Car Accident FAQs
How is the value of a personal injury claim determined?
The value of a personal injury claim depends on various factors such as the severity of the injury, length of treatment, emotional distress, and lost wages. The attorneys at Silva Santos PC evaluate all factors in a personal injury claim to ensure clients understand the damages portion of their claims.
How much time do I have to make for a personal injury claim?
No, refusing ambulance transport from the accident scene doesn’t invalidate your case. Whether or not you were taken by ambulance doesn’t determine your eligibility for compensation.
3. How Much Do You Charge for an Initial Consultation?
Our office offers free consultations. Attorney Christopher Earley has extensive experience handling car accident cases in Massachusetts and provides initial consultations at no cost to you.
4. How Are Medical Bills Paid?
Massachusetts operates under a no-fault car insurance system. Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits cover up to $8,000 in medical bills and lost wages. Your car insurance at the time of the accident will typically handle these payments.
5. Can I Get a Pain and Suffering Settlement?
Yes, if your medical bills total at least $2,000 from the accident, you may file a claim for pain and suffering compensation.
6. What is the Statute of Limitations for Car Accidents in Massachusetts?
The statute of limitations for car accidents in Massachusetts is three years. However, certain entities may have stricter notice requirements.
7. How Much is My Case Worth?
The value of your case depends on various factors, including liability, medical expenses, lost wages, type of injury, and more. Consult with a lawyer to assess the potential worth of your case.
8. What if I Was Partially At-Fault?
Massachusetts follows comparative negligence laws, allowing you to pursue a bodily injury claim as long as you are not more than 50% at fault.
9. How Can I Prove Fault?
Evidence such as police reports, accident scene photos, eyewitness statements, and medical records can help establish fault in a car accident.
10. Do I Need a Massachusetts Car Accident Lawyer?
While not required, having a car accident attorney can protect your rights and improve your chances of receiving fair compensation, especially when dealing with insurance companies.
11. What Should I Do After a Car Accident?
Steps include obtaining information from drivers and witnesses, filing a police report, seeking medical attention, notifying your insurer, and contacting a car accident lawyer.
12. What Types of Car Accident Claims Does Your Firm Handle?
Our firm handles various car accident claims, including those involving snow and ice, drunk driving, distracted driving, defective vehicles, and more
13. How Long Does a Massachusetts Car Accident Lawsuit Take?
The duration of a car accident lawsuit depends on factors like the severity of injuries and complexity of the case. Catastrophic injury cases may take longer to resolve.
14. What is the Statute of Limitations for a Car Accident Claim in Massachusetts?
The statute of limitations for car accident claims in Massachusetts is generally three years, though some cases may have shorter notice provisions.
15. Can I Still File a Lawsuit If I've Accepted an Insurance Settlement?
In most cases, accepting an insurance settlement waives your right to file a lawsuit against the at-fault party. It’s crucial to carefully review any settlement offers with your attorney before accepting.
16. What Damages Can I Claim for My Injuries?
In Massachusetts, car accident victims can claim both economic damages (e.g., medical bills, lost wages) and non-economic damages (e.g., pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life) resulting from their injuries.
17. When's the Best Time to Contact a Massachusetts Car Accident Lawyer?
It’s best to contact a Massachusetts car accident lawyer as soon as possible after your accident, especially before speaking with insurance adjusters or accepting any settlement offers. This allows your attorney to protect your rights from the outset.