If you’ve been in a car crash in Massachusetts, you know there are specific steps you must take at the state level. If you haven’t, it’s even more important to know and understand the steps. Since car crashes are very stressful, we’ve outlined the top 3 key steps to take below, in a simple guide you can refer to anytime.
First, according to the DMV, and State Law you must never leave the scene of the car crash. You may think this is a given, but even if you’re not at fault you need to stay.
Failing to stay will result in having driving privileges revoked and license suspended. If you’re injured, stay as calm as possible by taking a few moments to breathe and collect yourself. Call 911, wait for help and do not attempt to move yourself or others if you are having difficulty doing so.
At the scene
Stay at the scene of the accident. Stay calm, assess the situation, breathe. Call 911 to report serious injuries and notify the police
Next, take a moment to assess the situation, see if there is a fire or any other potential dangers. Be sure to park as close as possible to the incident, and out of the way of traffic and pedestrians if possible.
In Massachusetts, you’re required to provide specific information to the other parties involved. Fellow motorists and pedestrians must provide their information to you likewise. It’s also smart to ask any witnesses for their information, in case you need them to testify or provide a statement to your Insurance Company at a later date.
Exchange Information
Here’s the key information you need to exchange:
Name, address and contact details.
Drivers license number.
License plate number of the vehicles involved.
Car insurance information for the motorists involved.
Furthermore, take photos of the car crash vehicles and scene of the crash. These will help as evidence. Should you hit an unattended vehicle, try and find the owner or driver and follow these same procedures. Due to state laws, if you can’t locate the owner of the unattended car leave a note with this same info. Call your insurance company to report the crash whether or not anyone involved was injured.
These are the basics for handling the aftermath of a typical auto accident. There are additional steps to take depending on the following outcomes.
Car crash aftermath
If you are hurt in the crash you will need help and guidance from a lawyer knowledgeable in Personal Injury Litigation. Learn more about personal injury claims here. It is essential that you speak to an attorney before filing an insurance claim or discussing the accident with anyone other than your physician. After listening to your account of the accident, your attorney can help you file an insurance claim with the other driver’s insurer and speak to the company on your behalf so that you can start processing a claim against the responsible person (s). It is important to remember that anything you say may be used against you in future negotiations.
Call Tramontozzi Law Offices at 781-665-0099 for help with personal injury claims
Time is of the essence when it comes to car accident cases; John Tramontozzi is available to work for you right away. By contacting us immediately, we will ensure that your rights are protected as quickly as possible.
Finally, you’re required to submit a Motor Vehicle Crash Operator Report if the crash caused injury, death, or damage exceeding $1,000. Failing to report a car crash to the RMV results in having your license suspended. Send a copy of this form to the insurance company, and mail a copy to the RMV at this address:
Registry of Motor Vehicles
P.O. Box 55889
Boston, MA 02205-5889