Bicycle Accident Attorney in Boston

Bike Accidents in Massachusetts

Boston is a recognized city for having a lot of bicyclists, and the city even has a program called Boston Bikes, as part of the city’s vision for a vibrant and healthy city that can benefit all citizens. The city is known for being health and wellness-focused. Also, Massachusetts has been named one of the best places in the country for cyclists, according to a ranking by the League of American Bicyclists. The 2017 annual ranking lists Massachusetts as the fourth most bike-friendly state in the nation.

However, with more bikes on streets and roadways, there is a higher potential for more bicyclists to collide with other vehicles. In 2016, Boston used automated technology to count the number of people bicycling. During three days in September, there were nearly 30,000 bike trips per day counted. During peak commuting times, bikes were more than one in six of all vehicles passing by. That is a large percentage of cyclists who are traveling on roadways. Unfortunately, this increases the chance of a cyclist colliding with a car, truck, or another vehicle.

Bikers, auto drivers, motorcyclists, and truck drivers need to share the road and observe travel rules equally. More and more cities are launching efforts to help motorists share the road and drive courteously with so many cyclists on roadways. Unfortunately, accidents are consistently on the rise. Due to the lack of protection for the cyclist and the speed and weight of the cars involved, these types of accidents can result in serious injury, typically for the cyclist. If you were seriously injured while riding your bicycle, you might be able to hold the driver of the other vehicle accountable for their reckless or negligent behavior.

A cyclist’s injuries are likely to be far more extensive than those associated with a driver or passenger in any other motor vehicle. Many cyclists often deal with broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, or other costly medical care in the event of a crash. Have you been involved in a bicycle accident where you were injured? Crowe & Harris, LLP understands the kind of toll that this may take on you and your family. We are devoted to assisting you in all matters related to your injuries, and we are on your side.

Infrastructure Challenges and Awareness

Despite efforts to improve cycling infrastructure, many Boston streets remain potentially hazardous for cyclists. Issues such as poorly designed bike lanes, inadequate signage, and congested roads exacerbate the risk of accidents. Increasing awareness of these challenges can help in advocating for safer streets for cyclists in Boston.

Bicycle Accident Claims We Handle

Even cyclists who are extremely diligent about their safety run the risk of colliding with a vehicle and being seriously injured as a result. Injuries and complications resulting from a bicycle crash with another vehicle can have a wide range of serious consequences that can dramatically affect you and your family. While damages resulting from a bicycle accident can vary significantly in severity, they frequently carry considerable implications for the injured individual. 

Some of the most common types of bicycle accident injuries include:

• Abrasions, cuts, scars, and bruises – Abrasions, cuts, scars, and bruises are a typical result of many bicycle accidents, especially if the cyclist is thrown from their bike onto the pavement, gravel, or dirt roadways.
• Sprains, broken teeth, and broken bones – When a cyclist falls or is thrown from their bicycle, they are vulnerable to being slammed into a vehicle, on a hard cement curb or road, or on a busy highway. The facts are that if a bicyclist hits the rough, hard asphalt, it can cause serious friction burns, sprains on arms or legs, compound fractures, or broken bones to any part of his or her body. These injuries can take months or longer to heal.
• Internal organ damage – Severe injuries are possible when motorists speed, fail to notice cyclists on the road, or make illegal turns directly in front of bicycle riders. The cyclist can quickly lose control of their bicycle and crash on the cement or into another vehicle. In some cases, the speed of the cars can play a significant factor in causing more extreme bodily injury to the cyclist. Being thrown from a bike or colliding with a vehicle that is traveling at high speed exposes the cyclist to internal organ damage.
• Head trauma, or brain or spinal injuries – Cyclists may suffer severe head trauma, brain injuries, or injuries to the spine if they are involved in a violent collision. The sheer size and weight of cars and trucks can have a devastating impact on a cyclist, even if they are wearing protective gear.

