Best Car Accident Lawyers in Providence

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Providence, Rhode Island?

  The Citizens Online Police Reporting System has its non-emergency number at 401-272-3121.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Providence, Rhode Island?

  The Providence Police Department is at 325 Washington St, Providence, RI 02903, while accident reports are kept at the Records Office reachable at 401-243-6416.

• Who are the parties you must notify when you are involved in a car accident in Providence?

  You should call the Providence police if there is substantial personal or property damage involved. Call your own insurance provider if you wish to take advantage of any policies you hold. It is also prudent to notify the department of motor vehicles when the value of the accumulated bodily and material losses amount to over a thousand dollars.

• Besides driver error, how else are car accidents in Providence caused?

  Other than driver error, a common cause of car accidents in Providence is hazardous road conditions. The poor maintenance of public highways leads to potholes and unswept debris that compromise a driver's control over a vehicle. Weather conditions also introduce ice and standing water that reduce a tire's grip on the ground.

• What is the statute of limitations for filing a car accident suit in Providence and Rhode Island?

  Car accident suits in Providence and Rhode Island must generally be filed within a three-year period following the crash. For wrongful death cases, the three-year clock begins to turn on the date the victim dies and not the accident's occurrence. For property damage to one's car and belongings, the deadline for lawsuits is ten years from the incident.

• What is the effect of comparative negligence on car accident cases in Providence?

  Providence follows Rhode Island's laws and precedents on pure comparative negligence. The damages a plaintiff is entitled to are reduced based on how much the claimant's own misconduct contributed to the accident. The state permits parties who are more than 50% responsible to crash to recover damages from their opposition, unlike states where this prevents awards.

• Which roads in Providence have increased odds of car accidents?

  Interstate Highway 95 at Exit 18 is one such road. Memorial Boulevard near Providence Place Mall is dangerous due to the increased foot traffic from pedestrians leading to numerous failures to yield. Interstate Highway 95 at Exit 20 is also deadly since the connection to Route 6 in the downtown area is heavily traveled.

• 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.