Boston Injury Attorney Blog

May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month and last week, Grafton, Massachusetts Police Chief Normand Crepeau passed along safety tips from the Registry of Motor Vehicles to help keep motorcyclists safe on the roads. The highlights can be found below.

The Boston motorcycle accident lawyers at Bellotti Law Group encourage all motorcyclists this season to practice safe riding techniques to minimize the risk of personal injury and wrongful death. If you are a victim or family member of someone injured or wrongfully killed in a motorcycle accident, call us today at 617-225-2100 or 800-334-FIRM for help getting your medical bills covered, lost wages recouped, and pain and suffering compensated.

Ensure Drivers are Aware of Your Presence: The RMV stresses, first, that all motorcyclists make their presence known to other motorists on the road. Visibility should never be assumed. Instead, bikers should always wear an DOT-approved helmet and clothing, with adequate reflective materials. Motorcyclists should also use their headlights while biking on highways, opting for high-beams or a modulating headlight. Know that large trucks, SUVs, delivery vans, etc. can block you from another car's field of view and adjust your position accordingly on the road.

Always Ride in the Appropriate Lane Position: If you are not riding in the appropriate lane, drivers may not be able to see you. A valuable tip to remember is if you can see the driver in the side-view mirror, then the driver can also see you. Try to stay out of drivers' blind spots, always signal before switching lanes, and never ride between lanes or switch lanes erratically or without warning and plenty of space. Riding alongside another vehicle or "sharing the lane" is very dangerous, as there is little time to react to sudden moves and the drivers likely cannot see you. Always leave extra space for emergencies and sudden stops.

Prepare for Hazardous Road Conditions: Often times, you may have to adjust to potentially hazardous road conditions, such as wet roads, fallen leaves, potholes, railroad tracks, debris, and other obstructions. Again, always travel at safe speeds and distances behind other vehicles to account for sudden emergencies.

The Boston motorcycle accident attorneys at Bellotti Law Group encourage all drivers to safely share the road with motorcyclists to help reduce crashes. This May, Motorcycle Awareness Month, be extra vigilant to reduce personal injuries and wrongful deaths. If you are a victim or family member of a victim, call us today at 617-225-2100 or toll-free 800-334-FIRM for a free consultation today to discuss your options. We have offices in Boston, Cambridge, and Quincy and serve in courts throughout Massachusetts. Visit www.bellottilaw.com for more information

In the coming weeks, Massachusetts will become only the second state in the U.S., alongside Hawaii, to provide electric and hybrid cars with special license plates, designating them as vehicles containing potentially dangerous electric batteries. This move is aimed at protecting first responders to car accidents involving electric vehicles, including public safety workers, fire, police, and ambulance crews, who are otherwise placed at an increased risk of injury because of the unique components and makeup of the cars. In particular, the electric battery must be completely disabled following an accident, or else emergency crew members are risking electric shock or burn injuries and/or fatalities. Injuries to drivers and their passengers following car accidents are often serious, including the potential for broken bones, traumatic brain injury, paralysis, and others. The secondary risk extended to first responders should be minimized as much as possible.

The experienced Boston car accident lawyers at Bellotti Law Group have successfully pursued countless car accident claims for nearly three decades. We know the tactics insurance companies employ and practice skilled settlement negotiations. When a settlement cannot be reached, we are meticulously prepared to litigate in court on your behalf. Call our Boston, Cambridge, or Quincy office for a FREE consultation today at 617-225-2100 or toll-free 800-334-FIRM.

The Commissioner of the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources recently told the Boston Globe that 17,600 of the new license plates are currently available at Registry of Motor Vehicle locations throughout the Commonwealth. Drivers of electric cars can now swap their current license plates for the new electric car versions, free of charge. New electric vehicles will automatically receive the new plates, although standard registration fees will still apply. The new plates were introduced in Porter Square, Cambridge earlier this week. The plates also highlight the push by Governor Deval Patrick's administration to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the state and support the wave of electric and hybrid vehicles on our roads.

The Boston car accident attorneys at Bellotti Law Group will help you recover medical and rehab costs, lost employment wages, obtain compensation for pain and suffering, and other damages following a car accident. We have had decades of experience successfully negotiating with insurance companies and medical care providers. We understand how devastating and frustrating car accidents can be for victims and their families and will work on your behalf, so you can focus on recover. Contact us today at 617-225-2100 or 800-334-FIRM. We have represented victims in every court throughout the Commonwealth and have offices in Boston, Cambridge, and Quincy. Please visit our homepage at www.bellottilaw.com for valuable tips and further information on your options for every type of car accident.

MBTA riders and in around the Boston metropolitan area will soon face increased fares and reduced service, following the MBTA board of directors approval. In all, "Charlie Card" public bus ride fares will increase 20%, jumping from $1.25 to $1.50, subway fares will increase 18%, from $1.70 to $2.00, commuter rail fares will be increased upwards of 30%, and monthly passes will also have jumps in price. In addition to fare increases, service will also be reduced in an effort to reduce the MBTA budget gap. MBTA officials say that the four-day weekday bus routes and four others will be reduced. The "T" will also cancel weekend commuter rail service on the Needham, Greenbush, and Kingston/Plymouth lines. Weekend ferry service to Quincy will also be cut, just as the weather will be consistently improving.

