If you’ve been injured by a car or truck while riding your bike, you need an experienced Boston bicycle accident lawyer by your side. Bicycle accidents often result in severe injuries because cyclists lack the protection of a vehicle’s frame, airbags, or seatbelts. The impact of a collision can lead to serious, life-changing injuries such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, broken bones, and internal injuries. At Jim Glaser Law, we understand the devastating impact that such accidents can have on your life. Our dedicated team is here to help you navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation you may deserve. Contact us today for a free case review to discuss your case.
Injured While Riding Your Bike in Boston?
If you or someone you love was seriously hurt or killed in a Boston bike accident, contact Jim Glaser Law right now. Our experienced Boston bicycle accident lawyers provide free consultations that will help you determine if you have a legal claim. If you do, we can help you protect and assert your rights under the law.
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It's Easy To Get the Help You Need
The legal process of recovering damages after your accident may seem daunting, but Jim Glaser Law is here to help you every step of the way. Just call or click to get started!
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You Have Rights
You’re entitled to compensation for the injuries caused by your accident. We work hard to protect your rights and bring you every dollar you’re due.
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No Upfront Costs
Every Boston citizen deserves affordable, experienced legal representation. We work on contingency, meaning you never pay unless we win compensation for you. The initial consultation is free, so don’t wait! Contact Jimmy today to get help with your claim.
Determining Fault for Bike Accident Injuries
Determining fault is one of the most important aspects of recovering damages in bicycle accident cases.
Proving that the car or truck driver was negligent and caused your injuries is essential to hold the responsible party accountable. Here’s how to prove negligence in a bicycle accident case:
- Collect Evidence: Collect all relevant evidence from the accident scene, including photos, videos, and witness statements. This helps establish the circumstances of the accident and can support your claim.
- Obtain Police Reports: A police report can provide an unbiased account of the accident and may include details about the fault determined at the scene.
- Medical Records: Keep detailed records of your injuries and treatments. Medical documentation can help connect your injuries to the accident.
- Traffic Laws and Regulations: Identify any traffic laws that the driver may have violated. Evidence of a violation can be a strong indicator of negligence.
- Expert Testimony: Sometimes, expert witnesses such as accident reconstruction specialists can provide valuable insights and testimony to establish how the accident occurred and who was at fault.
- Surveillance Footage: If available, obtain surveillance footage from nearby cameras that might have captured the accident.
A skilled bicycle accident lawyer in Boston can help you build a strong case to prove negligence. Our experienced attorneys are here to help you navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation you may deserve.
Comparative Negligence Laws
Massachusetts uses comparative negligence, which means an injured person can recover damages as long as they hold less than 51% of the blame for the accident. If you are found to be partially at fault, your final settlement will be reduced by the percentage of your responsibility.
Steps To Take After a Bike Accident
After a bicycle accident, take the following steps to protect your rights and ensure your safety:
- Seek Medical Attention: Your health is the top priority. Get medical help immediately, even if your injuries seem minor.
- Call the Police: Report the accident to the police and obtain a copy of the police report.
- Gather Information: Collect contact information from the driver and any witnesses. Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any damages.
- Preserve Evidence: Keep all medical records, receipts, and any other relevant documents.
- Contact a Lawyer: Reach out to a bicycle accident attorney in Boston from Jim Glaser Law to discuss your case and get legal advice.
Boston Bicycle Fatalities
Between 2017 and 2021, bicyclist fatalities made up a small but significant portion of motor vehicle crash deaths in Massachusetts. During this period, the number of annual bicyclist fatalities averaged about 7 deaths each year. These statistics highlight the persistent dangers cyclists face on the roads and underscore the importance of seeking legal help if you or a loved one is involved in a bicycle accident.
