Why Wear a Helmet?

Motorcyclists are provided with little to no protection by their bikes, unlike other motorists who are completely surrounded by their vehicles. Because of this, even a minor collision between a motorcycle and another vehicle can cause severe injuries for the motorcyclist. This is why it is imperative that they wear a DOT-approved, and ideally full-face, helmet. A proper motorcycle helmet can help a motorcyclist avoid serious brain injury in a crash as well as protect his or her head and face from debris that may be kicked up from other vehicles.

Motorcycle Helmet Laws

The safety benefits of wearing a helmet are well-known, which is why most states enforce motorcycle helmet laws, though some do so more strictly than others. In Massachusetts, all motorcycle riders, regardless of age or licensing, must wear a helmet at all times. If you are curious about other helmet laws across the U.S., the below infographic, courtesy of the Michigan law firm of Buckfire & Buckfire, P.C., can help. It not only represents the helmet laws of each state but also identifies those states with the strictest penalties for violating their helmet law. If you’re planning a cross-country road trip, this would be valuable information to learn.

Brought to you by the experienced Boston motorcycle accident lawyers and avid motorcycle enthusiasts at the Kiley Law Group.

What is the New England Warrior Benefit?

The New England Warrior Benefit is a fundraising event that seeks to raise money for various philanthropic foundations that provide financial support for military families. More than 40,000 active duty military children have a wounded parent in the U.S., and at least another 5,000 have lost a parent. The foundations that provide these families with the assistance they need include:

1. Wounded Warrior Project;
2. Navy SEAL Foundation;
3. Special Operations Warrior Foundation;
4. No Greater Sacrifice;
5. Semper Fi Fund; and
6. The Fallon Family Charitable Foundation.

Event Details

The event will include live entertainment, honorees and award recipients, and, of course, a motorcycle auction. Five one-of-a-kind Dirico bikes, each commissioned to represent each branch of the U.S. Special Forces, will be auctioned and the proceeds will go toward the five charitable military foundations. These one of a kind road warriors are designed by Founder Mark Dirico and inspired by Dirico co-owner and rock legend Steven Tyler of Aerosmith.

The Benefit, which coincides with the bicentennial commemoration of The War of 1812, will also include commemoration events such as the International Tall Ships, The Blue Angels, and The U.S. Navy Fleet.

Honoring Our Wounded and Fallen Warriors

For Tom Kiley and his legal team, it isn’t enough just to say thank you to the brave men and women and their families who have served our country. Injuries, especially fatal injuries, can cause indescribable devastation to a family, whether the injury was caused by a motorcycle accident or the result of military duty. It is the responsibility of those who can help and make a difference to do so.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a Massachusetts motorcycle accident, the dedicated Boston motorcycle accident lawyers with the Kiley Law Group can help you get back onto your feet. Call us today at (888) 208-1695 to learn more about your legal rights and options.

Understanding Your Rights

When you’re on a motorcycle, you have the exact same rights as do the other drivers on the road. This means that you have the right to use an entire lane and that you have the right to have the right of way yielded to you in the same circumstances that a vehicle driver would have it yielded to them. There should be no differences between how drivers treat you on the road and how they treat other people in automobiles.

Why Are Motorcycles Dangerous?

Motorcycles are more dangerous than other vehicles. They’re not more likely to get in wrecks than any other vehicles, but you’re more likely to be injured in one of those wrecks than you would be in a car. The reason is quite simply that you’re not well-protected. To protect yourself, make sure you wear a helmet with full-face protection. Body armor is a good idea if you can afford it. If not, you will at least want a leather jacket that’s designed for use on a motorcycle. The thin leather jackets that people wear for fashion will not do for riding.

When to Contact an Attorney

Not seeing you—which is what most drivers will use as an excuse for hitting you—is negligent, in most cases. When you’re on the road, people have an obligation to be watching out for you and any other drivers that may be using the roadway. If someone hits you and says that they didn’t see you, contact an attorney.

