Car Accident Lawyer in Boston
After a car accident that results in your injuries, you may receive a call from the other party’s insurance company. While the at-fault party’s insurance company may seem empathetic and with your best interest at heart, they’re working solely on behalf of the other driver and protecting their own bottom line.
So, it’s crucial to enlist help from a skilled car accident lawyer in Boston to help you navigate your case. If you or a loved one has been injured in a Boston car accident, our skilled team at the Fogelman Law Firm is here to help.
Understanding Car Accidents
This year alone, as of late July 2024, there have been a total of 64,876 collisions in Massachusetts. 173 of these collisions included fatalities, and many more included injuries ranging from mild to severe. These accidents stem from a variety of causes and result in many injuries, some more serious than others.
Common Causes of Car Collisions
Car accidents can happen due to a variety of factors, sometimes stemming from multiple causes. The most common causes of car collisions include:
- Failure to yield
- Speeding
- Erratic driving
- Reckless driving
- Distracted driving, such as texting
- Driving while intoxicated or under the influence of drugs
- Road hazards
- Weather conditions
Common Injuries in Car Accidents
Car collisions can cause many injuries, each ranging in severity, including:
- Bruises and lacerations
- Burns and road rash
- Broken bones
- Whiplash
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Crush injuries
- Amputations
- Head and neck injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
Boston Car Accident Lawsuits: Explained
Car accident lawsuits can be complicated, especially if you’re overwhelmed with the stress of recovering from an injury. Your lawyer will guide you through each phase of the process, but here are a few things to keep in mind:
Statute of Limitations
Each state has specific statutes of limitations for different types of cases. In Massachusetts, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases, including most car accidents, is three years. This means that you have three years from the date of the accident to file a claim against the at-fault party.
If you don’t file your claim within this timeframe, you may forfeit your right to pursue legal action against the at-fault individual. Given these time constraints, it’s important to talk to a knowledgeable Boston car accident lawyer as soon as possible. They can help you determine what timelines apply to your case and work within them.
Types of Damages Available in a Car Accident Lawsuit
Individuals injured in a car crash due to another’s negligence may pursue multiple types of compensation. The first is called economic damages. These damages apply to monetary losses resulting from your accident, such as medical bills, lost wages, and property damage.
The second type is called non-economic damages. These damages apply to non-financial losses resulting from your accident, such as loss of enjoyment of life, emotional distress, and pain and suffering.
Economic damages are easy to calculate, as they hinge on monetary losses. However, non-economic damages are more subjective and based on economic damages, so they can vary dramatically.
Punitive Damages
Massachusetts courts may choose to award a third type of damages to injured victims. These damages are called punitive damages and are awarded to punish the at-fault party for their actions and deter them from doing it again.
However, punitive damage awards are rare in personal injury cases. They’re only awarded in select cases involving gross negligence and/or willful, wanton, or reckless acts. Some car accidents, such as those involving drunk driving, may apply, but it can vary. Usually, punitive damages are limited to wrongful death cases. Your lawyer can help you and your family determine what types of damages may be available in your case.
How a Lawyer Can Help With Your Boston Car Accident Lawsuit
The legal system is complex and can be overwhelming, especially in the chaotic aftermath of a car wreck. That’s where a skilled Boston car accident lawyer comes in. Their expertise and in-depth understanding of applicable laws and cases are invaluable. They’ll navigate the complexities of the legal system on your behalf, ensuring you can focus on recovery.
Your lawyer will:
- Thoroughly investigate the case to gather evidence, such as dashcam footage, police reports, and witness testimonies
- Offer legal guidance to help you make informed decisions and understand your legal options
- Advocate for your rights and interests
- Field and negotiate settlement offers from the at-fault party’s insurer
- Represent you in court if you don’t receive a fair settlement offer
We’re here to guide you through every step. We’ll shoulder the burden of the legal process while you focus on healing, fighting to help you pursue compensation for your injuries.
Talk to Our Experienced Team at the Fogelman Law Firm
If you or a loved one has sustained injuries in a car accident due to another’s negligence, our team at the Fogelman Law Firm can help. We’ll help you by navigating the complexities of the legal process on your behalf, ensuring you can focus on recovery. Contact us today at (617) 559-1530 or complete our online contact form to start with a free consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Boston Car Accident Lawyer?
At the Fogelman Law Firm, we operate on contingency. This “no win, no fee” basis means that you’ll never pay us anything out of pocket, so you’ll never have to worry about the burden of upfront legal bills unless we recover for you.
How Much is a Boston Car Accident Lawsuit Worth?
The value of a Boston car accident case varies based on multiple factors, including the type and severity of the injury and the likelihood of making a full recovery. While cases involving more severe injuries are often worth more, other factors can impact the value. Your lawyer will evaluate the specifics of your case to determine a fair and meaningful amount to pursue.
Should I Hire a Car Accident Lawyer for My Case?
While it might be the last thing on your mind, it’s important to hire a skilled Boston car accident lawyer to help with your case. Between doctor’s appointments, rehabilitation, and vehicle repairs, you already have a lot on your plate. Your lawyer will handle the complexities of the legal system for you, advocating for your interests while you focus on healing.