While the new fare increases and reduced service are frustrating and will hurt the pocketbooks of MBTA riders, experts are predicting more serious, wide-scale effects, stemming from a predicted 30,000+ more people choosing to drive instead of ride the T. This increase, unfortunately, is expected to cause more car accidents, traffic, and pollution, along with more pedestrian accidents and bicycle accidents.

Recently, Mariana Arcaya and Peter James, both from the Metropolitan Area Planning Council and the Harvard School of Public Health, authored an article and presented their findings to MBTA officials via a public forum last week. The two predict that as a result of the fare increases and service reductions, between 30,000 and 50,000 new drivers would be added to the already congested roads and a staggering $116 million dollars could result as costs of additional car accidents, including pedestrian accidents and bicycle accidents. Obviously, the MBTA plan will result in the unfortunate and perhaps preventable injuries and deaths associated with car accidents, bike accidents, and pedestrian accidents.

The Boston car accident attorneys at Bellotti Law Group have successfully handled hundreds of personal injury claims over the last two decades. Our Boston personal injury lawyers will work with you to get your medical bills paid and lost wages recovered. Call the Boston personal injury attorneys at Bellotti Law Group today for a free consultation at 617-225-2100 or toll-free 800-334-FIRM. You can also use our secure contact form and one of our attorneys will respond promptly.

This morning, four Silver Lake High School students were injured following a head-on collision with a school bus in Kingston, Massachusetts. The teens were taken to the hospital following the car-bus accident. The car accident occurred on Chipman Way and Lake Street, near Silver Lake High School. Police stated that the small vehicle carrying the teens may have crossed the center-line and collided with the school bus. Fortunately, the school bus was not carrying any passengers at the time of the bus accident. Sadly, though, all four teens in the car were taken to the hospital with serious injuries. Three of the teens were med-flighted and one had to be removed from the vehicle with the Jaws of Life. The bus driver luckily escaped any serious injuries in the car accident.

The Boston personal injury lawyers at Bellotti Law Group know that any car accident, truck accident, or bus accident can devastate victims and their families--physically, emotionally, and financially. We have decades of experience winning compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other accident-related expenses for victims and their families. Call us today at 617-225-2100 or toll-free 800-334-FIRM to set up a free telephone consultation. We have offices in Boston, Cambridge, and Quincy and practice in courts throughout the Commonwealth. You can also use our secure and fast contact form and we will respond right away.

Unfortunately, bus accidents are not uncommon occurrences, in Massachusetts and elsewhere. According to the latest study conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were 221 bus accidents in 2009 alone. What is perhaps most alarming, like this incident, is that 89 of these accidents involved school buses. There are many different causes of bus accidents, including the negligence of the driver, driver fatigue, poor weather conditions, driver fatigue, improper maintenance, and third-party negligence. Many potential parties are involved in a case, including the driver, owner, city or county, school district, maintenance company, and others.

In any event, the Boston personal injury lawyers at Bellotti Law Group know that there are many potential victims of bus and car accidents, including pedestrians, passengers, motorists, and bicyclists. Bus, car, and truck accidents often result in serious injuries and/or fatalities. Some of the injuries to victims include fractured bones, spinal cord injuries, brain injuries, and other catastrophic injuries.

Bus and car accidents are overwhelming for victims and their families. They bring about great physical, emotional, and financial distress. The Boston personal injury attorneys at Bellotti Law Group will help you pay your medical bills, recoup lost wages, gain compensation for pain and suffering, and allow you to focus on recovery. Call our Boston personal injury lawyers today at 617-225-2100 or toll-free 800-334-FIRM. You can also contact us using our contact form and we will respond right away.

This summer, residents and visitors of Somerville, Cambridge, and Brookline Massachusetts can look forward to enjoying a Hubway bicycle ride, as the program is set to expand beyond Boston, following a successful first year. According to the Boston Globe, the bicycle sharing program recorded a staggering 140,000 trips in it's first season, far exceeding expectations. By April 1, all Boston stations are expected to be open for the spring, summer, and fall seasons. The other stations in Somerville, Cambridge, and Brookline are expected to be stocked and functional by this upcoming summer. While we are all excited with the news, our Boston personal injury attorneys encourage riders, motorists, and pedestrians to be aware of the increased bicyclist presence, in an effort to reduce the risk of bicycle accidents, pedestrian accidents, car accidents, and other personal injuries.

Our Boston personal injury attorneys have successfully handled countless bicycle accidents, pedestrian accidents, and car/truck accidents, for over two decades. We have offices in Boston, Cambridge, and Quincy and serve all of Massachusetts and Southern New England. Call us today at 617-225-2100 or toll-free 800-334-FIRM to schedule a free consultation. Our Boston personal injury lawyers will work closely with you to get your medical bills paid, lost wages recouped, and your life back on track.