If a driver pushes you out of a lane, turns in front of you, doesn’t yield when they should or takes other actions that result in you coming to harm, you should also contact an attorney. The attorney will want to sit down with you and discuss your case before they agree to take it, of course.

A car accident lawyer Dallas drivers use to pursue cases that involve two cars will be able to handle motorcycle related claims. In fact, a good Dallas car accident attorney will treat you like any other driver, which is how you should be treated when you’re on your motorcycle.

The Crash

The motorcycle accident occurred one year ago on April 29 while the 26-year-old was riding his Harley-Davidson at the intersection of Riverlin and Main streets in Millbury. A 19-year-old driver decided to make a left-hand turn and did so right into him. The 19-year-old was allegedly eating a slice of pizza while she was making the left-hand turn. The resulting accident tossed the motorcyclist 25 feet, almost completely severed his leg, crushed his pelvis, and crushed bones in his left foot. He has had eight surgeries since.

The Problem

According to the motorcycle crash victim, drivers have become too complacent about driving and are, too often, being distracted by texting, talking on cell phones, eating, and doing other things that take attention away from driving.

It is true that distracted driving has become a serious issue nationwide, but this creates more problems for motorcyclists than other motorists. If a driver is distracted and hits a motorcyclist, that motorcyclist will likely be seriously injured or even killed. If a distracted driver hits another car, all it may cause is a small dent in the fender. The same impact on a motorcycle and another car has very different consequences.

When to Call a Massachusetts Motorcycle Lawyer

If you or a loved one has been injured in a Massachusetts motorcycle accident that was caused by an inattentive or distracted driver, you may be entitled to pursue financial compensation from the at-fault party. At the Kiley Law Group, our Boston motorcycle accident attorneys and avid motorcycle enthusiasts are dedicated to holding negligent drivers accountable for their actions. To speak to one of our lawyers about your particular situation, call us today at (888) 208-1695 for a free consultation.

The Fatal Crash

The driver and passenger of the motorcycle, both of Fall River, Massachusetts, were riding in Dartmouth when the motorcycle collided with a Mercedes at the corner of Sharp and Milton Streets. The passenger was trapped underneath the car when police arrived at the scene. Both motorcycle rider and passenger were airlifted to Rhode Island Hospital, where the driver died shortly after. The driver of the car and his wife sustained no injuries.

Potential Causes of this Motorcycle Accident

An investigation is still ongoing and police have not yet determined where fault lies in this Massachusetts motorcycle accident. In fact, according to police, it could take weeks to complete the accident report. Though there is no concrete evidence as to the cause of the crash, some potential causes could include the following:

• The motorcycle’s brakes or throttle malfunctioned, preventing the motorcycle from stopping;
• A road hazard caused the motorcycle’s driver to lose control of the bike; or
• The car’s driver applied his brakes suddenly/unsafely/inappropriately.

How a Massachusetts Motorcycle Attorney Can Help

Although the cause of this fatal motorcycle accident is yet unknown, most Massachusetts motorcycle accidents are the result of negligent and/or reckless drivers who do not necessarily know how to share the road with motorcycles.

If you have lost a loved one in a MA motorcycle crash caused by the negligence of another, the reputed Boston motorcycle accident wrongful death lawyers with the Kiley Law Group can help you determine the best course of legal action. To learn more, call us today for a free consultation at (888) 208-1695.

About the Ride

Each year, Boston’s Wounded Vet Run will support different veterans, with the proceeds going toward creating the housing modifications necessary for the disabled veteran’s comfortable living. The event, which includes a 30-mile bike ride followed by a ceremony and block party complete with a barbeque, raffle and DJ, is sponsored by the federally chartered non-profit veterans organization Italian-American War Veterans.

