Boston Car Accident Lawyer Blog

A 47-year-old East Boston man recently entered a not guilty plea to leaving the scene of an accident and motor-vehicle homicide at the Chelsea District Court after being accused of being involved in a hit-and-run car-pedestrian accident in Revere, according to the Chron. Prosecutors say that the man made an attempt to fix the damage on his SUV that was caused by the accident. He is being accused of striking and killing a 22-year-old pedestrian just before 6:00 a.m. The young woman was taken to the hospital where she was later pronounced dead.

Prosecutors believe that the man attempted to make repairs on his vehicle to cover up the damage and then attempted to wash it down with bleach to hide and further evidence. The man is currently being held on a $25,000 bail.

Our Boston personal injury attorneys understand that pedestrians are extremely vulnerable to car-pedestrian accidents near our busy roadways. To help reduce the risks of such serious accidents, the Institute for Human Centered Design, recently discussed plans of Shared Space, which is a street design concept to help protect pedestrians traveling along our roadways. Shared Space is already a popular part of European roads, according to the Boston Globe.

This theory aims to reduce the number of curbs in our area. Researchers of the program believe that curbs are the enemy on our roadways as they serve as a barrier that determines which part of the roadway belongs to the vehicles and which parts belong to the pedestrians. Shared Space also frowns upon the use of traffic lights, road markings and street signs. Under the Shared program, streets are stripped down and all physical and psychological barriers are eliminated. Without these traffic regulating devices, motorists and pedestrians are forced to share the area efficiently and safely. Supporters believe that the roads can actually be safer by making them more dangerous and requiring everyone to think a little bit more.

"So what have we done here?" asks director of urban and transit projects at the Institute for Human Centered Design, Christopher Hart. "We've extended that curb 10 feet out. We're forcing drivers to pay attention, and we're forcing them to slow down even just a little bit because their field of vision has changed."

For years now, the design of the street system in our area has kept their focus on efficient and speedy movement of vehicle traffic. Luckily, Boston and other large metro areas in the county are leaning towards the creation of safer streets for everyone. A number of organizations, transportation departments and advocates are campaigning the "human-centered design," oftentimes referred to as "complete streets" or "context-sensitive design."

"We live in an environment where everybody is in a rush," says Thomas Tinlin, the city's transportation commissioner. "Our job is to look at it as, if everybody plays by the rules, how best to move everybody through the system."

There's an area inside City Hall that is called the Traffic Management Center in which live video is surveyed of various busy intersections. A technician is hired to monitor these areas and make appropriate stop-light adjustments to ensure that the traffic flow's steady. Whereas the focus of this technician has always been to get our Boston motorists traveling quickly and efficiently, a number of pedestrian advocates recognize the increase in on-foot traffic and are pushing to shift the focus from vehicles to pedestrians.

Continue reading ""Shared Space" Aims to Unite Motorists and Pedestrians on Boston Roadways" »

Over the Memorial Day holiday weekend, Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer broke his right collarbone after being involved in a Cambridge bicycle accident. He was using the holiday weekend to enjoy some two-wheeled fun in the summer weather when he fell from his bike.

This isn't the first time Mr. Breyer has been involved in an accident while riding his bike in the area. Back in 1993, the former Harvard law professor was hit by a motor vehicle while he was riding his bicycle across Harvard Square in Cambridge, according to Reuters.

Bicycle accidents of all kinds can result in serious injury -- even death. Our Boston bicycle accident lawyers recognize the dangers of riding a bicycle is our area and ask that all bicyclists practice extra caution when traveling through the area on two wheels. With summer here, more and more bicyclists will be hitting the pavement to enjoy the beautiful weather. All riders are asked to ride with caution and abide by all bicycle laws.

Bicyclists in Massachusetts are asked to follow these state bicycling laws:

-Riders will use audible warning for other bicyclists and pedestrians. Sirens and whistles are prohibited, however.

-Be sure to park your bike on a sidewalk, but do not obstruct vehicular or pedestrian traffic.

-Lights will be used on your bicycle from one-half hour after sunset to one-half hour before sunrise.

-Reflectors should also be visible on your bicycle.

-Handlebars are not to be raised above the riders shoulder height.

-All bikes must be equipped with a working brake system.

-Cargo is to be carried in a proper basket, rack, trailer or any other device manufactured for this purpose.

