Cambridge Car Accident Attorneys

Car accidents are a common occurrence in Cambridge, MA, with its busy streets, complex intersections, and heavy traffic flow. Unfortunately, many of these accidents result in serious injuries that can disrupt victims' lives both physically and financially. From minor fender-benders to catastrophic crashes, the aftermath of a car accident can leave victims dealing with medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and emotional trauma. Our Cambridge car accident attorneys are here to help you now.

At Jeffrey Glassman Injury Lawyers, we understand the devastating impact that a car accident can have on victims and their families. Our experienced personal injury attorneys are dedicated to helping those injured in car accidents navigate the legal process, secure compensation, and focus on their recovery. In this article, we’ll explore the causes of car accidents in Cambridge, common types of injuries, what to do after an accident, and how our team can help you pursue a car accident injury claim.

Cambridge, with its dense population and frequent construction zones, is a hotspot for car accidents. The city's roads are shared by vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrians, increasing the potential for collisions. While car accidents can happen for a variety of reasons, some of the most common causes include:

• Distracted Driving: One of the leading causes of car accidents is distracted driving. With the proliferation of smartphones, drivers often take their eyes off the road to send text messages, check emails, or use navigation apps. Even a brief distraction can result in a serious collision.
• Speeding: Exceeding the speed limit is another common cause of accidents in Cambridge. Speeding reduces a driver’s ability to react in time to sudden changes in traffic or road conditions, increasing the likelihood of a crash.
• Reckless Driving: Reckless driving includes behaviors like aggressive lane changes, tailgating, and ignoring traffic signals. These actions put other road users at risk and often lead to preventable accidents.
• Driving Under the Influence (DUI): Driving while intoxicated by alcohol or drugs is a major cause of car accidents. Drunk or impaired drivers have reduced reaction times and impaired judgment, leading to dangerous situations on the road.
• Poor Road Conditions: Cambridge experiences harsh winters, and icy or poorly maintained roads can contribute to accidents. Potholes, cracks, and uneven surfaces also pose hazards to drivers and cyclists alike.
• Failure to Yield: Many accidents occur when drivers fail to yield the right-of-way at intersections, pedestrian crosswalks, or while merging onto highways. This can result in T-bone or rear-end collisions.
• Weather Conditions: Snow, rain, and fog can reduce visibility and make roads slippery, increasing the risk of accidents. Drivers must adjust their speed and behavior to account for these hazardous conditions.

Car accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor to severe. The impact of a collision can affect virtually any part of the body, and the severity of the injuries often depends on factors such as the speed of the vehicles, the point of impact, and whether seat belts were worn. Some common injuries resulting from car accidents include:

• Whiplash: One of the most common injuries in rear-end collisions, whiplash occurs when the head is suddenly jerked forward and backward, causing strain on the neck muscles and ligaments. Symptoms may not appear immediately but can include neck pain, stiffness, and headaches.
• Fractures and Broken Bones: The force of a collision can cause fractures or broken bones in the arms, legs, ribs, and other parts of the body. Broken bones can be painful and may require surgery or long-term rehabilitation.
• Head and Brain Injuries: Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) are among the most serious car accident injuries. Even a mild concussion can have long-term effects on cognitive function, while more severe brain injuries can result in permanent disability or death.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can lead to partial or complete paralysis. Even less severe spinal injuries, such as herniated discs, can cause chronic pain and limit mobility.
• Internal Injuries: The impact of a car crash can cause damage to internal organs, such as the lungs, liver, or spleen. These injuries are often life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.
• Cuts and Lacerations: Broken glass, sharp objects, and debris from the accident can cause deep cuts or lacerations. These injuries may require stitches and can leave permanent scars.
• Emotional Trauma: In addition to physical injuries, car accidents can also cause emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Emotional injuries may require therapy and can significantly affect a victim's quality of life.

The steps you take after a car accident are crucial for both your safety and your legal rights. If you’re involved in a car accident in Cambridge, follow these steps:

• Check for Injuries: First and foremost, check yourself and others involved in the accident for injuries. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately to get medical help.
• Move to Safety: If possible, move your vehicle to a safe location to avoid further collisions. If your car is inoperable, stay inside the vehicle with your seatbelt fastened until help arrives.
• Call the Police: Report the accident to the local authorities. The Cambridge Police Department will document the scene and create an official accident report, which will be important for insurance claims and any potential legal action.
• Exchange Information: Get the names, contact information, driver’s license numbers, and insurance details of all drivers involved in the accident. Also, gather contact information from any witnesses.
• Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signs, and any visible injuries. This evidence can be crucial for your case.
• Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine after the accident, it’s essential to get a medical evaluation. Some injuries, like whiplash or concussions, may not be immediately apparent but can worsen over time.
• Notify Your Insurance Company: Report the accident to your insurance provider as soon as possible. Provide them with the details of the accident and any documentation you’ve gathered.
• Consult an Attorney: Car accident claims can be complicated, and dealing with insurance companies can be stressful. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you navigate the process, gather evidence, negotiate with insurers, and ensure you receive fair compensation.

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Cambridge, MA, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and financial losses. Massachusetts is a no-fault state, which means that your own insurance company will cover certain damages regardless of who was at fault for the accident. However, in cases involving serious injuries, you may be able to step outside the no-fault system and pursue a claim against the at-fault driver.

Here are the key types of compensation available:

• Medical Expenses: This includes coverage for hospital stays, surgeries, doctor visits, medications, physical therapy, and any future medical care related to your injuries.
• Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages and any diminished earning capacity in the future.
• Pain and Suffering: Victims of serious injuries may be compensated for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.
• Property Damage: You can recover the costs of repairing or replacing your vehicle and any other personal property damaged in the accident.
• Wrongful Death: If a loved one is killed in a car accident, surviving family members may be able to pursue compensation through a wrongful death lawsuit. This can include funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and other damages.

At Jeffrey Glassman Injury Lawyers, we have years of experience helping car accident victims in Cambridge and throughout Massachusetts. We understand the challenges you face after an accident and are committed to providing personalized legal representation to help you secure the compensation you deserve.

We offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case. If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, contact Jeffrey Glassman Injury Lawyers today to discuss your case. Let us help you get the justice and compensation you deserve while you focus on your recovery. Call us for a free consultation at (617)-777-7777.