Underinsured/Uninsured Motorists in Massachusetts

Were you involved in an auto accident with an uninsured/underinsured motorist in Massachusetts?

No car accident is ever enjoyable, but if the driver who causes your crash lacks insurance, a bad situation might seem much worse. However, there is a way for you to get payment from your own insurance company if that is the case. At Feinberg & Alban PC, we are skilled Massachusetts attorneys who represent vehicle collision victims who have been hit by uninsured and underinsured drivers. From our offices in Boston and Brookline, we assist clients with insurance claims and direct litigation against liable motorists, if necessary.

What auto insurance coverage is required in Massachusetts?

Every Massachusetts auto insurance policy must include the following types of coverage and minimum amounts:

• Bodily injury to others ($20,000 per person, $40,000 per accident)
• Personal injury protection for your medical costs ($8,000 regardless of who was at fault)
• Bodily injury caused by an uninsured vehicle ($20,000 per person, $40,000 per accident)
• Damage to someone else’s property ($5,000)

Carriers offer several other types of coverage, and you might find it prudent to increase the limits on your policy given the heavy expense associated with medical treatment and car repairs. Under the state’s no-fault system, most victims of auto accidents are reimbursed for their healthcare costs and property damage through their own policy. However, people who suffer serious injuries might be able to seek payment directly from the at-fault driver. Our firm will examine your specific policy and the facts of your case to determine the best path forward.

Is underinsured motorist coverage required in Massachusetts?

Most insurance carriers offer the option to purchase underinsured coverage. However, you are not required to do so under Massachusetts law. This type of policy works similar to uninsured coverage, reimbursing you for medical bills, lost income and vehicle damage if the total amount of your loss exceeds what the insurer is obliged to pay pursuant to the at-fault driver’s coverage.

What happens if the person at fault in an accident has no insurance in Massachusetts?

The uninsured motorist coverage that you are required to include with your policy will fund some or all of the losses you incur in a collision with an at-fault driver who has no auto insurance. Though the minimum amount of coverage is $20,000 per injury and $40,000 per accident, your specific policy might include substantially more coverage. Our firm will examine the terms of your coverage and negotiate with your carrier to help you obtain the full amount you’re entitled to for medical costs, lost wages and other losses compensable under the policy.

What is the statute of limitations for a Massachusetts accident claim?

You have three years from the date of an accident to file a lawsuit against the liable parties. However, the sooner you seek legal relief, the sooner you can secure the financial recovery you need to pay for your medical bills, replace the income you lost and address the harm you suffered. Moreover, waiting too long to retain an attorney could make it more difficult to obtain the evidence you need to prove your case.

Contact a Massachusetts lawyer for a free consultation if you were hit by an uninsured driver

Feinberg & Alban PC handles uninsured motorist claims for Massachusetts auto accident victims. To make an appointment for a free consultation at our Boston or Brookline office, please call 617-232-5950 or contact us online. If you are not able to meet at either office, we can come to your home or hospital room.