-Riders are to travel with the flow of traffic and should not ride more than 2 abreast.

-If a bicyclist is involved in an accident resulting in bodily injury or property damage that result in costs of more than $100, a bicyclist must contact the police in writing on a Cambridge Police Bicycle accident report

-All riders 16-years-old and younger are required by law to wear a bicycle helmet while riding on a public way.

-Remember that pedestrians have the right of way on sidewalks. A bicyclist must yield to pedestrians in all traffic situations.

-All bicyclists are to obey all of the traffic laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. This includes laws associated with red lights, stop signs, and riding with traffic.

-A bicyclist should not be towed by any other vehicle. This includes all cars and any other moving vehicles.

-Bicyclists in all areas of the City of Cambridge a bicyclist, while riding on the sidewalk, will not ride at a speed "greater than a normal walk."

A complete list of bike paths in Cambridge can be found on the Bikely website.

Continue reading "Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer Breaks Collarbone in Cambridge Bicycle Accident" »

A recent article on Boston.com brings up some excellent points about proper bicycle maintenance. With summer here, many residents will be dusting off their bikes and hitting the town both on foot and on two wheels. Riders are not only urged to be cautious of motor-vehicle traffic during their adventures through the city, but to also to be cautious about the condition of your bicycle. A properly kept bicycle can mean the difference between safe travels and a Boston bicycling accident.

In the Boston.com article, the author noticed a bicycle on his walk home that had been locked to a fence with the seat removed for months. Many bicyclists remove their seat to avoid bike theft. As the seasons changed, the bike remained locked to that fence. It had grown rusty and had almost seemed abandoned.

Our Boston bicycle accident attorneys urge all of our two-wheeled travelers to take good care of your bikes, in every season. Be sure that your tires always have enough air, that it's equipped with proper lights and reflectors, that your chain is well oiled and that the brakes work properly. Many accidents can be caused by malfunctioning equipment. Venturing out on a bike that's not taken care of can result in an increased risk for accidents in our area.

Once the snow cleared and the sun shined through, the bike's owner appeared. The author spotted her one day bent over her bicycle with a can of WD-40 in her hand.

Tips to help you, and other fellow riders, to enjoy the bike riding season safely:

-If you've neglected your bicycle all winter long, be sure to check it out completely before breaking it out this spring or summer. Check to see if the tires look dry or cracked. Check your brakes. If you are not comfortable with these types of repairs, take your bicycle to a local repair shop for some help.

-Learn how to change a flat tire. Make sure each tire is fully inflated and free of debris. Inevitably you will eventually experience a flat tire. Learn how to change it yourself to be better prepared or to even help someone else out.

-Be considerate. If you see a bicyclist pulled over on the ride of the road, ask if they need any help. Bicyclers need to help and protect one another.

-Always wear your helmet. Statistics show that it can save your life. Your risk of serious of fatal injury greatly increases if you're not wearing a helmet during the time of an accident.

-Learn the rules of the road. Look both ways, obey traffic lights, ride with the flow of traffic and wear light or bright colored clothing.

-Never pass another bicyclist on the right. This is especially important if they're stopped at a red light. When you do pass someone, call out: "On your left" to let them know your whereabouts.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, more than 600 bicyclists died in 2009 because of accidents involving a motor vehicle. These fatalities accounted for 2 percent of all traffic deaths during the entire year.

Most of these bicycling deaths from 2009 happened in urban areas at non-intersection. Most of them also occurred during the daytime hours, between 4:00 a.m. an 8:00 p.m.

Continue reading "Recent Article Highlights Important of Bicycle Maintenance to Reduce Bicycle Accidents in Boston" »

Earlier this month we posted on our Car Accident Lawyer Blog that May is Bike Month, and local businesses are hosting events all over town to raise awareness about bicycle accidents in Boston and elsewhere throughout Massachusetts.

The Boston.com reports that the city will be hosting 20 cycling events and at least 80 more throughout the Greater Boston region in honor of Bike Week. Boston Bike Week will be launched with events like the Kickoff Party at Giant Cycling World and Mayor Menino's Bike Week Festival at City Hall Plaza.

Our Boston bicycle accident lawyers know that these events can be fun and entertaining, but we want to remind enthusiasts to be safe as they partake in the activities. Traffic will be heightened with both cars and bicycles, so be extra careful as you maneuver around town attending these events.

