Boston Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Getting around Boston by motorcycle is a clever way to beat the traffic and save money on gas, but it comes with risks. Motorcycle riders are far more likely to be injured or killed in a motorcycle accident than a driver or passenger in a car accident, and Massachusetts personal injury laws present special challenges to injured motorcyclists trying to get fair compensation after an accident. Learn more about motorcycle accidents below, and contact our Boston motorcycle accident lawyers if you have been seriously injured in a motorcycle accident in Boston or New Bedford.
Motorcycle Accident Facts and Statistics
Motorcycle riders are at far greater risk for injury or death than passenger vehicle occupants. USDOT fatal traffic crash data shows 5,286 motorcycle deaths in 2016, up more than five percent over 2015. Even though motorcycles make up only three percent of all registered vehicles and little more than half of one percent of total miles traveled, motorcycle deaths accounted for 14% of all traffic fatalities. This fatality rate was six times higher for motorcyclists than passenger car occupants, and 28 times more per vehicle mile traveled by motorcycle than by car. Although helmets save untold lives, between 90 and 95% of the motorcycle fatalities reported occurred among helmeted riders.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcyclists can cause accidents by their own negligence, such as through speeding or reckless driving. However, they can also fall victim to the negligence of other drivers. Common causes of motorcycle accidents in Boston include:
- Drivers turning left into the path of an oncoming motorcycle
- Drivers failing to notice motorcycles due to distracted driving
- Drivers failing to signal or check their blind spots before turning or changing lanes
- Drivers driving aggressively and crowding motorcycles out of their lane
- Drivers misjudging the speed of an oncoming bike
Tips for Safe Motorcycle Riding
Experienced riders know how to handle their ride, including laying down their bike when necessary to hopefully avoid a catastrophic injury accident. The following tips can further help prevent motorcycle accidents by making the rider more visible to others on the road:
- Always ride with your headlamp on
- Signal intentions well in advance of a lane change or other maneuver
- Ride predictably
- Leave extra space between yourself and the cars around you
- Wear a DOT-approved helmet and protective leathers
Unfortunately, no matter how safely you ride, you can still be hurt by a negligent, reckless or distracted driver. To make matters worse, Massachusetts law does not provide PIP coverage for motorcyclists. The experienced Boston motorcycle accident lawyers at the Leontire and Associates, P.C. can help you file a negligence claim against the at fault driver to recover compensation for your medical bills and pain and suffering. We build a strong case that proves the other driver’s negligence and present your case in a compelling way that overcomes the common doubts and biases against motorcycle riders that many people carry.
Get Help with Motorcycle Accidents from Experienced & Successful Boston Personal Injury Lawyers
After a serious motorcycle accident in Boston or New Bedford, call the Leontire and Associates, P.C. at 855-223-9080 for assistance from a team of dedicated Boston motorcycle accident lawyers with a record of success in the most complex cases.