2012 Boston Wounded Veterans Bike Run

This year’s Boston Wounded Vet Bike Run supports Marine Corporal Evan Reichenthal of Princeton, MA and Marine Corporal Greg Caron of Elington, CT. Cpl. Rechenthal was struck by shrapnel and suffered extensive injuries which resulted in the amputation of his left leg, the fusing of his left arm at a 40-degree angle and severe nerve damage. Cpl. Caron lost both of his legs below the knee and much of the use of his right arm due to a booby trap; he also suffers from severe nerve damage.

The event details are as follows:

• Date: April 28, 2012 (Rain date: May 5, 2012)
• Time: 1:00 p.m. Kickstands Up (early registration recommended)
• Start: Boston Harley Davidson, 1760 Revere Beach Pkwy, Everett, MA 02149 (coffee and donuts served to participating riders)
• End: ITAM Post 6, 60 Paris St., East Boston, MA 02128
• Block Party: Ceremony starts at 2:00 p.m. as bikes finish
• Price: $25.00 for riding alone; $30.00 for riding with a passenger; $20 donation for just Block Party
• Sign-Up- At the event or online at: http://theyfoughtweride.com/donate.php

Brought to you by the Boston motorcycle lawyers and riding enthusiasts with the Kiley Law Group.

What Happened?

The Tewksbury couple was riding on Route 119 in Ashburnham when they hit a 600-800 pound moose that was crossing the road. Both the man, who was driving, and his wife were thrown from the motorcycle. The man was pronounced dead at Heywood Hospital in Gardner; his wife was transported to UMass Memorial in Worcester and has since been released. The moose also died.

Animal Crossing Safety

According to the Ashburnham police Sergeant, moose are common in that area and this Massachusetts motorcycle accident was the second moose crash on Route 119 in a week.

In areas where wildlife is common and the roads are bordered with a variety of different animal crossing signs, it is important for all motorists to be very careful, especially as the seasons change and certain wildlife becomes more active. Even as a motorcyclist, you have to be careful of animals crossing the road. A bike may allow for more maneuverability, but it also offers less protection than a car. Following these general tips can help you and your passenger stay safe in animal crossing areas:

• Be aware of animal crossing signs;
• Pay attention to the road, but don’t just look ahead; a deer or moose may decide to cross right in front of you;
• Slow down. The faster you go, the more difficult it is to maneuver around anything;
• Wear all required/recommended safety gear, especially a good-quality helmet;
• Try to avoid riding in the dark; and
• Maintain an appropriate following distance behind other bikes or cars.

When a Wildlife Crossing Accident Could Have Been Prevented

Animal crossings are, for the most part, unpredictable, as are the road accidents that can result; but, such accidents are often made worse by motorists who are driving recklessly or do not know how to drive in such a situation.

If you have lost a loved one in a Massachusetts motorcycle accident caused by the negligent or reckless actions of another driver, contact the experienced Boston motorcycle accident wrongful death lawyers and riding enthusiasts at the Kiley Law Group at (888) 208-1695 for a free legal evaluation of your rights and options.

DISCLAIMER: The Kiley Law Group is not representing any of the parties mentioned in this article at the time the article was posted. Our information source is cited within the article. If you were involved in this accident or a similar incident and have questions about your rights and legal options, call us or another reputable law firm. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. Get a legal evaluation. We provide a free, confidential consultation to all not-at-fault persons named in this article and to their family members as well.

1. Your jacket. Yes, you can use your jacket to stuff certain items, but this is not really useful if you have more than one or two small things.
2. Backpacks. There are many different styles and sizes of backpacks that can suit your needs, whether you need it to store paperwork and your lunch for the commute to work or an extra set of clothes and snacks for a weekend motorcycle trip.
3. Rear-seat bags. For trips that are longer than a weekend, you’ll likely need something more than a backpack. Luckily, for solo riders, the passenger seat can be used as a luggage rack. Many companies offer specifically designed rear-seat bags for this purpose.
4. Tank bags. A tank bag rides on the bike’s fuel tank, and though not large, it is more than big enough to carry daily essentials.
5. Soft saddlebags. These are usually the type of “luggage” a rider goes for when they need more than a typical day’s worth of essentials.
6. All-in-one bags. You can turn your cruiser into a touring bike and get the storage space you need with a back-rest bag. You may want to supplement your storage with saddlebags for long trips though.
7. Hard saddlebags. If you’re worried about the safety of your things, hard saddlebags can provide more protection, but are more expensive than soft saddlebags.

