Cycling through Massachusetts can be a convenient and eco-friendly choice—but when accidents happen, the legal path forward isn’t always clear. If you were struck by a car while riding, hit due to a road hazard, or injured because of defective equipment, you may have grounds for a lawsuit. But not every incident qualifies as a viable legal claim. So how do you know if your situation rises to the level of a case?
This article breaks down how Massachusetts law treats bicycle accident claims, what factors influence liability, and what you need to know if you’re considering taking legal action.
Massachusetts Bicycle Accident Laws: What Sets the State Apart
Massachusetts is a modified comparative negligence state. This means a bicyclist can seek compensation for injuries as long as they are less than 51% at fault for the accident. If the rider is 51% or more responsible, they are barred from recovering damages. If they’re found to share fault under that threshold, their damages are reduced proportionally.
For example, if a cyclist is found 20% at fault for swerving unexpectedly into traffic and the total damages are $100,000, they would receive $80,000.
This standard makes accident investigations—photos, witness statements, crash reconstructions—critical. A solid case depends on proving the driver, municipality, or another party was more at fault than the cyclist.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents That May Lead to Legal Claims
Not every bicycle accident warrants a lawsuit, but certain causes are more likely to support a strong case:
- Driver negligence: This includes texting while driving, failing to yield, speeding, or opening a car door into a cyclist’s path (a common issue known as “dooring”).
- Poor road conditions: Potholes, broken pavement, or missing signage may shift liability to the city or town responsible for maintaining that road.
- Defective equipment: If your bicycle failed due to a manufacturing or design flaw—like faulty brakes—a product liability claim against the manufacturer could apply.
- Improper signage or road design: In some cases, hazardous intersections or unclear bike lanes may lead to claims against the government or contractors who designed or maintained the roadway.
Every case is fact-specific, and even seemingly minor details—like the time of day or visibility of your clothing—can impact liability.
What You Need to Prove to Bring a Successful Bicycle Injury Claim in Massachusetts
To move forward with a lawsuit, a cyclist must typically prove:
- Duty of care: The defendant owed a legal duty (such as a driver’s obligation to yield to a cyclist in a bike lane).
- Breach of duty: That duty was violated through careless or reckless behavior.
- Causation: The breach of duty caused the accident and resulting injuries.
- Damages: You suffered actual losses—medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, or property damage.
The success of your case hinges on documentation. Police reports, medical records, photos of the crash scene, video footage (if available), and eyewitness testimony all help support your claim.
Timeline and Deadlines: Don’t Wait to Take Action
Massachusetts generally enforces a three-year statute of limitations for personal injury lawsuits, including bicycle accidents. That means you must file your claim within three years of the date of the incident—or risk losing your right to pursue compensation.
If your case involves a government entity (such as a city failing to fix a known road hazard), the rules are stricter. You must file a formal claim within two years under the Massachusetts Tort Claims Act, and you typically need to provide written notice to the appropriate agency.
Starting the legal process early allows more time to gather evidence and build a strong claim.
Key Compensation Available in Bicycle Injury Cases
Victims of bicycle accidents may be entitled to various types of damages, including:
- Medical expenses (emergency care, surgeries, physical therapy)
- Lost income and diminished earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Property damage (such as a totaled bicycle)
- Loss of enjoyment of life (particularly relevant if injuries limit mobility)
The value of your case depends on the extent of your injuries and how they impact your daily life. Permanent disabilities or long-term rehabilitation typically increase the potential settlement amount.
What Role Does Insurance Play in Bicycle Accident Cases?
Massachusetts is a no-fault insurance state, but the no-fault system primarily applies to occupants of motor vehicles. Cyclists hit by a car may still receive Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits—up to $8,000 for medical expenses and lost wages—from the at-fault driver’s insurance, regardless of who caused the accident.
If your damages exceed PIP limits or involve serious injuries (like broken bones or permanent disfigurement), you may step outside the no-fault system and sue the driver directly. This opens the door to pain and suffering compensation, which PIP does not cover.
Uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage—through your own auto policy or that of a household member—can also provide protection if the at-fault driver lacks adequate insurance.
When to Speak With a Massachusetts Bicycle Accident Lawyer
Because Massachusetts law includes shared fault rules and strict deadlines, seeking legal advice early can help preserve your rights. A lawyer can:
- Evaluate whether you have a valid claim
- Investigate liability and gather evidence
- Handle communications with insurance companies
- Negotiate a fair settlement
- Represent you in court if necessary
Even if your injuries seem minor at first, hidden complications—like head trauma or ligament damage—can surface later. Talking to a lawyer soon after the crash gives you more control over your recovery and your claim.
Conclusion
If you've been injured in a bicycle accident in Massachusetts, you might have a valid case—but success depends on the details. Whether it was a negligent driver, poor road conditions, or defective equipment, you’ll need to show clear evidence of fault and damages. With the state’s modified comparative fault rules and tight filing deadlines, working with an experienced attorney can significantly improve your chances of recovery. Take action early and protect your right to compensation.
Injured? The Office of Brandon J. Broderick, Personal Injury Lawyers, Can Help
If the unfortunate happens and you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident, don’t go it alone. An experienced lawyer can advocate for your best interest and pursue fair compensation for your damages. At Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, you can count on us to work tirelessly for your quality of life. Our long track record of success has helped people like you move forward after sustaining an injury caused by another’s negligence.
Contact us now for a free legal review.