Best Car Accident Lawyers in Lexington

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the Lexington Police Department is (781) 862-1212.

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

  For in-person requests, you can visit the department at 173 Bedford St. For online transactions, you need to fill out a form that requires you to disclose information like your name, address, phone number, and e-mail address.

• Who can be held liable in a Lexington car accident involving an airborne tire?

  Tire designers, manufacturers, distributors, sellers, and wholesalers can be held liable for car accident-related injuries. If a product poses a foreseeable hazard that the manufacturer or anyone involved in the production process should have been aware of, it may be considered "defective." In one case involving an airborne tire, Lexington authorities checked whether any recalls were made for the axle or wheelbase of the defective tire as part of the investigation process.

• Can a Lexington resident sue an out-of-state driver for car accident injuries?

  Yes. A Lexington resident in a car accident with an out-of-state driver should contact a personal injury attorney, as the liable party might not carry personal injury protection (PIP) insurance. Some states that do not require PIP include Maryland, Virginia, Kentucky, and South Dakota. Lexington motorists should exercise extra caution when driving, as the chances of colliding with an out-of-state driver are significant; the city welcomes over 100,000 visitors annually.

• How can a Lexington attorney prove that a negligent driver caused a client's car accident injuries in snowy weather?

  To establish liability in a car accident, a Lexington attorney may prove the following:

  • That the at-fault driver did not regularly check their tires.
  • That the at-fault driver was driving while fatigued or drunk.
  • That the at-fault driver did not adjust their driving habits despite hazardous conditions, like not using headlights in snowy conditions. Lexington residents and out-of-town visitors should be aware that the city's snowy period lasts over five months, with the most snow occurring in January, averaging around 11 inches.

• Can an individual sue a Lexington establishment for serving a driver involved in a car accident?

  Yes. Under state law, bars or restaurants found to have served alcohol to visibly intoxicated individuals—through various evidence, including eyewitness testimonies and video footage—can be held liable for drunk driving-related injuries. Attorneys can obtain compensation from these Lexington establishments, as many carry liability insurance. The chances of drunk driving accidents in the state are generally lower than in others; Massachusetts adheres to strict alcohol laws, like not accepting out-of-state IDs as proof of age.

• Can a Lexington car driver press legal action against pedestrians for injuries caused by jaywalking?

  Absolutely. Pedestrians should obey traffic laws; jaywalking or failing to yield the right-of-way is one of the many claims that a Lexington attorney might use to obtain compensation for a car accident victim's injuries. City motorists should employ extra caution in areas like the intersection of Hancock and Bedford streets, as these sites host high foot traffic. Engineers have also noted that this crossing has over 50 conflict points, which is higher than the average of 32 conflict points found at four-way intersections.

• 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.