Laws That Protect Bicycle Riders
Massachusetts has several laws designed to protect bicyclists and ensure their safety on the roads. Here are some of the most important laws every bicyclist and motorist should be aware of:
Helmet Requirement
MGL c. 85, § 11B: Bicyclists aged 16 or under must wear a helmet. This law aims to reduce head injuries in young riders and promote safe cycling practices from an early age.
Bike Paths
MGL c. 82, §§ 35A: Massachusetts regulates the creation and maintenance of bike paths, providing safe routes for bicyclists that are separate from motor vehicle traffic.
Passing Bicyclists
MGL c. 89, § 2: When passing a bicyclist, motor vehicles must maintain a safe distance of at least 4 feet and pass at a reasonable speed, ensuring the safety of vulnerable road users.
Safety Precautions for Motorists
MGL c. 90, § 14: Motorists must take precautions to ensure the safety of other road users, including bicyclists. This includes passing at a safe distance and reducing speed to avoid accidents.
These laws are in place to create a safer environment for bicyclists and to promote harmony between cyclists and motorists. Understanding and adhering to these regulations can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and injuries on the road. If you have been injured in a bike accident, contact Jim Glaser Law for a cost-free consultation. Our experienced Boston bicycle accident attorneys are here to help you navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation you may deserve.
Bicycle Accidents: Common Injuries & Causes
Common Injuries:
- Head injuries and traumatic brain injuries
- Broken bones and fractures
- Spinal cord injuries
- Internal injuries
- Cuts, bruises, and lacerations
Common Causes:
- Distracted driving
- Failure to yield
- Speeding
- Driving under the influence
- Poor road conditions
- Dooring (when a parked car door opens into the path of a cyclist)
Our Results Speak For Themselves
Don’t Wait To File a Claim!
Massachusetts allows injured individuals 3 years to file a claim for bike accident damages. If you wait too long to file, you could risk losing any chance of getting the compensation you need to recover and move forward. Don’t risk running out the statute of limitations–call today and secure competent, compassionate legal support for your claim.
What Compensation Are You Entitled To?
After a bicycle accident, you may be entitled to various types of compensation, including:
- Medical Expenses: Coverage for current and future medical bills related to the accident.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for the income you’ve lost while recovering from your injuries.
- Pain and Suffering: Damages for physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish.
- Property Damage: Reimbursement for repairs or replacement of your bicycle and any other damaged property.
- Loss of Consortium: Compensation for the impact the accident has had on your relationship with your spouse.
How Can an Attorney Help Your Claim?
Here’s how a Boston bicycle accident attorney from Jim Glaser Law can help:
- Dealing with Insurance Companies: As unpaid medical bills pile up, the insurance company of the driver may pressure you to sign a settlement agreement. Don’t sign it without talking to a Boston bicycle accident lawyer. Signing a settlement agreement could mean that you’re settling for less than your claim is worth. You could also sign away your right to compensation for future medical care and your right to sue. Jim Glaser Law will deal with the insurance company on your behalf to protect your legal rights.
- Gathering Evidence: Our experienced attorneys will help gather and preserve crucial evidence to build a strong case. This includes obtaining police reports, medical records, witness statements, and any available surveillance footage.
- Proving Negligence: Proving that the car or truck driver was negligent is essential to hold the responsible party accountable. We will work tirelessly to establish fault by showing how the driver’s actions led to the accident and your injuries.
- Maximizing Compensation: We will help ensure that you receive the full compensation you may deserve. This includes current and future medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. Our team will also consider the long-term impact of your injuries to make sure your future needs are covered.
- Legal Representation: Our dedicated team will represent you in negotiations with the insurance company and, if necessary, in court. We are committed to fighting for your rights and achieving the best possible outcome for your case.
Jim Glaser Law Is Here for You
If you’ve been hurt by a car or truck while riding your bike, don’t wait to seek legal help. Contact Jim Glaser Law today and pay no upfront fees for legal assistance. Our dedicated Boston bike accident attorneys are here to fight for your rights and help you get the justice you deserve.