According to the Boston Police Department, there were 340 bicycle-related accidents in 2010, including 6 fatal accidents. This past year, city officials responded by incorporating bicycle lanes on city roads. However, even with the designated lanes, the risk of bicycle-related accidents remains high on streets congested with vehicles and pedestrians. Another recent bicycle accident survey was conducted in 2009, titled "Boston Bikes," from Boston Mayor Menino's office. The survey discovered that Commonwealth Ave., particularly around the BU Bridge, is the most dangerous stretch of road in the city for bicyclists. Contributing to this increased incident of Boston cycling accidents is the voluminous amounts of student pedestrian and vehicular traffic and crowded sidewalks.
The personal injury attorneys at Bellotti Law Group suggest the following safety tips to avoid bicycle accidents:

- Ride with traffic, never against the flow.

- Avoid riding on busy streets or highways. Instead, try to bike on bicycle paths and less crowded, safe ways.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle-related accident, you may be entitled to legal redress. Call the personal injury lawyers at Bellotti Law Group today to begin coordinating payment of your medical bills and lost wages. Our Boston, Cambridge, and Quincy offices can be reached at 617-225-2100 or toll-free 800-334-FIRM. You can also contact us through our safe and secure contact form and we will respond right away.

Medical experts have recently expressed concern over prescription drug errors, following a mishap at the hands of CVS Caremark Pharmacy last week. The incident occurred in New Jersey, when a drug mix-up resulted in children in as many as 50 families receiving a breast cancer treatment drug, Tamoxifen, instead of their prescribed fluoride tablets. Fortunately, none of the children ingested enough of the mistakenly filled prescription to cause serious injuries. Nonetheless, the mistake highlighted the importance of keeping a watchful eye for medication errors.

Drug errors are unfortunately much more common than many realize. In fact, prescription drug errors account for approximately a quarter of medical malpractice cases nationally, with improper dosage being the most common drug error. Drug overdoses and wrong medications cause a staggering 7,000 deaths per year. Sadly, virtually all of these could have been prevented.

The Boston drug error attorneys at Bellotti Law Group understand that medication errors, can and should be eliminated with proper training and standardized pharmaceutical practices. An erroneously filled or improperly dispensed prescription can lead to serious, or even fatal, injuries. If you or a loved one has been injured by a drug error, call the Massachusetts medication error lawyers at Bellotti Law Group at 617-225-2100 or toll-free at 800-334-FIRM for a free telephone consultation. You may be entitled to monetary compensation for your medical bills and lost wages.

Drug errors can take many forms, each with the high risk of causing serious injury and/or death.

Common drug errors include:

- Overdosing/Underdosing: Over and under dosing can occur due to a medical doctor's error in prescribing, an error by the pharmacist in dispensing, filling, or labeling, or even another medical professional administering.

- Wrongful Prescription: Similar to over and under dosing errors, dispensing or prescribing the wrong drug can cause serious injuries and/or death. Again, errors can occur at the hands of physicians, pharmacists, and/or other medical professionals.

- Drug Interactions & Side Effects: Your doctor and pharmacist should be well aware of your medical record and the potential drug interactions or side effects you may experience by taking a certain prescription. Drug errors can lead to dangerous interactions and side effects that can cause severe injury and/or death.

Medication malpractice errors have caused many victims and their families avoidable grief. If you or a loved one has experienced injuries, or sadly, an untimely death, because of a drug error, you may have a claim against the drug manufacturer, the medical provider that prescribed the medication, and/or the pharmacy that mis-filled or improperly dispensed the erroneous drug. Call the Boston drug error attorneys at Bellotti Law Group today to discuss your options. We have offices in Boston, Cambridge, and Quincy and serve all of Massachusetts. Contact us today at 617-225-2100 or toll-free 800-334-FIRM or use or secure and quick contact form.

A recent string of child injuries has occurred north of the Massachusetts border, as two New Hampshire children are recovering after falling from windows in separate incidents. The children sustained personal injuries from the fall, but they are non-life-threatening. The first fall occurred when a four-year-old girl fell from a second-story window of her home. She was transported to an area hospital with serious injuries, but is listed in stable condition. Following that child injury, New Hampshire police responded to an unrelated fall, where a four-year-old boy fell out of a third-story window. Similar to the first fall, the child sustained some injuries, but fortunately is expected to make a full recovery. Authorities are warning parents to keep a watchful eye over young children, especially around open windows. They also stress that parents should ensure window screens are in good working order and lock securely in place.

If your child has sustained an injury, contact an experienced Massachusetts child injury attorney at Bellotti Law Group of Boston, Cambridge, and Quincy. For over 20 years, our Boston child injury lawyers have obtained fair compensation for children and families. Contact us today to preserve your full rights. Call us today at 800-334-FIRM or 617-225-2100 or use our online form.

While all parents and guardians should be watchful of their children to prevent child injuries related to falls from windows, there are many more common household dangers that can lead to child falls and harm. For example, according to a study published in the journal Pediatrics, a child under the age of five is treated in a hospital emergency room for a stair-related injury, every six minutes. Parents carrying their children on stairs accounts for one-in-four injuries sustained by children under age one. Stair-related child injuries have declined in recent years, mainly due to parents increasing their measures to prevent young children and walkers from tumbling down unattended stairways without safety gates.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued recommendations to prevent child fall injuries in recent history. These include installing sturdy stair rails and safety gates to prevent small children from tumbling down stairs. The CDC advises against the "accordion type" safety gates, as young children can easily get their heads and other body parts stuck in the gate.