Less Common but Significant Injuries

Cyclists may also experience less common injuries such as dental damage or psychological trauma following an accident. Dental injuries can require long-term corrective work, while psychological impacts can manifest as anxiety or depression, affecting one’s overall quality of life. These elements should not be overlooked as they can add significant value to your compensation claims.

Bicyclists who sustain these and other injuries due to another person’s irresponsible actions or reckless behavior shouldn’t have to deal with the consequences by themselves. 

Common Bicycle Accident Locations in Boston

In Boston, certain areas pose a higher risk for bicycle accidents due to factors such as heavy traffic, complex intersections, and inadequate cycling infrastructure. Locations like Massachusetts Avenue, Commonwealth Avenue, and the Charles River paths are known for both their popularity among cyclists and heightened accident incidence. Being aware of these areas can encourage cyclists to exercise additional caution and anticipate potential hazards.

Infrastructure improvements and cycling awareness programs are ongoing efforts in these areas to enhance safety for cyclists. However, until these projects reach full completion, cyclists should remain vigilant. Investing in robust protective gear and staying informed about accident hotspots can be instrumental in reducing personal risk. At Crowe & Harris, LLP, we aim to educate our clients about these risks to better prepare them for safe cycling experiences throughout Boston.

Understanding Massachusetts Bicycle Laws

Massachusetts has specific bicycle laws designed to protect cyclists and ensure their safe integration with other vehicles on the road. Both cyclists and drivers need to be aware of these regulations. For instance, Massachusetts law mandates that cyclists must follow the same traffic signals and rules as drivers. They are also required to use appropriate hand signals when turning or stopping to inform others of their intentions on the road.

Another key aspect is the requirement for proper bike equipment. Bicycles must be equipped with lights and reflectors if used one-half hour after sunset until one-half hour before sunrise. Helmets are legally required for riders aged 16 and under, but it is highly recommended for cyclists of all ages to wear one to reduce the risk of head injuries. Understanding and adhering to these laws not only helps in maintaining safety but can also impact legal outcomes in the event of an accident.

Why Do I Need a Bicycle Accident Attorney?

If you’ve been seriously hurt in a bike accident, you may not be able to return to work for quite some time. You may be concerned as your bills start piling up and you can’t pay them. You may wonder if you need an attorney or if you could just try to settle with the other party’s insurance company. The fact is, the insurance companies are concerned about their profits, not your injuries, and will seek to pay out as little as possible for your claim. So, who is looking out for you?

As an injured bicyclist, you may be entitled to compensation that can cover some of the costs that you have incurred through no fault of your own. This can include medical bills, physical therapy, lost wages, long-term care, and pain and suffering. The other insurance company is unlikely to offer to pay for your expenses, or if they do, they will not offer you the fair amount you are owed. You need a legal team that will stand by your side in the face of adversity. You don’t have to go through this alone. The team at Crowe & Harris, LLP is here to help!

Insurance Tactics and Legal Challenges

Many injured cyclists may not realize that insurance companies deploy experienced adjusters to minimize the payout. These adjusters might use recorded statements or incomplete information against you. Victims must have a knowledgeable team like Crowe & Harris, LLP on their side, ensuring that their claim reflects the true extent of their injuries and hardships.

Working With a Boston Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Once you decide to seek legal help, you may wonder what the process actually looks like and how much time and energy it will require from you. When you work with our firm, we start with a detailed consultation, review any police reports or medical records you already have, and explain how Massachusetts law may apply to your situation. Our goal is to take as much of the burden off you as possible so you can focus on treatment at facilities such as Massachusetts General Hospital or Boston Medical Center while we focus on building your claim.

After the initial review, we conduct our own investigation, which can include obtaining additional records, speaking with witnesses, and, when appropriate, consulting with medical and accident reconstruction professionals. We then communicate with the insurance companies on your behalf, keeping you updated about offers, court deadlines, and whether it makes sense to negotiate further or file a lawsuit in a local court such as Suffolk Superior Court. Throughout this process, our bicycle accident attorney team in Boston works to prepare you for each step so there are no surprises and you always understand your options.

