Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Somerville, MA
Motorcycles are a mere fraction of the size of cars and trucks traversing Somerville roadways, even the smallest ones. They’re lighter, more compact, and offer less protection than other vehicles, so accidents involving them are often catastrophic, if not deadly.
In the chaotic aftermath of a motorcycle accident, seeking legal guidance might be the last thing on your mind, but it’s an essential step. While your lawyer can’t undo the accident, they can help you pursue compensation from the at-fault party to offset the financial burden your accident left behind.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident, our skilled Somerville, MA, motorcycle accident lawyers are here to help you fight for the compensation you deserve.
Understanding Motorcycle Accidents
Every year, thousands of motorcycle accidents occur throughout the United States, resulting in thousands of fatalities and countless injuries. In 2021, 5,932 motorcyclists lost their lives in motorcycle accidents, accounting for 14% of all traffic fatalities.
These accidents occur for a variety of reasons, including:
- Driving while intoxicated or under the influence
- Motorcycle lane splitting
- Failure to yield to the right of way, such as left-hand turns
- Vehicle defects
- Inability to see the motorcyclist, often due to blind spot issues
- Road hazards, such as loose gravel or pooled water
Given the lack of protection motorcycles offer riders, the resulting injuries are often catastrophic, if not deadly. Injuries may include:
- Road rash
- Burns
- Lacerations
- Broken bones
- Internal organ damage
- Crush injuries
- Amputations
- Traumatic brain injuries
Types of Compensation Available in Motorcycle Accident Cases
Victims injured in motorcycle accidents caused by another’s negligence can pursue two primary types of damages: economic and non-economic.
Economic damages cover the financial losses resulting from your accident, such as medical expenses, lost wages, and loss of future earning capacity. In contrast, non-economic damages cover non-monetary losses, such as pain and suffering and loss of enjoyment of life.
These two types of damages are called compensatory damages, awarded to compensate the victim for the losses they suffered as a result of the accident. A third type of damages, called punitive damages, are also occasionally available.
Massachusetts courts award punitive damages to punish the defendant for their actions, not to compensate the victim. To receive these damages, the victim must show proof that the defendant’s actions were grossly negligent, willful, wanton, or reckless. Given the proof required, punitive damage awards are rare in personal injury cases.
Your lawyer will evaluate your case to determine what types of damages are available in your situation.
How Much is a Motorcycle Accident Case Worth?
The value of a motorcycle accident case depends on the circumstances surrounding it, such as the severity of the injury and the likelihood of a full recovery. To calculate the value of your case, your lawyer will evaluate the financial losses associated with your case.
These losses will help determine the amount of economic damages to pursue, which, in turn, helps determine the non-economic damage amount. Generally, lawyers multiply the economic damage amount by a factor between 1.5 and 5 to determine a fair non-economic damage amount.
Statute of Limitations in Motorcycle Accident Lawsuits
When filing a lawsuit, it’s important to pay attention to the applicable statute of limitations, which sets a deadline for filing your claim. In Massachusetts, the statute of limitations on most personal injury lawsuits, including motorcycle accidents, is three years.
This means you have three years from the date of the accident to file your lawsuit against the at-fault party. Failure to submit your claim within the deadline may result in an inability to pursue compensation from the at-fault party, so it’s important to act quickly. A skilled Somerville motorcycle accident lawyer can help you stay on top of applicable deadlines and file your case within them.
How Can a Somerville, MA, Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Help?
Personal injury cases, including motorcycle accident lawsuits, are complex. Between the unique nature of each case, complex state and federal laws, and potentially life-altering injuries, these cases can quickly become overwhelming for the victim. This is where a skilled Somerville, MA, motorcycle accident lawyer comes in.
While you prioritize your health and focus on recovery, your lawyer will be hard at work behind the scenes, navigating the intricacies of the legal system on your behalf. They will:
- Determine your legal options after learning more about your case in the initial consultation
- Conduct an in-depth investigation to establish fault and collect evidence, such as witness testimonies, police reports, and dashcam footage
- Supply sound legal advice and guidance to help you make informed decisions
- Field and negotiate settlement offers on your behalf with the at-fault party’s insurance company
- Represent you in court to fight for fair and meaningful compensation if a settlement cannot be reached
The process can seem overwhelming, but with help from a knowledgeable lawyer, it doesn’t have to be. Our team will handle the complicated legal details for you, ensuring you can prioritize what matters: your health.
Get Personalized Assistance With Your Motorcycle Accident Case
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, our team at the Fogelman Law Firm is here to help. Our knowledgeable Somerville, MA, motorcycle accident lawyers are well-versed in the intricacies of motorcycle accidents and can help you fight for the compensation you deserve.
We’ll guide you through the entire process, ensuring you have the information you need to make informed legal decisions. Contact us at (617) 559-1530 or complete our online contact form to start with a consultation today.
