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.
Do you want to know how to determine the right time to contact an injury attorney? Read this article or give us a call at Wood & Gresham, P.C. to learn more.
Slip and fall and trip and fall accidents are a common cause of serious injury across Norfolk County, Plymouth County, and Bristol County, particularly during New England winters when snow and ice create dangerous walking conditions. Many injured individuals ask, “Do I need a lawyer after a slip and fall?” If a fall occurs on poorly maintained property, the answer is often yes. An experienced Massachusetts personal injury attorney can help injured victims and families understand their rights and pursue compensation for injuries caused by unsafe conditions. Slip and fall and trip and fall accidents remain one of the leading causes of serious injury in Massachusetts, particularly during the winter months when snow and ice create hazardous conditions on sidewalks, parking lots, and commercial properties. For injured individuals and families in the Metro West area, these incidents can result in broken bones, head trauma, spinal injuries, and long-term mobility limitations. Hiring an experienced local personal injury attorney is often the most effective way to protect your rights and pursue financial compensation after a slip and fall accident caused by unsafe property conditions. Property owners and businesses throughout communities such as Foxboro, Walpole, Norwood, Dedham, Attleboro, Taunton, Brockton, and surrounding towns have a legal duty to keep their premises reasonably safe. This includes removing snow and ice within a reasonable time and addressing hazards that could cause a fall. When someone asks, “Who is responsible for a slip and fall accident?” the answer depends on the facts, evidence, and applicable premises liability laws. A knowledgeable personal injury lawyer can investigate the incident, identify negligence, and hold responsible parties accountable. Slip and fall injuries often result in broken bones, head injuries, back injuries, and long-term physical limitations. Victims frequently search, “What compensation can I get for a slip and fall injury?” Depending on the case, compensation may include medical expenses, lost wages, future treatment costs, and pain and suffering. A free case evaluation allows injured individuals to speak directly with an attorney, receive honest guidance, and determine whether they have a valid claim—without any upfront cost. Snow and ice accidents are especially common throughout Norfolk, Plymouth, and Bristol Counties, where seasonal weather creates recurring hazards on sidewalks, parking lots, apartment complexes, and commercial properties. Local experience matters in these cases. A local experienced personal injury attorney familiar with your county understands how weather patterns, property maintenance standards, and insurance company tactics affect snow and ice claims. This local insight can significantly strengthen a case and improve outcomes for injured clients. If you or a loved one is asking, “What should I do after a slip and fall in Massachusetts?” the first step is to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney. Wood & Gresham offers free case evaluations for injured individuals and families throughout Norfolk County, Plymouth County, and Bristol County. Dedicated legal representation can help you protect your rights, navigate the legal process, and pursue the financial recovery you deserve after a slip and fall or snow and ice accident. We provide free legal consultations, no fee unless successful recovery, call us today at 508-384-2008 or email is for a free meeting in person or zoom at dgresham@woodgresham.com
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If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, slip and fall, or other unexpected incident, hiring an experienced personal injury attorney could be the most important step in securing your future. With rising medical bills, lost wages, and ongoing emotional and physical suffering, legal representation can ensure you get the justice and compensation you deserve. Whether the injury was minor or severe, an experienced attorney can help you navigate the complex world of personal injury claims, negotiate with insurance companies, and protect your rights under Massachusetts law. 1. Get the Compensation You Deserve Insurance companies often offer low settlements to injury victims who don’t have legal representation. A skilled personal injury attorney will accurately assess the full value of your case—including medical costs, lost income, and pain and suffering—and aggressively pursue the compensation you deserve. 2. In-Depth Knowledge of Massachusetts Injury Law Massachusetts personal injury laws involve strict deadlines and legal rules that can be overwhelming for someone unfamiliar with the legal system. Your attorney ensures compliance with all state-specific legal requirements, including statutes of limitations and comparative negligence laws. 3. Negotiating with Insurance Companies Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts. An experienced attorney levels the playing field by handling negotiations on your behalf and ensuring that you are not taken advantage of during the claims process. 