Best Car Accident Lawyers in Belmont

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact numbers for the Belmont Police Department are 617-993-2500 and 617-484-1212.

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

  You can get a copy of the police report for the accident from the Records Unit of the Belmont Police Department. It is located at One Twin Pines Lane. A $5 processing fee is needed for each request. You can also request a crash/incident report online by completing this form, https://belmontma.nextrequest.com/requests/new.

• Do you have to go to court if you file a car accident claim in Belmont?

  No, going to court for a personal injury claim resulting from a Belmont car accident is only necessary if the insurance company you're suing refuses to agree on reasonable terms. The vast majority of these cases are resolved out of court. You should consult with an attorney about how to handle your claim and whether or not to go to court.

• What is the time limit for filing a car accident claim in Belmont?

  Under Massachusetts General Law, Chapter 260 2A, you have three years to file a claim for injuries sustained in a car accident in Belmont. It is critical to file a claim as soon as possible because late submission can have a variety of consequences. An attorney can help you handle your case and obtain fair compensation.

• Can you still file a car accident claim in Belmont if the at-fault party fled the scene?

  Hit-and-run refers to situations in which a driver causes an accident but then flees the scene without providing necessary assistance. Uninsured Motorist coverage is something that every driver in Belmont is mandated by law to have as part of their car insurance plan. In the event of an accident involving a hit-and-run, your attorney will file the claim directly with your insurance provider.

• Can you still file a lawsuit for injuries if you were partially at fault in a Belmont car accident?

  For vehicle accident claims in Massachusetts, modified comparative negligence is used, so you can still receive compensation for a car accident in Belmont even if you were less than 50 percent at fault. Your recovery, however, will be reduced by your percentage of fault. If you are found to be more than 50% responsible for the accident, you will be barred from suing for damages.

• Who pays for the medical bills while a car accident case in Belmont is pending?

  Due to the fact that Massachusetts is a no-fault state, all drivers in Belmont are required to carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance to cover their own medical expenses. It also covers 75% of lost wages and replacement services, up to a maximum of $8,000. Coverage is influenced by factors such as PIP deductibles and health insurance. An attorney will help you understand the procedures related to PIP.

• 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.