It is an unfortunate fact that some automobile drivers in Massachusetts often forget that they are not the only objects on the road — they share the road space with bigger objects such as trucks and smaller, unprotected objects such as motorcycles and bicycles. When a negligent or distracted driver is not paying attention to the road and failing to adhere to basic traffic laws, there is a high likelihood that he or she will end up endangering the lives of others.
For example, a recent crash in Massachusetts left a bicycle rider seriously injured. A 57-year-old man was on his bicycle, turning at an intersection when a 60-year-old driver, was making a left hand turn at the same intersection. He made the turn at a red light and did not see the bicyclist, resulting in the cyclist flipping over the hood of his car. The bicyclist was taken to a hospital immediately to receive medical treatment.
Even though the bicyclist was wearing a helmet, he was seriously injured in the crash and broke his collarbone, because the car driver neglected to stop at a red light. The car driver is facing criminal charges such as driving to endanger and failure to stop at a red light.
In addition to criminal charges and independent of them, car accident victims can also file personal injury lawsuits against the negligent driver who causes their injuries. Compensation received through the lawsuit can go a long way in easing the sudden burden of medical expenses and potential lost wages.