Motorcycle Accidents Attorney in Hamden, Connecticut

Riding my motorcycle brings a sense of freedom and exhilaration to explore the open road. I have been looking forward to Spring ever since I owned my first bike in high school. I understand that with riding also comes risk. My experience riding has taught me that many automobile operators do not have an understanding of what it is like to operate a motorcycle and therefore they create unsafe conditions that ultimately can lead to devastating collisions.

Examples are failing to yield the right of way by misjudging the closing distance of a motorcycle at an intersection or while exiting a parking lot or driveway, simply not seeing a motorcycle because of a lack of awareness, or driving in close proximity to a motorcycle without providing adequate space for the rider to react to a road hazard or sudden lane change or stop by another motorist.

Over the years, with the significant increase in traffic, unaware or drunk drivers, sometimes confusing lane change markings, cell phone use when driving, and road construction debris and redirects, it is necessary to be even more vigilant when riding to anticipate unsafe conditions.

As a lawyer representing motorcycle riders who have been seriously injured because of the negligence and recklessness of motor vehicle operators, I know that crashes happen even when my clients have been careful and take quick action to avoid the collision.

At Sacramone Law, I understand the unique challenges that you as a motorcyclist encounter on the road, and that in the unfortunate event of a motorcycle accident, I'm here to ensure that you receive full compensation for all the financial, physical, and emotional harm you are experiencing. Additionally, I will assist in getting your motorcycle repaired or replaced if totaled.

If you've been involved in a motorcycle accident in New Haven, Hartford, Bridgeport, Waterbury, or anywhere in Connecticut, it’s crucial to have a legal professional who knows how to handle your case. With years of experience, I'm dedicated to assisting personal injury victims in their recovery and pursuit of justice. 

Understanding Motorcycle Accidents in Connecticut

Connecticut requires that vehicles, including motorcycles, carry a minimum coverage of $25,000 for bodily injury per person/$50,000 per accident for bodily injury when two or more people are involved, and $25,000 per accident for property damage.

It is not unusual for a motor vehicle operator who caused a motorcycle accident to only have insurance with the minimum required coverage limits. The troubling reality is that this insurance coverage level is insufficient to provide adequate compensation for those who are seriously injured in a motorcycle accident.

It is also possible that the at-fault motor vehicle operator is uninsured or continued driving away from the accident scene without being identified. For these reasons, Sacramone Law will investigate all available insurance including uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage under your own policy and other motor vehicle insurance that might apply to the at-fault driver such as his/her employer's insurance.

Immediate Steps Following a Motorcycle Accident

The aftermath of a motorcycle accident can be chaotic and confusing. Here are crucial steps to take immediately after: 

1. Seek Immediate Medical Assistance: Your well-being is paramount. Even if there are no visible injuries, internal harm may have occurred. 

2. Report the Accident: Notify the police so that the collision is initially investigated at the time of the accident and documented with respect to fault, the possibility of drug or alcohol use, road, weather, and other potentially contributing factors, witnesses, and insurance.

3. Gather Evidence: Take photographs of the accident scene, your injuries, and the damage to your motorcycle and the at-fault driver's vehicle. Note details about the road conditions or any obstacles that contributed to the accident. 

4. Witness Information: Collect contact information from any witnesses. Their testimony could be crucial to your case. 

5. Consult With a Motorcycle Accident Attorney: Before speaking with insurance companies, it’s vital to seek legal advice. Sacramone Law offers free consultations to help you fully understand your options and prepare for the next steps in a no-risk, no-obligation environment. 

How Sacramone Law Can Assist You

Motorcycle accident cases often involve liability issues, potentially severe injuries, and bias against motorcyclists. I leverage extensive experience and a detailed understanding of Connecticut traffic laws to advocate on your behalf, ensuring: 

Thorough Investigation: We tirelessly investigate your case, including:

• Consulting with accident reconstructionists, physicians/medical care providers, and economic and other experts when necessary to establish fault and damages

• Obtaining available surveillance video and police body camera footage

• Identifying and speaking with witnesses

• Visiting the scene of the collision, preserving evidence, and taking photographs that best portray the road/intersection configuration, tire marks or other conditions of road impact, traffic controls, road signs, sight lines, and more

• Obtaining medical reports and related tests such as x-rays along with requesting certain opinions from your medical team to fully document the nature and severity of your injuries as well as understanding the long-term implications on your life after your initial recovery

Fight for Full Compensation: Insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts. We assertively and comprehensively present your claim to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for your physical and emotional injuries, medical bills, lost wages, and other damages present and future.

Skilled Legal Representation in Court: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are prepared to represent you in court, presenting a compelling case to achieve a favorable outcome. 

At Sacramone Law, my approach to motorcycle accident cases is characterized by my determination, personalized attention, and legal knowledge. I understand the passion behind every rider and the challenges faced on the road. I can represent your interests both in and out of the courtroom. 

Possible Damages and Compensation After a Motorcycle Accident 

The aftermath of a motorcycle accident is often a landscape of physical and emotional turmoil, and the financial repercussions can be equally devastating. To alleviate some of the burdens, Connecticut law provides a range of damages that you may be eligible to claim depending on circumstances including:

• Medical Expenses: If you were injured in an accident, you are entitled to recover the cost of any reasonably necessary medical treatment you receive because of your injuries, including reimbursement for out-of-pocket expenses for treatment. 

• Lost Income: If the injuries sustained in the motorcycle accident prevent you from working, you can recover for past and future loss of income and wages that resulted from your inability to return to work. 

• Pain and Suffering: Physical pain and mental anguish can greatly impact your quality of life. Connecticut law permits you to claim compensation for pain and suffering. 

• Loss of Consortium: When injuries from a motorcycle accident interfere with your relationship with your spouse you may be able to claim loss of consortium, referring to the loss of companionship, support, and other marital benefits. 

• Punitive Damages: In addition to compensatory damages (compensation for actual losses as listed above), you may be eligible for punitive damages (directed at particularly dangerous conduct). An award of double or treble damages may be available if the at-fault driver deliberately or with reckless disregard operated a motor vehicle in violation of specific motor vehicle laws. A couple of examples are speeding or following too closely. Punitive damages may also be available under common law if it can be shown that the at-fault driver was reckless, a level of unsafe conduct higher than negligence. Here, punitive damages are limited to your attorney fees and costs of asserting your claim.

Critically evaluating the at-fault driver's conduct based on a thorough investigation and fully identifying all the harms suffered is crucial in building an effective case for maximum compensation.  

Answers to Common Questions From Motorcycle Accident Victims

Knowing what to do after a motorcycle accident can be overwhelming, and you likely have questions. If your question isn't answered here, please feel free to reach out to my firm today.

What should I do if the insurance company contacts me? 

Before speaking with insurance adjusters or accepting any offers, consult with your attorney. Insurance companies often seek to settle quickly and for less than you deserve. 

How long do I have to file a claim?

In Connecticut, there is generally a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including motorcycle accidents. However, it’s crucial to act quickly to preserve evidence and strengthen your case. 

Can I file a claim if I was partly at fault?

Connecticut follows a modified comparative negligence rule. If you were partially at fault, you are still entitled to recover compensation, provided your fault is not more than 50%. 

Can I still file a claim if I wasn't wearing a helmet during the accident? 

Yes, you can still file a claim. Generally, Connecticut law requires motorcycle riders under the age of 18 to wear a helmet. However, not wearing a helmet, even if required by Connecticut law, does not excuse an at-fault driver from responsibility for causing the accident. Not wearing a helmet can contribute to the severity of certain injuries and therefore negatively impact your ability to recover compensation.