Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Should I take pictures at the scene?

A picture can tell a thousand words. Even in minor fender benders, taking pictures is always a good idea. In today’s world, there’s a good chance that you, or someone present at the scene of the accident, has a camera-equipped cell phone. Photographic evidence can make or break a case, and it often does. Pictures can show points of impact in a collision, document injuries, and prove another party’s fault or negligence. Take as many pictures as possible, and follow the guidelines below to increase your chance of success:

• Take photographs as soon as possible. At the scene is ideal, but never wait until after repairs have been completed.
• Photograph injuries and damages from various distances and angles.

If the pictures are of physical injuries, follow these helpful tips:

• Make sure that at least one picture shows your face. This way, the defense cannot argue that the injuries were not your own.
• Take multiple shots from different angles and distances. Zoom in for some and out for others.
• Never smile.

Can I make a claim if the at-fault driver left the scene?

When a driver leaves the scene of a collision it’s known as a hit-and-run accident. Unfortunately, these are more common that we’d like to think, and Boston is no exception. Fortunately, there are some protections to help you in this type of situation. Massachusetts drivers are required by law to carry Uninsured Motorist coverage on their motor vehicle insurance policy. In a hit-and-run situation, the legal team at Altman & Altman, LLP will make the claim directly with your insurance carrier. Accident victims may be concerned that such a claim will increase their insurance rates. Luckily, with uninsured motorist claims, this is not the case. If you are involved in a hit-and-run and the other driver was the at-fault party, your insurance carrier will not increase your rates.

What if the Other Driver’s Insurance Company Wants to Take my Statement?

Mum’s the word. In almost every car accident case, you are not required to give a statement to the other party’s insurance company. In fact, we highly advise against it. If you must make a statement, only do so with a lawyer present. There is an inherent conflict of interest with the other insurance company and your own situation. It is your right to decline making a statement to the other insurance company until you have a lawyer present.

What if the insurance company blames me for the accident?

It isn’t an accident (no pun intended) that insurance companies are able to turn massive profits despite an ongoing economic crisis. It is not uncommon for carriers to deny valid claims for a variety of reasons. This is another reason why it is essential to have a skilled motor vehicle accident attorney by your side. At Altman & Altman, LLP, we have extensive experience with these types of claims. Our skilled lawyers have an impressive track record of convincing insurance companies to change their position and compensate clients fairly.

It is quite common for insurance carriers to make quick decisions initially, and then later change their stance when more information comes to light. If the insurance company is adamant that a client was at fault, we can call on accident reconstruction experts to recreate the scene and help determine who was at fault. These experts use factors such as time of day, speed, and weather to make their case. Furthermore, in the state of Massachusetts, you can still make an injury claim if you are 50% or less at fault.

How long will it take to fix my car?

Especially when injuries are involved, the last thing you want to deal with after an accident is coordinating vehicle repairs with the insurance company and auto body shops. At Altman & Altman, LLP, we will handle this process so that the appraisal of your car or truck, and the subsequent repairs, are completed as soon as possible. The goal is to have the vehicle in the shop in a week or less, at no cost to our clients.

Who will pay for my car repairs?

In most cases, your insurance company will pay for your car repairs. The goal is to avoid having to pay a deductible, and to avoid an increase in premiums. If you were not at fault and your insurance policy doesn’t cover certain expenses, you may be able to obtain compensation from the other party’s insurance company.

Altman & Altman, LLP – Boston’s Premier Car, Truck, and Motorcycle Accident Law Firm

If you have been involved in any type of auto accident, the motor vehicle accident attorneys at Altman & Altman, LLP can help. Even if you simply have questions, we can help you understand these complex processes and how they impact your unique situation. Contact Altman & Altman, LLP today for a free consultation about your case.