For some clients, the case may resolve through a settlement, while others may proceed into litigation if the insurer refuses to pay a fair amount. In either scenario, we discuss the potential risks, costs, and timelines with you before any major decision is made so that you feel comfortable with the path forward. By having a clear picture of how the process unfolds, you can decide when to contact counsel, what documents to save, and how actively you want to be involved in day-to-day case decisions.

Why Choose Crowe & Harris, LLP to Handle Your Bicycle Accident Case?

If you need an attorney in Boston, how are you going to know who would look out for your best interests and work with you through the duration of the case? At Crowe & Harris, LLP, we are here for you and will fight for your rights until your case is resolved. Do you want to risk working with an inexperienced lawyer? Choosing the right attorney can determine the outcome of your case. Our Boston bicycle accident team has a strong track record of experience and results, with nearly 100 years of combined experience helping people just like you.

What sets our firm apart from the rest is that while many law firms assign cases to individuals, we assign cases to an entire team of professionals. The whole team at Crowe & Harris, LLP is personally involved in each case to make sure that every client gets the benefit of our 100 combined years of experience and service to injured victims in the Boston area. 

We work in teams – as attorneys, nurses, paralegals, law clerks, and legal secretaries – to regularly discuss the progress of our cases and to plan strategies that are designed to maximize recovery for each of our clients. We have a unique approach to our clients, as each case is highly individualized and tailored to the specific needs of each client. You are not just another client to us, and we will go the extra mile to help you obtain the compensation that you deserve to assist you in your full recovery. Your individual concerns matter to us!

Crowe & Harris, LLP recognizes that injured cyclists in Boston need legal representation that is different from what a typical business or corporate client seeks. Our Boston bicycle accident law firm is unique in that respect. We understand the needs of our clients, and we aim to meet those needs by not only providing experienced attorneys but also a full team that gives individual attention and emotional support to individuals and families who are facing serious injury or a death in the family. If you have been injured in a bicycle accident, don’t delay. 

Value of Comprehensive Legal Teams

Having a collaborative team ensures that each aspect of your case receives detailed scrutiny from experienced professionals. This multidisciplinary approach at Crowe & Harris, LLP ensures meticulous case preparation, combined legal knowledge, and a more nuanced strategy to fight for your rights effectively in a prompt and organized manner.

Bicycle Accident Statistics

With the ongoing interest in health, exercise, and fitness in the U.S., there are many more cyclists riding around in their cities to and from their jobs. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there has been a substantial increase in cyclists traveling to work over the past few decades. As you might expect, when a crash occurs between a motor vehicle and a bike, it is the cyclist who is most likely to be severely injured.

Furthermore, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that in a recent year, over 1,000 bicyclists were killed in the U.S., and there were hundreds of thousands of bicycle-related injuries. Data indicates that non-fatal crash-related injuries, as well as fatal injuries to bicyclists, can cause medical costs and additional expenses to total many billions of dollars each year.

The CDC also reported some of the most serious risks for bicyclists which are listed below:

• Adults aged 50 to 59 years have some of the highest bicycle death rates.
• Children (5-14 years) and adolescents (15-19 years) are at a high risk of non-fatal accidents, and a significant portion of emergency room visits related to bicycle accidents are from this demographic.
• Males die more often and are injured more often on bicycles than females.
• Urban areas have elevated rates of bicycle deaths.
• Among bicyclist deaths, alcohol involvement for either the motor vehicle driver or bicycle rider is common.

Emerging Trends in Bicycle Safety

Recent years have seen attempts to improve urban planning to better accommodate cyclists, with some cities investing in dedicated bike lanes and enhanced traffic control systems. Yet, the persistent rise in bike-related injuries underscores the need for ongoing education and infrastructure improvements to help further protect cyclists.

