Best Car Accident Lawyers in Medford

FAQs

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

  781-391-6404 is the non-emergency line of Medford Police Department.

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

  A copy of the accident report can be obtained by visiting the Police Records service window in the Medford Township Public Safety Building lobby, located at 91 Union Street in Medford. The Records window is open from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday, and is closed on weekends and major holidays.

• Can you file a car accident claim without hiring a lawyer in Medford?

  It is acceptable to file a car accident claim against your insurance carrier on your own in Medford since not every car accident requires an attorney. However, to fight for the proper compensation, it is crucial to consult a skilled automobile accident lawyer in Medford to help pay for accidents that lead to serious injuries and high medical expenditures. An attorney will be available to assist with legal filings and will be familiar with all the relevant legislation.

• How are compensation amounts for car accidents determined in Medford?

  The amount of an automobile accident settlement differs from state to state depending on the jurisdiction in which the collision occurred, among other things. The cost of an accident is heavily influenced by factors including car repair costs, medical expenses, and other damages. The insurance company's payout will then depend on the anticipated cost of the Medford car accident.

• What is the time limit in Medford for filing a lawsuit after a car accident?

  According to the state's statute of limitations, you have three years from the date of your auto accident to settle your claim or submit a lawsuit to start the legal procedure in Medford. If you do not take legal action within this three-year window, you generally forfeit your legal right to hold the party who caused the accident accountable.

• Will you still be eligible for damages if you are partially at fault in a Medford car accident?

  Massachusetts is a state that applies the concept of comparative negligence, which implies that when deciding fault in an accident, the degree of each party's negligence is taken into account. If the claimant is partially at fault, they can still seek compensation for their losses, but the amount of their damage will be diminished. However, this won't apply if they are more than 50% at fault. Depending on their case and the particulars of their accident scene, accident victims in Medford may still be eligible to receive some compensation.

• What are the major causes of car crashes in Medford?

  Driving under the influence of alcohol, speeding, distracted driving, automotive defects, and dangerous road conditions are the leading cause of car accidents in Medford. If you want to obtain the justice and compensation you are entitled to, or if you or a member of your family sustained injuries due to another person's carelessness, it is advised to contact a car accident injury lawyer.

• 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.