Saugus Car Accident Lawyer
Car accidents can be unavoidable. Each day in Saugus, numerous people are injured in car accidents caused by other drivers’ negligence. There are many forms of careless behavior that lead to car crashes. Sadly, these accidents can cause life-altering injuries.
Massachusetts is a no-fault car insurance state. Accordingly, in most cases, victims of car accidents in Saugus must make a claim under their own insurance policy for damages related to the crash. However, claims may be made against at-fault drivers in cases where a victim suffered a serious injury or incurred at least $2,000 in reasonable medical expenses. In most situations, a car accident lawyer can help recover compensation after an accident.
If you were injured because of a car accident, seek assistance from our experienced Saugus car accident lawyers by calling the Law Office of John J. Sheehan at (617) 925-6407 for a free case review.
Can I Sue After a Car Accident in Saugus?
You may only bring a claim against an at-fault driver if you suffered a “serious injury” or incurred at least $2,000 in reasonable medical expenses because of a crash. Serious injuries refer to injuries that cause permanent and serious disfigurement, fractured bone, or significant loss of hearing or sight. If your injuries qualify under this definition, you are not limited to filing with your own insurance policy. However, other drivers’ insurance companies may hire defense lawyers, doctors, and private investigators to refute your claim. Defendant’s insurers will likely try to shift blame or dispute damages.
In all other cases, you will have to file a claim for damages under your own insurance policy. Our lawyers can help sue your own insurance company if a claim was improperly denied.
Therefore, the ability to sue can depend on the circumstances of your accident. Car accident victims should contact our Saugus car accident lawyers for help recovering the compensation they deserve.
Settling a Car Accident Case vs. Taking a Car Accident Case to Trial in Saugus
When plaintiffs file a car accident lawsuit against their own insurer or a negligent driver, they must endure a long pre-trial process. This process allows parties the time to gather evidence and negotiate. In some cases, parties may reach a settlement agreement. A settlement agreement is a type of legal contract that helps resolve disputes before going to trial. Under a settlement agreement, parties will agree upon an amount of compensation to be paid and their case will be voluntarily dismissed. Both parties in a car accident lawsuit can save lots of time and money by avoiding trial.
In some instances, settling a case is not the right decision. Insurance companies may make low settlement offers and ignore what your case is truly worth. Taking a case to trial can allow plaintiffs to recover more compensation for their injuries. However, if a plaintiff loses at trial, they may not receive any monetary damages. Our Saugus car accident lawyers can help victims determine if settling or going to trial is the right decision in their case.
What to Do After a Car Accident Case in Saugus
Car crashes can be traumatic, frightening experiences. The aftermath of an accident can be difficult to navigate. Still, it is important to keep your composure. There are certain steps you can take after an accident that will protect your interests in a future car accident claim. Victims should take the following actions after a crash:
Remain at the Scene
You should find a place near the scene of an accident to safely wait for help to arrive. Victims who flee the scene of an accident may be charged with a hit and run. However, you should not remain in an area where you can be struck by another vehicle.
Call 911
You should also call 911 as soon as possible for an accident. A dispatcher may send help for anyone who required immediate medical attention. Further, a police officer must visit the scene to collect statements and create an official accident report.
If you suffered an accident involving a driver who committed a hit and run, you should still remain at the scene and call 911. An officer may be able to help identify the unknown driver.
Exchange Information with Other Parties
Next, you should exchange information with any other parties to an accident. This includes contact information such as names, addresses, and phone numbers. Additionally, you should collect insurance information and license plate numbers from all other drivers involved in an accident. Additionally, you should collect contact information for any witnesses to a car accident. This information can assist you when filing your car accident claim.
Document the Scene
It can also benefit you to document the scene of an accident with photographs and videos if possible. Some defendants will attempt to claim that property damage was incurred after an accident happened. Photos of a damaged vehicle can help prove that certain damage occurred because of a crash.
Lastly, you should also take note of the exact time an accident occurred and write down your personal recollection of the event. Certain details may fade from memory over time. Your personal recollection can help our Saugus car accident lawyers when filing your claim.
Seek Medical Treatment
You should seek medical treatment for your injuries as soon as possible after an accident. A doctor must document your injuries in order for you to recover compensation.
Furthermore, some injuries may go unnoticed for some time before eventually worsening. A doctor will be able to treat any underlying injuries suffered because of a car accident. Our Saugus car accident lawyers can help refer the proper physicians for your injuries.
Contact Experienced Car Accident Lawyers
Lastly, victims should contact car accident lawyers for help with their case. The process for recovering compensation after an accident can be complex. Our Saugus car accident lawyers can help file a claim with your own insurer or bring suit against a negligent driver.
If You Were Injured Because of a Car Accident in Saugus, Our Lawyers Can Help
If you were injured because of a car accident in Saugus, get help recovering the compensation you deserve. Contact our experienced Saugus car accident lawyers by calling the Law Office of John J. Sheehan at (617) 925-6407 for a free case review.
