Being in a car accident can be stressful, especially if you think you might be partly responsible for what happened. In Massachusetts, even if you are somewhat at fault, you can still recover money for your injuries and damages. But it’s important to know what steps to take to protect your rights. A Massachusetts car accident lawyer will help you understand how the law works and guide you through the process.
Understanding Massachusetts’ Negligence Law
Massachusetts follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means that if you are partly responsible for the accident, you can still get money for your injuries, but your compensation will be lowered based on how much fault you share. However, if you are 51% or more at fault, you won’t be able to recover anything.
For example, if you’re 30% at fault in a car accident that causes $100,000 in damages, your compensation could be reduced by 30%, and you might only get $70,000. It’s important to understand how your level of responsibility affects the amount of money you can get from the accident.
What to Do Right After an Accident
After a car accident, even if you think you may have caused part of it, there are important steps you should take to protect your rights. These steps will also help your case if you decide to file a claim later. Here’s what you should do:
- Call the police: Having a police report is important for documenting what happened and showing the facts of the accident.
- Exchange information: Make sure you get the names, phone numbers, and insurance details of the other people involved in the incident.
- Take pictures: Snap pictures of the accident scene, any damage to the vehicles, skid marks, and anything else that could help prove your case. If there are any witnesses, get their contact details.
- See a doctor: Even if you don’t feel injured, it’s a good idea to get checked out by a doctor. Some injuries may not show up right away.
- Don’t admit fault: Even if you think you might have been partly responsible, avoid saying anything that sounds like you’re admitting fault. Keep your comments neutral and focused on the facts.
By following these steps, you will have the necessary information to back up your case later, even if you share some blame for the accident.
How Shared Fault Affects Your Case
In Massachusetts, the amount of money you can recover after an accident is based on how much fault you share. If you are partly responsible, your compensation will be lowered by the percentage of fault that’s yours. However, if you are 51% or more responsible, you won’t be able to recover any money.
For example, if the other driver was speeding or driving recklessly, and you were only slightly distracted, the other driver’s actions may also be considered when deciding who is at fault. In some cases, you may still be entitled to a larger portion of the compensation, depending on the situation.
How a Massachusetts Car Accident Lawyer Can Help
If you’ve been in an accident where you may share responsibility, it’s a good idea to talk to a Massachusetts car accident lawyer. They can help you understand how the law applies to your case and guide you through the legal process. Here are some common ways a lawyer can assist you:
- Evaluating fault: A lawyer can help determine how much responsibility you have for the accident and how it will affect your compensation.
- Working with insurance companies: Insurance companies may try to reduce what they pay out, especially if you’re partly at fault. A lawyer can negotiate for you to get you the best settlement.
- Collecting evidence: A lawyer can help gather the evidence needed to show that the other driver was also at fault.
- Filing a lawsuit: If the insurance companies won’t offer a fair settlement, your lawyer can help you file a lawsuit to recoup the money you’re owed.
Having a lawyer on your side can make the process easier and help ensure that you get the compensation you deserve, even if you are partially responsible for the accident.
Act Now to Protect Your Rights
If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Massachusetts and think you may share some of the fault, it’s important not to wait. The law allows you to recover damages, but you need to act quickly to protect your rights. A Massachusetts car accident lawyer can help you understand all your options and guide you through the process to make sure you receive fair and adequate compensation.
Contact a Massachusetts Car Accident Lawyer Today to Protect Your Rights
If you’ve been in an accident and are concerned about sharing some responsibility, don’t wait. Reach out to a Massachusetts car accident lawyer who can help you understand your case, protect your rights, and make sure you get the compensation you deserve.
