Best Car Accident Lawyers in Acton

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the Acton Police Department is (978) 929-7722.

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

  To obtain a copy of an incident report, you should contact the clerk at the Acton Police Department's Records Unit at (978) 929-7514. You can also email your request to policerecords@actonma.gov.

• What is the most accident-prone area in Acton?

  The two-mile stretch of Great Road in Acton is the most dangerous for car drivers and pedestrians. The road recently recorded one fatal car accident that resulted in serious injuries to a teenage pedestrian. According to MassDOT, there have been 58 crashes on Great Road since 2019.

• When can you file a claim after being in a car accident in Acton?

  Victims of car accidents in Acton and throughout Massachusetts have three years to file a claim from the date of the incident. The applicable statute of limitations for car crash injury lawsuits can be found in the Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 260, Section 2A. The earlier you act, the faster you will be able to recover the compensation that you deserve. Following the collision, victims are advised to seek the help of an Acton car accident lawyer.

• Are Acton's roads dangerous for pedestrians?

  Great Road is the most dangerous stretch of road for pedestrians in Acton. A 13-year-old pedestrian was seriously injured in a hit-and-run accident in November 2022. Residents had also requested safe crossings on Great Road months prior to the accident as part of the Town of Acton's Complete Streets plan. According to NHTSA data, 66 pedestrians were killed in car accidents in Middlesex County, which includes Acton, between 2016 and 2020.

• What impact do Acton car accidents have on your auto insurance policy?

  Every Acton driver is classified based on the number of points earned through the Safe Driver Insurance Program (SDIP). The more car accidents you have, the higher your SDIP will be, resulting in higher insurance premiums. On the other hand, if you have a clean driving record, you may be eligible for lower rates and additional discounts.

• Is Acton a no-fault car insurance town?

  Yes, because Massachusetts, where Acton is located, is a no-fault state. If you have suffered injuries in an Acton automobile accident, your personal injury protection (PIP) car insurance coverage will pay for your hospital expenses and other financial losses, regardless of who caused the crash. However, if your injuries are serious enough, you can bring a claim directly against the at-fault driver. An Acton car accident lawyer will help you to know your legal options to recover compensation.

• 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.