Motorcycle Accident FAQ

Motorcycle accidents are often catastrophic and fatal. It’s important to take them seriously and get help when needed. Here are answers to your most asked questions about motorcycle crashes.

What Are the Motorcycle Laws in Massachusetts?

If you live in Massachusetts and ride a motorcycle, it’s critical that you understand the laws regarding safe and legal operation of your bike.

For example, you must wear a Department of Transportation (DOT)-approved helmet and your motorcycle’s build must meet certain conditions. A motorcycle learner’s permit may be issued to applicants age 16 and over.

What Are the Motorcycle Laws in New Hampshire?

If you live in New Hampshire and ride a motorcycle, you should have good knowledge of the laws that apply to you.

The state of New Hampshire does not require helmets for riders over the age of 18 but does for younger motorcycle operators. There are also laws regarding eye protection, motorcycle build, and insurance coverage.

Are Motorcycle Accidents Worse Than Car Accidents?

Typically, motorcycle accidents have a higher risk of critical injuries or fatalities than car accidents. This is in large part because a motorcyclist lacks the protective metal cage of a car that can help absorb the force of an accident if one occurs.

How Can I Reduce the Risk of a Motorcycle Accident?

There are many things you can do to reduce your risk of either getting into a motorcycle accident or being severely injured if you are, such as:

• Maintaining a safe speed when operating your motorcycle
• Avoiding dangerous road conditions
• Wearing a motorcycle helmet
• Wearing protective clothing
• Never drinking and driving

Who Can Be Responsible for Motorcycle Accidents?

There are many causes of motorcycle crashes and who can be held legally responsible depends on how the collision occurred.

Liability may fall on:

• The other driver(s) involved in the accident
• The seller of the motorcycle
• The manufacturer of motorcycle parts
• A mechanic that worked on the motorcycle
• Cities or towns in cases of motorcycle accidents caused by poor road conditions

How Many People Are Killed by Motorcycle Accidents?

The Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) reports that motorcyclists are 28 times more likely to be killed in an accident than car drivers. Motorcycle accident fatalities make up 14% of almost all motor vehicle collision deaths. On average, roughly 5,000 people lose their lives to motorcycle crashes every year.

Should I Call My Insurance Company After a Motorcycle Accident?

Yes, you should contact your insurance company after a motorcycle crash, even if your injuries or the damage to your motorcycle or the other driver’s vehicle is minor.

Motorcycle accident insurance works a little differently than traditional automobile insurance in Massachusetts and New Hampshire, so it’s important to have a good understanding of what your insurance policy will and will not cover.

Will a Motorcycle Accident Lawsuit Pay for Funeral Expenses?

If a loved one was killed because of a motorcycle accident caused by someone else’s negligence, funeral expenses should be considered an included economic damage.

Be sure to obtain financial records from the funeral home regarding costs of preparation of the body, burial, or cremation and submit them to your attorney. Your lawyer will add these damages to any lost wages, medical expenses, vehicle damage, and other economic damages sought in your motorcycle accident case.

What If I Don’t Feel Hurt After a Motorcycle Accident?

Whether you feel hurt or not, it’s in your best interest to go to the emergency room and be evaluated by medical professionals immediately after the accident for two reasons:

1. Often, even serious injuries can’t be felt right away due to adrenaline and shock experienced after an accident. Even if you don’t feel like you’ve been hurt, you may have internal injuries that you aren’t yet aware of.
2. If you do not obtain medical treatment right away and decide to pursue an insurance claim or lawsuit later, the other side can use this against you as “proof” that you weren’t really injured.

On all fronts, it’s always best to get checked out after a motorcycle collision to protect your health and your legal rights.

Do I Have to File a Motorcycle Accident Lawsuit to Get Compensation?

You do not necessarily have to litigate your motorcycle accident case to obtain financial restitution. Ideally, you will be able to collect the full and fair compensation you deserve for the accident through settlement negotiations. Litigation is generally seen as a last resort when the other side refuses to offer a settlement that covers your damages in full.

How Can a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Assist Me?

Talking to insurance companies after an accident can be a harrowing experience. They’re not as much on your side as you might think; they’re businesses with the primary interest of protecting their bottom line.

Denying your claim or offering you a lowball settlement is usually in the company’s best interest and what you’ll likely be met with. A motorcycle accident attorney can help you navigate the insurance red tape, advocate for the highest possible settlement in your case, and represent you in litigation if going to court is the right move.

Were you or a loved one hurt in a motorcycle accident? Mazow | McCullough, PC can help. Call today for a consultation at (855) 693-9084.