4. Comprehensive Investigation and Evidence Collection Winning a personal injury claim often depends on the quality of the evidence. Your attorney will gather and preserve critical documentation such as medical records, police reports, witness statements, and surveillance footage to build a strong case. 5. Help With Medical Bills and Treatment Coordination Attorneys can assist you in finding proper medical care and may work with healthcare providers to delay billing until your case settles. This gives you the care you need without immediate financial stress. 6. Representation in Court If Needed While many personal injury claims are settled outside of court, some require litigation. An experienced attorney will be prepared to take your case to trial, providing effective courtroom advocacy to fight for your best interests. 7. No Legal Fees Unless You Win Most personal injury attorneys, including those at Wood & Gresham, P.C., work on a contingency fee basis. That means you don’t pay unless we secure compensation on your behalf. There’s no financial risk in getting the representation you need. 8. Faster Resolution of Your Case With professional legal assistance, your case is likely to move more efficiently through the system. Attorneys know how to avoid common procedural errors that can cause delays and prolong your settlement. 9. Customized Legal Strategy Every personal injury case is unique. A skilled attorney will tailor a legal strategy to your specific situation, taking into account your injuries, long-term needs, and financial pressures. 10. Peace of Mind During a Stressful Time The aftermath of an accident is stressful. Having a trusted personal injury lawyer on your side provides peace of mind, allowing you to focus on healing while we focus on holding the responsible party accountable. Contact Wood & Gresham, P.C. Today If you’ve been injured in an accident, don’t wait. Contact Wood & Gresham, P.C. for a free consultation. Our experienced team of Massachusetts personal injury attorneys is ready to fight for your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve, when you need to win, as results matter. call us today 508-384-2008 or dgresham@woodgresham.com
Attending concerts or sporting events at Gillette Stadium or Patriot Place in Foxborough, MA is supposed to be a memorable and fun experience. But if your night out turns into an arrest for drunk and disorderly conduct, vandalism, assault, or any other misdemeanor, the consequences can be serious. Hiring an experienced criminal defense attorney is crucial to protecting your rights and your future. Here’s why you need legal representation if you’re facing criminal charges in Foxborough or anywhere in Norfolk County in Wrentham District Court. 1. Understand the Severity of the Charges Criminal charges—even misdemeanors—can result in significant penalties including fines, probation, a criminal record, or even jail time. An experienced attorney will help you understand the charges, the potential consequences, and the best legal strategies available. 2. Local Court Experience Matters If you’ve been arrested at Gillette Stadium or in Foxborough, your case will likely be heard in Wrentham District Court. A local criminal attorney familiar with the court, judges, and prosecutors can provide valuable insight that could positively influence your case outcome. 3. Protection of Your Rights During the Legal Process From the moment of your arrest, your constitutional rights are at stake. An experienced defense attorney ensures law enforcement acted legally and that any evidence obtained in violation of your rights is challenged and potentially suppressed. 4. Skilled Negotiation to Reduce or Dismiss Charges Many misdemeanor charges can be resolved without a trial through negotiation with prosecutors. A skilled defense attorney may be able to get charges reduced, secure alternative sentencing options, or have the case dismissed entirely. 5. Avoiding Long-Term Consequences A criminal conviction can affect your employment, educational opportunities, and reputation. Hiring a criminal defense lawyer can help protect your record and keep your future on track. 6. Help Navigating Disorderly Conduct and Alcohol-Related Offenses Events at Gillette Stadium often involve alcohol, and it’s not uncommon for fans to be charged with offenses like public intoxication, disorderly conduct, or disturbing the peace. A defense attorney will work to present mitigating evidence and negotiate for reduced penalties. 7. Assistance with Assault or Vandalism Charges In the high-energy environment of a stadium or concert, altercations or property damage can lead to assault or vandalism charges. Your attorney will gather facts, interview witnesses, and build a strong defense to protect your rights. 