Are you a motorcyclist in Bridgeport, Connecticut? Then, learn about motorcycle accidents and why you may need a motorcycle accident lawyer in Bridgeport, CT.
Motorcycles are a fun way of moving around. Motorcycle riders love to feel the air against them as they ride through towns and cities. Unfortunately, this means of transportation is also fraught with dangers. Motorcycle accidents are a frequent occurrence on American roads. Bridgeport, Connecticut, also has its fair share of motorcycle crashes.
Fortunately, just like any other motor vehicle accident, injury victims can recover financial compensation following a collision. However, the legal process would be challenging if you donāt have a personal injury lawyer. Fortunately, our personal injury law firm has excellent motorcycle accident attorneys. We can thus help you during this difficult time.
Understanding Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents are traffic accidents that involve a motorcycle operator. Another motorcyclist, passenger vehicles, trucks, or pedestrians could be the other party. Notably, any of these parties could be the fault or the injured party. Thereās a very high rate of motorcycle crashes in the US. In 2019 alone, 5,014 motorcyclists died.
This figure is slightly lower than 2018ās 5,038 motorcycle fatalities. Furthermore, this data showed that motorcyclists were 29 times more likely to die in a crash. This increased fatality propensity is per vehicle miles traveled. Fortunately, though, thereās some hope.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that helmets saved the lives of 1,872 motorcyclists in 2017. Therefore, Bridgeport motorcyclists can reduce fatalities by wearing helmets.
Below are some possible injuries that can follow Bridgeport bike accidents:
- Spinal cord injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries/brain damage
- Neck injuries
- Internal organ damage
- Broken or fractured bones
- Road rash
- External head injury
Motorcycle crashes can also cause fatal injuries. Here, the deceasedās estate can then file wrongful death claims. Luckily, a bike wreck may only leave a victim with a minor injury. However, this doesnāt mean that such a person doesnāt require legal services. Beyond physical injuries, personal injury victims can also suffer property damage.
Why Are Motorcycle Collisions So Dangerous?
Motorcyclists have a higher chance of sustaining catastrophic injuries in a crash. Theyāre also more likely to die in a collision. This is primarily because of the nature of bikes. Firstly, motorcycles are less visible to other drivers on the road. Even pedestrians may struggle to sight a motorcycle from afar. Therefore, these sight issues can increase the chances of a motor vehicle accident involving a motorcycle.
In addition, motorcycles are less stable than four-wheeled vehicles. So, it can fall easily during an accident. Suppose the biker falls; the bike doesnāt have any protective frame. So, the motorcyclist can quickly fall onto the hard road. Vehicles have seat belts, airbags, and windshields. Therefore, their occupants are safer.
The two-wheel motorcycle design even makes it harder to control a bike. Braking and cornering can thus be challenging activities for bikers. Furthermore, a motorcycleās design makes it more difficult to navigate bad roads. Therefore, bad roads and weather can easily cause a motorcycle crash.
Finally, you must have noticed high-risk behaviors amongst motorcyclists. This is because bikes allow for rapid acceleration and traffic navigation. These factors thus induce motorcyclists to drive carelessly.
Causes of Bridgeport Motorcycle Accidents
Accidents donāt just happen. Instead, human actions are responsible for the injuries and deaths on our roads. These would include negligent and reckless actions. Below are some of the top causes of motorcycle collisions.
Lane Splitting
You must have seen motorcyclists riding between lanes of stopped or slow-moving cars. This action is called lane splitting. Itās a top cause of motorcycle collisions because vehicle drivers donāt expect movement from those angles. Furthermore, thereās even little room for the cyclists to move appropriately.
Drunk Driving
Riding under the influence of drugs and alcohol is another significant issue. These substances dull a riderās reactionary speed. In addition, both bikers and motor vehicle drivers can be intoxicated.
Speeding
Over-speeding also contributes to motorcycle crashes. Here, the motorcyclist or other drivers are moving faster than they should. Sport and Supersport bikes can allow outrageous speeding rates. However, over-speeding makes it harder for a biker to brake. So, if the need suddenly arises, theyāll most likely collide with the other object or vehicle.
