Can I still get benefits if I am at fault in a car accident in Boston?

If you just got into a car accident in Massachusetts, you may be incredibly worried about covering all the expenses—especially if you were the one that caused the problem. Your first step should be seeking out a Boston personal injury attorney if you are distressed and need help. The good news is, that if you were at fault, you can still receive benefits.

Why can I get compensation if I was at fault?

In regards to vehicle accidents, Massachusetts is considered a "no-fault state." This means that even though you caused the accident, the other party you injured would just go through their own auto insurer and you would go through yours. Auto insurance companies will pay up to $8,000 even if you were the one who caused the accident.

Is there still some kind of drawback to being at fault?
Having a no-fault law can give you a great peace of mind if you, a friend, or a family member has suffered injuries. But also keep in mind that "no-fault" benefits fall under "first-party benefits." This means that the insurer will only pay for first-party benefits such as injuries that arise from operation, maintenance, and ownership of a vehicle.

However, if the other party involved in the accident has suffered a non-financial loss, such as pain and suffering or extreme wage loss, then he or she can sue you under third-party benefit laws. Thankfully, not every person can just sue you if they feel like it—they must prove that they have suffered what's known as a "threshold injury" to the insurance adjusters.

Can I still get benefits if I'm not insured?

Although an auto insurance company will usually be the first to pay for the accident, there may be times when persons who are uninsured are involved. If this is the case, things can get a little complicated. If you are uninsured, you may be able to receive benefits from the insurance company of a relative living with you.

If they don't have insurance, then you may have to defer to the owner of the vehicle or the driver's insurance. If none of these people can help you, then the State of Massachusetts Assigned Claims Facility can help you.

Keep in mind that the Massachusetts Auto Insurance Plan (MAIP) can help you find affordable insurance. This program helps people who've struggled finding a good plan in the regular market. If you are worried about receiving benefits, set up a free consulation with a Car Accident Lawsuits Boston.

How Much Do Insurance Rates Go Up After a Car Accident?

The average cost of car insurance for those living in Massachusetts is $134 per month or about $1,600 every year. However, according to CBS News, these rates could increase by as much as 40% if you file a claim after one accident! And unfortunately, CBS News also said that if you are severely injured and have to file a claim of more than $2,000, then your average premium could increase by more than 80%! Take a look at some of Massachusetts's insurance rules and how to lower your rates.

Understanding Massachusetts's Rules for Car Accidents

Thankfully, Massachusetts is a “no-fault”state, which means that both you and the other driver(s) involved in the accident will be able to receive benefits from your insurance companies no matter who was at fault. The downside is that your injuries must be extremely severe—such as many broken bones or disfigurement—if you want to pursue a personal injury case. However, if your medical expenses do cross over the $2,000 threshold, you may also pursue a personal injury claim and talk with a Massachusetts Car Accident Lawyer for more information.

One way to safeguard yourself from skyrocketing rates after a serious accident is to invest in an “accident forgiveness” policy. Even though these policies are generally used to protect at-fault drivers, it can still protect you in a no-fault state. These policies make sure that your insurance premiums won't be affected by a serious accident! However, some of these policies cost a little extra money to add to your current policy, and they may have certain restrictions—like only working for one serious accident.

How to Lower Your Rates

If you've already experienced a devastating accident there are still ways to lower your rate. Always ask your insurer for discounts; he or she may be happy to oblige if it means keeping you on as a customer. If you are planning on moving soon, check for areas that have lower average rates—for instance, highly populated areas usually have higher rates than rural areas.

If you need to get a new car after your accident, make sure that you check out the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's recommendations since it will have lists of vehicles that are safer to drive. You can also check out the Kelley Blue Book for safety ratings. Lastly, try bundling your auto insurance with other necessary insurance policies; again, your insurer may be keen on giving you discounts if it means more customer loyalty.

If you've gotten into a car accident that has caused an injury and your insurance rates are high, call Car Accident Lawsuits Boston @ 844-311-7900 to talk with legal aid at a free meeting.

Important Things to Keep in Mind in the Event of a Car Accident

Even the most careful of drivers can be involved in an auto accident.  With increasing numbers of cars and congestion on major roadways and hectic on-the-go lifestyles, it only takes a moment for vehicles to collide with each other or roadway obstacles.  When it comes to car accidents, preparation is invaluable.  Here are a few things you should keep in mind in the event you are involved in an auto accident.

Always Stay on the Scene

Unless you are injured and need immediate medical attention, you should never leave the scene of an accident.  If involved in a car accident, pull over and exit your car if safe to do so.  In many places it can be a crime for an involved party to flee the scene of an accident.

Call the Police

The police should always be alerted in the event of an auto accident.  Having the police on hand to file reports and document the accident can be an invaluable tool in protecting your rights.  If tow trucks are needed or debris must be cleared from the roadway, police have the resources available to take care of these items.

Seek Medical Attention

If you or a passenger have been injured in a car accident, it’s important to seek immediate medical attention.  While injuries may initially seem minor, after the initial rush of adrenaline wears off you can find yourself suffering from a much more serious condition.  Only a qualified medical professional can diagnose and document the extent of your injuries.

Document and Take Pictures

As soon as possible after being involved in a car accident you should write down your account of events and photograph your injuries, the scene of the accident and any damage done to your vehicle.  You should also jot down the names of witnesses and any other parties involved in the accident, including their insurance and registration information if available.

Notify Your Insurance Company

It’s important to notify your insurance company as soon as possible after an accident.  Your agent can often start the claims process including paying for any medical treatment and providing for temporary transportation if available as a benefit under your policy.  Your insurance company will also know about the various reporting requirements under MA law.

Protect your Rights

Finally, after being involved in an auto accident you should consider contact an experienced car accident lawsuits Boston. Most reputable law firms offer a free consultation of your case and can help identify any steps you may need to protect your legal rights.