Our child injury lawyers at Bellotti Law Group offer the following tips to prevent slip and falls:

Tips to Prevent Child Injuries Related to Slip & Falls:
1. Ensure that windows and screens are securely closed and in good working order.

11. Finally, always keep a watchful eye on young children.

The Massachusetts child injury attorneys at Bellotti Law Group are experienced at advocating for injured children, teens, and their families. Our experienced attorneys are well versed and know that Massachusetts laws protecting children are distinct from adults. If your child has been injured or killed, contact a Boston attorney who specializes in child personal injury cases. At Bellotti Law Group, we pride ourselves in partnering closely with clients and working to understand their individual concerns. Call us today at 800-334-FIRM or 617-225-2100 or use our online form.

The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) has recently announced plans to spend at least $100,000 fixing and bolstering Route 79 in Fall River, Massachusetts after a fire following a truck accident late last month. The fire that damaged the road occurred after a long-haul truck struck the barrier and caught fire on Route 79 South, above the intersection of Davol and Central Street. The flames from the truck accident extended up and scorched Route 79 North, directly above. As a result, numerous girders were twisted, support beams were buckled, and other essential road parts were compromised. In all, state officials deemed the repairs necessary to avoid future car accidents and truck accidents as a result of the damaged road. The repairs, however, will only be temporary, as the state plans to completely revamp Route 79 over the next few years. For now, though, the measures are necessary to avoid car accidents and potentially serious injuries in the short-term.

Miraculously, the driver of the truck, a 42-year-old Taunton, Massachusetts man sustained only minor personal injuries as a result of the truck accident. Route 79, however, was badly damaged. According to Michael Verseckes, DOT spokesman, the repair plans included stacking wooden cribbing under Route 79 North to bolster the road and reduce the risk of future car and truck accidents. Highway Administrator for the DOT, Frank DePaola, noted that the state would like to minimize the amount of money put into the repairs, as a large-scale project involving the stretch of road is on the horizon. According to DePaola, demolition on the tangle of ramps and overpasses surrounding Interstate 195 could begin within a year. Nonetheless, these repairs will cost in excess of $100,000.

If you have been in a car or truck accident, contact the experienced Massachusetts traffic accident attorneys at Bellotti Law Group, today toll-free at 800-334-3476 and locally at 617-225-2100 or 617-807-1000. We have offices in Boston, Cambridge, and Quincy and serve all of Massachusetts and New England. We have successfully handled thousands of car accidents and will work with you to get your bills paid and your life back on track. You can also use our contact form. We will respond promptly.

Car and truck accidents are unfortunately common occurrences in the state. However, there are steps you can take to minimize the unpleasant effects and potentially save time and money. The car accidents attorneys at Bellotti Law Group offer the following action plan to take following an accident:

1. Keep an Emergency Kit in Your Glove Compartment or Trunk--A simple emergency kit should include such items as a fully charged cell phone (old cell phones can still be used to make emergency phone calls), a flashlight, a pen and paper for exchanging notes, a disposable camera for taking pictures of damage to the vehicle and/or the scene, and any important medical information should you require care for injuries.

2. Ensure you are in a Safe Position--Drivers without serious injuries should move their vehicle out of traffic to avoid another collision. If the car cannot be moved, do not attempt to leave the vehicle, where you may risk a pedestrian accident. Instead, keep your seat belt on, put on your hazard lights, and wait for help to arrive.

3. Exchange Information with the Other Driver--Following a car accident, drivers should exchange their name, address, insurance company, policy number, drivers' license number, vehicle owner information, and telephone number.

4. Complete an Accident Report-- Even if a police officer does not respond to the scene of the car accident and injuries are not immediately apparent, all drivers should file a Massachusetts crash report. Additionally, police reports often expedite the insurance claims process. It should be noted, however, that you should not admit fault to the other party, insurance company, or the police immediately after the accident, even if you believe you may be at fault or innocently or nervously accept blame. This will be for the insurance companies to sort out later.

5. Know Your Insurance Policy Coverage--Having knowledge of what your insurance policy covers can save you money on services that aren't ultimately necessary and may involve out-of-pocket costs, like towing and rental car costs. If your policy covers less than what you desire, you can often boost your coverage for a minimal increase in monthly payments (for example, it is not uncommon for rental car reimbursement to be added for only a few extra dollars per month).

If you have been injured in a car accident or truck accident, contact the experienced and successful Boston, Cambridge, and Quincy car accident attorneys at Bellotti Law Group. It is imperative to talk to an experienced Massachusetts car accident attorney at Bellotti Law Group before speaking with either insurance company or accepting any settlement offers. Our Boston car accident lawyers meticulously review your medical treatment records and lost wages to help you recoup what your deserve. We will get your bills paid and your life in order, either through settlement negotiations or litigation in court.

Contact the Massachusetts traffic accident attorneys at Bellotti Law Group today toll-free at 800-334-3476 and locally at 617-225-2100 or 617-807-1000.

Earlier this week, the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court ruled that teenagers in Massachusetts who host underage drinking parties, but don't supply alcohol, cannot be held liable in a subsequent civil lawsuit for injuries sustained by a person at the gathering.

