Best Car Accident Lawyers in Westfield

FAQs

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

  Contact (413) 562-5411 and choose extension 4 for dispatch.

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

  Call (413) 642-9374 first before requesting a copy of an accident report. You can visit the records division located at the front lobby of the police station, which is at 15 Washington Street. You can also request online through the form center page of www.cityofwestfield.org. Reports may be approved for release a week after the accident.

• What are the symptoms of whiplash injury from a car accident in Westfield?

  Dizziness, neck pain, and difficulty with neck movements are some of the signs and symptoms of whiplash injury. The car accident victim may also suffer from frequent headaches, nausea, and burning sensations in the arms, legs, and fingers. Many whiplash injuries take days to manifest which is why it is important to seek medical opinion right after the accident in Westfield.

• Are settlements for car accidents in Westfield taxable?

  In most cases, no. The settlement of a personal injury claim for a car accident in Westfield is not taxable income under MA and federal laws. There are some circumstances though, such as in the settlement of emotional distress, where it can be taxed, although it also depends on the case.

• Is there a dangerous road in Westfield that is considered a crash hotspot?

  Yes. A section of Route 20- the one-and-a-half-mile stretch hugging the Westfield River- has been the scene of 17 accidents in less than two months. Of these accidents, three were fatal and eight were major accidents with property damage exceeding $1000. Car speed, driver medical issues, and distracted driving were believed to be mostly the cause of these accidents according to the Westfield Police.

• Where can a claim be filed after a car accident in Westfield?

  You can file a claim under your PIP coverage also known as the no-fault insurance policy. The PIP benefit usually provides a minimum coverage of $8,000 for medical bills, out-of-pocket accident-related costs, and lost wages. It is applicable regardless of which driver is at-fault in the car accident in Westfield.

• What kind of information should be exchanged with another driver after a car accident in Westfield?

  Information such as driver's names and contact numbers, auto insurance, license plate numbers, and driver's license numbers should be exchanged. You are required by MA law to provide this information to the other driver after the car accident in Westfield. Additionally, you should not say anything about fault to other parties, the police, and insurance adjusters on the accident scene.

• 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.