Best Car Accident Lawyers in Woburn

FAQs

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

  The Woburn Police Department can be reached at (781) 933-1212.

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

  To obtain a police report from the Woburn Police, click the following link:

  https://portal.laserfiche.com/w0172/forms/police_records_requests

  After submitting the form, you will receive a confirmation email from Laserfiche Notifications.

• What are some types of car accidents that happen in Woburn?

  Woburn sits close to Route 3, a major highway that contributes to the business of the town. That being said, Woburn has seen accidents that include large commercial trucks, motorcycles and bicycles, and collisions that are strong enough to make vehicles flip and roll over. There are, of course, plenty of fender benders or those minor accidents that cause no bodily injuries.

• What are the next steps to take after a car accident in Woburn that is caused by an obviously drugged driver?

  As with every accident, it is vital to establish negligence. A claimant can create a solid foundation of innocence by documenting everything about the accident in Woburn. In most drugged driving incidents, the police officer that responds to the emergency call find physical evidence of an illicit substance. However, there are instances when prescribed medication can cause driving impairment. It is important to take note of the other driver's behavior, write it down, and submit it to your attorney.

• Is an attorney always necessary after a car accident in Woburn?

  For car collisions that resulted in simple scratches on the vehicle's coat, then the answer is no. For accidents that caused much more than a scratch, an attorney is a valuable ally. Not only are they going to shield you from being harassed by insurance adjusters, but they are also going to help you navigate the entire legal process step-by-step and answer every question you may have about your case.

• What does Massachusetts' no-fault law mean for car accident victims in Woburn?

  This means that after an accident, the victim does not need to file for damage claims as their own insurance policy will trigger automatically. It is convenient, but this prevents the claimant from pursuing further compensation from the at-fault party. There are exceptions, however, such as if the claimant's expenses have already exceeded $2,000, they've suffered bone fractures or substantial disfigurement, or if the injured died.

• What can a surviving family member sue the at-fault party for if they caused a car accident in Woburn that killed their loved one?

  With the help of an attorney, a surviving family member can file for a wrongful death lawsuit which, when won, can help cover funeral and medical expenses shouldered by the survivors and the decedent's wages. Additionally, the family member can also pursue damages for loss of consortium or companionship, which is an estimate of the pain and grief that they are going through because of the loss.

• 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.