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Do You Have the Right Auto Insurance Coverage?
Dan Wood • March 20, 2021
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Do You Have the Right Auto Insurance Coverage?
When people think about automobile insurance, they think about one thing first: cost. There are dozens of insurance companies and hundreds of insurance agencies fighting over your business. Many offer discounts for safe driving, for being a member of a certain club, or for “bundling” your homeowner’s insurance with your auto insurance. As a conscientious consumer, you should shop around for the best rate you can find. But one of the common mistakes many consumers make is that they only look at the price when they decide which company to purchase insurance from. The fact of the matter is that insurance companies and insurance agencies might be able to get that insurance premium down for you, but at what cost to you? By that, I don’t mean monetary cost, I mean risk.
Oftentimes people only purchase compulsory insurance, in other words, the minimal insurance coverage that Massachusetts law requires you to have on your car to drive it on the roadways. Parts One through Four of your Auto Policy are the Compulsory Coverages that you must have under Massachusetts law. Raise your hand if you know what those Parts cover. Raise your hand if you know how much your coverage limits are under each Part. If you are like most people, you probably don’t pay much attention to that until or unless there comes a time when you need that insurance because something has happened. It doesn’t make you a bad person. It’s just human nature. We are all busy and let’s face it, who really wants to sit down and read the Standard Massachusetts Auto policy? However, by spending just few minutes with your attorney, your insurance agent, or anyone else knowledgeable about the coverages you should have, you could better protect yourself and your family for just a few dollars more each year.
Trust me, this isn’t a sales pitch. I don’t sell insurance. But after being an attorney for over twenty five years, I’ve seen more than my fair share of people who wish they could turn back the hands of time and change the insurance coverage they had chosen because when they needed it most, they either didn’t have the coverage they needed or they didn’t buy enough coverage under the Part of the policy they needed. Sometimes these mistakes were heartbreaking. That is why I decided to write this article. My goal is to try to educate people a little bit more about their insurance coverage options or at least encourage them to ask more questions whenever they purchase or renew their insurance. It’s one thing if a person is informed and knowledgeable about his or her insurance options, and he or she makes an informed decision to not include a particular coverage. But it’s an entirely different matter when someone is uninformed and does not purchase an affordable coverage which, down the road, would have helped him tremendously if only he had known about it.
Part 1 of your auto policy covers “Bodily Injury to Others.” Massachusetts law requires you to have this insurance and requires you to have $20,000/$40,000 coverage. This means that if you cause an accident and injure someone, the most money that the insurance company will pay to cover you is $20,000 for that injured person and $40,000 if there are multiple injured people. Needless to say, it is not difficult to imagine with the rising cost of health care and a fairly significant accident, the injured person’s damages could greatly exceed the $20,000 coverage provided by your insurance company. This could leave you and your hard earned personal assets at risk if the injured person’s damages greatly exceed $20,000. For this reason, it makes sense to at least find out how much more it would cost you in premium to increase your coverage to $50,000/$100,000, or more, depending on your comfort level.
The other thing many people don’t realize about their Part 1 “Bodily Injury to Others” coverage is that it does not cover you for injuries sustained by passengers in your own automobile or for accidents which occur outside of Massachusetts. Think about it. Most often, the people who are passengers in your vehicle are friends and family members. Don’t you want to make sure that you have at least some insurance in place if your passenger gets injured because of an accident you may have caused? In order to make sure that you have insurance to cover injuries to your passengers and accidents outside of Massachusetts, you need to purchase Part 5 “Optional Bodily Injury to Others” coverage.