According to Justice Fernande Duffly, "We [were] asked to enlarge the scope of social host liability under our common law by extending a duty of care to an underage host who does not supply alcohol to underage guests, but provides a location where they are permitted to consume it...We decline[d] to do so, and reaffirm[ed] that liability attaches only where a social host either serves alcohol or exercises effective control over the supply of alcohol."

This ruling stems from a suit filed by the estate of Rachel Juliano, a Massachusetts teenager who was tragically left with permanent brain injuries after a car accident. It was later determined that the driver of the vehicle, her boyfriend, was operating under the influence (OUI), after leaving a party at the home of another Massachusetts teenager, where he consumed alcohol.

The Juliano family sought to hold the then 19-year-old party host liable for the brain injuries sustained by her daughter. The family relied on the Massachusetts social host law, which criminalizes a host providing alcohol to underage drinkers. In this case, though, the host of the party did not provide the alcohol to the injured party's boyfriend, who himself bought the alcohol and brought it to the party. As such, since the host of the party did not supply the alcohol to underage drinkers, she was not held liable for the traumatic brain injuries under the social host law.

The SJC rationalized that expanding the current social host law would create confusing laws for judges and juries to apply. Further, there is no consensus amongst states on the national stage regarding this issue. Justice Duffy wrote that "The plaintiffs make a compelling argument that underage drinking and driving is a persistent and widespread societal problem. The Legislature's decision to deter and punish those who facilitate such conduct by the imposition of jail sentences and financial penalties, along with the stigma of a permanent criminal record, lends support to that argument...However, the public policy concerns raised in past social host cases remain relevant to our determination of the appropriate scope of common-law tort liability. We have not been given sufficient reason to significantly amend our tort law in the face of sound reasons for maintaining its current status.''

According to Boston criminal defense attorney Peter Bellotti, the ruling has far-reaching effects on the potential liability Massachusetts parents and other social hosts may face following alcohol-related injuries sustained and caused by underage partygoers. Attorney Bellotti stated that "essentially, the SJC is absolving Massachusetts residents of liability who host underage drinking events where they themselves do not supply the alcohol. Every parent of teenagers in Massachusetts, along with the general population, should be aware of this ruling." Boston personal injury attorney Karen Piso Nadeau added that "According to this ruling, if underage guests drive drunk and cause injuries and/or deaths, the supplier of the alcohol remains liable, potentially absolving social hosts of liability. This will have a large impact on parents and caretakers of underage residents in Massachusetts." It remains to be seen whether an increase in OUI related injuries and accidents will result as a product of future "bring your own booze" parties.

In Massachusetts, operating under the influence (OUI) is a serious crime. A driver is considered to be under the influence of alcohol if he has at least a .08 blood alcohol content (BAC). The penalties for OUI increase if the impaired driver subsequently causes injuries and/or death to another person.

OUI charges require skilled and experienced Boston criminal defense lawyers. At Bellotti Law Group, our criminal defense attorneys have successfully handled numerous OUI and drunk driving cases.

Bellotti Law Group serves Boston, Cambridge, Braintree, Quincy, the South Shore and all of Massachusetts. Our offices are located in Boston, Cambridge, and Quincy. Contact us today at 617-225-2100 or toll-free at 800-334-3476.You can also contact us through our online form and we will promptly respond.

In a recent survey published in the journal Health Affairs, Massachusetts researchers found that one-in-ten doctors have knowingly lied to a patient in the past year. The study also revealed that half of the doctors admittedly "described a patient's prognosis in a more positive manner than warranted." What is perhaps the most alarming statistic from the study, though, is that one- in-five doctors didn't disclose a medical mistake out of fear of being sued for medical malpractice. This sentiment reflects much of the motivation behind Governor Deval Patrick's push for reform of medical malpractice laws, which would allow doctors to admit mistakes without fear of it becoming evidence in a later medical malpractice suit (see previous blog here).

Massachusetts is home to some of the world's most skilled and experienced medical professionals and well-equipped facilities, but even top doctors commit medical errors. The fact that 20% of doctors admitted to not disclosing a medical error, leaving the patient at risk for an even greater injury, amounts to an even higher degree of medical malpractice.

The researchers discovered that male doctors are more likely to lie to patients versus their female counterparts. Further, doctors who graduated from foreign medical schools, outside the US and Canada, were more apt to lie to patients or attempt to cover up a medical mistake. The were also variations amongst medical specialties, as general surgeons and pediatricians were least likely to conceal or lie about medical errors to patients, while cardiologists and psychiatrists were more likely to cover-up medical errors.

Often, legal redress is available to patients who receive substandard medical care. The Boston, Cambridge, and Quincy medical malpractice attorneys at Bellotti Law Group have successfully handled many cases involving medical malpractice. Call our Boston medical malpractice lawyers at 617-225-2100 for a free consultation.

In Massachusetts, medical malpractice occurs when doctors or medical professionals fail to perform competently when treating patients. This can take the form of a surgical/medical error, misdiagnosis, missed diagnosis and failure to timely diagnose a treatable disease, pursuing a medical care plan that differs drastically from that established by other medical professionals, and other forms of substandard care. This substandard treatment or lack of treatment results in a personal injury or other substantial loss, such as employment wages or life enjoyment.

