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No Fee Unless We Win
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Hundreds of Thousands Recovered
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Free PIP Benefit Coordination
Charlestown Bicycle Accident Lawyers
Compassionate Advocates for Injured Cyclists in Charlestown, MA
Bicycling is a popular and eco-friendly way to get around Charlestown, but accidents involving cyclists can happen in an instant. Unlike motorists, cyclists lack the physical protection of most vehicles, leaving them vulnerable to serious injuries in collisions. At Georges Cote Law, we understand the devastating impact a bicycle accident can have on your life. Medical bills, lost income, and physical pain are just the beginning of the challenges many victims face.
Our Charlestown bicycle accident lawyers are committed to helping injured cyclists seek justice and fair compensation. With years of experience in personal injury law, we work diligently to hold negligent parties accountable and advocate for your rights.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a bicycle accident, contact Georges Cote Law at (617) 229-6720 for a free consultation. We’re here to help you every step of the way.
Massachusetts Bicycle Laws and Your Rights
Massachusetts has enacted specific laws to protect cyclists and promote safer roads for everyone. Understanding these laws can play a critical role in determining liability in a bicycle accident case. According to Massachusetts General Law Chapter 85, Section 11B:
- Bicycles are considered vehicles and must follow traffic signals and signs.
- Cyclists have the legal right to use most public roads, except where prohibited.
- Motorists must provide at least three feet of clearance when passing a bicycle.
- Helmets are required for riders under the age of 16.
- Cyclists may ride two abreast but must transition to single file when impeding traffic flow.
When drivers fail to obey these laws and injure a cyclist, they can be held accountable through a personal injury claim. Our attorneys at Georges Cote Law are well-versed in these regulations and leverage them to build strong cases for our clients.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle accidents are often preventable but occur all too frequently due to negligence. Some of the most common causes include:
- Distracted Driving: Drivers texting, using GPS, or engaging in other distractions may fail to notice cyclists until it’s too late.
- Dooring Incidents: A driver or passenger opening a car door without checking for a cyclist can cause significant injuries.
- Failure to Yield: Motorists who don’t yield to cyclists at intersections or while making turns are a frequent cause of crashes.
- Speeding: Excessive speeds decrease reaction times and increase the severity of collisions.
- Hazardous Road Conditions: Debris, potholes, and poorly designed bike lanes are particularly dangerous for cyclists.
- Driving Under the Influence: Impaired drivers put everyone on the road at risk, especially vulnerable cyclists.
If you’ve been injured by a negligent motorist or hazardous road condition, you don’t have to face this challenge alone. Our team of Charlestown bicycle accident lawyers can investigate your claim and fight for justice on your behalf.
Determining Liability in Bicycle Accidents
Determining who is responsible for a bicycle accident requires a careful investigation of the circumstances surrounding the crash. Several parties could be held liable, depending on the situation:
- Negligent Drivers: Motorists are responsible for exercising care and following traffic laws. When they fail to do so, they can be held liable for resulting injuries.
- Government Entities: Cities or municipalities may be at fault if poorly maintained roads or inadequate signage contributed to the accident.
- Bicycle Manufacturers: Defective parts, such as faulty brakes or tires, can cause accidents. Manufacturers or sellers may be held accountable under product liability laws.
- Pedestrians: A pedestrian stepping into a cyclist’s path without warning could be considered liable for resulting injuries.
At Georges Cote Law, we thoroughly examine every detail of your case to identify all liable parties and hold them accountable.
Steps to Protect Your Rights After a Bicycle Accident
The aftermath of a bicycle accident can be overwhelming, but taking the right steps is crucial for protecting your legal rights:
- Seek Medical Treatment: Your health comes first. Get medical attention immediately, even if injuries don’t seem severe at first.
- Report the Accident: Contact the police and file an accident report. This document will serve as key evidence in your claim.
- Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident location, your injuries, and any visible damage to your bicycle or clothing.
- Gather Contact Information: Collect the names, phone numbers, and insurance details of all involved parties, including witnesses.
- Don’t Admit Fault: Avoid discussing the accident’s cause with the other driver or their insurance company without consulting an attorney.
- Contact Georges Cote Law: Our experienced attorneys can handle all aspects of your claim, guiding you through the legal process and advocating for the compensation you deserve.
Types of Compensation Available
Bicycle accident victims often face significant medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional trauma. At Georges Cote Law, we fight to secure all the compensation you’re entitled to, including:
- Medical bills (past, current, and future care)
- Lost wages and diminished earning potential
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Property damage for your bicycle and other belongings
- Rehabilitation and therapy costs
Our skilled attorneys are dedicated to maximizing the value of your claim, allowing you to focus on your recovery while we handle the legal details.
Why Choose Georges Cote Law?
The team at Georges Cote Law takes pride in providing compassionate, personalized representation to each client. Here’s why Charlestown residents trust us with their bicycle accident claims:
- Proven Experience: Our attorneys have extensive experience in personal injury law and a deep understanding of bicycle accident cases.
- Client-Focused Approach: We take the time to listen to your story, answer your questions, and create a legal strategy tailored to your needs.
- No Upfront Fees: You only pay if we win your case, giving you peace of mind as you pursue justice.
Contact Us for a Free Consultation
If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident in Charlestown, MA, the team at Georges Cote Law is ready to help. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case, learn your legal options, and take the first step toward justice.
Call (617) 229-6720 now or fill out our online form to get started with our Charlestown bicycle accident lawyers. Justice is just a phone call away.
Whether your or your loved on has been hurt in a catastrophic accident, falsely accused of a crime, or suffering from the pain of a loss due to the negligence of others, our team can help. Attorney Antonelli is a board certified professional with 30 years of experience helping people just like you.
It is our biggest priority that our clients find peace while we handle the hardships of your case. True to our Italian nature, our clients are like family to us. This means we take your case personally, and more importantly focus on how best to work with you. We will travel to you, are available through email, phone, virtual or of course in person consultations.
Our attorneys are experienced and prepared to comprehensively analyze your claim, considering all of the legal technicalities and nuances of Massachusetts law and how you can benefit from them.
