Broadside Collisions

At the Law Offices of John C. Manoog III, our motorcycle accident attorneys represent injured riders throughout the Cape Cod area. With more than 146 years of combined legal experience, our lawyers understand the pain and stress that traumatic events can inflict on a victim and his or her family. Our entire team will fight aggressively to ensure that those responsible are held liable for their actions. We have a track record of success in motorcycle and auto accident cases, including a number of six-figure or seven-figure settlements for the individuals whom we have represented.

A broadside crash is a particularly serious type of accident that occurs when one side of a motorcycle or car collides with the front end of another vehicle. It is often also called a “T-bone” crash because the vehicles usually form a “T” at the moment of impact. These accidents are particularly hazardous for motorcycle riders, whose bodies are exposed while on the road and who lack protections like the air bags and crumple zones typically included in cars. Injuries can include broken bones, spinal damage, head trauma, and even death.

Collisions regularly happen at intersections and in other situations when one driver fails to properly yield. Like other accidents on the road, they can also involve a variety of other hazardous behavior, such as speeding, failing to use turn signals, or texting while driving. Such conduct is usually deemed a breach of the duty of care that requires all drivers to avoid foreseeable risks to others on the road.

Drivers and passengers injured as a result of another person’s carelessness have the right to file a negligence claim. After showing the defendant’s duty and breach, they would seek to show that the breach led to the accident in which they were hurt and that they incurred quantifiable damages as a result. These can include compensation for property damage, medical bills, missed wages, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.

Massachusetts is a comparative negligence state. This means that a motorcyclist found to be partially to blame for an accident can still recover damages from a negligent driver, if the victim was determined to be no greater than 50 percent responsible for the crash. For example, suppose that a rider is struck in a T-bone collision by a driver who failed to signal before turning into oncoming traffic. If it is found that the motorcyclist was 35 percent responsible because he or she was also speeding at the time, he or she can still recover damages for 65 percent of his or her injuries.

In some accident cases, a negligent driver’s insurance company may share some of the blame. State law requires insurers to act with “candor and fairness” in handling claims, a standard that is usually interpreted to mean “good faith.” It requires making a meaningful effort to settle claims and avoiding protracted, costly, and unnecessary litigation.

Unfortunately, insurers are often hesitant to pay out even the most deserving claims. They may also try to play hardball with an accident victim by offering a much lower payment than he or she deserves and by pressuring the individual to take the deal right away. This is why you should seek the advice of an experienced injury lawyer before dealing with another driver’s insurance company.

The knowledgeable Massachusetts lawyers at the Law Offices of John C. Manoog III have been fighting for clients injured in a wide variety of motor vehicle crashes since 1994. In addition to understanding the law as it applies to these cases, we also know how insurance companies often approach these matters and the strategies they employ to limit or avoid paying out claims. Founding partner John C. Manoog III began his legal career working for an insurance defense firm, giving him unique insights that have helped the firm resolve cases efficiently and on optimal terms for the people whom we represent. We offer free consultations from our offices, which are conveniently located in Hyannis and Plymouth. A member of our team also can travel to you if you can't make it to us. We don't charge a fee in many cases unless we are successful. Call us at 888-262-6664 or contact us online to schedule a free initial consultation. Nós Falamos Português.