Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Brookline, MA
Hundreds of motorcycle accidents occur on Massachusetts roads every year, resulting in dozens of fatalities and many more injuries. While motorcycles make up a small percentage of motor vehicles on the roadways, they account for a significant portion of motor vehicle-related fatalities, accounting for 16% of such fatalities in 2018.
Given the unsheltered design of the motorcycle and their compact size compared to other cars and trucks on the roadways, accidents involving them can be deadly, often resulting in catastrophic injuries. These injuries often demand extensive and expensive medical care, exacerbating the financial burden of such accidents.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident due to another’s negligence, it’s important to talk to a skilled Brookline, MA, motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible. While your lawyer cannot undo the trauma and injuries, they can determine your legal options and help you fight for compensation.
The Role of a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
In the chaotic aftermath of a motorcycle accident, help from a skilled Brookline motorcycle accident is vital. If your accident was the result of another’s negligence, your lawyer will play a pivotal role in advocating for your rights and fighting to pursue the compensation you deserve.
The process of pursuing compensation from the at-fault party through a personal injury lawsuit is complex, involving numerous steps and specific laws. Your lawyer will guide you through the process, helping by:
- Informing you of your legal options after learning more about your case in an initial consultation
- Conducting a thorough investigation to establish fault and collect vital evidence, such as dashcam footage, police reports, and witness testimonies
- Offering legal advice and guidance to help you make informed decisions
- Negotiating settlement offers with the at-fault party’s insurers on your behalf
- Representing you in court, as necessary, if a fair settlement cannot be reached
While pursuing compensation through a lawsuit can seem daunting, especially with serious injuries, your lawyer is there to help streamline the process. Our experienced Brookline motorcycle accident lawyers will guide you through the entire process to fight for the compensation you deserve.
What Types of Damages Are Available in a Motorcycle Accident Case?
In Massachusetts motorcycle accident cases, several types of damages are available. The first category, compensatory damages, is designed to compensate the victim. The second, punitive damages, is designed to punish the at-fault party for their actions.
Compensatory damages are further divided into two categories: economic and non-economic. Economic damages cover the quantifiable financial losses associated with the accident, such as medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs. Non-economic damages extend to non-financial losses, such as loss of enjoyment of life and pain and suffering.
However, while motorcycle accident victims may pursue both types of compensatory damages, punitive damages aren’t always available. These damages are awarded by state courts to punish the defendant and are only awarded in cases where the defendant’s gross negligence or willful, wanton, or reckless actions caused the victim’s injuries.
Your lawyer can help you determine what types of compensation are available to you based on the circumstances of your accident.
How Much is a Motorcycle Accident Case Worth?
The value of a motorcycle accident case varies based on factors specific to your accident and injury, such as the severity of your injury and the likelihood of a full recovery. Generally, the value of a motorcycle accident case rises with the severity of the injury, with more severe injuries often translating to higher potential damage awards.
Since the amount hinges on the specifics of your case, including medical bills, lost wages, and similar quantifiable amounts, it’s important to keep track of related expenses. Your lawyer will review these expenses to determine both economic and non-economic damage amounts. Generally, lawyers calculate the non-economic damages by multiplying the economic damage amount by a factor between 1.5 and 5.
Unlike some states, Massachusetts doesn’t outline specific damage caps in personal injury cases, save for medical malpractice cases, so there is no limit on the compensation you may recover.
How Long Do You Have to File a Motorcycle Accident Lawsuit?
According to Massachusetts law, those injured in motorcycle accidents have three years to file a lawsuit against the at-fault party. This timeframe, called the statute of limitations, sets a deadline for personal injury lawsuits.
If you don’t file your claim within the three-year timeframe, you may forfeit your ability to pursue compensation from the at-fault party. So, given the time constraints, it’s important to act quickly and contact a skilled Brookline motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible.
Get Personalized Help With Your Motorcycle Accident Case
Motorcycle accidents can have serious, far-reaching consequences with emotional, physical, and financial impacts. If you or a loved one has been injured in a Massachusetts motorcycle accident, our team at the Fogelman Law Firm is here to help you offset the costs associated with your accident through a personal injury lawsuit.
Our skilled Brookline, MA, motorcycle accident lawyers have helped many Massachusetts residents fight to secure compensation and can help you do the same. We’re here to help. While you focus on recovery, we’ll handle the legal aspects of your case.
Contact us today at (617) 559-1530 or complete our online contact form to start with a consultation.