Hartford Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
Call Us After Being in a Wipeout
You can count on your legal counsel after a serious motorcycle accident. The other driver involved in your crash may blame you, even when they know they caused the accident. Insurance companies that do not have clear evidence of liability sometimes try to shift blame to you just because you ride a motorcycle. Without a strong motorcycle accident attorney in Hartford representing you, your case can quickly take a turn for the worse.
Pursue the compensation you deserve by working with RisCassi & Davis, P.C. and our Hartford motorcycle accident attorneys. We take pride in helping clients during difficult times by moving their claims forward with as little stress as possible and seeking the maximum compensation, either through settlement or an award.
Let us help you with your motorcycle accident claim. Contact us by calling (860) 245-2412.
Are Drivers Always Responsible for Motorcycle Accidents?
As a motorcyclist, you have likely felt frustration over the careless driving behaviors of other motorists around you. Many drivers fail to notice your smaller vehicle while they are driving. This issue causes a large portion of motorcycle accidents.
Drivers train themselves to look for car-sized vehicles with two headlights. When they encounter a smaller motorcycle with one headlight, they may not notice it at all, especially when distracted by smartphones or other factors. This negligence makes motorcycles "invisible," and drivers are more likely to hit you without realizing you're there.
Motorcycle accidents are often caused by drivers who:
- Turn left in front of approaching motorcyclists
- Change lanes without checking for motorcyclists
- Fail to stop in time at red lights when behind a motorcycle
- Overcorrect and swerve into a motorcyclist who is passing them
Understanding these common causes helps motorcyclists stay alert and prepared on the road. Defensive riding and anticipating sudden moves from other drivers can sometimes mean the difference between a close call and a preventable crash. Recognizing these patterns of driver negligence also helps when gathering evidence and testimonies, which may prove crucial in legal proceedings.
What Damages Can You Recover?
After a crash, motorcyclists are often diagnosed with severe injuries. Brain damage, spinal cord damage, and road rash are all common injuries for motorcyclists. Treating these injuries can become expensive, and the effects often last for years. Because of this, motorcycle accident claims often involve significant claims for compensation, which insurance companies usually try to minimize.
Damages in your motorcycle accident claim could include:
- Vehicle repairs
- Medical treatment costs
- Lost wages and income
- Pain and suffering
- Permanent disability
- And more
Beyond immediate medical bills, accident victims in the greater Hartford area often face lasting effects that impact their daily lives. Rehabilitation and ongoing treatment may extend for months or years, especially when injuries include damage to the back or traumatic brain injury. Many riders also experience disruptions at work, missing time or sometimes facing permanent work restrictions. Loss of earning power can add to the financial strain already caused by mounting medical costs.
What to Do Right After a Motorcycle Accident in Hartford
If you experience a motorcycle accident on Hartford’s busy streets, your actions immediately afterward can help protect your health and your rights. Move to a safe area away from traffic and call 911 to report the accident. Requesting a police report ensures that you have official documentation, which is often important for any injury claim in Hartford. Always seek medical care, even for aches and pains that seem minor, since injuries can develop or worsen after a crash. If you can, take photos of the accident scene, nearby road signs, intersections like Asylum Avenue or Route 84 exits, and all involved vehicles.
Obtain contact information for witnesses, as their statements can help clarify what happened if liability is disputed. Save any damaged riding gear, which may help demonstrate the strength of the impact. Notify your insurance company, but do not discuss fault or agree to a settlement until you have discussed your options. These first steps lay the groundwork for a more effective legal process if you decide to pursue a claim.
What Sets Us Apart
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Significant Honors & Recognition
In our 70+ years of experience, we have received both national & regional recognition for our handling of injury cases, and many honors from our legal colleagues.
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An Expert Team Approach
We have an extensive national network of experts available to us in the fields of medicine, engineering, traffic safety, accident reconstruction, and more – each available to work on your case should it require their expertise.
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Over Half a Billion Dollars RecoveredWe've taken hundreds of cases to trial and we've won some of the largest personal injury verdicts and settlements in Connecticut history.
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Board-Certified Trial LawyersOur seven attorneys who have achieved this honor demonstrated they have the training & depth of experience to help you get the best possible outcome for your case.
How Much Is a Motorcycle Accident Case Worth?
In general, a typical motorcycle accident lawsuit can settle for $2,500-$10,000 for minor injuries, and can sometimes settle for $100,000 or more for serious injuries. The best way to learn what your case may be worth is to contact your motorcycle accident lawyer at RisCassi & Davis, P.C. for a free consultation. We can evaluate the facts of your case and discuss whether pursuing a claim makes sense for your situation.
The value of a claim depends on facts such as the severity of your injuries, who holds legal responsibility for the crash, and the types of damages available under Connecticut law. Insurance limits often affect how much compensation you may be able to seek. Details about the location, such as road conditions at busy intersections on Main Street or near the Hartford city center, may also affect the outcome. A lawyer can review how these factors apply to you, estimate your possible recovery, and explain what to expect at every stage of your claim.
Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries
Can I Still Recover Damages If I Wasn't Wearing a Helmet?
In most cases, if you were not wearing a helmet at the time of the crash, you may still pursue compensation for your injuries. This is especially true when the other driver was primarily at fault. If you were not wearing a helmet and suffered a head injury, the at-fault party might argue that your injuries would have been less severe had you worn a helmet. In some situations, this may reduce the amount of compensation you could receive.
Each case is unique. While not wearing a helmet might influence your outcome, it does not bar you from pursuing compensation. Legal counsel will analyze driver behavior, road conditions, and the specifics of your injuries to build your argument. Consulting a seasoned motorcycle accident attorney can help you navigate these challenges and protect your rights.
Motorcycle Accident Concepts You Should Know
A few important things about motorcycle accidents that you should know are:
- Motorcycle helmet use: Motorcyclists in Connecticut do not need to wear helmets when riding unless they are a minor. However, all motorcyclists are encouraged to wear helmets at all times to drastically increase their safety.
- Lane splitting: Connecticut has no law that legalizes lane splitting. You should not lane split because drivers in the state won’t expect you to ride between lanes to pass them.
- Increased visibility: You should use ways to increase your visibility to other motorists, like wearing bright colors, placing reflectors on your motorcycle, using your turn signals whenever needed, and always keeping your headlight on, even during the day.
Additionally, understanding the local motorcycle laws and regulations can profoundly affect your riding experience. Familiarize yourself with Hartford's specific traffic rules, which can vastly differ from other areas. Awareness of local nuances in motorcycle laws ensures you are not only riding within the legal limits but also enhancing your safety by adapting to local traffic norms. Utilizing resources like community rider groups, local DMV resources, or legal consults can provide ongoing education and awareness to keep your skills sharp and informed.
Should I Sue After a Motorcycle Accident?
Deciding whether to file a lawsuit after your motorcycle accident can be difficult. You might think your injuries aren't severe enough for trial, or you could worry about the potential cost of hiring a lawyer. Ultimately, before you make a decision, ask yourself these questions:
- Do you know how much your injuries may be worth? Consider not just immediate care, but also missed work, long-term therapy, and pain and suffering. A lawyer can help evaluate your full claim.
- Are you confident you can obtain a fair settlement from the insurance company? If not, you may want to consider hiring a lawyer to advocate for you.
- Do you have the time and energy to handle a lawsuit on your own? You are likely recovering and may not have time or experience to handle this complex process. Legal counsel can allow you to focus on healing while someone handles the day-to-day details.
If someone else’s negligence caused your motorcycle accident injury, consult with an attorney for a free consultation. Their feedback can help you decide if your claim is worth pursuing and what step to take next.
Let Us Take Your Claim & Elevate It
No two motorcycle accident claims are identical due to the details involved in each case. The way your claim is handled can make a big difference. Ensure your case moves forward the right way by choosing experienced motorcycle accident attorneys in Hartford. We approach every case as if we were representing a close friend or ourselves!
How Our Hartford Motorcycle Accident Attorneys Support You
Working with experienced motorcycle accident attorneys gives you guidance through every step of the legal process. From the first consultation, your legal team focuses on gathering facts and preserving evidence that supports your claim. In Hartford, attorneys may assess accident sites, gather available CT Department of Transportation reports, and review statements related to intersections known for frequent motorcycle crashes. They explain what information can help your claim, answer your questions promptly, and provide clear updates as your case moves forward. This communication keeps you informed so you can make the best choices for your recovery and future. The established presence of RisCassi & Davis, P.C. means you benefit from years of focused service for Connecticut clients who face life-changing accidents.
Legal professionals regularly collaborate internally to review complex details, using the firm’s collective trial experience to prepare every case as if it could reach court. This approach not only strengthens your negotiating position but also reassures you that every angle is explored regarding witness statements, available evidence, and the unique circumstances of your accident in greater Hartford. When questions come up about compensation or Connecticut legal procedures, you receive clear communication from a team that puts your needs first.
Ready to get started on your motorcycle accident claim? FREE consultations are available. Schedule one by dialing (860) 245-2412and speaking to our motorcycle accident lawyers in Hartford.
Our Settlements & Verdicts
Recent Case Victories
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$40 Million Truck Accident
Pedestrian injured by a delivery truck resulting in paralysis.
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$12.6 Million Wrongful Death
Injury and death damages as a result of an explosion at the Kleen Energy plant.
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$11 Million Truck Accident
Collision with commercial delivery truck results in brain injury.
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$9 Million Paralyzed Worker
$9,000,000 settlement for a paralyzed construction worker.
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$8.1 Million Medical Malpractice
Improperly performed biopsy lead to wrongful death.
