MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT CAR ACCIDENT CLAIMS IN MASSACHUSETTS
If you were recently involved in a car accident, you have probably read a lot of information on the internet about the claims process or heard stories from people who were in a similar situation.
Unfortunately, not everything you read on the internet or hear from unverified stories is true. That is why there are so many misconceptions about car accident claims in Massachusetts. If you are not sure what to believe in the aftermath of a car crash, seek legal counsel from an experienced attorney.
As a car accident attorney at the Law Office of James A. Maniatis, I assist accident victims at every step of the claims process. I can help you clarify the misconceptions that you might have about your rights and obligations after a motor vehicle accident in Massachusetts. With offices in three locations throughout Massachusetts (Shrewsbury, Webster, and Southborough), I serve accident victims throughout the Commonwealth.
WHAT ARE THE COMMON MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT CAR ACCIDENT CLAIMS?
When you are involved in a car accident, being able to separate fact from fiction can make the claims process more straightforward and easier. The misconceptions and false assumptions about car accident claims can negatively affect your ability to obtain the compensation to which you are entitled. Here are some of the common misconceptions floating around car accidents in Massachusetts:
I am not required to call the police after a car accident. Under Massachusetts law, drivers have an obligation to report car accidents when a collision involves property damage exceeding $1,000 and or perhaps injuries and deaths. When the police arrive at the scene, they will prepare a report, which can become a crucial piece of evidence in your legal case.
There is no need to get medical care if I feel fine. There is a common misconception that you do not need to seek medical attention if nothing hurts and you feel okay after a car crash. However, it is in your best interests to get medical care as soon as possible to protect your health and get accurate and proper documentation of your injuries. Some injuries take time to show symptoms and waiting a few days or weeks to get a diagnosis can hurt your personal injury claim in the long run.
I cannot obtain compensation from the at-fault driver in a no-fault state. While it is true that Massachusetts is a no-fault state, you may still have the option of filing a third-party claim against the at-fault driver. In no-fault states, injured victims can obtain reimbursement for their medical expenses and other covered losses through their own insurance company regardless of fault. However, if your injury meets the criteria of a “threshold injury” under Massachusetts law, you may have a right to pursue compensation by filing a claim against the at-fault driver.
I can handle my personal injury claim without an attorney. Many car accident victims try to convince themselves that they can handle their personal injury cases on their own in order to save money. However, hiring an attorney can increase your chances of getting a higher compensation amount. Your attorney will advocate for your rights and help with every legal aspect of your claim while you focus on making a speedy recovery.
These are not the only misconceptions about car accident claims in Massachusetts. Consider speaking with a skilled attorney to learn about your legal rights and fight for the highest possible compensation in your case.
GETTING THE SKILLED
LEGAL HELP YOU NEED
As a car accident attorney with decades of experience, I understand that there are numerous myths and misconceptions surrounding car crashes and personal injury claims in Massachusetts. At the Law Office of James A. Maniatis, I have handled thousands of personal injury cases on behalf of clients in Shrewsbury, Massachusetts, and surrounding areas and know what accident victims can expect during the claims process. You can discuss your case with me by scheduling an appointment. I also serve clients in Westborough, Northborough, Grafton, Boylston, Millbury, Upton, Dudley, and Oxford, Massachusetts.