Another optional coverage which is available but often ignored is Part 12 “Bodily Injury Caused by an Underinsured Auto.” I cannot emphasize enough how important this coverage could be for you or your family if you or a family member gets seriously injured in a motor vehicle accident. Let’s suppose that you are driving your car one day and another driver blows through a red light and crashes into the side of your vehicle at high speed. You sustain significant injuries which require extensive hospitalization, maybe even surgery, and extensive rehabilitation. You are unable to work and help support your family for months at a time. You retain an attorney to represent your interests and your attorney finds out that the driver who hit you is unemployed, has no assets, and only had the minimum Compulsory coverage available under Part 1 of his Automobile Insurance Policy: $20,000. This amount does not even begin to cover your outstanding medical bills, lost wages, or pain and suffering. If you did not purchase Part 12 coverage, you could be one of those heartbreaking stories that I referenced at the beginning of this article. If you were smart enough to purchase Part 12 coverage on your own policy of insurance, you could look to your own policy of insurance to cover you for any damages which exceed the amount that was available under the other driver’s policy (up to the Part 12 coverage limit that you chose). That Part 12 coverage just might be your “saving grace.”
I realize that not everyone can afford to add more coverage to their automobile insurance policies. But I also realize that most people aren’t even aware of how much more coverage they can purchase for what they might consider quite affordable and worth it. The way I figure it, if I get at least one of you to review your coverages and consider your options the next time you receive your auto insurance renewal in the mail, rather than toss it into a drawer, then I’ve done something worthwhile.
This article only touches upon a few of the many considerations you should take into account when selecting your automobile insurance coverages. If you or anyone in your family have any questions about what coverages are available or which coverages might be right for you, please do not hesitate to contact me or the attorneys at Wood & Gresham, P.C. for a free consultation.
Have you suffered neck, back, or other personal injuries due to a slip and fall accident on snow and ice or in a store or hotel? Wood & Gresham PC, located in Wrentham, MA, understands the challenges you face. Since our establishment in 2004, we have been dedicated to serving Norfolk County and the greater Boston area. Our team, with over 50 years of combined litigation experience, has successfully secured significant settlements, recoveries, and judgments for our clients. Here’s why hiring an experienced slip and fall attorney from Wood & Gresham PC is essential for your injury case. 1. We have Extensive Expertise and Experience. At Wood & Gresham PC, our attorneys have decades of experience handling slip and fall injury cases. We specialize in accidents that occur on snow and ice or in commercial properties such as stores and hotels. Our deep knowledge of personal injury law and our commitment to staying updated with legal trends enable us to build strong cases for our clients. 2. Personalized and Client-Centric Approach. We believe that every client’s case is unique and deserves individualized attention. At Wood & Gresham PC, we take the time to understand your specific situation, injuries, and concerns to create a customized legal strategy. Our client-focused approach ensures that you receive the care and support you need during this challenging time. 3. Proven Success in Achieving Results. Wood & Gresham PC boasts a proven track record of success in slip and fall injury cases. Our law firm has secured substantial settlements and verdicts, demonstrating our dedication to achieving the best outcomes for our clients. 4. No Upfront Fees and Contingency-Based Representation. Financial worries should not prevent you from seeking justice. At Wood & Gresham PC, we operate on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay any upfront costs. We only get paid if we win your case. 5. Comprehensive Support and Resources. When you hire Wood & Gresham PC, you gain access to a comprehensive team of legal professionals, including skilled investigators and medical experts, who work together to build a robust case for you. Our extensive resources enhance your chances of a successful outcome. A slip and fall injury can have a profound impact on your life, but with the right legal team by your side, you can secure the compensation you deserve. Wood & Gresham PC, located in Wrentham, MA, and serving Norfolk County and beyond since 2004, is committed to providing expert legal representation, personalized attention, and comprehensive support to help you navigate the complexities of your case. Trust us to fight for your rights and achieve the best possible outcome for your slip and fall injury claim. Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step toward justice and recovery. We can be reached at 508-384-2008 dgresham@woodgresham.com and dwood@woodgresham.com
