What to Do After a Car Accident in Massachusetts: A Step-by-Step Guide

personal injury

A car accident can be overwhelming. In the moments after a crash, you may feel shaken, unsure of what to do, and worried about injuries, insurance, and costs. Taking the right steps can protect your health, your rights, and your ability to recover compensation.

If you are searching for a car accident lawyer Massachusetts residents trust, this guide can help you understand what to do next.

Step 1: Check for Injuries and Call 911

Your safety comes first. Check yourself and others for injuries. Call 911 immediately to report the accident and request medical assistance if needed. Even if injuries seem minor, emergency responders should evaluate the situation.

Step 2: Move to Safety if Possible

If the vehicles are drivable and it is safe to do so, move them to the side of the road. This prevents further accidents and allows traffic to continue.

Step 3: Exchange Information

Collect the name, address, phone number, driver’s license number, and insurance details from all drivers involved. Be sure to note the make, model, and license plate numbers of the vehicles.

Step 4: Document the Scene

Take photos of the vehicles, the accident scene, and any visible injuries. Write down the time, location, and weather conditions. This documentation can be important evidence for your claim.

Step 5: Notify Your Insurance Company

Massachusetts is a no-fault state, which means your own insurance will cover certain expenses regardless of who caused the accident. Report the accident promptly to avoid delays in coverage.

Step 6: Seek Medical Attention

Some injuries may not show up right away. Visit a doctor as soon as possible, even if you feel fine. Medical records help connect your injuries to the accident.

Step 7: Contact a Car Accident Lawyer Massachusetts Drivers Can Rely On

An experienced attorney can guide you through the claims process, negotiate with insurance companies, and pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Get In Touch Today

The steps you take after a car accident can affect both your recovery and your financial future. Protect yourself by getting the medical care you need and speaking with a qualified car accident lawyer Massachusetts drivers turn to in times of crisis.

Contact DaMore Law today for a consultation about your accident claim.


Overview Of Massachusetts Drunk Driving Laws

Every state has specific regulations on blood alcohol limits and punishment for drunk driving. There can be more than one set of guidelines and varying penalties differing in severity. In this blog is an overview of Massachusetts drunk driving laws.

Definition of Legally Drunk

In the state of Massachusetts, blood alcohol limits vary by age and type of vehicle. Commercial drivers are considered legally drunk with a blood alcohol level of .04 or greater. The maximum for non-commercial drivers over 21 years of age is .08 or higher. For persons under age 21, the maximum is .02. If you are found to be legally drunk while operating a automobile, there are many different penalties that may be imposed.

Overview Of Massachusetts Drunk Driving Laws

The consequences for drunk driving are based on the number of crimes and other circumstances. It can include prison time, monetary fines, and suspension of your drivers license.

Offense Prison Time and Fines License Suspension
1st Offense up to 2.5 years and/or a $500-$5,000 fine 45-90 days
2nd Offense 60 days to 2.5 years and a $600-$10,000 fine 2 years
(reinstatement possible after 1 years)
3rd Offense 180 days to 2.5 years and a $1,000-$15,000 fine
or
2.5-5 years in a state prison and $1,000 to $15,000 fine
8 years
(reinstatement possible after 2 years)
4th Offense 2-2.5 years and a $1,500 to $25,000 fine
or
2.5 to 5 years in a state prison and a $1,500 to $25,000 fine
10 years
(reinstatement possible after 5 years)
5th or More Offense at least 2.5 years
or
2.5 to 5 years in a state prison and a $2,000 to $50,000 fine
Lifetime Revocation

On top of the ones noted above, additional consequences may apply to particular types of drivers.

  • Commercial Drivers
    Commercial drivers found guilty of drunk driving are forbidden from driving commercial vehicles for at least 1 year. If hazardous materials were transported in the vehicle during the offense, this time frame is increased to 3 years. Any future drunk driving can lead to lifetime suspension from driving commercial vehicles (although this sentence may be lowered to 10 years).
  • Young Drivers
    Younger drivers are given a 210-day suspension of their license on their 1st offense. They can also be ordered to complete education or alcohol prevention programs based on their age and blood alcohol level.

