal injury law. Lastly, read reviews from previous clients to get a feel for the attorney's helpfulness and responsiveness to clients. The best lawyer for your case is one that you feel comfortable and confident working with.

• What steps should I take after a car accident?

  Immediately following a car accident, get out of traffic as soon as possible and dial 9-1-1. Exchange car insurance information with any other involved drivers and get a police report as soon as possible. Be truthful about what happened, even if you are at fault, but stick to reporting the facts of the accident without offering an opinion on who is to blame. If possible, take photos of your car, other cars at the scene, and the scene itself.

• (When) Do I need a lawyer after a car accident?

  Start working with a car accident lawyer as soon as possible following your car accident (some attorneys even make hospital visits). By reaching out for legal help early on, you avoid some of the pitfalls of trying to handle your claim on your own. Your attorney can also get the ball rolling on reimbursement for your medical bills and lost wages while awaiting the outcome of your claim.

• How long after a car accident can you claim an injury?

  The length of time you can file a claim for an injury following a car accident is governed by the statute of limitations in your state. Although it varies, most states set the statute of limitations for injured parties to seek compensatory damages at three years following the accident or three years after you discover your injuries. In cases where children are injured, the statute of limitations may be longer.

• What do I do after a car accident that I'm not responsible for?

  After an accident that's not your fault, seek immediate medical help if you are injured. Once it's safe to do so, obtain the other driver's contact and insurance information, any statements from witnesses, and photos of the scene. Obtain a police report and contact your insurer and the at-fault party's insurer. If you are injured, schedule a consultation with a car accident attorney to discuss your legal options.

• What happens if someone sues you after a car accident?

  If you have car insurance in force at the time of the accident, your insurance is contractually bound to represent you on any claims that arise, indemnifying you against loss up to the limits of your policy. You can help your insurance company by cooperating fully. If the plaintiff in any lawsuit obtains a judgment above your policy limits, then you can be held personally responsible for any damages awarded.

• What/how much can I expect from a car accident settlement?

  According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average bodily injury claim in 2018 was $15,785. The amount of any particular car accident settlement hinges primarily on the severity of the injuries sustained as a result and whether or not any partial or total permanent disability was caused by the accident. Claims that involve broken bones or nerve damage likely settle for more than claims where soft tissue injuries are present.

• How do I arrange a rental car after an accident?

  To arrange a rental car after an accident, first consider whether your insurance or the other party's insurance will be paying for the rental. If another driver is found to be at-fault for the accident, that driver's insurance may pay the costs. If you are responsible, your insurance may pay if your policy covers such expenses. Speak with your insurance adjuster to determine if you have benefits available.

• How long does it take for car insurance to go back down after an accident?

  Post-accident rate spikes can last anywhere from three to five years, depending on your insurer. However, if damages incurred during the accident are less than $2,000, your rate may not go up at all. Three years is typical for collision and property damage claims. Five years is not uncommon in accidents involving bodily injury claims, DUI or DWI, reckless driving, or serious violations at the time of the accident.

• How to settle a car accident claim without a lawyer?

  To negotiate a car accident settlement without a lawyer, you'll have to prove that the other party was to blame for your damages. Gather evidence at the scene to support your claim, including witness statements and photos. Seek medical treatment for your injuries immediately. Notify the other driver's insurer of your intent to file a claim. If you reside in a no-fault state, you will need to use your personal injury protection (PIP) benefits first before filing a claim against the other party for medical expenses and bodily injury. Be prepared with medical records, police reports, receipts for out-of-pocket accident-related costs, and proof of lost income due to the accident before beginning negotiations.