Suffering from neck, back, concussion or other personal injuries due to a car accident can be a life-altering experience. With medical bills piling up and the physical pain affecting your daily life, securing the right legal representation is crucial. Located in Wrentham, MA, in Norfolk County, Wood & Gresham PC has been serving the community since 2004. Our attorneys bring over 50 years of litigation experience to the table, ensuring that our clients receive the compensation they deserve. Here's why hiring an experienced attorney from Wood & Gresham P.C. can make a significant difference in your car accident injury case. 1. We have Expert Knowledge and Experience. With decades of experience handling car accident injury cases, the attorneys at Wood & Gresham PC have an in-depth understanding of the complexities involved. Our team is adept at navigating the legal landscape, from gathering critical evidence to negotiating with insurance companies. 2. Personalized Attention and Client Focus are at the forefront of what we do! At Wood & Gresham PC, we believe that every client's story is unique and deserves personalized attention. We take the time to listen to your concerns, understand your injuries, and develop a tailored legal strategy. 3. We have a Proven Track Record of Success. One of the primary reasons to hire Wood & Gresham PC is our proven track record of success in car accident and personal injury cases. Our law firm has secured substantial settlements and verdicts for countless clients, demonstrating our commitment to achieving the best possible results. Our attorneys are premier highly rated personal injury, car accident lawyers. 4. No Upfront Costs and Contingency Fee Arrangement Financial concerns should never prevent you from seeking justice. At Wood & Gresham PC, we offer a contingency fee arrangement, meaning you don't pay any upfront costs—we only get paid if we win your case. Contact us today for your FREE personal injury legal consultation about your accident. 5. When you hire Wood & Gresham PC, you gain access to a wealth of legal resources and support. Our team includes skilled investigators, medical experts, and other professionals who collaborate to build a strong case on your behalf. Our top motor vehicle injury lawyers are here for you and your loved ones. Call us today at 508-384-2008 for your free consultation. Take the first step toward justice and recovery today for your car accident and injuries.
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Slip-and-fall accidents caused by snow and ice can result in serious injuries, from broken bones to traumatic head injuries. In Massachusetts, property owners have a legal obligation to maintain their premises and remove snow and ice hazards promptly. If you’ve been injured in such an accident, it’s essential to have an experienced personal injury attorney to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve. Wood & Gresham, P.C., based in Wrentham, MA, has the expertise and dedication to help you navigate the complexities of a slip-and-fall case involving winter conditions. Understanding Liability in Snow and Ice Slip-and-Fall Cases In Massachusetts, determining liability for slip-and-fall accidents involving snow and ice can be challenging. Property owners must take reasonable steps to clear their premises of snow and ice, but proving negligence often requires detailed evidence. An experienced personal injury attorney will investigate the conditions of the property, review maintenance records, and consult with experts if needed to establish fault. Wood & Gresham, P.C. specializes in these cases and understands the nuances of Massachusetts law, ensuring your claim is built on a strong foundation. The Importance of Acting Quickly After a snow and ice-related injury, time is of the essence. Evidence such as photographs of the accident scene or witness testimonies may be lost if action isn’t taken promptly. Additionally, Massachusetts has a strict statute of limitations for filing personal injury claims. By hiring Wood & Gresham, P.C., you’ll have a dedicated legal team that acts quickly to preserve crucial evidence and ensure your case is filed within the required timeframe. This proactive approach significantly increases your chances of securing fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Maximize Your Compensation with Skilled Legal Representation Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts in personal injury cases, especially those involving snow and ice accidents. Without experienced legal representation, you may not receive the full compensation you’re entitled to. Wood & Gresham, P.C. knows how to negotiate with insurance adjusters and will not hesitate to take your case to court if necessary. Their attorneys are committed to fighting for the maximum compensation you deserve, so you can focus on recovering from your injuries. Contact Wood & Gresham, P.C. Today for a Free Consultation If you’ve been injured in a slip-and-fall accident involving snow and ice, don’t leave your case to chance. Wood & Gresham, P.C., located at 127 South Street in Wrentham, MA, provides compassionate and experienced legal representation tailored to your needs. Call 508-384-2008 today for a free consultation to discuss your case and learn how their team can help you navigate the legal process. Protect your rights, and let Wood & Gresham, P.C. help you secure the compensation you deserve.