Municipalities, businesses and educational institutions throughout the state are excited about the MassCommuter Challenge being hosted May 14-20, 2011. The Challenge is a free and friendly competition open to anyone who lives, works or attends school in Massachusetts. Residents, students and employees pledge to bike everywhere they go throughout the week, or make as many trips as they can, to promote personal health and an eco-friendly environment.

Not everyone is excited about Bike Week with the anticipation of bike lanes being built along a stretch of Massachusetts Avenue. Boston.com reports merchants along Back Bay are miffed about the potential loss of business when the bike lanes take away 71 parking spaces on the east side of the street meant for patrons. The city plans to create bike lanes along the highly traveled stretch of Massachusetts Avenue between Charles River and the Symphony area.

The premise behind the lanes and the "number one concern of the transportation department" is safety, said Nicole Freedman, director of Boston Bikes, noting that Massachusetts Avenue had one of the highest crash rates in the city last year with 25 bike accidents requiring ambulances in the one-mile stretch. "Safety is definitely a paramount concern," Freedman said.

Merchants in the area understand that bike safety is a priority, but they also know that businesses will fail if patrons have nowhere to park. Many customers call the store to ask about parking before they even make the trip to the area. Bicyclists traveling on the proposed bike lanes will likely be using them as a means to get from point A to point B rather than a method of transportation to go shopping within the Back Bay area.

Bicycle accidents are proven to be a concern in Boston and throughout the state. Bike lanes may help improve safety, but bicyclists and motorists should learn to share roadways and use caution when using the same streets to travel.

Continue reading "Bike Week Festivities Could Increase Bike Accidents Involving Motorists in Boston" »

Hubway stations are a hot topic in Boston right now as many cities are looking to offer kiosks to cyclists as part of the regional bicycle sharing program. An increased number of bicyclists raises the odds of a bicycle accident in Boston, so riders should be careful when sharing roadways with vehicles. Boston personal injury lawyers agree that the convenience of the hubways will encourage users to opt for bicycles over public or private modes of transportation because bike-riding is healthier and more economical.

We first posted about the topic of Massachusetts Hubways on our Boston Car Accident Lawyer Blog earlier this month. The $6 million contract to be signed with Alta Bicycle Share is proposed to launch 61 bike stations and about 600 bikes throughout the city starting in July. The convenience of the bike sharing program allows commuters and visitors the opportunity to rent a bike for a quick trip or all day with the ease of returning it to any convenient kiosk location. The system will offer as many as 300 rental locations in the future, which means cyclists can get to and from their destinations with simplicity rather than withstand the aggravation of sitting in traffic or being late for an appointment.

Boston.com reports that Harvard is the latest to support bike share stations in Cambridge. Harvard will offer four Hubways in Cambridge and five stations in the Allston and Longwood communities. The bike sharing program will charge patrons a monthly membership or daily fee depending on what the bicyclist prefers. Quick trips under 30 minutes will be free of charge.

But the growing interest in the bike sharing program could concern bicyclists who have a higher risk of being struck by a motor vehicle. Bicyclists involved in motor vehicle crashes can sustain broken bones, severe head trauma or internal injuries that can change a victim's life forever. The medical costs associated with hospital stays and medical care for these types of injuries can lead to a lifetime of debt.

Continue reading "Bike Sharing Program Could Increase the Number of Boston Bicycle Accidents Each Year" »

May is Bike Month and for the second year in a row a North End business started the month off by hosting a kickoff event. Earlier this month, Urban AdvenTours, various other local businesses and bicycling groups gathered along the waterfront in Christopher Columbus Park as they enjoyed an afternoon of local music, free food and bike-related activities. The activities and the entire month is used to raise awareness about bicycle accidents in Boston and elsewhere in the United States.

"Last year we had tricycle races. I think we're going to do something similar this year," said Baylor Bennett, manager of the bike shop and bicycle tour provider. "There'll be vendors giving out food and beverages."

Our Boston bicycle accident lawyers understand that with springtime, many bicyclists will be hitting the paths and trails to enjoy prime pedaling season. As our residents and tourists do so, we urge everyone to be extra cautious this season as the increased traffic flow can also increase your risks of an accident.

In addition to helping to raise awareness, bicyclists are able to check out the latest technology and advancements in the biking world. Many are urged to grab their bike and even join a tour group.

