After a motorcycle accident, you may be hurt and disoriented. Seeking medical attention is the most important thing you should do after an accident. However, you may have questions about your legal options, who is responsible and more.
Because of this, our team of Connecticut motorcycle accident lawyers have compiled the most common questions they are asked after a CT motorcycle accident, and given their general answers.
This FAQ can help you with a general outline of what to expect and do after an accident, it doesn't replace a consultation with an experienced lawyer. Your specific case may be unique, so it's important to schedule a legal consultation as soon as you can after an accident.
The lawyers at Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law are accessible to you seven days a week, 24 hours a day, to consult with any accident victims. We pride ourselves in giving our clients the best legal help possible.
FAQ for Motorcycle Accidents in Connecticut
Below are some of the most frequent questions our lawyers are asked after a motorcycle accident in CT. Browse through to learn more about motorcycle accidents and what else to know about any injury claims that follows.
1. What Do I Do in the Event of a Motorcycle Accident?
First, call for medical help for anyone who has been hurt. If your motorcycle is obstructing traffic, try to move it out of the way of oncoming cars. The next step is to get the other driver's insurance information so you can file a claim afterwards.
2. Should I See A Doctor?
Yes, you should see a doctor after the accident. Many times, you may not realize you are hurt, or even how serious your injuries are, because your body is still in shock from the accident. If you wait to seek medical attention and your symptoms appear later, this may affect your ability to file a claim for compensation for your injuries.
3. Should I Call The Police To Report The Accident?
According to Connecticut state law, anyone involved in a car accident is required to complete a Uniform Police Crash Report if anyone is hurt, someone dies or the accident results in more than $1,000 worth of property damage. This is required within five days.
The police will submit the accident report, so you won't need to do this on your own. When police are dispatched to an accident scene, they will record certain data in their official accident report. These details can be utilized in the future to determine who is at fault.
4. What Is The Time Limit For Filing A Motorcycle Claim?
The statute of limitations in Connecticut is two years from the date of the motorcycle accident. After this time period any claims will likely be rejected. The statute of limitations may be much shorter in some situations, such as when you are filing a lawsuit against a local government or other government agency.
5. Is There A Motorcycle Helmet Law in Connecticut?
Connecticut is one of just 28 states with helmet laws. Connecticut General Statutes § 14-289g mandates that all motorcycle riders, including passengers, are required to wear a helmet.
What If I Wasn't Wearing a Helmet?
Failing to do so may result in a minimum fine of $90.
6. What Do I Need To Ride A Motorcycle Legally in CT?
By law, there are a few requirements needed to ride a motorcycle legally in the state of Connecticut. This includes:
- A current driver's license with a motorcycle endorsement
- Must complete a rider education course
- A minimum of $20,000 in coverage for injuries
- A helmet
7. What is "Comparative Negligence" and How Does It Affect Me?
Comparative negligence will lower the amount of compensation you receive from a personal injury or car accident claim. The amount is based on each driver's percent of fault. For example, if you are found to be 10% at fault for an accident and are awarded $10,000 in damages. That amount would be reduced by 10%, which would be $9,000.
8. Can I File a Claim If I Was a Passenger in The Accident?
For anyone injured in a motorcycle accident, they can sue the person who caused it. If you were a passenger on a motorcycle, you can file a claim with the insurance of the at fault driver.
9. When Should I Call A Lawyer?
There may be numerous details involved in motorcycle accidents. An experienced lawyer knows the laws and how to navigate the claims process following an accident. Your claim will have a better chance of getting fair compensation with the assistance of a lawyer versus trying to negotiate with the insurance company and at-fault driver on your own. You should call a lawyer as soon as possible after your accident.
Hurt in a Motorcycle Accident? Brandon J. Broderick Can Help
If you are not at fault and hurt in a motorcycle accident, you may be entitled to compensation, regardless of the severity of your injuries. For the best legal help, consult with the CT motorcycle accident lawyers at Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law.
Call us today and schedule an appointment. Allow us to help you get past this and back on your feet again.