Car accidents can result in life-altering injuries, emotional distress, and financial burdens. Whether you’ve been involved in a car or truck accident, hiring an experienced attorney to handle your motor vehicle injury case is essential to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve. At Wood & Gresham, P.C., located at 127 South Street in Wrentham, MA, our team of personal injury attorneys has a proven track record of success in motor vehicle accident cases, offering clients expert legal guidance during difficult times. Navigating the Complexities of Car Accident Cases Massachusetts laws surrounding car and truck accidents can be complex, especially when dealing with insurance companies, medical bills, and liability claims. An experienced car accident attorney at Wood & Gresham, P.C. can simplify this process, handling all legal aspects of your case. They will thoroughly investigate your accident, collect vital evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies to ensure you are fairly compensated for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If necessary, they are prepared to take your case to court to fight for the justice you deserve. Expertise in Truck Accident Cases Truck accidents often result in severe injuries due to the size and weight of commercial vehicles. These cases can involve multiple parties, such as trucking companies, drivers, and manufacturers, making them more complex than standard car accident claims. Wood & Gresham, P.C. has extensive experience handling truck accident cases, ensuring every responsible party is held accountable. Their attorneys understand the specific laws and regulations governing the trucking industry, giving you an advantage in building a strong case. Maximize Your Compensation with a Skilled Legal Team Insurance companies may try to minimize their payout, but an experienced car accident attorney will advocate on your behalf to ensure you receive the full compensation you’re entitled to. Wood & Gresham, P.C. provides personalized legal representation, tailoring their approach to meet the unique needs of each client. Their team will handle the legal complexities, allowing you to focus on recovering from your injuries and getting your life back on track. Contact Wood & Gresham, P.C. for a Free Consultation If you’ve been injured in a car or truck accident, don’t navigate this challenging process alone. Contact Wood & Gresham, P.C., at 508-384-2008 for a free consultation to discuss your case. Conveniently located in Wrentham, MA, their experienced attorneys are ready to provide the support and representation you need. Let Wood & Gresham, P.C. fight for your rights and help you secure the compensation you deserve after a motor vehicle accident. dgresham@woodgresham.com and dwood@woodgresham.com
Car accidents can cause serious injuries, with neck and back injuries among the most common and debilitating. These injuries can lead to chronic pain, expensive medical treatments, and lost wages, making it essential to seek the guidance of an experienced car accident attorney. At Wood & Gresham, P.C., located in Norfolk County, in Wrentham, MA, we specialize in helping accident victims in the greater 495 area recover the compensation they deserve for their injuries. It is conveniently located near, Foxboro, Franklin, Walpole and Attleboro, MA. Understanding the Impact of Neck and Back Injuries Whiplash, herniated discs, and spinal cord injuries are just a few examples of neck and back injuries commonly caused by car accidents. These injuries often have long-term implications, requiring ongoing medical care and rehabilitation. Proving the severity of these injuries and their impact on your life requires a skilled legal team. Wood & Gresham, P.C. works closely with medical experts to document your injuries and build a strong case for maximum compensation. Why Hiring a Local Expert Matters Navigating Massachusetts personal injury law can be complicated, particularly in the greater Boston area where traffic accidents are frequent. Wood & Gresham, P.C. has years of experience handling cases in this region, making us well-versed in local laws and court systems. We understand the tactics insurance companies use to minimize payouts, and we’re committed to fighting for your rights. Our team ensures your case is handled with care and expertise, so you can focus on your recovery. Maximizing Your Compensation Neck and back injuries often involve extensive medical expenses, including surgeries, physical therapy, and medication. Additionally, these injuries can lead to lost wages and reduced earning capacity. The attorneys at Wood & Gresham, P.C. are dedicated to ensuring you receive full compensation for all your damages. We negotiate aggressively with insurance companies and are prepared to take your case to court if necessary. With our legal team on your side, you can feel confident that your best interests are being represented. Contact Wood & Gresham, P.C. Today If you’ve been injured in a car accident, don’t wait to seek legal help. Contact Wood & Gresham, P.C. at 508-384-2008 for a free consultation to discuss your case. Our office at 127 South Street in Wrentham, MA, serves clients throughout the greater Boston area, offering experienced and compassionate representation. Let us help you recover the compensation you deserve for your neck, back, and personal injuries. Email us today at dgresham@woodgresham.com or dwood@woodgresham.com for your free consultation that can be done in person or virtually anywhere via zoom.
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