Representing Injured Riders in Andover
Riders in Andover and the Boston area have access to excellent motorcycle rides in a diversity of landscapes, from forest covered mountains to windswept beaches. Despite the proximity to scenic routes, heavy traffic in the general area creates a higher risk for motorcyclists. If you have been injured in a motorcycle crash that was someone else’s fault, contact an Andover personal injury lawyer as soon as you are able.
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What Rights Do Motorcyclists Have on the Road in Andover?
Motorcyclists in Massachusetts have the same rights and responsibilities on the road as any other motorists, and they must follow the rules of the road, including special rules for motorcycles. Every driver has a duty to use reasonable care to prevent harm to others. Reasonable care means the degree of care that a reasonably prudent person would exercise in the same circumstances. Failure to exercise reasonable care is negligence.
Although this duty applies to all road users, motorcyclists are at a disadvantage. Lacking the protections of an enclosed vehicle, they are vulnerable to serious injuries in a crash. Motorcycles are smaller, less visible, and less stable than four-wheeled passenger vehicles, and more likely to be struck by other drivers.
How Do Motorcycle Accidents Occur?
Although motorcycle accidents can occur for different reasons, many are caused by the negligence of other drivers. Common causes of motorcycle crashes in Andover include:
- Speeding: The faster a vehicle is traveling, the more difficult it is for the driver to stop to avoid hitting a motorcycle.
- Tailgating: Following too closely is dangerous driving behavior that can lead to rear-end collisions. When a passenger vehicle driver rear-ends a motorcycle, it can have deadly consequences.
- Negligent left hand turns: Many motorcycle accidents occur when a driver turns left directly into the path of an oncoming motorcyclist traveling straight through an intersection.
- Unsafe lane changes: Motorcycles are smaller and less visible in blind spots. A driver who fails to signal and perform a head check before switching lanes can hit a motorcyclist in the lane the driver is entering.
- Failure to yield the right of way: Two-wheeled motorcycles are far less stable than cars. A driver who cuts off a motorcyclist can cause a fatal crash.
- Distracted driving: Texting, talking on the phone, conversing with passengers, or dealing with children in the back seat can take a driver’s attention off the road and lead to a serious motorcycle accident.
- Impaired driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs puts everyone on the road at risk, particularly motorcycle riders, who do not have the same protections as passenger vehicle occupants.
We've offered crucial support and guidance to individuals who have suffered injuries, ensuring their financial and emotional well-being.
What Types of Injuries Do Motorcycle Accidents Cause?
Injuries in a motorcycle crash are often severe or fatal. Riders can be ejected from the bike in a collision and suffer catastrophic injuries. Common motorcycle accident injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Bone fractures
- Spinal cord damage
- Head and neck injuries
- Loss of limb
- Road rash
- Severe lacerations
- Wrongful death
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What Types of Compensation Are Available for Motorcycle Crashes?
Massachusetts is a no-fault state for motor vehicle accidents. Most accident victims must file a claim with their own insurance companies for compensation after a crash, regardless of who was at fault. No-fault personal injury protection (PIP) coverage is capped at $8,000. However, auto insurance companies are not required to provide PIP coverage to motorcyclists. To recover compensation, riders must file a claim against the other driver’s insurance company.
If you have been injured in a motorcycle crash caused by someone else’s negligence, call an Andover motorcycle accident lawyer at DiBella Law Injury and Accident Lawyers at (978) 258-7600 to schedule a free consultation. We can explain your options under the law.
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