What to Do if You are Involved in an Auto Accident in Massachusetts

Getting into a car crash is always unexpected.  Being prepared in the case of an accident can make the whole ordeal much less stressful. Here are some tips on what to do in case you are unfortunate enough to be involved in a crash.

Be Prepared!

Its always good to be prepared for the worst.  Make sure your auto insurance policy is paid up.  Check and see if you have collision coverage, med pay, and rental coverage. All of these come in handy if you are in a crash.

Also, its good to keep a "crash kit" in your glove box.  Include items like road flares, a disposable camera, a first aid kit and a pen and paper.  That way, if you are ever caught in a crash, everything you need is at your fingertips.

Call 911

The first thing to do after a crash it to call 911. Have the police fill out a report documenting what happened. This makes it easier on you when you go to fill out an operators report, because all the information is on the officer's report.  Also, if there is something wrong (the other operator doesn't have insurance, is drunk, has no license) the officer will take care of it.

If you are injured, go to the hospital when the ambulance comes.  PIP coverage is required on Massachusetts auto insurance, so your medical bills are covered up to $2000 if you have health insurance and up to $8000 if you do not.  Also, if you have Medpay coverage, you could be covered for an even higher amount of medical bills, all through your own insurance company.  These bills are covered, even if the accident was your fault.

Get Treatment for any Injuries

Go to the Hospital.  Get treated for any injuries.  If you still hurt over the following days, get followup care. See your primary care physician, and follow their instructions for any other care.

Call Your Insurance Company to File Your Claim

Call your insurance company to make a claim. They will set up the claim for your car's damage, and for your medical bill payments.

Contact an Attorney

You should contact an attorney to handle any claim arising out of the accident. Most attorneys handle personal injury claims on a contingent fee basis (meaning they receive a portion of any settlement that they can get for you).  The attorneys are experienced in dealing with the insurance companies to get you the highest settlement for your injuries. Also, they can work with the companies to process the claim for damage to your vehicle, and to make sure all of your medical bills get paid.