When You Should Call a Massachusetts Motorcycle Lawyer

Having all the supplies and equipment you need is imperative for a riding trip, whether it is just for a weekend or two weeks. Having the right luggage does not protect you from other negligent motorists, however.

If you have been injured in a Massachusetts motorcycle accident caused by the recklessness or negligence of another driver, the dedicated Boston motorcycle accident attorneys and riding enthusiasts at the Kiley Law Group can help you obtain the compensation you need to recover from your injuries.

To enjoy the freedom that motorcycling provides, a Massachusetts motorcyclist should be sure to abide by the applicable laws. The following are some of the major motorcycle laws of Massachusetts, as provided by the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA):

• Helmets are required for all riders, operators, and passengers alike, including sidecar passengers.
• MA funds rider education programs for all eligible applicants.
• Eye protection is required for instructional permit holders, unless the motorcycle is equipped with a windshield or screen.
• A passenger seat and footrest is required for carrying a passenger.
• Helmet speakers are prohibited.
• Periodic safety inspections are required.
• There must be at least one side-view mirror, left or right.
• Turn signals are required.
• Mufflers are required.
• There are maximum sound level limits, as determined by the speed at which the bike is travelling. These include 82dBA at 45 mph or less; 86dBA at over 45 mph and overall limitations of 99dBA (manufactured after 1986) and 102 dBA (before 1986) at ½ the redline speed of the bike.
• Insurance is required. The minimum limits are 20/40/5.
• Handlebars must be set below the operator’s shoulders.
• Motorcycles may be ridden two abreast in a single lane.
• Lane splitting is prohibited.
• Motorcycles are covered under MA Lemon Law.

Most of these regulations do not apply to off-road motorcycles, although a helmet is required, as is registering the vehicle. In addition, no child under the age of 10 may operate an off-road motorcycle.

When to Call a Massachusetts Motorcycle Lawyer

Following these laws, as well as the general rules of the road, can help ensure that you stay safe; however, you can’t always guarantee that others will follow the same rules. Most motorcycle accidents in Massachusetts are caused by drivers who do not know how to share the road with motorcycles or are otherwise reckless or negligent. If you have been injured in a MA motorcycle accident, contact the experienced Boston motorcycle accident attorneys and avid riders at the Kiley Law Group to learn more about getting the compensation you deserve.

Call us today for a free legal evaluation at (888) 208-1695.

The show offers a variety of vendors, a custom bike show, sponsored by Cycle Source magazine and judged by its owners and Editor, music, and much more. The custom bike show winners will receive coverage in the national magazine. There are a few new attractions to the show this year. For the show in Wilmington, the “Fastest Woman on Wheels,” Jody Perewitz, who set a land speed record in Bonneville, will be appearing with her amazing bike and signing free posters.

Here is the necessary information you need to make it to the last 2012 show:

• When: March 10-11, 2012
• Hours: 10 am – 5 pm, Saturday & Sunday
• Where: Shriner’s Auditorium, 99 Fordham Road (Rt. 93 Exit 39), Wilmington, MA 01887
• Tickets: Adults – $13, Kids – $6

For more information, you can also contact the Northeast Motorcycle Expo at (978) 688-8888 and/or visit their website: http://www.kevmarv.com/

Brought to you by the Boston motorcycle lawyers and avid motorcycle riders and enthusiasts at the Kiley Law Group.