8. Keeping You Informed and Confident Facing criminal charges is stressful. A knowledgeable attorney will explain each step of the process, what to expect, and how best to proceed so you can make informed decisions. 9. Personalized Defense Strategy Every case is unique. An experienced attorney will tailor your defense strategy to your specific circumstances, taking into account your background, the evidence, and the goals of your case. 10. Representation for Out-of-Town Visitors Many arrests at Gillette Stadium involve out-of-state visitors. If you're not local, a Massachusetts-based criminal defense attorney can represent you in court and help manage your case efficiently, possibly minimizing your need to return for multiple hearings. Why Choose Wood & Gresham, P.C.? At Wood & Gresham, P.C., our experienced criminal defense attorneys have successfully represented clients charged with misdemeanors and other offenses arising from events at Gillette Stadium, Patriot Place, and surrounding areas. We understand how to navigate the Wrentham District Court system and work aggressively to protect your rights. If you've been arrested in Foxborough, Walpole, Wrentham, Franklin or in Norfolk County, don’t delay. Contact us today for a confidential consultation and let us help you fight the charges and protect your future. Calls us at 508-384-2008 or dgresham@woodgresham.com
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A motor vehicle accident can leave you with medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress—but you don’t have to face it alone. If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, Wood & Gresham, P.C., based in Wrentham, MA, is here to fight for your rights. Our experienced personal injury attorneys serve clients across Norfolk and Bristol County, helping them navigate the complex insurance claims process and secure the compensation they deserve. Call us today for your FREE CONSULTATION at 508-384-2008 Why Choose Wood & Gresham, P.C.? - Aggressive Negotiation with Insurance Companies – Insurers often try to minimize payouts, but we fight for full compensation covering medical expenses, rehabilitation, and lost wages. - Expert Legal Guidance for Complex Cases – Whether dealing with disputed liability, serious injuries, or denied claims, we have the expertise to build strong cases and advocate effectively. - Local Knowledge & Proven Results – As a trusted Norfolk County law firm, we understand local laws and court processes, giving our clients an advantage in securing fair settlements. Act Now—Your Case Has Time Limits In Massachusetts, personal injury claims have strict deadlines under the statute of limitations. Delaying action could mean losing the right to recover damages. Don’t let insurance companies pressure you into a low-ball settlement—contact Wood & Gresham, P.C. today for a FREE consultation and let us fight for the compensation you deserve! We are only paid upon a recovery for you! We can be reached at 508-384-2008. dgresham@woodgresham.com and dwood@woodgresham.com
Spring and summer are prime seasons for buying and selling homes, but navigating the real estate process can be overwhelming. Whether you're a first-time buyer or a seasoned seller, legal complexities can arise, from contract negotiations to title issues. At Wood & Gresham, P.C., we provide expert legal counsel to protect your investment, ensuring a smooth transaction and safeguarding your rights throughout the process. Why You Need an Attorney for Real Estate Transactions - Offers & Purchase Agreements: Buying or selling a home involves legally binding contracts. An attorney ensures that the terms protect your interests, verifies contingencies like financing and inspections, and negotiates favorable conditions to prevent costly surprises. - S ales Contracts: From disclosures to due diligence, attorneys review the fine print to safeguard clients against hidden risks, ensuring compliance with Massachusetts real estate laws and avoiding disputes that could derail the closing process. - Drafting & Reviewing the Deed: A properly drafted deed is essential to transferring ownership correctly. Attorneys verify that all legal descriptions are accurate, ensuring there are no title defects that could cause future issues with ownership claims or liens. - Conducting the Closing Process: Finalizing a real estate transaction requires careful coordination. Attorneys oversee the process, review settlement statements, ensure clear title transfer, and address unexpected last-minute challenges—giving buyers and sellers confidence that their transaction is legally sound. With the market heating up this season, securing legal counsel early can make all the difference. Whether you're buying your dream home or selling for top dollar, Wood & Gresham, P.C. is committed to providing personalized, results-driven legal support. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and make your next real estate move with confidence. We are conveniently located in Wrentham Center, We can be reached at dgresham@woodgresham.com and dwood@woodgresham.com Call today at 508-384-2008
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