At Bottaro Injury Lawyers, we are dedicated to getting motorcycle accident victims the compensation they deserve when they are injured by another driver, through no fault of their own. Our team recently succeeded in securing a $275,000 settlement for an injured motorcyclist in Seekonk, Massachusetts. In this case, our client was traveling at a high rate of speed when a driver heading in the opposite direction made a left turn, while towing a large open trailer. Our client struck the back end of the trailer, causing serious injury.
Seekonk, MA Motorcycle Accident Results in Serious Injuries
This accident occurred on September 24, 2024, on Fall River Avenue in Seekonk, Massachusetts. Our client was driving east on Fall River Ave when another vehicle heading in the opposite, westbound direction made a left turn into an industrial supply facility’s parking lot. This driver making the left turn was towing a large, open trailer at the time. Our client began braking approximately 50 yards away, once he saw this vehicle with the large trailer making the left turn, crossing his eastbound lane. He did not, however, have enough time to stop the motorcycle, and thus collided with the right rear section of the driver’s trailer. Our client was then thrown from his motorcycle, across the centerline of Fall River Avenue, into oncoming traffic and was struck by the front left portion of a third vehicle. Our client’s injuries were severe, and included:
- Bilateral Pneumothorax
- Cardiac Contusion
- Nasal Bone Fracture
- Sphenoid Sinus Fracture
- Epidural Hematoma
- First Metacarpal Bone Fracture
- Right Scapula Fracture
- Pterygoid Plate Fracture
- Pubic Ramus Fracture
- Subarachnoid Hemorrhage
- T-6 Vertebral Fracture
- Right Distal Clavicle Traumatic Fracture
Currently, our client is continuing his long journey to recover, which has included many surgeries due to the severity of his injuries. He continues to undergo outpatient physical therapy, as well as seeing a neurologist and multiple orthopedic specialists on an ongoing basis. The Bottaro Injury Lawyers team will be there the entire way to ensure our client is taken care of and compensated adequately for his injuries.
Driver Negligence Suspected in Seekonk MA Accident
Through our team’s investigation, we discovered that the at-fault driver had displayed negligence by choosing to suddenly make a left turn, into the industrial supply store’s parking lot, crossing the eastbound traffic lane. A driver looking to make a left turn, crossing one or more lanes of on-coming traffic, must yield to that traffic, and ensure there is proper time to make their left turn, to avoid a collision.
In this case, as in so many others like it that we have seen, the at-fault driver’s negligent behavior put our client’s life in serious danger and resulted in severe injuries, as well as physical and emotional trauma.
Due to the severity of our client’s injuries from this accident, our client incurred high medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering, through no fault of her own.
Legal Action and Investigation
Following this avoidable accident, our client and his family turned to Bottaro Injury Lawyers for help. We immediately took the following actions:
- Conducted a home visit to gather information and discuss the case.
- Obtained the police report detailing the crash.
- Collected photographic evidence of injuries and vehicle damage.
- Reviewed written evidence provided by a witness, which confirmed the at-fault driver’s negligence.
- Coordinated with medical providers to ensure our client received proper care and an effective treatment plan for her injuries.
The Pervasive Threat of Driver Negligence
Driver negligence encompasses a broad range of behaviors that can lead to devastating accidents on our roads. It’s not just about obvious distractions; it’s about any failure to exercise reasonable care while operating a vehicle. This can include everything from speeding and aggressive driving to failing to yield or driving under the influence. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), a significant majority of crashes are attributable to driver error, highlighting the widespread impact of negligence on road safety. The momentary lapse in judgment or disregard for traffic laws can have catastrophic consequences, as tragically illustrated by collisions that result in serious injuries or fatalities. Remaining vigilant and adhering to safe driving practices can drastically reduce the risk of such preventable accidents.
Our legal team emphasizes the critical need for drivers to operate their vehicles responsibly and with due care, as unexpected events can occur in a split second. While traffic laws are designed to ensure safe roadways, human failings—such as speeding, failing to check blind spots, or driving while fatigued—can have severe repercussions. To mitigate these risks, it is essential for all drivers to prioritize safety and avoid any actions that compromise their ability to react appropriately to changing road conditions. The consequences of even minor lapses in judgment can be devastating, leading to collisions and serious injuries. Cultivating a habit of cautious and responsible driving is paramount for the safety of everyone sharing the road.
Essential Tips to Avoid Negligent Driving
Here are six essential tips to maintain focus and drive responsibly:
- Secure your vehicle and belongings before starting your journey: Ensure all items are stowed away and your vehicle is properly adjusted (mirrors, seat) before you begin driving to prevent the need for adjustments or reaching while in motion.
- Plan your route and controls in advance: Familiarize yourself with your route and adjust entertainment or navigation settings before you start driving to avoid fumbling with controls on the road.
- Minimize phone use and digital distractions: Put your phone away or activate a “do not disturb” feature to prevent notifications from diverting your attention from driving.
- Refrain from eating, drinking, or personal grooming while driving: These activities can take your hands off the wheel and your eyes off the road. If you need to attend to these, pull over safely.
- Maintain focus and manage passenger interactions: Engage in conversations at a sensible volume and avoid intense discussions that could draw your focus away from traffic. If passengers become overly distracting, politely ask them to reduce their noise or activity.
- Prioritize rest and take regular breaks on long trips: Fatigue significantly impairs judgment and reaction time. On extended drives, schedule frequent stops to rest, stretch, and ensure you are alert before continuing your journey.
The Importance of Retaining an Experienced Motorcycle Accident Law Firm
Motorcycle accident cases, especially those involving driver negligence, require legal expertise to navigate the complexities of proving that negligence and negotiating with insurance companies to ensure just compensation is received. Without legal representation, from the right team, victims often receive far less in settlement offers that rarely fully cover their medical costs, lost wages, and emotional pain and suffering.
Bottaro Injury Lawyers has extensive experience handling motorcycle accident cases across Rhode Island and Massachusetts. Our trusted team knows the ins and outs and all the little techniques that insurance companies use to avoid compensating victims properly! We hold them accountable and fight aggressively to ensure our clients receive maximum compensation.
It’s Good to Know Mike Bottaro – 24/7 Top-Rated Personal Injury Help
At Bottaro Injury Lawyers, we care for people. Attorney Mike Bottaro and his award-winning legal team handle all types of personal injury cases throughout Rhode Island and Massachusetts. We can even help on cases in other states as well. We pride ourselves on our honesty, integrity, and results. Contact us 24/7 in any method you prefer for a fast, free, and confidential consultation about your case. Text or call us at 401-777-7777 or fill out our free and confidential online form. We are here to serve and help you!