In Massachusetts, hit and run accidents are taken very seriously. The law requires drivers to stop and give their information after an accident, regardless of fault. If you’re involved in a hit and run, report the incident to the police immediately.
In Massachusetts, if you are the victim of a hit and run, you can file a claim with your own insurance company under your uninsured motorist coverage. A hit and run accident lawyer in Boston will investigate the incident and help you file a strong claim.
What Counts as a Hit and Run in Massachusetts?
In Massachusetts, a hit and run accident occurs when a driver involved in a collision fails to stop and offer their information to the other party. Regardless of whether they caused the accident or not, Massachusetts law requires drivers to stop and fulfill these obligations.
Hit-and-run accidents are commonly reported in Massachusetts on several key roads and highways, particularly those with high traffic volumes and complex intersections, such as the Mass Pike and I-93.
The Legal Obligations of Drivers Involved in an Accident
In Massachusetts, drivers involved in an accident have specific legal obligations. First, they must stop their vehicle immediately at the scene, regardless of whether the accident caused injuries or damage. Next, they are required to give the other party involved in the accident their name, address, and insurance information.
If someone is injured, drivers must also render aid and call for medical assistance if needed. If a driver leaves the scene without fulfilling these requirements, they could face serious legal consequences, including criminal charges.
Reporting a Hit and Run
Call 911 to notify law enforcement, especially if there are any injuries or significant damage. When the police arrive, provide them with as much information as you can, such as the time and location of the accident, a description of the other vehicle, and any details about the driver you may have noticed.
Reporting the incident promptly increases the chances of identifying the responsible driver and receiving fair compensation. It’s also helpful to gather contact information from any witnesses who saw the crash.
How to Recover Compensation After a Massachusetts Hit and Run
If you were involved in a crash and the at-fault driver fled the scene, you can still recover compensation for your losses. An experienced Boston car accident lawyer will investigate the incident and identify your options for financial recovery.
Your attorney will investigate the scene and all the available evidence. For example, the transfer and change of paint in a hit and run accident can help identify the at-fault driver. When two vehicles collide, paint from the striking vehicle can transfer onto the victim’s vehicle, leaving behind valuable evidence.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
In Massachusetts, if you are involved in a hit and run accident, you can recover compensation through your uninsured motorist (UM) coverage. This type of insurance protects you when the at–fault driver is either uninsured or cannot be identified, such as in hit and run cases.
To file a claim, first, report the accident to the police and obtain a copy of the police report, as your insurance company will require this documentation. You should also hire a lawyer before contacting your insurance provider to initiate your claim.
Pursue a Claim or Lawsuit Against the Other Driver
You can pursue a claim or lawsuit against the other driver after a hit and run in Massachusetts, but it can be challenging. If the other driver is identified, you may file a claim with their insurance company for additional compensation under certain circumstances.
While Massachusetts law generally requires drivers to seek compensation from their own insurance company for medical expenses and lost wages, you can file a claim in court if you have incurred at least $2,000 in reasonable medical expenses or have sustained serious injuries.
Negotiating With the Insurance Company for Maximum Compensation
The insurance company does not have your best interests at heart. While they are there to assist you, their primary goal is to minimize their financial liability. This means they will try to downplay your injuries, dispute your claims, or offer you a lower settlement.
Insurance adjusters might ask leading questions or request access to your medical records to find reasons to deny your claim or reduce its value. Approach any communication with your insurance company carefully. When you hire a personal injury lawyer in Boston, they will handle all communications with the insurance company, giving you peace of mind.
An experienced car accident attorney is familiar with the tactics adjusters use to downplay or dismiss claims. Your lawyer will always protect your rights and fight to obtain the optimal possible outcome in your case.
A Lawyer Can Handle Your Hit and Run Accident Claim in Massachusetts
The financial difficulties you encounter as a hit and run accident victim shouldn’t prevent you from obtaining the support you need. Jason Stone Injury Lawyers operate on a contingency fee model, which means you won‘t need to pay anything upfront. We only take a percentage of your settlement or compensation if we successfully resolve your case. This is Our Stone Cold Guarantee®.
By partnering with a skilled car accident attorney from our team, you can relax knowing that your case is in the hands of professionals. We will assess your compensation options and manage your claim, allowing you to concentrate on your recovery. Contact us today for a complimentary consultation.
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