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