Best Car Accident Lawyers in Northampton, MA

FAQs

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

  The contact number for non-emergency matters at the Northampton Police Department is (413) 587-1100.

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

  People who wish to obtain copies of accident reports in Northampton can contact the local police department's Records Bureau at (413) 587-1106 for requests. The Northampton Police Department is located at 29 Center Street, while the Records Bureau is open from 8 A.M. to 4 P.M., from Monday to Friday.

• Does Northampton follow no-fault insurance laws for car accidents?

  Yes, Northampton and the rest of Massachusetts adhere to no-fault insurance mandates for car accident cases. This means that those involved in a crash must use their own personal injury protection coverage to pay for medical care and lost income, up to $8,000. However, they can pursue a claim against an offending driver if their overall medical expenses reach $2,000 or more or if the injuries involved include fractured bones, loss of sight/hearing, or permanent/serious disfigurement.

• How does modified comparative negligence affect a car accident case in Northampton?

  In a car accident case within Northampton, plaintiffs are barred from recovering any damages if their fault in the accident reaches 51%, in line with the state's law on modified comparative negligence. If a plaintiff's fault falls below 51%, they can still recover deducted damages based on the percentage of their fault, as determined in court.

• What are the exceptions to the statute of limitations in car accident cases in Northampton?

  For car accident claims in Northampton, the statute of limitations begins differently for minors or those deemed mentally incapable. Instead of beginning from the date of an accident, the statute starts upon a minor's 18th birthday or on the date a mentally incapacitated person recovers. In addition, if a defendant moves out of Massachusetts for a certain period, the statute will not consider the period involving their absence from the state.

• When is it required to report a car crash in Northampton?

  In accordance with Massachusetts law, any motorist who was involved in a car crash in Northampton must report the incident if there were injuries, fatalities, or property damage worth more than $1,000. The report must be submitted within five days from the date of the accident to the state's Registry of Motor Vehicles and the police department that has jurisdiction over the crash site's location.

• Can car accident victims in Northampton still file claims even if they were not wearing a seatbelt?

  Yes, a car accident victim in Northampton can still file a claim for damages even if they were not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash. However, this may also mean that the jury may find them partially responsible for their injuries. As a result, the potential compensation in the claim can be deducted in line with comparative negligence laws in Massachusetts.

• 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.