Best Car Accident Lawyers in Saugus

FAQs

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

  For non-emergencies that require police assistance, please dial 781-941-1199.

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

  If you want a copy of the Officer's Accident Report, you can request it in writing, by postal mail, fax, or email. Crash reports will not be available for 3 business days following the initial report. The Records Department may be reached at the following:

  • Phone: 781-941-1126
  • Fax: 781-231-4019
  • Email: records@sauguspd.com

• Where do most Saugus car accidents happen?

  Many car accidents occur on local roads or on Rte. 1, which runs alongside the Square One Mall and connects drivers to I-95 and Rte. 128. Saugus is a popular commuter stop between Boston and Salem. There are cars, trucks for business, buses for public transportation, as well as pedestrians and bikers on its roads, making vehicular accidents a common occurrence.

• Can you sue for damages if you suffered emotional distress but no physical injuries in a car accident in Saugus?

  Yes, you can file a lawsuit for mental and emotional distress resulting from an auto accident. Even if there are no physical injuries, our minds may perceive a car crash as traumatic. Automobile collisions are the most common cause of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in the United States. Consult a Saugus car accident attorney in order to determine if you are eligible for compensation.

• Who pays for damages if the party at fault in a car accident in Saugus is uninsured?

  If you were hit by a driver without insurance in Saugus, the best option to recover compensation will be to file a claim with your own insurance company. Some insurance companies offer uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM) coverage, which can pay for medical expenses and property damage up to the limits of your policy. Another option is to file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver. However, if a driver does not have car insurance, it is likely that he or she will be unable to pay for damages.

• What happens if someone is injured in a car accident caused by a drunk driver in Saugus?

  When someone is injured in a Saugus drunk driving accident, they may be able to sue the driver and, in some instances, restaurants and bars for dram shop offenses. These establishments must verify identification and should never serve an intoxicated customer. In addition, under Massachusetts' social host responsibility law, hosts of private events may be held liable by third-party victims when an underage or already intoxicated guest is offered alcohol and then leaves the event while intoxicated, causing drunk driving injuries.

• Who pays for damages if nobody was at fault in a Saugus car accident caused by bad weather?

  You may not be able to sue anyone else for your Saugus car accident if the only factor that contributed to it was bad weather and no one could have prevented it. However, because Massachusetts is a no-fault state, your insurance should cover your injuries regardless of the circumstances. Although your damages may be less severe than if you were able to sue the at-fault driver, you may be able to get some compensation for your injuries through your personal injury protection (PIP) insurance.

• 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.