Quincy Car Accident Attorney
Quincy, Massachusetts, known as the "City of Presidents," is a bustling suburb of Boston with a rich history and nearly 95,000 residents. As with any urban area, car accidents are unfortunate in Quincy. When these accidents result in injuries or property damage, victims may navigate the complex world of car accident lawsuits. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of car accident lawsuits in Quincy, MA, helping residents understand their rights and the legal process. Our Quincy car accident attorneys are here to help you now.
Understanding Car Accident Statistics in QuincyBefore delving into the legal aspects, it's essential to understand the scope of the problem. According to recent data from the Massachusetts Department of Transportation:
- Quincy sees an average of 1,500 to 2,000 reported car accidents annually
- Approximately 20% of these accidents result in injuries
- Fatal accidents, while less common, still occur at a rate of 3-5 per year
These statistics highlight the importance of being prepared and knowing your rights in case you're involved in a car accident. That is why it is in your best interest to contact our Quincy personal injury attorneys and get the help you need.
Massachusetts No-Fault Insurance SystemMassachusetts operates under a "no-fault" insurance system, which can impact how car accident lawsuits proceed in Quincy. Under this system:
- Each driver's insurance company covers their medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of who was at fault for the accident.
- This coverage comes from your auto insurance policy's Personal Injury Protection (PIP) portion.
- PIP coverage in Massachusetts provides up to $8,000 per person for medical expenses and lost wages.
However, the no-fault system doesn't mean you can never file a lawsuit. There are specific circumstances under which you can step outside the no-fault system and pursue a lawsuit against the at-fault driver.
When Can You File a Car Accident Lawsuit in Quincy?In Quincy, as in the rest of Massachusetts, you can file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver if your case meets certain thresholds:
Your reasonable and necessary medical expenses exceed $2,000 or your injuries resulted in:
- Death
- Loss of a body member
- Permanent and serious disfigurement
- Loss of sight or hearing
- A fracture
If your case meets one of these thresholds, you can pursue a lawsuit to recover damages beyond what your PIP coverage provides.
Types of Damages Pursued in Quincy Car Accident LawsuitsWhen filing a car accident lawsuit in Quincy, you may be eligible to recover various types of damages:
- Medical Expenses: This includes all costs related to your treatment, from emergency room visits to ongoing physical therapy.
- Lost Wages: If your injuries caused you to miss work, you can claim compensation for lost income.
- Pain and Suffering: Unlike economic damages like medical bills, pain and suffering damages compensate you for the physical and emotional distress caused by the accident.
- Property Damage: This covers repairs or replacement of your vehicle and any other personal property damaged in the accident.
- Loss of Consortium: In severe cases, your spouse may be able to claim damages for loss of companionship and support.
If you decide to pursue a car accident lawsuit in Quincy, here's what you can expect:
- Investigation: Your attorney will gather evidence, including police reports, witness statements, and medical records.
- Filing the Complaint: Your lawyer will file a formal complaint with the Norfolk County Superior Court in Dedham, which has jurisdiction over Quincy.
- Discovery: Both sides exchange information and evidence related to the case.
- Negotiations: Many cases are settled out of court through negotiations between your attorney and the insurance company.
- Trial: If a settlement can't be reached, your case may go to trial, where a judge or jury will decide the outcome.
It's crucial to be aware of the statute of limitations for car accident lawsuits in Massachusetts. In most cases, you must file a lawsuit three years from the accident date. You must complete this deadline to retain your right to seek compensation through the court system.
Comparative Negligence in MassachusettsMassachusetts follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means:
- You can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault for the accident.
- However, your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of your fault.
- If you're found to be more than 50% at fault, you cannot recover any damages.
For example, if you're awarded $100,000 in damages but found to be 20% at fault, your award would be reduced to $80,000.
How Jeffrey Glassman Injury Lawyers Can HelpNavigating a car accident lawsuit in Quincy can be complex and overwhelming, especially when you're dealing with injuries and recovery. At Jeffrey Glassman Injury Lawyers, we have extensive experience handling car accident cases in Quincy and throughout Massachusetts. Our team can:
- Conduct a thorough investigation of your accident
- Handle all communications with insurance companies
- Ensure you receive proper medical care and documentation
- Calculate the full extent of your damages
- Negotiate with insurance companies for a fair settlement
- Represent you in court if a fair settlement can't be reached
Quincy's location and infrastructure present some unique considerations for car accidents:
- Proximity to Boston: Many Quincy residents commute to Boston, increasing their time on busy highways and the risk of accidents.
- Coastal Roads: Quincy's coastal location means some roads may be subject to weather-related hazards, particularly in winter.
- Historic Areas: Narrow streets in landmark areas can increase the risk of accidents, especially with parallel parking.
Car accidents can significantly impact your life, from physical injuries to financial strain. If you've been involved in a car accident in Quincy, MA, it's crucial to understand your rights and the legal options available to you. While the no-fault insurance system provides some protection, severe injuries may warrant pursuing a lawsuit to ensure you receive total compensation.
At Jeffrey Glassman Injury Lawyers, we're committed to helping Quincy residents navigate the complexities of car accident lawsuits. With our experience and dedication, we strive to achieve the best possible outcome for each client, allowing them to focus on recovery while we handle the legal process.
Remember, time is of the essence in car accident cases. If you've been injured in a Quincy car accident, don't hesitate to seek legal advice. Contact Jeffrey Glassman Injury Lawyers today for a free consultation, and let us help you on the path to recovery and justice. Call us for a free consultation at (617) 777-7777.