A medical malpractice suit may be appropriate if medical professionals and doctors in Massachusetts fail to exhibit the amount of care and skill that another physician or surgeon in the same field under similar circumstances would provide, or if certain established medical standards/customs in Massachusetts are disregarded.

The effects of medical malpractice can be devastating for victims and their families--physically, emotionally, and financially. Our medical malpractice attorneys will get your medical bills paid and your life in order. Bellotti Law Group serves Greater Boston, Cambridge, Quincy, Braintree, Brookline, Newton, the South Shore, and all of Massachusetts. Our offices are located in Cambridge and Quincy. Contact us today at 617-225-2100 or toll-free at 800-334-3476.

With winter weather forecasted for this weekend in Massachusetts, the Boston car accident attorneys at Bellotti Law Group pass along these safety tips from the Massachusetts State Police:

Watch the Local Forecast: If you must be on the roads during inclement weather, be sure to watch or listen to the latest forecast. Motorists can dial 5-1-1 on their cell phones for current traffic and road conditions on highways in Massachusetts.

Prepare Your Vehicle for the Storm: Your vehicle should be properly equipped for winter weather. First, be sure that the fluid levels, particularly washer fluid and anti-freeze, are at adequate levels. Second, inspect tires to ensure that they are properly inflated and have sufficient tread depth. You should also carry a shovel, scraper, jumper cables, a warm blanket, water, and a flashlight.

Drive at a Slower Speed: During winter storms, drivers should expect delays. Most car accidents during snow and ice storms are caused by spinouts and sliding because drivers are traveling too fast for the conditions. Posted speed limits are for when roads are dry and the weather is clear. During winter storms, it is imperative to slow down and drive cautiously.

Leave Plenty of Space Between Cars: During dry conditions, motorists should leave at least one car length for every ten mph between them and the vehicle in front of them. During adverse winter weather, that distance should be increased greatly to account for increased stopping distances.

Drive in the Right Lane: During winter weather, motorists should avoid driving in the left lane. During winter storms, water often pools in areas next to guardrails and jersey barriers. Driving into these puddles can cause a vehicle to hydroplane out of control.

Be Aware of Black Ice: Black ice can easily form on roads before, during, or after winter storms. Drivers should proceed slowly and cautiously to avoid hitting a patch of black ice and losing control of the vehicle.

Always Wear a Seatbelt: Drivers and passengers should always wear a safety restraint. This is even more imperative during inclement weather.

Dial 911 in Case of Emergency: If motorists face an emergency situation, they should pull over, if possible, and dial 9-1-1. Motorists should always be aware of their location, noting the closest exit number if possible.

Contact the experienced Boston, Cambridge, and Quincy car accident attorneys at Bellotti Law Group if you have been in a car accident. Our experienced Massachusetts car accident attorneys at Bellotti Law Group should be consulted before speaking with an insurance company or accepting any settlement. Our Boston car accident lawyers meticulously check your medical records and lost wages to prepare the best case possible.

Contact the Boston car accident attorneys at Bellotti Law Group today at 800-334-3476 or 617-225-2100. We have offices in Boston, Cambridge, and Quincy and serve all of Massachusetts. You can also use our contact form.

Last week, an elderly Westford, Massachusetts driver struck a Concord, Massachusetts mother, her 5-year-old son, and 20-month old infant, while they were walking on Commonwealth Ave. in Concord. Fortunately, the mother and young child escaped serious injuries following the accident, after being treated at Emerson Hospital. Sadly, the toddler was taken by MedFlight to Children's Hospital Boston after sustaining life-threatening injuries. A Concord resident reported the accident to police. Sergeant Jack Kennedy told the Boston Globe that pedestrian accidents in Concord are somewhat unpredictable, stating that "We do have them on occasion...We've gone years without them, and then had years where we've had more than one. It's hard to say." Nevertheless, the Boston, Cambridge, and Quincy car accident lawyers at Bellotti Law Group know it is important for motorists and pedestrians alike to remain vigilant in practicing safe travel, to avoid car accidents and personal injuries.

The car accident that lead to these pedestrian injuries occurred when the elderly driver attempted to turn off of Commonwealth Ave. and onto Winthrop St. in Concord. The driver was also injured as a result of the car accident, after crashing into a garage. Concord Police are currently investigating the accident.

The intersection where the pedestrian accident occurred was near the heavily traveled Route 2 rotary, the site of many car accidents in recent history. Unfortunately, there is no crosswalk in the area. According to Boston car accident attorney Peter Bellotti, "it is always prudent for pedestrians to cross the street in a crosswalk, where motorists are more aware of their presence. When there is not a crosswalk available, there is obviously a greater risk for pedestrian accidents. Nonetheless, drivers should always practice defensive driving and be on the lookout for walkers, runners, and bicyclists throughout populated areas in Massachusetts."

This unfortunate car accident and the resulting pedestrian injuries came just before researchers at the University of Massachusetts Amherst proposed the idea that in addition to cognitive or physical decline, like slower reaction times and poor eyesight, the bad habits elderly drivers have acquired over the years may lead to an increased risk of car accidents and pedestrian accidents when they are behind the wheel. The study, published in the journal Current Directions in Psychological Science, notes that these bad habits can be reversed and remedied. As the article states, "A large percentage of not attending [to the hazards at intersections] is due to some strategy or mindset they've gotten into, rather than some problem with the brain." In all, the study concluded older drivers, who are often overly fearful of hitting something up the road, develop a bad habit of being excessively cautious while driving straight ahead, but not scanning the road at intersections, where collisions usually involve a car or pedestrian coming from the side.

