With populations steadily climbing in metropolitan areas, the number of drivers on the road continues to increase. Overcrowded roads, frustrated drivers, alcohol, and distractions like cell phones and loud music all lead to increased dangers for motorists. It is no surprise that motor vehicle accidents occur daily. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2014 there were over 32,000 fatal roadway accidents in the United States, and over 2.3 million people were injured in roadway accidents. In Massachusetts, there were 328 fatalities from roadway accidents. The early projections for 2015 based on the first nine months of 2015 show that roadway fatalities and injuries are on the rise.
What Is My Auto Accident Worth
Each year, many victims are involved in car accidents in Massachusetts that can cause long-term damage. Despite the common misconception that only multiple vehicle accidents can cause damage, every motor vehicle accident presents its own risks. Often, insurance companies will try to convince victims to accept a settlement that is far less than what is needed to cover auto repairs and medical bills. That is why victims who feel they have been injured by another’s negligence should contact a motor vehicle accident attorney as soon as possible. No matter how many cars were involved in a car accident, Attorney Frederic Halström knows that the financial and physical effects on the victims can be long-term and damaging.
By hiring a motor vehicle accident attorney, you are more likely to receive proper compensation for injuries sustained in an accident. Though it is impossible to predict the exact compensation a jury or court may award a plaintiff, there are several factors that Attorney Halström will consider when reviewing your case. First, liability must be established. In a personal injury case, it is the responsibility of the plaintiff and his or her motor vehicle accident lawyer to prove that the other driver was negligent or acted in a way so as to cause damage. If it is clear or it can be proven that the other driver was at fault, Attorney Halström must then consider all damages the victim sustained during the collision. Damages can include physical damage, property damage, and emotional trauma. Finally, Attorney Halström will review any additional expenses incurred by the victim, such as medical bills or lost wages. After considering all of these factors, Attorney Halström can give you a preliminary estimate of your case’s value.
What Are Examples of Auto Accidents?
Collisions usually fall into one of the following three categories: Single Motor Vehicle Accident, Multiple Motor Vehicle Accident, or Commercial Motor Vehicle Accident.
Single Motor Vehicle Accident
An incident that involves only one vehicle is known as a Single Motor Vehicle Accident. Attorney Frederic Halström has extensive experience litigating these cases. Single vehicle accidents include vehicle rollovers, SUV rollovers, and collisions between a car and a stationary object like a tree or post. Single vehicle car accident victims, especially victims of SUV rollovers, are often successful in receiving compensation for their injuries if it can be proved that the accident was caused by another’s negligence.
Multiple Motor Vehicle Accident
Any collision involving more than one motor vehicle is categorized as a Multiple Motor Vehicle Accident. Since these collisions involve more than one vehicle, it can sometimes be difficult to establish liability. In cases where liability is disputed, it may be advantageous for victims to contact an auto accident lawyer. Common accidents involving multiple vehicles include the following: rear-end collisions, head-on collisions, and side-impact collisions.
Commercial Motor Vehicle Accident
It is not uncommon for motorists to be involved in a collision with commercial motor vehicles, especially tractor-trailers. Commercial motor vehicles are often much larger and more difficult to maneuver than regular vehicles. This, coupled with distracted or exhausted drivers, can lead to increased risk for other motorists. Commercial vehicles can include emergency vehicles, buses, and tractor-trailers. Since corporations and government agencies will try to settle commercial vehicle accident cases quickly, it is important to contact an auto accident attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights.