Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents are all too common in the United States. 4,985 riders were killed in crashes in 2018 alone. Motorcyclists who survive an accident may suffer from brain injuries that alter their lives forever. The information below can help you learn what brain injuries can occur after such an accident, how to spot them and where to get legal help.

Types of Brain Injuries From Motorcycle Accidents

If you are unfamiliar with brain injuries, you may be unaware of the many different types that exist. The following injuries are some of the most common that can occur as the result of motorcycle accidents:

• Contusions— These are serious bruises that can indicate a brain bleed. They may require surgery to relieve pressure on the brain.
• Diffuse axonal injury— A diffuse axonal injury occurs when the brain’s movement lags behind the head’s movement. It causes nerve tissue to tear, releasing brain chemicals that cause further injury. Serious and permanent brain injury can occur as a result.
• Concussion— A concussion is the most common form of traumatic brain injury—including among motorcyclists—and one you have probably heard of. They can be mild, but many are severe or even permanent.
• Coup-contrecoup Injury—If the brain has contusions on both side, it is said to have a coup-contrecoup injury. This type of injury usually occurs when the brain slams into the other side of the skill after a contusion, which leads to the second injury.

This is not an exhaustive list of possible injuries. It is important for anyone who has been injured in a motorcycle accident to seek medical assistance as soon as possible.

Effects and Recovery From Injury After Motorcycle Accidents

As you can imagine, the effects of a brain injury on its victim can be severe and debilitating. Some examples include the following:

• Difficulty with speaking or language comprehension
• Emotional difficulties, including mental illness and personality changes
• Long-term or short-term memory loss
• Challenges related to thinking
• Blindness, numbness and other changes related to the senses

Recovery and life after an injury will vary depending on the type of brain injury and its severity. Even milder injuries may require the victim to alter routines for weeks or months, which will likely include staying off motorcycles. Various forms of therapy may also be required as part of a recovery plan.

Recognizing a Motorcycle Accident Brain Injury

It is important for motorcyclists as well as other motorists and pedestrians to recognize the signs of brain injury after a motorcycle accident in order to understand the severity of a victim’s situation. Some symptoms to look out for are as follows:

• Vertigo or coordination issues
• Headache
• Vomiting or nausea
• Speech issues, including slurred speech
• Weakness or numbness

Any individual who is already being treated for their brain injury should also look out for new or worsening symptoms. These may be signs of a severe or life-threatening injury.

Motorcycle Accidents NH and MA: Where to Get Legal Help

A brain injury can have devastating physical and mental effects. The financial impact can put a tremendous strain on victims and their families may also be severe. If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, call Mazow | McCullough, PC. We provide the dedicated legal assistance you need for your accident-related challenges.

Do you live in New Hampshire and own a motorcycle or plan to purchase one soon? If so, there are a number of state laws that will soon apply to you. You should take the time to understand these laws and your responsibilities as a motorcycle operator sharing the road.

You should also understand your rights in the event you’re involved in a motorcycle accident with a negligent driver. Here’s what you need to know.

Motorcycle Helmet Laws in New Hampshire

Unlike most other states in the U.S., New Hampshire does not have specific motorcycle helmet laws for adults. In fact, it’s only one of three states that doesn’t. However, riders under the age of 18 must wear protective headgear. Ideally, this would be a helmet approved by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT).

New Hampshire Motorcycle Licensing Laws

The state of New Hampshire requires all motorcycle operators to obtain a license. There are two ways to do this:

1. Take a motorcycle training course. New Hampshire uses Basic RiderCourse® to prepare riders for the road.
2. Pass a motorcycle skills test. Much like a new driver test, the rider will be assessed for their ability to safely operate their motorcycle by a DMV supervisor prior to being granted a license. This can be waived if the rider has completed the Basic RiderCourse®.

In addition to either taking a motorcycle training course or passing the DMV written test, you must also pass a vision test. Riders under the age of 18 must first obtain a 45-day learner’s permit before they can obtain a motorcycle license and must attend and pass the Basic RiderCourse®.

Insurance for Motorcycles

Like its motorcycle helmet law, New Hampshire departs from the norm in the U.S. when it comes to insurance requirements for motorcycle riders as well. In most cases, insurance isn’t a requirement at all, and riders can choose not to have any insurance, even liability-only.

However, motorcycle owners who choose to ride without insurance are taking a significant risk. If they are considered at fault for a motorcycle accident, the victim(s) of that accident can hold them liable for financial damages. Depending on the severity of the accident, this could be hundreds of thousands of dollars, or much more than the motorcyclist can afford.

Call Reliable New Hampshire Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Mazow | McCullough, PC Now

Don’t wait after being involved in a motorcycle accident in New Hampshire to secure the advocacy of an experienced personal injury lawyer. Mazow | McCullough, PC have a proven track record of success obtaining favorable settlements for motorcycle victims and their families. Call today for your consultation at (978) 744-8000 or toll free at (855) 693-9084.

If you own a motorcycle or plan to in the future and live in Massachusetts, it’s important that you understand mandatory laws that apply to you. These laws are designed to improve safety and reduce the risk of motorcycle accidents; however, they aren’t infallible.

Here’s what you need to know about motorcycle laws in Massachusetts and what to do if you were involved in a motorcycle accident caused by someone else’s carelessness.

Motorcycle Helmet Laws in Massachusetts

In the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, all motorcyclists must wear a helmet that meets the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards established by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). This includes passengers on the back of a motorcycle or those riding in a sidecar.

Motorcycle Licensing Laws

The Commonwealth requires that all motorcycle riders have a Class M motorcycle license to legally operate their vehicle on Massachusetts roadways. If the rider is under the age of 18, they must have a learner’s permit with a motorcycle endorsement. You cannot legally ride a motorcycle with only a regular driver’s license or learner’s permit.

A learner’s permit is required for everyone who wants to obtain a motorcycle license and can be obtained starting at the age of 16. Prior to applying for a motorcycle learner’s permit, the rider must first have obtained their Class D driver’s license.

A rider must possess their learner’s permit and it must remain in good standing for a minimum of six (6) months before it can be converted into a valid motorcycle license.

Motorcycle Insurance Laws

Motorcycle riders must have adequate insurance to cover potential damages in the event of an accident. While motor vehicle operators generally have more flexibility when selecting insurance, motorcycle owners must have the following coverage:

• $5,000 property damage
• $20,000 bodily injury
• $40,000 per accident

You can purchase additional motorcycle insurance coverage if you wish, however, the above limits are the minimums riders are required to have. When purchasing your insurance policy, remember that if you are found to be at fault for a motorcycle accident, you may be held personally liable for any damages that are above and beyond your insurance policy limits. It’s often in the best interest of a motorcycle owner to have more insurance than they think they need.

Contact Experienced Massachusetts Motorcycle Accident Attorneys Mazow | McCullough, P.C. Today

If you were the victim of a motorcycle accident caused by another driver’s negligence, you may be entitled to monetary compensation for the damages you suffered in the collision.

At Mazow | McCullough, PC, we can help you and your family recover the maximum available settlement award. Contact us today for your initial consultation at (978) 744-8000 or toll free at (855) 693-9084.

Motorcycle accidents are among the most devastating and deadly types of motor vehicle accidents. Despite the seriousness of motorcycle collisions, there are a number of erroneous beliefs that are held about motorcycle accidents and what to do as a crash victim.

Here are 5 surprising myths about motorcycle accidents and injuries, the truth behind them, and what to do if you or someone you love were hurt in a motorcycle crash.

1. Motorcycle Accidents Are Usually Caused by a Motorcyclist’s Recklessness

A commonly held belief is that the majority of motorcycle accidents are caused by the motorcyclist’s own recklessness. For example, if they were speeding, weaving in and out of traffic, or driving aggressively.

Why This is False

More motorcycle accidents are caused by other negligent drivers on the road. Motorcyclists are often sideswiped, knocked off their motorcycles, or bowled over simply because they weren’t seen. Motorcycle accidents can also be caused by road defects and inclement weather.

2. Motorcycle Injuries Are Always Physical

Motorcycle accidents tend to be highly injurious, resulting in critical and life-threatening injuries. These tend to stay in the spotlight and many people, including medical professionals, tend to focus only on the physical injuries caused by the accident.

Why This Is False

Serious accidents of all kinds are well known to have a negative psychological impact on the victim. Many people who have been in a motorcycle accident suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and other psychological trauma in addition to their physical injuries.

3. Car Accidents and Motorcycle Accidents Are the Same

Many people believe a collision is a collision and the impact tends to be the same across different types of accidents. They assume the risk of injury, types of injuries, and overall outcomes are highly similar between motorcycle and car accidents.

Why This Is False

Motorcycles lack the same protective metal “cage” that a car or truck does. A motorcyclist’s body is completely exposed in an accident, leading to much more serious and even fatal injuries.

4. You Have to Go to Court to File a Motorcycle Accident Lawsuit

A common misconception among motorcycle accident victims and their families is that if you pursue compensation for your injuries that you’ll have to go to court and deal with litigation, which can be stressful and time-consuming.

Why This Is False

Often, motorcycle accident lawsuits are settled out of court with the other party’s insurance company. You may also be able to pursue compensation from your own insurance company through your uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage if applicable.

5. You Don’t Need a Lawyer When Dealing with Motorcycle Insurance Companies

Many people believe that they can work directly with their insurance company after a motorcycle accident and receive a fair settlement without having to involve a lawyer.

Why This Is False

The primary goal of an insurance company is to pay out as little as possible on every claim, or they wouldn’t be in business. They’ll look for reasons your claim should be denied and offer you a lowball settlement without taking into account the full financial, physical, and emotional impact of the accident.

A motorcycle accident attorney can help you get the full and fair compensation you deserve by working with insurance companies on your behalf.

Injured in a Motorcycle Accident? Contact Mazow | McCullough, PC Today for Help

If you or a family member were involved in a motorcycle accident, you may be able to obtain financial compensation for the damages you incurred as a result of the collision, including but not limited to medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Contact experienced Massachusetts motorcycle accident attorneys Robert E. Mazow and Kevin J. McCullough today for more information or to schedule a consultation at.

The risk of injury or death from a motorcycle accident is startlingly high. In 2017, an estimated 27 times more deaths occurred on motorcycles per mile traveled than on cars. What can you do to prevent motorcycle accidents? The following defensive riding tips can help you avoid motorcycle accidents in Massachusetts and New Hampshire.

Choose the Right Riding Gear

Choosing the right gear is crucial where motorcycle safety is concerned. Some examples include the following:

• Proper gloves
• Goggles
• A helmet
• Boots
• Jeans or leather pants
• A denim or leather jacket

Always choose heavier clothing and gear when possible. They can help protect your skin, bones and other parts of your body should you hit the ground in an accident.

Be Confident on the Road

Being a confident rider means understanding and obeying all rules of motorcycle operation on public roads. You also want to quell any nervousness before riding to avoid making mistakes. On the other hand, you should avoid letting your confidence turn into aggression. This can lead to various dangerous situations while riding.

Make Yourself Visible to Motorists

Riding a loud, brightly painted chrome motorcycle makes it easier for motorists to notice you on the road. Just make sure that your motorcycle isn’t so loud as to startle others. This could cause a motorcycle accident on its own. The motorcycle accidents NH and MA residents are injured or killed in are often caused by human error.

Be a Cautious Rider

Turning or traveling over curves can cause a host of safety issues for motorcyclists. Take your turns slowly and choose the safest lane possible while riding your bike on the road. If you notice a large area of open space away from other vehicles on the road, attempt to travel within it. Never share a lane with other bikers.

Keep Your Bike in Good Shape

Riding a motorcycle that is damaged or low on gas can cause serious trouble on the road. You also want to ensure that your tries are properly pressurized and all fluids are at their proper levels before heading out. See a qualified mechanic if you do find yourself in need of motorcycle repairs.

Contact a Motorcycle Accidents Attorney

The statistics surrounding motorcycle accidents are troubling. Defensive riding allows you to take control of your safety so you can enjoy your motorcycle with greater confidence. To learn more about the law regarding injuries from motorcycle accidents, contact us at Mazow | McCullough, PC. We can help find justice for your suffering.

Motorcycle crashes are among the most serious, devastating types of collisions that can occur. Because motorcyclists aren’t protected from the force of an accident like someone inside the metal frame of a car or truck, they are often critically injured or killed in a crash.

Blind spots are something that every vehicle has, and each driver should be aware and cautious of. Here’s what you need to know about blind spots on motorcycles and what you can do to prevent blind spot motorcycle accidents either as a motorcyclist or as the driver of a car or truck.

Where Blind Spots Are Located on Motorcycles

Different types of motorcycles generally have different blind spots depending on their design and build. However, the most common blind spots for motorcyclists are directly behind the motorcycle and the left and right rear.

Cars share the left and rear blind spots, but do not have a blind spot straight behind them as motorcyclists do. In comparison, trucks have both as well as additional areas around them with reduced visibility due to their size and shape. While on the road, pay attention to both where your blind spots are on your motorcycle and the potential blind spots of other vehicles.

Tips to Prevent Accidents for Vehicle Drivers

Car and truck drivers can prevent motorcycle collisions by:

• Being prepared for the presence of motorcyclists on the road
• Keeping your vehicle’s rearview mirror positioned properly so as to see behind you at all times
• Keeping your vehicle’s side view mirrors positioned towards your blind spots
• Physically looking around your vehicle before changing lanes or merging instead of just checking your mirrors
• Using your lights and turn signals to let other drivers know what to expect
• Driving within the posted speed limit
• Driving cautiously in poor road conditions or inclement weather
• Never operating a vehicle after consuming alcohol

It is your responsibility as a driver to not only drive defensively to avoid accidents with other cars and trucks, but also to avoid collisions with motorcyclists, bicyclists, and pedestrians.

Tips to Prevent Accidents for Motorcyclists

Motorcyclists can help prevent crashes by:

• Driving at a safe and legal speed
• Avoiding riding in the blind spots of other vehicles
• Giving extra space between your motorcycle and the vehicle in front of you, allowing you more time to react
• Anticipating the actions of other drivers on the road
• Using your headlights at all times, even during the day
• Wearing brightly colored or reflective clothing to improve your visibility to other drivers
• Avoiding weaving in and out of traffic
• Passing other vehicles quickly so as not to remain in their blind spot for more time than necessary

As a motorcyclist, it’s important to maintain awareness of the larger, heavier, and faster vehicles around you that could pose a bigger threat to your life in the event of an accident. Practice good motorcycle safety and do your best to stay visible to others on the road.

When to Involve an Experienced Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

If you were hurt in a motorcycle collision or a loved one was killed, it’s in your best interests to reach out to a seasoned motorcycle accident attorney as soon as you can to protect your rights and your family’s rights to compensation. Call Mazow | McCullough, PC today for a consultation at (855) 693-9084.

A favorite pastime for both New Hampshire and Massachusetts residents is riding their motorcycle and enjoying the beautiful New England scenery on the go. As much fun as this can be, motorcycles are unfortunately more dangerous than other types of motor vehicles in terms of motorcycle collision injuries and death.

We’re looking at four of the top motorcycle safety factors – helmets, driver behavior, riding clothes, and road conditions.

Let’s talk about driver behavior.

Myths About Motorcycle Training

Learning how to ride a motorcycle is much more challenging than riding a bicycle, however, a surprising amount of motorcycle owners have never had any type of operation or safety guidance. How you learn to operate your motorcycle plays a significant role in your overall driver behavior, even years after the fact.

Some myths about motorcycle classes include:

Formal Training Doesn’t Exist for Motorcycles

Many people think that it’s not possible to be formally trained on how to ride a motorcycle. After all, driver’s education for traditional motor vehicles is arguably lacking. However, quite the opposite is true. You are likely to find motorcycle training courses through your local motorcycle dealership, and some classes may even be free and operated by volunteers.

Formal Training Isn’t Necessary to Ride a Motorcycle

By far the most common myth about motorcycle training is that it’s not necessary. Formal training is rarely provided to motorcyclists if they know how to drive a car, although the two do not operate in the same way at all. Specific training on how to safely operate a motorcycle and avoid the common causes of a motorcycle accident is incredibly important.

Motorcycle Riding Do’s and Don’ts

These do’s and don’ts when you’re on your bike can help you avoid a catastrophic and even deadly motorcycle accident:

Do’s

• Suit up. Make sure you’re wearing the proper protective gear before riding, including a helmet approved by the Department of Transportation (DOT).
• Obey traffic laws. Be aware of the traffic laws in the area you’re riding in and follow them.
• Drive cautiously. Many car and truck drivers don’t look for motorcycles when operating their vehicles. It’s never a bad idea to be extra cautious when on your bike.

Don’ts

• Drink and drive. Drinking and operating a motorcycle is equally or even more dangerous than driving a car while intoxicated.
• The faster you’re traveling at the time of your motorcycle accident, the more likely you are to sustain serious or even fatal injuries.
• Drive recklessly. Motorcycle riders will often try to weave in and out of traffic to get by because their vehicle is small, or they may pass someone going slowly on the right if the left lane is full. However, these actions are highly likely to cause an accident.

I Was in a Motorcycle Collision and Was Partly at Fault. Can I Still Get Compensation?

If you are considered partially at fault for your motorcycle accident, you may be subject to comparative negligence laws. This means that the amount of your settlement award may be reduced by a percentage related to how much you contributed to the collision.

Are You or a Loved One a Motorcycle Accident Victim? Mazow | McCullough, PC Are Here for You

Don’t wait to get legal help in Massachusetts or New Hampshire if you or a family member were involved in a motorcycle collision through no fault of your own.

At Mazow | McCullough, PC, we have a track record of success representing motorcycle accident victims and their families. Contact us now for your consultation at 855-693-9084 or locally in Salem, MA at (978) 744-8000.

Riding a motorcycle can be a great way to unwind and enjoy an entirely new driving experience. That said, motorcycles tend to be more dangerous than cars and trucks because they expose their riders to not only the elements, but the full force of a motorcycle accident should one occur.

We’re looking at four of the top motorcycle safety factors – helmets, riding clothes, road conditions, and driver behavior.

Let’s talk about road conditions.

Myths About Road Conditions

Road conditions play an important role in the safety of all motor vehicle drivers. Poor road conditions, either caused by rain and ice or construction, can easily cause a motorcycle rider to lose control over their bike.

Unfortunately, not as many motorcyclists take road conditions as seriously as they should. People often believe:

The Only Problem with Inclement Weather is Getting Wet

There’s more to riding a motorcycle in inclement weather than the inconvenience of getting wet. The truth is, how well a motorcyclist is able to operate their bike in bad weather has less to do with how skilled the motorcyclist is and more to do with how poorly a motorcycle is suited to rain, snow, ice, and sleet.

Their Motorcycle Can Handle Roads Under Construction

Even the most souped-up bike won’t function as well as a traditional vehicle when it comes to rough roads. Loose gravel, for example, can easily cause a motorcycle to lose traction and skid. If road construction forces you to stop suddenly, you could lose control over the vehicle and fishtail, be forced to lay your bike down, or even be thrown from it.

Common Ways Road Conditions Cause Motorcycle Accidents

Here are some of the most common ways road conditions cause motorcycle collisions:

• Hydroplaning occurs when a vehicle’s tires lose their grip on a wet road and ride on top of the water instead.
• Road construction. Road construction often causes unexpected rough terrain, which a motorcycle or its operator may not be prepared for.
• Debris on the road. If a utility truck, for example, spills debris like dirt or gravel on the road, this could cause a motorcycle rider to skid.

How to Avoid Accidents Caused by Poor Road Conditions

Here are some ways to avoid motorcycle collisions caused by road conditions:

• Watch the weather in your area. Plan for riding days when inclement weather is not in the forecast.
• Cancel rides and use another form of transportation when the weather is bad. Ride the bus, use a ridesharing service, or get a ride from a friend if the weather is bad and you don’t have access to another vehicle other than your motorcycle.
• Avoid areas you know are under construction. Make a point to ride around areas of your city or town that are under construction and may have uneven pavement or other road defects that could cause a wreck.

Who Is Responsible for a Motorcycle Accident Caused by Poor Road Conditions?

Some people make the mistake of believing that no one can be held liable for a motorcycle collision caused by road conditions. While this may be true in cases where inclement weather was the only factor, there may be a liable party in cases where an accident was caused or exacerbated by poor road conditions related to city or state maintenance.

Were You the Victim of a Motorcycle Accident? Mazow | McCullough, PC Are Ready to Assist You

If you or someone you love were injured in a motorcycle accident, experienced attorneys Mazow | McCullough, PC can help. Contact us now for your consultation at 855-693-9084 or locally in Salem, MA at (978) 744-8000.

Motorcycles can be a lot of fun to ride, but they’re also one of the riskiest vehicles to operate. A motorcycle lacks the same protective metal cage as a car or truck, meaning the motorcycle rider’s body is exposed to the force of a collision should one occur.

It’s critical for motorcycle riders to take safety into their own hands and be proactive about decreasing the risk of life-threatening injuries in the event of a motorcycle accident.

We’re looking at four of the top motorcycle safety factors – helmets, riding clothes, road conditions, and driver behavior.

Let’s talk about motorcycle riding clothes.

Myths About Riding Clothes

Many people have misconceptions about the value of protective clothing when riding a motorcycle. They may assume:

Protective Clothing Is Only Necessary in the Rain

While waterproof protective motorcycle gear can help you stay dry, its primary purpose is to offer a layer of protection between your body and an accident and should be worn every time you ride.

It Doesn’t Matter What You Wear When You Ride

Science Direct published a study in Accident Analysis & Prevention that compared the medical records of accident victims who were and were not wearing protective motorcycle safety gear.

The results showed that motorcyclists who were wearing protective clothing at the time of their accident were less likely to be admitted to the hospital, and that specially-designed body armor is more effective at reducing injury severity than traditional leather jackets and pants.

There Aren’t Any Good Options for Summer Motorcycle Safety Gear

Thick jackets, gloves, and pants can be hard to wear in the summer months. Many people mistakenly assume that the same type of riding gear exists for all seasons and choose not to wear protective clothing as much or at all when it’s hot outside.

However, many manufacturers of protective clothing for motorcyclists offer breathable, lightweight jackets and other clothing options with armor in just the right places.

Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries That Can Be Prevented with Riding Clothes

• Friction burns on exposed skin (also known as road rash)
• Hand and foot injuries
• Bleeding
• Limb injuries
• Other soft tissue injuries
• Wrongful death

How to Choose Quality Riding Clothes

Riding clothes can be stylish and fun to wear, but the most important aspect is how well they protect you in the event of a motorcycle crash. Look for these safety features when selecting quality riding clothes:

• Armored protection, particularly at the knees, elbows, and hips
• A proper fit; clothing should not be too loose but should allow you to move comfortably
• Reflective features that help other drivers on the road see you, especially at night
• Water resistance
• Good breathability

Remember that the first and most important part of your motorcycle safety gear is a Department of Transportation (DOT)-approved helmet.

I Was in a Motorcycle Collision and Wasn’t Wearing Protective Clothing. Will My Lawsuit Be Affected?

If you weren’t wearing protective clothing at the time of your motorcycle collision, the other side’s lawyers are likely to try to place blame on you for injuries that clothing may have helped prevent, like road rash and hand injuries.

However, if the other driver was determined to be responsible for causing the accident, you should still be able to pursue compensation for the full amount of the damages you incurred. Only if you are also partially responsible for the accident would your settlement award be reduced.

Hurt in a Motorcycle Accident? Mazow | McCullough, PC Can Help You & Your Family

Mazow | McCullough, PC are seasoned motorcycle accident lawyers who practice in both Massachusetts and New Hampshire. Contact us now for your consultation at 855-693-9084 or locally in Salem, MA at (978) 744-8000.