Best Car Accident Lawyers in Salem, MA

FAQs

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

  You can get in touch with the Salem Police Department at (978) 744-1212.

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

  To request police reports, fill out the form found on the Salem Police Department website at www.salemma.gov/salem-police-department/ and email it to: records@salempd.net. If you do not receive a reply after two business days, call the Records Division during regular business hours at 978-744-0171. You can also visit the police station at 95 Margin Street.

• Which intersections in Salem are prone to gridlocks that may cause car accidents?

  The intersections of Margin Street, Norman Street, New Derby Street, Washington Street in the Riley Plaza area are prone to gridlocks, according to the Salem PD. The intersections of Norman Street, Summer Street, Washington Street, Essex Street at Lappin Park were also identified. Gridlocks could lead to ripple effects in other intersections and result in accidents for drivers, bikers, and pedestrians in Salem.

• Can a driver still file a claim if the at-fault driver flees the accident scene in Salem?

  Yes, a driver can still file a claim if he/she is a victim of a hit-and-run accident in Salem. All drivers are required by Massachusetts laws to have uninsured motorist (UM) coverage on their auto insurance policies. In the event of a hit-and-run, policyholders can just file the UM claim from their own insurance company.

• If the airbag did not deploy during a car accident in Salem, will there be a case?

  It depends. Factors such as seatbelt usage and the severity of the impact would determine the possibility of a case of a car accident in Salem. There could be a case if a car specialist investigates your vehicle and found that the airbag, which was designed to be deployed under certain circumstances, failed to deploy. In this scenario, you may have a product liability or lemon law claim against the car manufacturer.

• Whose insurance carrier is liable to pay for an accident in Salem that involves a parked car?

  Your own insurance policy will cover the damage to your parked car in Salem if the other driver is nowhere to be found. If the at-fault driver left a note, call him/her and obtain his/her insurance information. You can then give this information to your own insurer, who will either guide you in filing an insurance claim under someone else's policy or pay for the damage first then ask for a refund from the at-fault driver's insurer.

• Is there a tort threshold for car accident claims in Salem?

  Yes. Car accident claims in Salem follow MA's tort threshold rule. This rule states that in order to pursue a personal injury or uninsured/underinsured claim you must be in an accident that resulted in death and injuries such as a fracture, the loss of a body part, and more serious disfigurement. You may also file a claim if your medical expenses in treating accident-related injuries exceed $2,000.

• 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.