Car Accidents

Car accidents account for more than half of all vehicle-related deaths in Rhode Island. While our state's population is small, the increase in traffic fatalities from 2004 to 2005 is more than three times the national average, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Car accidents occur all too frequently, causing property damage, serious injuries and even death. When injuries create permanent health issues, victims may not be able to afford quality medical care or rehabilitation – forcing families to cope with the emotional and financial losses on their own. Most people assume their insurance will cover their car accident expenses. The reality is that insurance companies have an interest in minimizing their financial responsibility – and their payouts.

Since the 1960s, the lawyers of Gemma Law Associates, Inc. have successfully handled hundreds of car accident cases. Our attorneys know Rhode Island Law – and we know how to negotiate with responsible parties and insurance companies to obtain the best possible settlement for our clients. We have decades of courtroom experience, and if we aren't able to obtain a satisfactory settlement outside of court, we understand how to prepare the most effective case for a courtroom trial on our clients' behalf.

Car accidents are traumatic, but there are simple things you can do right away to help protect your rights:

• DO seek immediate medical care. Even if you don't think your injuries are serious, many lifelong medical conditions have been caused by symptoms that didn't appear right away.
• Do NOT provide a statement to the insurance company without consulting an attorney. Insurance companies will often try to obtain information while you are still in shock or off balance from the accident – and then use it against you later.
• Make notes about the event – write down as many details as you can recall about how you were injured, what happened immediately after the incident and what were the results later, such as lost wages or continuing medical treatment. Ask for copies of police or medical reports.
• If possible, document the event by taking photographs of any evidence (such as visible injuries or pictures of your damaged vehicle in cases of auto accidents).
• Obtain contact information for anyone that you know witnessed your accident.

If you've suffered a serious personal injury from a car accident, contact Gemma Law Associates, Inc. at 401-467-2300 or submit an online contact form. We've been helping clients in Rhode Island for more than 45 years – and we can help you.