Stratford Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Motorcyclists face more dangers on the roadways than other drivers. Therefore, most drive with extreme caution and follow the local traffic rules and regulations to keep themselves safe. 

Unfortunately, even if you exercise the highest level of care while riding your motorcycle, a negligent motorist can cause a severe accident with life-changing consequences. If you find yourself in such a situation, it is crucial to reach out to a skilled personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. A Stratford motorcycle accident attorney at Bert McDowell Injury Law can help you take legal action against the carless driver who caused you harm. Ready to seek the justice you deserve? Then, Bring on Bert!

The Most Common Motorcycle Crash Injuries 

Motorcyclists can help keep themselves safe by wearing protective gear—such as helmets—at all times while riding their motorbikes. However, even if you wear all the proper protective gear, you are still vulnerable to suffering severe injuries. Some of the most common motorcycle crash injuries include: 

  • Traumatic brain injuries 
  • Spinal cord damage leading to paralysis
  • Broken bones such as ribs, collarbone, legs, and arms
  • Severe skin abrasions and road rash
  • Soft tissue damage, including ligament strains and sprains
  • Organ damage 
  • Internal bleeding 
  • Facial disfigurement or broken teeth 

Motorcycle riders most commonly sustain injuries to their lower extremities and chest during collisions with other motor vehicles. Many elements will contribute to the severity of the accident and the resulting injuries. Factors include the speed the rider and driver were traveling, and the side of the vehicle involved in the crash. 

The Modified Comparative Fault Rule 

It is common for the defendant in motorcycle accident cases to assert the plaintiff is at least partly responsible for the damages. According to the Connecticut General Statutes § 52-572h, the plaintiff is eligible to collect compensation from the defendant if their portion of the fault is less than the defendant’s share of liability. 

In such instances, the civil court will subtract the petitioner’s portion of responsibility from the total award amount. For example, if the court determines the total award amount for damages is $100,000, but the plaintiff is 20 percent at-fault, they will collect $80,000 in compensation. 

Time Limit to File a Lawsuit After a Motorcycle Crash in Stratford

The plaintiff must ensure they adhere to the timeline for filing a lawsuit as the state’s statute of limitations provides. Per the Connecticut General Statutes § 52-584, the petitioner must commence legal action within two years of the accident or risk losing eligibility to collect compensation from the at-fault party. 

The time begins to run on the day of the accident. However, if the biker is not immediately aware of their injuries, it will start to run the day they reasonably discover the damages. 

Damages in Motorcycle Accident Cases 

Many motorcycle wreck claims end with the parties agreeing on a settlement amount. If not, a proactive motorcycle accident lawyer like Bert McDowell could help the injured party take the case to civil court. 

Potential damages in motorcycle accident lawsuits include the cost of healthcare, lost pay and future earning potential, and pain and suffering. A dedicated motorcycle crash attorney in Stratford could help collect the vital evidence needed to prove fault and the total damages a victim is owed.

Schedule a Meeting with a Stratford Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Motorcycle accidents can leave riders with severe, life-threatening, and sometimes fatal injuries. Unfortunately, that is true even when they follow every safety precaution and wear protective gear while riding. When a careless motorist causes an accident, the civil court could hold the negligent party financially accountable for the victim’s damages. 

A settlement could cover your medical care, lost wages, property damages, and more. A hard-working Stratford motorcycle accident attorney at Bert McDowell Injury Law is prepared to fight for the financial recovery you deserve. Call now to speak with an experienced lawyer about the details of your case.