Road Hazards
Finally, terrible road conditions can result in motorcycle collisions. These road conditions will include uneven road surfaces and potholes. Thatās why bikers and other road users must remain conscious of their environments. This way, they can know when to apply extra caution on the road.
Do I Need a Bridgeport Motorcycle Accident Attorney?
Yes, you need a motorcycle accident lawyer after injury accidents. Unfortunately, many motorcycle accident victims think they can handle legal issues personally. This thought negatively affects many personal injury lawsuits. So, below we explain why you need a Bridgeport motorcycle accident lawyer.
To Evaluate Your Claim
A typical motorcycle crash can cause severe injury and other losses. Therefore, you need a personal injury attorney to accurately assess your lossās value. This way, they can know how much to demand in court or settlement negotiations. In addition, an excellent attorney will have technical experience for arriving at an accurate estimate.
To Identify the Crashās Liability
Fault is a serious issue in Bridgeport motorcycle accidents. This is because Connecticut is a fault accident state. So, the fault driver or party will pay you monetary damages following the crash. However, establishing responsibility in a Bridgeport motorcycle accident claim can get challenging. With a good lawyer, though, you can find the proper party to sue.
To Get the Maximum Compensation
No insurance company loves to pay claims. Instead, they usually devise several means to avoid liability. This can include blaming you for the collision. When they agree to pay, insurance adjusters often offer meager settlements. Fortunately, though, no competent lawyer will sit by as you accept unsuitable compensation.
What Is the Statute of Limitations for Bridgeport Compensation Claims?
Strict laws govern Bridgeport, Connecticutās personal injury compensation system. These laws dictate when you must file personal injury claims. Therefore, Bridgeport motorcycle accident victims have only two years to approach the court. This statutory period starts counting from the accident date.
This two-year period also applies to wrongful death claims from motorcycle wrecks. However, it starts counting from the death date. Notably, you cannot sue for wrongful death more than five years from the date of the underlying accident.
Suppose you donāt file your motorcycle accident claim within this period. Then, the defendant can notify the court of this default. Consequently, you may lose your right to compensation. That is why legal representation is crucial after Bridgeport motorcycle crashes.
Are There Exceptions to the Connecticut Motorcycle Accident Statute of Limitations?
Yes, missing the statutory deadline isnāt always fatal. Instead, the law can suspend the statute for some periods. However, there are only a few exceptions to this statute. These exceptions would only apply if:
- Youāre a minor
- Youāre mentally incapacitated
- The defendant isnāt currently in the country
- The defendant has been avoiding service of court processes
Recoverable Damages in Bridgeport Motorcycle Accident Claims
Suppose you file and win a compensation claim. Then, you can recover a wide range of damages from the fault party. Notably, you can get this money through a settlement. Conversely, our lawyers can file a personal injury lawsuit. Whichever the case, fair compensation will cover your:Ā
- Medical bills
- Other medical expenses such as ambulance and admission services
- Cost of physical therapy
- Cost of alternative transportation
- Property damage losses
- Motorcycle repair bills
- Future medical care
- Cost of legal representation, in some cases
- Lost wages
In addition, an experienced lawyer can get you non-economic damages. It covers the following:
- Emotional distress
- Mental anguish
- Loss of consortium
- Loss of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
Courts and insurance companies have different methods for calculating these non-economic losses. Your lawyer has to ensure the calculating process favors you.
Bridgeport, CT Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Are Here for You
Have you been in a Bridgeport motorcycle crash? If you have, then you may be eligible for compensation. You can sue the negligent driver for damages for any bodily injury or other losses from the crash. First, however, you need the best Bridgeport motorcycle accident attorneys.
Our lawyers at Jacobs and Wallace want to help you get the maximum compensation. We have extensive experience in personal injury matters. Furthermore, we have maintained an excellent track record of case success. Therefore, your case will be in excellent and professional hands. All you have to do is call us today for a FREE initial consultation.