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Agawam, MA — Woman Critically Injured in DePalma St. Shed Explosion
April 20, 2026
Braintree, MA (April 20, 2026)
— On Saturday, April 18, emergency responders were dispatched following reports of a vehicle-bicycle collision. The accident occurred at approximately 2:16 p.m. on Granite Street, in the immediate vicinity of the Braintree House of Pizza and the Washington Street intersection.
Upon arrival, authorities found a minor who had been struck while riding their bicycle. First responders reported that the child was conscious and alert during the initial evaluation at the scene.
Local authorities
are currently investigating the cause of the crash.
We hope the injured child makes a full and speedy recovery
What are the Legal Rights of a Child Injured on a Bicycle in Massachusetts?
When a child is struck by a vehicle while riding a bicycle, the legal and insurance process in Massachusetts follows specific rules designed to protect minors. Because children are considered "vulnerable road users," drivers are held to a high standard of care.
In Massachusetts, a bicyclist struck by a car is entitled to Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits. These "no-fault" benefits provide up to $8,000 to cover medical expenses and related costs.
- If the parents own a car: The family's own auto insurance policy typically pays the first $2,000 in medical bills.
- If the family does not own a car: The PIP coverage from the driver's insurance policy will cover the initial medical costs.
- Even if the child was not wearing a helmet or "darted out," these benefits are available immediately to ensure the minor receives necessary medical care without delay.
Massachusetts follows a 51% Bar Rule. This means a victim can recover damages as long as they are not more than 50% at fault for the accident. However, Massachusetts courts recognize that children do not have the same cognitive judgment as adults. An attorney can help argue that the driver should have exercised "extraordinary care" in such a location, ensuring that the child’s actions do not unfairly bar them from a settlement.
While PIP covers the first $8,000, bicycle accidents involving children often result in fractures, concussions, or dental injuries that exceed this limit. In Massachusetts, you can sue the at-fault driver for pain and suffering if the medical bills exceed $2,000 or if the injury involves a broken bone or permanent disfigurement, for example.
Navigating the insurance and legal process for a child’s injury involves unique deadlines and protections that most parents aren't aware of. Our dedicated personal injury lawyers
at Attorney Christopher Fiorentino of Fiorentino Legal, P.C. can help individuals understand their rights and manage insurance claims in these difficult situations.
Contact us at (617) 990-2568 to pursue fair compensation after an accident
Note: This post is based on information obtained from publicly available secondary sources. While we strive to ensure the accuracy of the information presented, Fiorentino Legal, P.C. has not independently verified all details of the incident reported. If you notice any inaccuracies or missing information, please contact Fiorentino Legal, P.C. so we can promptly review and update the content.
Disclaimer: The content of this post is provided for general informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as legal or medical advice. Reading this post does not create an attorney-client relationship with Fiorentino Legal, P.C. If you have been injured in an accident, seek appropriate medical care and consult a qualified attorney regarding your legal options. Any images included are for illustrative purposes only and do not depict the actual accident scene or individuals involved.