If you have been injured in a car accident or pedestrian accident, contact the experienced Boston, Cambridge, and Quincy car accident attorneys at Bellotti Law Group. The clock on the statute of limitations is ticking and your filing of a claim must be timely. Talk to an experienced Massachusetts car accident attorney at Bellotti Law Group before speaking with an insurance company or accepting any settlement. Our Boston car accident lawyers thoroughly analyze your medical records and missed employment to better understand the value of your case, either for settlement negotiations or litigation in court.

Contact the Massachusetts traffic accident attorneys at Bellotti Law Group today at 800-334-3476 or 617-225-2100. We have offices in Boston, Cambridge, and Quincy and serve all of Massachusetts and New England. You can also use our contact form. We will respond promptly.

Late last month, Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick urged lawmakers to pass a sweeping overhaul of the healthcare cost system in the state, following up a similar call to action last year. A large part of his reform effort focuses on restructuring medical malpractice laws in the state. As part of his state of the state address last month, Patrick called for an end to the "fee-for-service" model currently used, which rewards medical providers for the amount of care provided, rather than the quality of care. Governor Patrick also stressed that lawmakers need to amend medical malpractice laws in Massachusetts, making it more difficult to bring suit for medical malpractice and to ultimately prevail. Despite lobbying for a similar overhaul last year, there was no remarkable change to medical malpractice law or healthcare cost systems in Massachusetts. The Governor hopes his latest efforts will bring about more legislative action.

According to Senate President Therese Murray, however, Governor Patrick's renewed proposals again face many roadblocks. Murray told the State House News Service, "It's a very difficult piece of legislation because we don't want to harm our health care institutions. They're the number one driver of our economy." Similarly, House Speaker Robert DeLeo would not commit to getting a bill done in the next three months, stressing that a reform to medical malpractice laws and healthcare cost systems are large-scale changes that can greatly affect the healthcare system, and economy, as a whole. The disagreement between legislators surrounding health laws in the state is not novel, as these issues have escaped consensus on Beacon Hill for many years.

Pursuant to Governor Patrick's medical malpractice legislation, he is calling for laws aimed at decreasing the use of "defensive medicine" and reducing expensive lawsuits by encouraging reconciliation between doctors and patients, before legal action is taken. Because of the high-risk of a lawsuit, doctors who commit medical malpractice are often hesitant to admit fault and address errors. Governor Patrick's proposed legislation hopes to change this sentiment, allowing Massachusetts doctors to say "I'm sorry" without risking their apology being admitted as evidence against them in a med malpractice lawsuit. Additionally, in an effort to curtail frivolous suits, the bill also calls for a 180-day "cooling off period" before a medical malpractice suit can be brought. All of these laws would make medical malpractice suits more difficult to bring and ultimately win. They would, however, allow doctors to practice without the constant fear of a lawsuit and admit mistakes without automatic penalty.

Many of the world's best medical professionals, facilities, and care providers are located in Greater Boston. Yet, even the most skilled medical providers and doctors commit medical errors. Many times, legal redress is available to patients who receive substandard care. The Boston, Cambridge, and Quincy medical malpractice attorneys at Bellotti Law Group have successfully handled many cases involving medical malpractice. Call our medical malpractice lawyers at 617-225-2100 for a free consultation.

While these proposals reflect the modern interest of reforming healthcare legislation and practice, it is unclear what effect if any they will have on reducing medical malpractice suits, especially when the injuries are serious and causally related to the medical provider's negligence. Medical malpractice stems from the failure of a medical doctor or medical professional to perform competently when treating a patient. This substandard treatment results in a personal injury or substantial loss, such as income or life enjoyment, to the victim. If a doctor in Massachusetts does not practice the amount of care and skill that another physician or surgeon in the same field under similar circumstances would provide, or if they fail to follow certain medical standards in Massachusetts, a medical malpractice suit may be in order.

The effects of medical malpractice can be devastating for victims and their families--physically, emotionally, and financially. We will work with you to help get your medical bills paid and your life back on track. Bellotti Law Group serves Greater Boston, Cambridge, Quincy, Braintree, Brookline, Newton, the South Shore, and all of Massachusetts. Our offices are located in Cambridge and Quincy. Contact us today at 617-225-2100 or toll-free at 800-334-3476.

Recently, the Boston Public Health Commission's "Walk This Way" study found that there are around 2 million pedestrians walking around Boston daily. Although Boston is often lauded as a pleasant walking city, the high volume of vehicular and pedestrian traffic creates an increased risk of pedestrian accidents. In fact, according to the BPHC, every day there are three pedestrian accidents in Boston alone.

The BPHC's Walk This Way initiative provides pedestrians in and around Boston with some helpful safety tips to minimize the risk of pedestrian accidents, which often result in personal injury and/or death. In the year before Walk This Way was launched, 1,166 pedestrians were taken to the hospital following a car accident in Boston. Since the initiative began, the number of pedestrian accidents has decreased. Nonetheless, drivers and pedestrians in Boston do not always practice safe travel habits that can reduce the number of pedestrian accidents even further.

