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Brockton Bicycle Accident Lawyer
Looking for a Brockton bicycle accident lawyer?
Cycling is perhaps the cleanest mode of transportation. In addition to being more economical than traditional vehicles, bicycles provide a great way to work out and stay healthy.
People use bikes not just as a form of recreation, but as a way to get to work and run daily errands without spending money on gas or public transport. Thanks to their efficiency, many people nowadays are opting to use bicycles. Unfortunately, this has led to an increased number of accidents.
Despite the many benefits bicycles have to offer, they provide the least protection while on the road. Cyclists have an extremely high risk of injury and even death when they collide with other vehicles.
Cyclists in Massachusetts are entitled to use the same roads and cars, but some motorists neglect the rights of bicycle riders, resulting in catastrophic accidents. As a cyclist, being involved in an accident can have life-changing effects.
Such accidents are rarely minor and the sustained injuries are most likely to lead to financial hardships.
So, if you or a loved one has sustained an injury from a bicycle accident, you have the right to bring the party responsible to justice by seeking compensation.
The Law Office of Robert C. Shea P.C. has a team of skilled and experienced Brockton personal injury lawyers who can help protect your rights. Call us today at 508.510.5107 for a free initial consultation.
What are Massachusetts Bicycle Laws?
As a cyclist, you should obey all normal traffic laws. These include:
- Signaling each stop and turn and obeying the same traffic signals as cars.
- Giving an auditory signal when passing a pedestrian. Avoid using sirens or whistles as they can startle them
- Using the lane farthest to the right to allow for faster traffic to pass.
- Ensuring you have a red taillight and white headlight when cycling at night.
- Wearing a safety standard compliant helmet if you are 16 years old or younger.
What Should You Do After a Bicycle Accident?
The steps you take after a bike accident will play a vital role in seeking compensation. Immediately after the incident, you should:
Contact Police
Regardless of the scope of the accident, you should contact the relevant authorities. It’s important to get an official report as you might need it when seeking compensation.
Exchange Information
If possible, talk to the other party and ask for their name, address, phone number, and insurance information. Remember to give them your information as well.
Record the Scene
In order to have a solid case, it’s advisable to take photos and videos of the scene. Capture the state of your bicycle and the other vehicle, your injuries, weather conditions, traffic signs, etc.
Never Admit Fault
Avoid admitting fault or apologize for the accident even if you feel guilty as this can easily jeopardize your claim.
Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel you’re not injured, it’s advisable to visit the nearest hospital for a full body examination. Some injuries tend to take time to manifest due to the adrenaline released during the accident.
Also, a medical examination will help prove your case later on.
Call a Brockton Bicycle Accident Lawyer
After sustaining an injury from a bicycle accident, it’s important to involve a legal expert. Given how severe these accidents can be, you may incur substantial medical expenses.
To ensure you get fair compensation, retain a competent and experienced Brockton bicycle accident lawyer!
How Is Fault Determined In Bike Accidents In Massachusetts?
Negligence of fault plays a vital role in injuries resulting from bicycle accidents. In order to hold the other party liable, you need to prove that their actions are responsible for the accident. Parties that can be held liable for a bicycle accident include motorists, manufacturers, truck owners, etc.
In Massachusetts, cyclists must follow the same rules as other motorists. This means that the party at fault is whoever violated the traffic rules.
Proof vital when filing a personal injury claim and so, you’ll want to ensure you get as many witness statements as possible. It’s also advisable to always have a Go-Pro on your helmet when on the road.
What Types Of Damages Can You Recover From A Bicycle Accident Claim?
Damages for cycling accidents generally fall into two categories: economic and non-economic damages. The former include damages related to lost wages, medical bills, and property damage.
These are relatively easy to calculate as the judge or jury will simply calculate the total for medical expenses, set a value for the damaged property as well as calculate how much you have lost in wages.
However, non-economic damages are harder to calculate as the decision-maker or judge is forced to determine what your life was worth before the accident.
The Brockton bicycle accident lawyers will have to factor in everything from your loss of enjoyment of life and loss of companionship to stress and fear of getting onto a bicycle post-accident.
How Much Time Do I Have to File a Claim?
The state of Massachusetts is extremely strict when it comes to filing personal injury claims including bike accident lawsuits. Failure to file a claim in a timely fashion will result in your case being lost forever.
The statute of limitations of bicycle accident lawsuits in Massachusetts is 3 years. This might seem like a long time, but given the complexity of personal injury law, some cases can take years to settle.
As such, you’ll want to file as soon as possible and involve an experienced Brockton bicycle accident lawyer.
Why Do I Need a Brockton Bicycle Accident Lawyer?
Preparing Your Case
An attorney will help you determine whether you have a valid case. If so, they will collect the necessary evidence to create a solid claim.
Negotiating Settlement
They will also negotiate with the other party for a fair settlement on your behalf. Their negotiation skills are especially vital in this stage.
Trial Preparation & Representation
If your case goes to court, they will use their expertise and knowledge to fight for your rights in front of the jury.
How Much Will a Brockton Bicycle Accident Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a lawyer tends to be a huge concern for bike accident victims when seeking justice. However, you should not fret as our firm operates on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay nothing unless our lawyers successfully secure your settlement.
Get In Touch With Brockton Bicycle Accident Lawyers Today
Bicycle accidents can be catastrophic given the nature of this form of transport. If your injury was due to the negligence of another party, do not hesitate to seek justice by getting in touch with Robert Shea and the Brockton bicycle accident lawyers.
Call us today at 508.510.5107 for a free initial consultation.