Best Car Accident Lawyers in Tewksbury

FAQs

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

  Please call 978-851-7373 for non-emergency situations that require police assistance.

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

  Reports may be requested online at https://www.tewksbury-ma.gov/FormCenter/Police-Department-15/Online-Records-Request-102. Likewise, residents may visit the Tewksbury Police's Records Department Monday through Friday, 7 am to 11 pm.

• How long does one have to file a claim following a car accident in Tewksbury?

  In Massachusetts, which includes the Tewksbury metro, you have up to three years to submit a claim. However, if you are suing the government, you only have thirty days to inform the city that you were harmed and plan to file a claim against them. In other circumstances, such as lawsuits against The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority, the statute of limitations is two years.

• What kinds of evidence can a victim gather after being involved in a Tewksbury car accident?

  Document whatever you can about the car accident in Tewksbury, and if possible, take images using your cell phone. Obtain the names and contact information of any other parties involved, as well as any law enforcement officers on the scene and any witnesses. It's also important to check for any traffic cameras or commercial security cameras that may have captured the collision. If you were injured as a result of the accident, make sure to keep records of medical treatments, invoices, and other paperwork.

• What can a victim do if the liable party in a Tewksbury car accident fled the scene?

  It is necessary to seek the assistance of an experienced car accident attorney in Tewksbury when dealing with a hit-and-run. An attorney can assist with hit-and-run accident claims by first alerting all insurance companies to ascertain and verify that the policies were in existence at the time of the hit-and-run accident, as well as determining the amount of available coverage. They can also collect witness testimonies, which can be used to support the victim's version of the accident and strengthen their claims.

• What should be done if a teenage driver gets involved in a vehicle accident in Tewksbury?

  While juvenile drivers are four times more likely than older drivers to obtain a traffic penalty, this does not automatically imply that they are at fault. Nevertheless, there is already discrimination against teens due to their youth and inexperience, thus hiring a Tewksbury lawyer is essential. What attorneys may do for them is investigate potential options for filing personal injury claims, taking into account every legal possibility in order to achieve sufficient recompense for victims and their families' damages.

• When someone in Tewksbury is injured in a car accident, can they bring a personal injury claim against the responsible party?

  Automobile accident lawsuits are limited by Massachusetts law. Tewksbury accident victims (and their survivors, if an injury results in death) may file a claim for damages against the party or parties at fault for a car accident if one or more of the following conditions are met:

  • Victim's death
  • A victim's permanent and serious disfigurement
  • Broken bones
  • One of the "five senses" has been lost.
  • Lost limb
  • When the medical expenses for the injuries exceed $2,000

• 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.