Mass. Bike crash attorneys
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (bicycle accident statistics), there were 52,000 injuries and 618 deaths in 2010 due to bicycle accidents. Bicycle Accidents are also a major problem in Massachusetts especially in tourist towns such as Nantucket MA, Martha’s Vineyard and Gloucester. In these communities there are also many children using bikes without proper supervision. In these Tourist towns thousands of inexperienced bikers share narrow roads with cars, pickup trucks and in some cases motorcycles. These numbers are more than likely much higher since only a small percentage of bicycle accidents, which result in injury, are ever recorded by law enforcement. The National Safety Council states that the total cost of bicyclist injury and death is more than $4 billion every year.
Massachusetts Bicycle accident lawyer
It is unfortunate that bike accidents occur simply because vehicle drivers are not careful at looking out for cyclists. There are other causes of accidents, however, such as:
- rider errors including speed,
- inexperience, losing control,
- performing crazy stunts,
- mechanical failure of the bike,
- environmental hazards including loose gravel or objects in the road.
Common injuries are to the head, face, rib cage, and neck
The most common injuries that happen due to bicycle accidents occur on the upper or lower extremities. Other common injuries are to the head, face, rib cage, and neck. Most forms of trauma are abrasions; these include road rash, contusions, and laceration. Other frequent injuries that are seen with bike accidents are fractures, dislocations, and strains. Fortunately, for the cyclist, the law does provide them with the right to recover any damages they sustain as a result of an injury caused to another party.
Families of the injured cyclist
These damages include lost wages, medical expenses, and funeral expenses. The families of the injured cyclist are also entitled to recover pain and suffering expenses caused by the person’s injuries as well as treatment. During this time, you will want to seek out the services of a personal injury lawyer. They are skilled to handle legal issues that involve physical and psychological injuries that result from the wrongful actions of another party. They are experienced with all types of personal injury cases such as bicycle accidents, automobile accidents, work injuries, defective products, premise liability, and medical malpractice.
Attorney is paid a percentage of the overall settlement
Personal injury attorneys are not paid by the hour for their services. Instead, most work on a contingency basis, which means that if a settlement is accepted before the case goes to court; the attorney is paid a percentage of the overall settlement. If the case goes to court, the lawyer is only paid if the case is won. However, they are paid a percentage of the total judgment and this amount is agreed upon prior to signing a contract. After a bicycle accident, you should first seek medical treatment. You also want to keep all evidence including the bike involved, the helmet, as well as other damaged equipment. If you can, take photos of the crash scene and ask witnesses for contact information. Always insist on a police report no matter how minor the injuries are. Finally, consult a qualified personal injury lawyer to review what your legal rights are. Bike accidents will occur but you want to be sure you are protected in the event it happens to you.
Wrongful death
Many wrongful death bicycle accidents are caused by distracted driving when the driver is focusing on texting, eating food, GPS use or dialing a cell phone. Texting and driving and drunk driving is also a major cause of bike accidents in MA. It is well know that a bicycle accident is exponentially more likely to be fatal than a car crash, bus accident or even a truck accident.
Wide range of injuries
Bicycle accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, some of which can be serious or even fatal. The severity of injuries often depends on various factors, including the speed of the bicycle, the use of safety equipment, and the nature of the accident. Here are some common types of injuries and outcomes associated with bicycle accidents:
- Head Injuries: Head injuries, including traumatic brain injuries (TBI), are a significant concern in bicycle accidents. Wearing a helmet can reduce the risk of head injuries, but severe head trauma can still occur, leading to long-term cognitive or physical disabilities, or even death.
- Fractures and Broken Bones: Cyclists can suffer from fractures and broken bones, such as fractures of the arms, legs, wrists, or collarbones. These injuries can range from minor to severe, and treatment may involve surgery or casting.
- Road Rash: Road rash, or abrasions, occurs when a cyclist’s skin scrapes against the road surface during a fall. While road rash is generally not life-threatening, it can be painful and may lead to infection if not properly treated.
- Internal Injuries: Bicycle accidents can cause internal injuries, such as damage to organs, internal bleeding, or damage to blood vessels. These injuries may not always be immediately apparent and can be life-threatening if not diagnosed and treated promptly.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: A bicycle accident can lead to spinal cord injuries, which can result in paralysis or a loss of sensation and function below the injury site. These injuries can have a profound impact on a person’s quality of life.
- Soft Tissue Injuries: Soft tissue injuries, such as sprains, strains, and ligament tears, can occur in bicycle accidents. These injuries may be painful and can require physical therapy for recovery.
- Death: In the most severe cases, bicycle accidents can result in fatalities. Fatalities may occur due to head injuries, severe internal injuries, or being struck by a motor vehicle.
It’s important to note that wearing appropriate safety gear, including helmets, can significantly reduce the severity of injuries in bicycle accidents. Additionally, following traffic rules, being aware of your surroundings, and practicing safe riding habits can help prevent accidents in the first place.
Bicycle accidents can result in various types of injuries, including head injuries that can be severe or fatal. It’s important to promote safety and awareness to prevent such incidents. Common types of bicycle accidents that can lead to death or head injuries include:
- Vehicle Collisions: Accidents involving motor vehicles are a significant cause of bicycle-related fatalities. Collisions with cars, trucks, or motorcycles can result in severe injuries, especially if the bicyclist is struck by a vehicle.
- Dooring Accidents: This occurs when a cyclist collides with an opening car door. If a parked driver opens a car door without checking for cyclists, the cyclist may not have enough time to react, leading to a collision.
- Intersection Accidents: Many bicycle accidents occur at intersections, where traffic from different directions converges. Failure to yield, running red lights, or misjudging the speed of oncoming traffic can lead to accidents.
- Single-Bicycle Accidents: These accidents involve only the cyclist and can be caused by factors such as loss of control, hitting obstacles, or skidding. In some cases, these accidents can result in head injuries if the cyclist is thrown off the bike.
- Poor Road Conditions: Uneven or poorly maintained roads, potholes, or debris can contribute to accidents. Cyclists may lose control when navigating challenging road conditions.
- Helmet Non-Usage: Failing to wear a helmet increases the risk of head injuries in the event of an accident. Wearing a properly fitted helmet is crucial for protecting the head and preventing severe injuries.
- Distracted Riding: Cyclists can also contribute to accidents if they are distracted, such as by using a phone or listening to music while riding. Lack of attention can result in collisions with vehicles or other obstacles.
It’s essential for both cyclists and motorists to be aware of traffic rules, share the road responsibly, and take precautions to enhance safety. Wearing appropriate safety gear, obeying traffic signals, and staying vigilant can help reduce the risk of accidents and the severity of injuries.
