Worcester Bicycle Accident Attorney

As more people in Worcester turn to bicycles for commuting, exercise, and recreation, the risk of bicycle accidents and injuries has unfortunately increased. If you've been injured in a bicycle accident in Worcester due to someone else's negligence, you may be entitled to compensation through a personal injury lawsuit. At Jeffrey Glassman Injury Lawyers, we're committed to protecting the rights of injured cyclists and helping them get the justice and compensation they deserve. Our Worcester bicycle accident attorneys are here to help you now.

Worcester has seen a significant increase in cycling in recent years, thanks to initiatives like:

• The expansion of bike lanes and shared-use paths
• The introduction of bike-sharing programs
• Efforts to promote cycling as a sustainable and healthy transportation option

While these developments have brought many benefits to the city, they've also led to more interactions between cyclists and motor vehicles on Worcester's busy streets.

Bicycle accidents can occur for various reasons, but some of the most common causes we see in Worcester include:

• Distracted driving: Motorists using phones or engaging in other distracting activities.
• Failure to yield right of way: Drivers not giving cyclists the space they're legally entitled to.
• Dooring incidents: Parked car occupants opening doors into the path of oncoming cyclists.
• Intersections and turns: Drivers fail to notice cyclists making turns or at intersections.
• Poor road conditions: Potholes, debris, or inadequate bike lane maintenance
• Impaired driving: Motorists operating vehicles under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Cyclists are particularly vulnerable in accidents, often suffering severe injuries such as:

• Traumatic brain injuries
• Spinal cord injuries
• Broken bones and fractures
• Road rash and soft tissue injuries
• Internal organ damage
• Psychological trauma

These injuries can have long-lasting effects on a cyclist's health, ability to work, and quality of life. That's why it is crucial to seek both medical attention and legal representation promptly after an accident.

Massachusetts has several laws designed to protect cyclists, including:

• The "Safe Passing" law: Requires motorists to maintain a safe distance when passing cyclists
• The "Right Hook" law: Prohibits motorists from making abrupt right turns in front of cyclists
• Mandatory sideguards on large vehicles: Requires certain trucks to have sideguards to prevent cyclists from being pulled under the vehicle

Understanding these laws is crucial when pursuing a bicycle accident lawsuit, as violations can strengthen your case against a negligent driver.

If you're involved in a bicycle accident in Worcester, take these steps to protect your health and legal rights:

• Call 911 and seek medical attention immediately.
• Report the accident to the police and obtain a copy of the accident report.
• Gather contact and insurance information from the driver and any witnesses.
• Document the scene with photos and videos if possible.
• Preserve evidence, including your damaged bicycle and gear.
• Contact an experienced personal injury attorney in Worcester before speaking with insurance companies.

Navigating a bicycle accident lawsuit can be complex, especially when dealing with insurance companies that may try to minimize your claim. An experienced bicycle accident attorney can:

• Investigate the accident thoroughly
• Gather and preserve crucial evidence
• Handle all communications with insurance companies
• Accurately calculate the full extent of your damages
• Negotiate for a fair settlement or take your case to trial if necessary

At Jeffrey Glassman Injury Lawyers, we have a deep understanding of Worcester's streets, local ordinances, and the unique challenges cyclists face. We're committed to holding negligent drivers accountable and securing the compensation our clients need to recover and move forward.

In a successful bicycle accident lawsuit, you may be able to recover compensation for:

• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Property damage
• Loss of enjoyment of life

The specific amount of compensation will depend on factors such as the severity of your injuries, the impact on your life, and the strength of your case.

In Massachusetts, the statute of limitations for personal injury lawsuits, including bicycle accidents, is generally three years from the date of the accident. However, there may be exceptions or shorter deadlines in certain circumstances, such as when filing a claim against a government entity. It's crucial to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure you don't miss any important deadlines.

Massachusetts follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means that you can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault for the accident, as long as your fault doesn't exceed 50%. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you're found to be 20% at fault, your compensation would be reduced by 20%.

Insurance plays a significant role in many bicycle accident cases. Depending on the circumstances, you may be dealing with:

• The at-fault driver's auto insurance
• Your auto insurance (if you have uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage)
• Your health insurance
• Homeowner's or renter's insurance policies

Navigating these various insurance policies and ensuring you receive fair compensation can be challenging. An experienced attorney can help you understand your options and advocate on your behalf with insurance companies.

At Jeffrey Glassman Injury Lawyers, we're passionate about cycling and dedicated to protecting the rights of injured cyclists in Worcester. Our team offers:

• Extensive experience handling bicycle accident cases in Worcester and throughout Massachusetts
• A deep understanding of local traffic laws and cycling regulations
• A commitment to thorough investigation and aggressive representation
• A track record of successful settlements and verdicts for our clients
• Compassionate support throughout the legal process

We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a bicycle accident can take on you and your family. That's why we're committed to fighting for the full and fair compensation you deserve, allowing you to focus on your recovery.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident in Worcester, don't face the legal challenges alone. Contact Jeffrey Glassman Injury Lawyers today for a free consultation. We'll review your case, explain your rights, and help you understand your options for pursuing justice and compensation. Remember, we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don't pay us unless we win your case. Let us put our experience and dedication to work for you. Call us for a free consultation at (617) 777-7777.