Bicycle Safety Tips

All cyclists can be proactive in helping to reduce the likelihood that they will be in an accident with another vehicle. Listed below are some useful tips that can help to improve the safety of all bicyclists:

• Follow the laws and the rules of the road
• Wear bright clothing
• Always wear a helmet
• Be aware of your surroundings
• Exercise caution at intersections

Additional Proactive Safety Measures

Cyclists are encouraged to equip bicycles with lights and reflectors, especially when riding at night or in low-visibility conditions. Regular maintenance checks of brakes, tires, and chains can also avert mechanical failures that might contribute to accidents.

These are just some of the many ways that cyclists can help to reduce the risks of an accident and injury. Unfortunately, even the safest cyclist can be hurt in a crash if drivers fail to exercise care and share the road with cyclists.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bicycle Accidents

What Should I Do Immediately After a Bicycle Accident in Boston?

Following a bicycle accident, it is crucial to remain as calm as possible and prioritize your safety and health. First, check for injuries and seek medical attention immediately—even if your injuries seem minor, as some symptoms can develop over time. If you're able, move to a safer location out of traffic to prevent further harm.

It is also important to document the incident. Collect names, contact information, and insurance details from any other drivers involved. If there are witnesses, gather their contact information as well. Photographs of the scene and damages can be immensely helpful later. Lastly, do not discuss fault at the scene. Contact Crowe & Harris, LLP for legal guidance on your next steps, ensuring your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve.

Can I Still Claim Compensation If I Was Partially at Fault?

In Massachusetts, the law allows you to pursue compensation even if you were partially at fault for a bicycle accident, under the modified comparative negligence rule. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are found to be 20% at fault and awarded $10,000 in compensation, you would receive $8,000.

This system encourages fair compensation but requires careful navigation. Discussions about fault can greatly influence the outcome of your claim. It’s essential to work with an experienced legal team like Crowe & Harris, LLP that understands the intricacies of Massachusetts law and will advocate diligently on your behalf to ensure you are not unfairly blamed or under-compensated due to your perceived fault.

How Can I Prove the Motorist Was at Fault?

Proving fault in a bicycle accident case in Boston typically involves gathering extensive evidence. Photographs from the accident scene, traffic camera footage, and eyewitness testimonies can play critical roles. A cyclist's account coupled with a police report detailing how the accident occurred are vital pieces in establishing liability.

Additionally, expert testimonies, such as accident reconstruction professionals, can provide insight into the dynamics of the collision, supporting your claim. At Crowe & Harris, LLP, we leverage our broad network and experience to gather compelling evidence, effectively challenging the motorist's version of events and underscoring their responsibility in the incident.

What Types of Damages Can I Recover After a Bicycle Accident?

Victims of bicycle accidents in Boston can seek a variety of damages, categorized primarily into economic and non-economic. Economic damages cover tangible losses such as medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, and bicycle repair or replacement. Non-economic damages refer to compensation for intangible impacts like pain and suffering, emotional distress, and diminished quality of life.

In certain cases, punitive damages might also be pursued if the at-fault party's actions were particularly reckless or malicious. The dedicated team at Crowe & Harris, LLP will comprehensively evaluate your situation to ascertain all possible damages that can be pursued, aiming to provide full restorative justice to the injured party.

Why Choose a Local Bicycle Accident Lawyer Near Me?

Choosing a local lawyer in Boston, such as those at Crowe & Harris, LLP, can be highly beneficial for your bicycle accident claim. Local lawyers have in-depth knowledge of Massachusetts traffic laws, local court procedures, and common accident trends in high-risk areas. This contextual understanding enables them to develop more effective legal strategies.

Moreover, local attorneys likely have established relationships with local judges and courts, which can facilitate smoother navigation through the legal process. Their proximity also allows for more personalized client communication and a deeper understanding of community-specific concerns, ultimately contributing to a more robust representation of your bicycle accident claim.