Best Motorcycle Accident Lawyers in New Haven, CT

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in New Haven, Connecticut?

  The non-emergency phone number for the New Haven Police Department is (203) 946-6316.

• Where can you get a copy of the police report for the accident in New Haven, Connecticut?

  You can obtain accident reports via the Lexis Nexis online service (For the year 2022 only). You can also request in-person at the New Haven Police Department. Please allow seven business days for the completion of traffic accident reports before requesting copies.

• What happens if the other driver was uninsured or underinsured in a motorcycle accident in New Haven?

  When you operate a motorcycle or any other vehicle, you should have "uninsured motorist coverage" to cover your injuries and damages if the other driver is uninsured or underinsured or if you were a hit-and-run victim. Although Connecticut law does not mandate this coverage, you must ensure that you are protected in case of a New Haven motorcycle accident. Furthermore, it is your responsibility to ensure that if you are struck by an uninsured driver, you will be able to cover the cost of the accident.

• Should you take your own pictures at the scene of the New Haven motorcycle accident?

  One of the most crucial things you can do after a motorbike accident is to photograph the scene—as long as the conditions permit. If you are able, you take pictures of the damage to both vehicles and any injuries you have sustained using your cell phone or a camera. Taking the time to do so may considerably boost your chances of being able to recover compensation in the future, as these images can be used as proof in your favor.

• What should you do if the police do not respond or show up at the site of your motorcycle accident in New Haven?

  If the police are not arriving at the scene of an accident, there is no reason to panic. Here is what must be done: -Stay calm and call 911 -Never make a statement without talking to an attorney -Get the name, license plate, and insurance info of the other driver -Receive a statement from the other driver and any nearby witnesses -Take photos of all damage to your Car, the other driver’s vehicle, and any other damage -File a report online or go to the Police Station -Call a lawyer before you contact the insurance company

• How would House Bill 5255 affect New Haven motorcycle accident claims?

  The Connecticut House Bill 5255 is an Act Concerning Department of Transportation Recommendations and Other Amendments to the Transportation Laws. A mandate that all motorcyclists under the age of 18 must wear a helmet. When a driver causes a motorcycle accident, the injured biker may file a lawsuit or an insurance claim against the driver to receive compensation for any damages. However, if the insurance company or court determines that the victim was not wearing a helmet, the motorcyclist's compensation may be withheld or reduced.

• Which New Haven roadways are unsafe for motorcyclists?

  According to the Hartford Courant, New Haven's Interstate Highways are hazardous for motorcycle riders. Recent motorcycle accidents on New Haven's major roads resulted in 16 injuries or fatalities. In addition to these potentially hazardous places, accidents between motorcyclists and motorists can occur when one party loses control or follows too closely. Motorcycle riders are always substantially more susceptible than other motorists. Thus, tragic accidents are more likely to occur.

• What does a motorcycle accident attorney do?

  Motorcycle accident attorneys provide legal advice, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent accident victims in and out of court. They investigate the cause of collisions, establish fault, value claims, prepare legal documents, and fight to recover adequate compensation for their clients. Most lawyers in this practice area also handle car and truck accidents and other personal injury claims.

• What is my motorcycle accident injury claim worth?

  Injured motorcyclists may be eligible for several types of compensation depending on their losses, state of residence, and level of fault. Whether or not they were wearing a helmet may also come into play. A lawyer can help to evaluate claims based on medical expenses, property damage, past and future lost wages, loss of earning capacity, pain and suffering, and emotional trauma.

• How long after a motorcycle accident can you claim an injury?

  The statute of limitations for personal injury claims is typically two years from the date of the accident. However, each state has its own rules. In Tennessee and Louisiana, for example, victims of motorcycle accidents have just one year to file a lawsuit. In Maine, Minnesota, and North Dakota, individuals have up to six years to initiate a claim.

• What is the average settlement for a motorcycle accident injury?

  Based on eight years of national data, the average verdict in motorcycle accident cases ranges from $74,000 to $560,000. Also note that the majority of claims are settled out of court. Riders may receive compensatory damages for medical bills, property damage, and lost wages, as well as general damages for emotional trauma, pain and suffering, and loss of consortium. Additionally, in states that follow a comparative negligence model, the plaintiff’s claim may be reduced according to his or her level of fault.

• What is the first thing I should do after a motorcycle accident?

  The steps that you take immediately after a collision can be instrumental in proving an accident or injury claim. In general, you should follow these guidelines:

  • Gather insurance and contact information from the other driver and any witnesses.
  • Contact law enforcement to report the collision and complete an accident report.
  • Document injuries, property damage, and road conditions.
  • Visit a doctor or hospital within 24 hours.
  • Avoid discussing the accident with the other driver or their insurance company.

  
  

• How does the motorcycle injury claim process work?

  Motorcycle accident cases typically start with an insurance claim. After documenting their client’s losses and establishing fault, attorneys generally prepare a demand letter requesting compensation from the other driver’s insurance company. It can take anywhere from one to six months for insurance adjusters to make a settlement offer. If the company denies the claim or the parties can’t reach an agreement, the lawyer can prepare a notice of intent to sue and file a formal lawsuit with the appropriate court.

• How do many motorcycle crashes happen?

  The most common causes for motorcycle collisions are drunk driving, exceeding the speed limit, and left turns. In 42% of all motorcycle collision fatalities, another vehicle turned left in front of an oncoming motorcycle. Motorcycle accidents are also caused by dangerous road conditions, such as crumbling pavement, debris in the road, and potholes. Other factors that contribute to motorcycle accidents include unsafe lane changes, sudden stops, lane splitting, inexperienced drivers, motorcycle defects, and car doors opened in the path of a motorcycle.

• How many motorcyclists get into accidents?

  In 2017, of the over 8 million motorcycle riders that year, approximately 89,000 were injured in motorcycle accidents and over 5,000 motorcycle collisions resulted in fatalities. The fatality rate for 100 million miles driven is 25.67, which is largely attributed to the lack of helmet use. Most fatal crashes involving motorcycles happened during the heaviest traffic times between 3 p.m. and 9 p.m.

• Are motorcycles more dangerous than cars?

  Motorcycles are more dangerous than cars because they lack any protection for the rider in the event of an accident. Motorcyclists are 27 times more likely to die in a crash and more than five times more likely to be injured than those riding in enclosed vehicles. Because of their small size, motorcycles’ lack of visibility is a major contributing factor in collisions with other vehicles. Motorcycles are also more vulnerable to weather conditions and road hazards than other automobiles.

• How do you check a motorcycle after a crash?

  For a minor crash with no injuries, the immediate danger is being struck again by oncoming traffic, so moving your bike off of the road as soon as possible is imperative. Check your mirrors, brake lights, headlight, and controls. You should also check to make sure there is no leaking fluid, such as fuel or oil.