According to Walk This Way, only 12% of pedestrians in Boston waited for the "Walk" signal before crossing the street and 1/3 of pedestrians frequently jaywalk. Perhaps the most staggering statistic was that while 95% of drivers yield to pedestrians who have the right of way, only 50% of drivers yielded to pedestrians crossing against the light and even fewer slowed down for jaywalkers.

The majority of pedestrian accidents are the result of a driver's negligence, including disregarding traffic laws and road signs, texting while driving, speeding, failing to yield to pedestrians, or simply not paying attention to the road. Unfortunately, insurance companies often attempt to fault the pedestrian to avoid payment. Consequently, a swift and thorough investigation of the motorist is in order and victims of a pedestrian accident should seek skilled and experienced legal representation as soon as possible. The Boston personal injury attorneys at Bellotti Law Group have successfully handled hundreds of pedestrian accident cases. Our Boston, Cambridge, and Quincy personal injury lawyers will work diligently to get your medical bills paid and your life back on track. Contact us at 617-225-2100 for a free consultation.

The BPHC has published a list of helpful safety tips for both drivers and pedestrians that can help to greatly reduce the number of pedestrian accidents in the congested streets of Boston, Cambridge, Quincy, and all of Massachusetts.

Safety Tips from the BPHC for Pedestrians:

- Always use the crosswalk.

- If you're at a crosswalk with a traffic light, push the button and wait for the "Walk" signal.

- If you're at a crosswalk without a traffic light, you have the right of way. However, make sure approaching drivers see you and come to a complete stop before you cross.

- On roads without sidewalks, walk on the left side of the road, facing traffic.

- Watch for cars backing out of parking spaces and driveways.

Safety Tips from the BPHC for Drivers:

- Pedestrians have the right of way in crosswalks without traffic signals.

- Drivers should always yield to pedestrians on turns. Special challenges arise when children and elderly cross the streets, such as visual limitations, increased distractions and slower pace.

- Take your time. Speeding and reckless driving are factors in nearly 23% of motor
vehicle crashes, and doesn't usually save you much time in the long run.

Bellotti Law Group serves Greater Boston, Cambridge, Quincy, Braintree, Brookline, Newton, the South Shore, and all of Massachusetts. Our offices are located in Cambridge and Quincy. Contact us today at 617-225-2100 or toll-free at 800-334-3476.

Last month, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) recommended a full national ban on the use of cell phones, including non-emergency calls and text messaging, while driving. If adopted by states, including Massachusetts, any use of either hand-held or hands-free devices while driving will be entirely banned.

The NTSB is fervently recommending the total ban on cell phones as distracted drivers and car accidents are responsible for an increasing number of car accident injuries and deaths, in Massachusetts and across the nation. The NTSB fears that as the number of portable smart phone users continues to dramatically increase, the risk of car accidents because of their use while driving will follow.

In a study released by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), at any given time during the day, a staggering 13.5 million drivers are on hand-held phones. The NHTSA claims that last year alone, distracted driving was blamed for at least 3,092 fatalities on the road. In Massachusetts, there were over 400 reported car crashes where cell phone usage was deemed a contributing factor. Those numbers, in Massachusetts and on the national stage, are likely higher in reality, where distracted drivers involved in car accidents are often hesitant to confess cell phone use, especially when personal injuries and/or fatalities result. According to NTSB member Robert Sumwalt, "This (distracted driving) is becoming the new DUI. It's becoming epidemic." In fact, distracted driving has become so prevalent that accident investigators, in Massachusetts and across the nation, now often seek protective orders to preserve cell phones as evidence.

Pursuant to current Massachusetts law, there is a complete ban on texting-while-driving. Any motorist caught texting behind the wheel faces a $100 fine for a first offense and up to $500 for repeat offenses. The law is even more stringent for teen drivers, who most frequently practice the unsafe habit. Adolescent drivers under age 18 who are caught texting will be fined $100 and lose their license for 60 days. Massachusetts was the 30th state in the nation to launch a texting ban. According to Senator Steven A. Baddour of Methuan, Massachusetts, Chairman of the Joint Committee on Transportation, "This law sends a clear message to all drivers regardless of age that when behind the wheel, your primary focus should be driving." Boston personal injury attorney Peter Bellotti agrees with this sentiment, adding that "as smart phone use continues to be more and more prevalent, we must remember that when we're behind the wheel, our focus should be on driving to minimize the risk of car accidents."

The car accident attorneys at Bellotti Law Group are well aware of the risks of personal injury and/or death associated with distracted driving. Most often, personal injuries from motor vehicle accidents are the result of another driver's negligence. The personal injury lawyers at our firm are well versed in the law and experienced in obtaining the compensation deserved by drivers injured as a result of another's negligence. We ensure that your medical bills and paid and normalcy is restored to your life. We work with insurance companies to obtain the best possible settlement and if necessary meticulously prepare to litigate on your behalf.

Bellotti Law Group has successfully handled thousands of cases in Boston, Cambridge, Braintree, Quincy, the South Shore and all of Massachusetts. Contact us today at 617-225-2100 or toll-free at 800-334-3476. You can also contact us through our online form and we will promptly respond.