According to Bennett, last year's event was less successful than it could have been because during the same time of the event the area suffered a catastrophic break of a 10-foot-diameter pipe in Weston. The breakage caused all of Greater Boston to be put under a boil order.

"A lot of food and drink vendors couldn't show up," Bennett said. "So last year, I think we had closer to six or seven vendors, versus this year we have the full 15."

As local reports show no major water pipes broken and the weather forecast calls for sunny skies and warm temperatures, Bennett is hopeful that this year's event will be larger and better than the year before.

"Of course it's right on the waterfront, which is gorgeous, and all the flowers are blooming right now, so the park couldn't be better looking," he said.

Bicyclists are always urged to ride with heightened alertness to their surroundings as they're oftentimes overlooked by motorists. More than 600 bicyclists were killed, and an additional 51,000 injured, in motor vehicle accidents in 2009. These deaths accounted for 2 percent of all motor vehicle accident fatalities and accounted for 2 percent of all injuries from traffic accidents in the same year, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Massachusetts suffered nearly 10 bicyclist fatalities in 2009 as a result of motor vehicles.

A complete list of Boston bike paths can be found on the Massachusetts Department of Transportation website.

Continue reading "May Hosts Bicycle Month to Help Reduce Risks of Bicycling Accidents in Boston and Elsewhere" »

Massachusetts residents and visitors will soon be able to take quick trips in Boston as they'll be able to rent bicycles from dozens of sidewalk kiosks as early as July of this year. Mayor Thomas M. Menino is scheduled to sign a $6 million contract with a company called Alta Bicycle Share. The company is also behind a program in the Washington area that currently boasts more than 1,000 cherry-red bicycles at nearly 115 stations.

Our Boston bicycle accident lawyers understand that this $6 million dollar contract will put roughly 600 bikes and more than 61 stations in our communities before July. This increased pedestrian traffic may increase the risks of accidents on our roadways and we ask that everyone practice safe traveling on our roadways.

The new system, which officials will be referring to as the Hubway, will be starting off the program with roughly 60 bicycles. They envision the program to grow and to accommodate as many as 5,000 bikes in the future, operating from Brookline to Sommerville, according to Boston.com. With an increased number of bikes on Massachusetts roadways, drivers are encouraged to increase their awareness of bicyclists and pedestrians to help keep our roadways safe and reduce risks of potentially fatal Boston bicycle accidents.

Boston officials said the system will open in July with 600 bicycles and 61 stations in the city, though they envision growing in a few years to as many as 5,000 bikes at more than 300 kiosks, from Brookline to Somerville.

"The vision here is that it's a seamless system,'' said Eric Bourassa, transportation manager for the Metropolitan Area Planning Council. "I could pick up a bike in Cambridge and I could bike across the river and drop it off in Boston, and I wouldn't tell the difference that I have a Cambridge bike vs. a Boston bike or anything like that,''

The program will not be funded by local tax dollars. Instead, the city is using grants and donations to cover the start-up costs. Corporate sponsorships and revenue from riders is planned to cover annual operating expenses after initial start-up.

Riders will need to first sign up for memberships, which will include a liability waiver and a pledge to wear a helmet, on kiosk touch screens similar to those of the MBTA. Memberships will range from about $5 a day to $85 a year. Trips less than 30 minutes will be of no charge and users will see incremental charges for longer rides.

Continue reading "Massachusetts Anticipates Hubway Hoping Easing Traffic and Reduce Risks of Bicycle Accidents" »

Health practitioners encourage cycling as a measure to get fit. But cyclists are rightly concerned about the risk of being involved in a Boston bicycle accident.

Our Boston personal injury lawyers are often called to represent victims who sustain serious injuries as the result of an accident with a careless or negligent driver.

Bloomberg Businessweek HealthDay News recently published the result of a study that found cycle-only paths separated from street traffic are safer than paths riding alongside passenger vehicles in the streets.

It was reported that injury rates are 28% less when cyclists are separated from having to ride next to motor vehicles. The design of intersections and green or red bicycle signals also directly impact cycling safety.

The U.S. Department of Transportation recently reported over 600 deaths in fatal bicycle accidents nationwide in 2009, which accounted for 2% of all traffic fatalities during the year. Another 51,000 cyclists sustained injuries on American roadways in 2009 when involved in a motor vehicle crash. Massachusetts reported a total of 6 fatal bicycle accidents for 2009.