Other Details on Massachusetts Drunk Driving Laws

Drunk driving can lead to even more severe consequences in cases involving severe bodily injury or death to an individual or if a child under the age of 14 is present in the vehicle. Massachusetts drunk driving laws are continually under debate and may change as new laws are approved. The details in this blog are only an overview, should not be interpreted as legal advice, and is subject to change without notice. Consult with a lawyer for up to date laws and legal guidance if you are involved in a drunk driving case.


Using MA Personal Injury Attorneys For Pedestrian Accidents

If you are a victim of a pedestrian accident, it is very important to speak with a personal injury attorney to understand your rights and options. It may be hard to think about this immediately following an accident, but that is also when you are most unprotected and may require the help and counsel of an experienced advisor. The following are some tips on using MA personal injury attorneys for pedestrian accidents.

Types of Damages for Pedestrian Accidents

Many different factors are assessed in calculating compensation for injuries. These can include emotional distress, medical expenses, lost earnings, incidental expenses, and punitive damages, just to name a few. This will vary on a case-by-case basis. A knowledgeable personal injury attorney will assess your case and devise a proper approach.

When to Hire a Personal Injury Attorney

It is best to speak with a personal injury attorney shortly after having a pedestrian accident. Evidence, witnesses, and other details will be easier to find within a brief period of time. Insurance companies may also try to take advantage of you and representation will be essential to preserving your rights.

Value of Using MA Personal Injury Attorneys For Pedestrian Accidents

Many pedestrian accident victims attempt to resolve their case directly with the insurance company of the other party. Insurance companies aim to minimize their loss and protect their bottom line. They are unlikely to present you with a fair offer, especially when speaking with you personally. Working with knowledgeable MA personal injury attorneys for pedestrian accidents will improve your chances of receiving enough compensation reflective of your injuries and personal situation. MA attorneys understand local laws and commonly deal with insurance companies. Contact Peter DaMore at Law Offices of Peter T. DaMore Jr. for a complimentary and confidential consultation regarding your pedestrian accident accident.


What To Do If Involved In Car Accidents In Burlington MA

There are certain things that you should do right after car accidents to preserve your rights. Knowing them ahead of time may help when faced with the situation. This article offers an overview of what to do if involved in car accidents in Burlington MA.

What To Do If Involved In Car Accidents In Burlington MA

1. Gather Information

Write down as many details as possible about the cars involved including registration numbers. Be sure to write down names, licenses, and contact information for all parties. If you have the ability to take photos, take pictures of the vehicles.

2. Contact Police

If appropriate, call local police. When they arrive, describe what led to the accident. It may be useful to relay this information while the facts remain fresh in your mind. Ask if a police report will be submitted so that you can request a copy.

3. Get Medical Care

If you sustained injuries, obtain medical care as soon as possible. Sometimes the emotional impact of an accident can mask physical effects. Especially in a major accident, it is better to get evaluated just to be safe.

4. Notify Insurance Company

Promptly call your insurance company about the incident. They will ask you to submit an accident report and furnish details on the other individuals involved. They can also provide you with information on the next steps for getting your automobile repaired.

5. Keep Good Records

Be sure to make copies of all paperwork related to the accident. This includes contact information of the parties, photos, accident reports, police reports, and medical records. Also note relevant dates and times (i.e. medical treatment dates or work days missed).

6. Seek Legal Advice

Call a lawyer to assess your legal rights. All car accidents in Burlington MA are governed by statutes of limitation. Most lawyers offer a preliminary consultation at no charge, so there is no cost to getting this done as soon as possible.

Selecting Lawyers for Burlington MA Car Accidents

Your legal rights must be protected after car accidents. This is especially important if you are involved in a major accident. Whether you are a victim or may be at fault, a knowledgeable Burlington MA personal injury attorney can answer your questions and provide valuable guidance. The above information on what to do if involved in car accidents in Burlington MA is strictly an introduction and should not be taken as legal advice.