Best Motorcycle Accident Lawyers in Stamford, CT

FAQs

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

  The phone number for routine or non-emergency calls in Stamford is 203-977-4444.

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

  You may obtain a copy of a traffic accident report in Stamford through: https://www.stamfordct.gov/government/public-safety-health-welfare/police-department/how-do-i/obtain-copy-of-accident-report-online. You will be automatically redirected to the crash information portal, where you can file your request.

• Are motorcycle drivers required to wear a helmet in Stamford, CT?

  Although Connecticut law recommends the use of a helmet, motorcyclists in Stamford are not required to wear helmets as long as they have protective goggles or eyeglasses on. If a motorcycle driver who isn't wearing a helmet gets hurt in an accident on a local road, the fact that they weren't wearing safety gear could affect how much money they get from a jury verdict or a settlement. 

• What are the usual injuries arising from motorcycle accidents in Stamford, CT?

  Depending on the degree of impact, a motorcycle accident in Stamford can cause a person life-altering injuries. Among the most common injuries resulting from motorcycle crashes are:

  • Fractures
  • Road rash
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Internal organ damage
  • Traumatic brain injuries You may be able to recover damages once the liable party has been determined.

• Can you still recover damages if you are partly at fault for your motorcycle accident in Stamford, CT?

  Connecticut is a "modified comparative negligence" state, which means you may still be able to recover damages even if you were found to be partially responsible for a Stamford motorcycle accident that resulted in your injuries. Following this system, the court will reduce your total recovery amount by the percentage of your own fault. However, if you are more than 50% at fault for the accident, you won’t be able to file a claim.

• What kinds of evidence can you gather for a motorcycle accident claim in Stamford, CT?

  After figuring in a motorcycle accident in Stamford, you can help build your case by collecting evidence onsite. If you are physically capable to do so, take pictures of the accident scene, the road, the surroundings, the road signs, and even the street lights. You may also take pictures of your injuries before going to the hospital to demonstrate the immediate effects of the crash on your body. A personal injury attorney can help you preserve the evidence you have gathered.

• How much time do you have to make a legal claim for a motorcycle accident in Stamford, CT?

  Under Connecticut General Statutes § 52-584, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to bring any claims resulting from negligence, recklessness, or wanton misconduct. If you fail to bring your lawsuit on or before the deadline, it is likely that you will lose any opportunity to recover damages and hold the negligent or reckless parties accountable for their actions.

• 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.