The Unites States is a little behind the times when it comes to cycling safety. American bike lanes are typically designated on roadways by a painted stripe. The Netherlands has approximately 18,000 miles of separate bike tracks. The lack of bike tracks encourages Americans to drive, not walk. In comparison, 25% of Dutch commuters bike, compared to less than 1% of Americans who commute to work via a bicycle.

When examining cycle tracks vs. cyclists riding next to motorists on roadways, the study found much lower risks on bike tracks. In fact, when given the choice, the study found that cyclists were 2 and a half times more likely to ride on congested bike paths than to choose a route that put them on the streets riding next to passenger vehicles.

The statistics indicate men have a much higher risk for being involved in a bicycling accident. That is mostly due to the fact that women fear cycling next to motorists on roadways. The study indicated more women would be interested in cycling, but only if separate tracks were to be implemented.

Americans are constantly trying to find ways to manage weight and stay fit. A healthy heart means a longer life, but is that really the case? Cycling is an excellent way to maintain a healthy heart but doesn't necessarily mean a longer life when faced with the dangers of riding along next to motor vehicles.

Continue reading "Separate bike trails would lead to fewer Boston bicycle accidents" »

The 2009 data on pedalcyclist was recently released by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

For this data a pedalcyclist is a rider of pedal powered vehicles that have 2 non-motorized wheels or are a unicycle or tricycle. Our Boston personal injury lawyers remind you to ride safely to prevent a Massachusetts bicycle accident. While Boston was made significant improvements to its cycling infrastructure, riders still face the risk of serious or fatal injury in the event of a crash.

In 2009, there were 630 fatal bicycle accidents nationwide -- down 12 percent from the more than 700 killed from 2008 and the lowest number in nearly a decade. More than 51,000 were seriously injured in bicycle accidents.

Some statistics from the report on nationwide bicycle accidents:

-The average age of crash fatalities is 41.

-Crashes occur in urban areas 70% of the time.

-Males accounted for 87% of the deaths and 80% of the injuries.

-Alcohol was involved by either the rider or driver in 40% of the crashes.

-33% of fatal crashes happened at intersections.

-Day time fatal crashes increased by 6% and night time crashes decreased by 13% from 2008.

Massachusetts had 6 cyclists killed in 2009.

The City of Cambridge Police Department remind cyclists of the following:

-Bicyclists must obey all traffic laws, must ride single file, should stay to the right of the roadway unless directed otherwise, and should always use hand signals.

-Bicycles can not be ridden on a sidewalk in the following area: (cyclist need to walk their bike, ride on the street or take another route) .

-Harvard Sq.

-Central Sq. business districts, as well as some newly created banned areas:

-Inman Sq.

-Huron Village

-Mass. Ave., from Wendell St. and Shepard St. to Russell St. and Cogswel

-Somerville Ave (entirely)

-Bicyclists when riding on a sidewalk must ride at a speed equal to a normal walk, give an audible warning before passing a pedestrian and remember that pedestrians have the right of way.

-Bicyclist will not pass to the right of a bus at a bus stop or ever be towed by another vehicle.

-Bicyclist riding between dusk and dawn must have a red light or reflector on the rear of their bike, have a white headlight on the front and have side reflectors.

-It is recommended that everyone wear a helmet while riding but riders 16 and younger must wear one when riding on public roads.

Continue reading "Boston bicycle accidents an ongoing concern even as cycling crashes decline nationwide" »

Our Boston injury lawyers urge motorists to watch for pedestrians as clocks go back an hour and darkness comes to the afternoon commute.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that the end of daylight-savings time, low light, and the risk of driver distraction during the afternoon commute, significantly increases the risk of Massachusetts car accidents and Boston pedestrian accidents at dusk.

The government reports 4,378 pedestrians were killed and more than 69,000 were injured in 2008 -- or a pedestrian death every two hours and an injury every 8 minutes. Massachusetts pedestrian accidents claimed 75 lives that year.

About 40 percent of fatal pedestrian accidents occur in the hours around dusk and dawn -- with 1 in 4 reported between the hours of 4 and 8 p.m. While low light during the afternoon commute may also spark an increase in Boston car accidents, it is the serious and fatal injuries often caused by pedestrian accidents that has safety advocates most concerned.

