Best Car Accident Lawyers in Billerica

FAQs

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

  Contact the Billerica Police Department's non-emergency phone lines at 978-671-0900 and 978-667-1212.

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

  You can obtain crash reports at the police station located at 6 Good St. You can make an electronic request on the Billerica Police Department's website, upon which the results will be emailed to you as soon as possible. If you do not receive a reply within 48 hours, check your spam folder or call 978-215-9608. Reports are also available on the website of the Massachusetts RMV.

• Should a driver involved in a car accident in Billerica hire a lawyer?

  You should hire a lawyer if you get injured in a car accident in Billerica and are seeking compensation. The aftermath of the accident can be stressful for anyone dealing with medical bills, injury and trauma, and confusing claims procedures. Hiring a lawyer will give you a better chance of securing the compensation you deserve for your injuries.

• What is the statute of limitations for a car accident case in Billerica?

  Three years is the statute of limitations under Massachusetts law and is the same for both injuries and property damage. Car accident victims in Billerica should file their claims within three years following the date of the accident. However, there are cases where the statute of limitations may be extended, such as when the defendant has left the state or the victim is a minor.

• What is an "eggshell doctrine" and how is it significant in a car accident case in Billerica?

  An "eggshell doctrine" is a rule of law followed in Massachusetts stating that a person who has been injured due to the negligence of another cannot be punished for any medical condition he/she may have been suffering from before incurring accident-related injuries. Therefore, the defendant can be held liable for the damage that naturally results from the combined effect of his/her negligent actions and the pre-existing medical condition of a victim of a car accident in Billerica.

• Is it possible to get back paid time-off that was used after a car accident in Billerica?

  Yes. Using your personal injury protection (PIP) coverage, you may be entitled to a “buyback” of the paid vacation or sick leave you used up due to a car accident in Billerica. It depends on the policy of your employer. In some cases, PIP will repay your employer to have your leave restored. However, there are some employers that do not grant leave buyback.

• Are car accident fatalities common in Billerica?

  No, there are not a lot of car accident fatalities in Billerica, a town that has around 42,000 inhabitants. According to www.city-data.com, there were six fatal accidents in the town within a given four-year period. NeighborhoodScout has also named Billerica as one of “America’s 100 Safest Cities.” However, there have been cases of DUI in the metro—13 in 2021 and 27 in 2022—as reported by the Billerica Police Department.

• 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.