Within about 30 miles and a few hours, two motorcyclists were killed in separate Massachusetts accidents. According to a news report in The Boston Globe, the first fatal motorcycle crash occurred on Interstate 495 in Milford the evening of June 2. Officials say the 51-year-old rider lost control of his 2010 Harley-Davidson for unknown reasons and crashed near Exit 19. He was pronounced dead at the scene. The second accident occurred on Interstate 195 in Seekonk later that night. In that fatal collision, a 24-year-old Attleboro man was killed when his 2012 Suzuki motorcycle struck the back of a 2003 Nissan Altima. Both crashes remain under investigation.
It is common for Massachusetts motorcycle accidents to result in serious and fatal injuries. Riders have nothing to protect them beyond what they are wearing. There is no barrier, seat belt, or airbags to keep riders safe. The only protection motorcyclists have is what they choose to wear. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that Massachusetts exceeds the national average for motorcycle helmet usage, 89 percent compared to 58 percent, but that still is not enough to prevent all fatal head injuries.
With so many local riders wearing a helmet, the rate of motorcycle deaths should be low as well. In 2011, however, motorcyclists made up 16 percent of all traffic fatalities in Massachusetts compared to 13 percent nationally. The fact that 16 percent of all traffic fatalities in the state involve motorcycles is startling considering the fact that motorcycles account for only 3 percent of all registered motor vehicles in the state.
If you have lost a loved one in a fatal motorcycle crash, make sure you research your legal rights and options. You may be able to file a wrongful death claim against the at-fault party to receive compensation for your tragic loss. A successful wrongful death claim can result in support for funeral expenses, lost future wages, loss of benefits, pain and suffering, and other related losses. An experienced Boston motorcycle accident lawyer will be able to help you better understand your legal rights and options.