Tips for Motorists:

-Slow down. Low light increases reaction time.
-Remember that pedestrians may not hear you approaching.
-Keep windshields and mirrors clear. Fill windshield wiper fluid and make sure wipers and defrosters are in good repair.

Tips for Pedestrians:

-Carry a flashlight or use reflective material and/or clothing to make yourself more visible.
-Don't count on traffic signals to keep you safe.
-Don't jaywalk and avoid crossing between parked cars.
-Use sidewalks.
-Walk facing traffic.

Continue reading "Early dark increases risk of Boston pedestrian accidents " »

As our Boston injury lawyers await the release of Massachusetts traffic statistics for 2009, a look at the national statistics shows a decline in serious and fatal accidents across the board.

The number of fatal Massachusetts traffic accidents declined to 334 last year, from the 364 reported in 2008, according to the new statistics released by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Nationwide, 33,808 traffic fatalities were reported last year, compared to the 37,423 people killed in 2008. It was the fewest killed on the nation's roads since 33,186 died in 1950.

Injury accidents and motorcycle fatalities also declined for the first time in a decade.

While safety officials were quick to credit enforcement efforts, including seat belt campaigns and anti-drunk driving efforts, other safety advocates also point to the downturn in the economy as a primary reason for the overall reduction in serious and fatal traffic crashes.

The Governors Highway Safety Association also points to the federal focus on distracted driving and the dangers of cell phone use and text messaging as a primary reason for the reduction.

It is very encouraging that fatalities have declined in all categories and vehicle types. It is also a sign of great progress that reductions were achieved in forty-one states," said Executive Director Barbara Harsha. "Secretary LaHood's focus on distracted driving has brought an unprecedented focus to behavioral highway safety, and as a result, lives are being saved."

Traffic Fatalities: 33,808; down 9.7 percent from 37,423
Passenger Vehicles: 23,382; down 8.2 percent from 25,462
Large Trucks: 503; down 26 percent from 682
Motorcycles: 4,462; down 16 percent from 5,312
Pedestrians: 4,092; down 7.3 percent from 4,414
Bicyclists: 150; down 12 percent from 188

Injuries were also down in every accident category:

Total Injuries: 2.217 million; down 5.5 percent from 2.346 million
Passenger Vehicles: 1.976 million; down 4.6 percent from 2.072 million
Large Trucks: 17,000; down 26 percent from 23,000
Motorcycles: 90,000; down 6.3 percent from 96,000
Pedestrians: 59,000; down 14 percent from 69,000
Bicyclists: 51,000; down 1.9 percent from 52,000

Continue reading "Massachusetts traffic accidents expected to post across-the-board declines in 2009" »

A Boston bicycle accident has claimed the life of a 24-year-old rider, after she was hit by a car in Brighton, the Boston Globe reported.

As we reported on our Boston Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, safety advocates continue to push for improved infrastructure as Boston seeks to become a world-class cycling destination. The Boston Globe reports more than 700 cycling accidents in Boston are reported each year. Nationwide, 716 fatal bicycle accidents were reported in 2008; another 52,000 riders were seriously injured, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Boston police said the collision was an accident and that the driver will not face charges. The crash occurred on Commonwealth Avenue on Monday afternoon, near the intersection with Kelton Street. A purple bicycle with a bent wheel could be seen in the middle of the street.

The victim was transported to Brigham and Women's Hospital, where she was pronounced dead.

Emergency personnel were quick to blame the woman for not wearing a helmet -- saying she suffered a serious head injury that might have been avoided. We would also point out the injury might have been avoided had a careless driver not plowed into her bicycle.

"The city's putting together a pretty decent set of bike lanes; we're trying to make sure the network spreads to the rest of the city," said Peter Stidman, 38, director of the Boston Cyclists Union. "It's not moving at the pace that would make us America's cycling city, which is something the mayor likes to say."

The intersection has proved to be among the city's most dangerous. Four cyclists and pedestrians were struck there between 2002 and 2007, compared to a citywide average of one accident per 10 intersections.

Continue reading "Fatal Boston bicycle accident claims life of woman at dangerous intersection" »

Our Massachusetts injury lawyers continue to write about the dangers of Boston pedestrian accidents and bicycle accidents. We applaud the Baltimore crackdown on speeders, aggressive drivers and other traffic scofflaws in accident prone areas. The city's Street Smart campaign will target lawbreakers through the remainder of summer in an effort to improve bicycle and pedestrian safety and should be replicated here.

This video shows the drastic difference of driving through a residential area at 35 mph as opposed to 25 mph. At 25 mph, the car is able to stop for the child in the crosswalk. At 35 mph, the child is struck and very likely killed. At 35 mph, it took 44 feet to stop. At 40 mph, it took 57 feet and the accident would have surely been fatal.

The campaign will target aggressive driving behavior, including tailgating, weaving from lane to lane, unsafe passing, running traffic signals and speeding. And it is the last of these -- speeding -- that remains the most socially acceptable and among the most dangerous.

The state reports that 70 percent of pedestrians killed last year were involved in accidents on roads where the speed limit is 35 mph or less. More than 500 children were among last year's accident victims.

Continue reading "Aggressive enforcement necessary to reduce number of Boston pedestrian accidents, bicycle accidents" »

Over the coming weeks, the Law Offices of Jeffrey S. Glassman will look at some of the most common causes of serious and fatal Massachusetts car accidents and traffic accidents nationwide.

In truth, few accidents are really accidents. Distracted driving, impaired driving, speeding and other poor driving habits usually contribute to serious or fatal car accidents in Massachusetts. As a veteran Massachusetts injury lawyer and Boston wrongful death attorney, Jeffrey S. Glassman is frequently called to represent families who are struggling to cope in the wake of a serious or fatal traffic accident.

We hope you will take some time to review safe driving habits with your family, particularly young drivers, and that you will check back often for updates.

-Massachusetts drunk driving accidents killed 153 of the 363 motorists who died on our roads in 2008, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

-Ten people were killed in Massachusetts bicycle accidents, although the Boston Globe recently reported more than 800 are injured each year.

-Forty-one people died in Massachusetts motorcycle accidents.

-Seventy-five people were killed in Massachusetts pedestrian accidents.

In the coming weeks we will review some of the common causes of accidents in Massachusetts, including:

-Distracted Driving
-Drunk Driving
-Aggressive Driving
-Speeding
-Intersection Crashes
-Rear-end Collisions
-Drowsy Driving
-Motorcycle Accidents
-Pedestrian Accidents
-Bicycle Accidents
-Trucking Accidents
-Red-light Violations
-Driving in inclement weather
-Teen Driving
-Elderly Drivers
-Driving in Parking Lots
-Commuting and Freeway Driving

Together, we can reduce the chances that you and your family will face the struggles that often accompany a serious traffic accident.

Continue reading "Safe driving series to examine common causes of Massachusetts traffic accidents" »

CNN reports that cities named by Bicycle Magazine as some of the most bike-friendly in the nation are also among the metropolitan areas experiencing the biggest challenges in the relationship between cyclists and motorists.

As we reported last month on our Boston Injury Attorney Blog, the high number of Boston bicycle accidents continues to trouble authorities. The Boston Globe reported there were 700 bicycle accidents in the city in 2008. Boston ranked 8th on Bicycle Magazine's top cycling cities in America.

Nationwide, more than 700 cyclists were killed and 52,000 injured, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

CNN points to differences in attitude even within the Boston area, where motorists in Brookline and Cambridge are typically more considerate of cyclists, while the South Boston attitude stops just short of war.

Cyclists see the Critical Mass rides -- which occur the last Friday of each month -- as riders coming together to promote cycling rights and awareness.

Some drivers, as CNN reports, see them as "nothing more than spandex wearing, stop-sign-running Lance Armstrong wannabes who slow traffic."

But it's important to note that attempting to teach a cyclist a lesson is a very bad idea. Most riders are responsible and are very aware of how dangerous cycling can be. Massachusetts cycling accidents frequently lead to very serious or fatal injuries for the cyclist and serious civil liability and even criminal charges for an at-fault motorist.

The popularity of cycling continues to increase. More than 18 million bikes are sold each year, according to the National Sporting Goods Association and about 1 in 4 adults ride at least once each summer. More than 6 percent of commuters ride to work -- up 600 percent from the 1 percent reported a decade ago.

Continue reading "Boston bicycle accidents an ongoing concern as city named on of America's best cycling locations" »