Motorcycle Accident Attorney In West Haven, CT
There is nothing like hitting the open roadway of Ocean Avenue on a motorcycle and taking in the sights, smells, and sounds of the Long Island Sound. Due to the nature of these vehicles, however, motorcyclists are at a much higher risk for injury and even death when an accident takes place. Whether you’re taking in the views or traveling to work along Chestnut Street, when the worst-case scenario occurs, a West Haven motorcycle accident lawyer is here to help.
Why Hire Williams, Walsh & O’Connor, LLC?
With over 150 years of legal experience, the team at Williams, Walsh & O’Connor, LLC is here to serve you. Clients hire us because of our experience and personalized service. Members of our team have been named by Super Lawyers and have been distinguished with AV Preeminent ratings.
We are compassionate and take the time to know and fully understand your needs. We strive to reach a settlement through negotiations, but aren’t afraid to take a case to court when necessary.
Steps to Take Following a Motorcycle Accident in West Haven
Across the United States, 15% of all traffic fatalities are motorcyclists, and the odds of getting into a motorcycle accident are one in every 225,000 miles ridden. If you find yourself suddenly in the aftermath of a motorcycle accident, there are certain steps to take that can work to protect your physical safety and your future claim for compensation. These steps include:
- Prioritizing your safety. If you are physically able, it is important that you move to safety off the roadway. You should also move your bike if at all possible. Otherwise, stay where you’re at and call 911. Even if you do not feel physically injured, it is wise to get yourself checked over for possible injuries that are not apparent right away, such as concussions and internal bleeding.
- Calling the police. You need to contact the West Haven Police Department and notify them of the accident. They can come to the scene of the crash and write up an official report that will work as vital evidence for your case and can help establish fault and liability.
- Gathering evidence. If you are physically able to do so, it is important that you gather evidence from the scene of the accident. This can include detailed photos of your injuries, the scene of the accident, any damage your bike has sustained, the roadway conditions, and any missing or damaged signage. You should also gather the contact and insurance information of the at-fault driver and the contact information of any witnesses.
- Notifying your insurance. It is important that you make your insurance company aware of the accident, but that you do not discuss the accident or make a statement with the at-fault party’s insurance until you have spoken to a lawyer. Do not, under any circumstances, admit to or discuss fault. Even saying a simple “I’m sorry” can be seen as an admission of guilt and can be used against you in a claim for compensation.
- Preserving documentation. You will want to keep copies of all of your medical records, the police report from the accident scene, any billing statements, and receipts of repairs done to your bike.
- Contacting an attorney. The earlier you reach out to an attorney, the quicker your legal team can begin building a case and get out ahead of the liable insurance company. At Williams, Walsh & O’Connor, LLC, we are here to listen to your story and do whatever we can to recover the compensation and justice you deserve.
Taking these necessary steps can help protect your safety, preserve evidence that will be crucial to the success of your claim, and build a strong foundation for your case. If you have questions following a motorcycle accident in West Haven, the team at Williams, Walsh & O’Connor, LLC is here to answer them.
What Are the Most Common Injuries Suffered in Motorcycle Accidents?
In a motorcycle accident, 35% of those who suffer fatal injuries are not wearing a helmet. However, even with all of the protective gear, motorcyclists can still suffer severe and deadly harm, including:
- Road rash and severe burns
- Damage to soft tissues
- Internal organ or nerve damage
- Internal bleeding
- Broken or fractured bones
- Neck and back injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Damage to the spinal cord
FAQs
What Compensation Can I Recover Following a Motorcycle Accident?
There are several forms of compensation you may be able to recover following a motorcycle accident in West Haven. This compensation can include all medical bills, past, present, and future, as they relate to your accident and resulting injuries, your lost wages, lost employment benefits, or loss of your future earnings, as well as pain and suffering damages and property damage.
What Happens if My Loved One Is Killed in a Motorcycle Accident?
If your loved one is killed in a motorcycle accident, no amount of money will bring them back, but it can help ease some of the burdens left behind following their passing. In cases of wrongful death, you may be able to recover damages such as all related medical bills, burial costs, lost wages, and funeral expenses.
How Can a Personal Injury Lawyer Help Me?
In a motorcycle accident case, a personal injury lawyer is there to listen to your story and pursue the full amount of compensation you deserve. They can do so by helping you file your official claim, gathering critical forms of evidence, reviewing all of your medical records, and handling negotiations with the at-fault party’s insurance company.
Why Do Motorcycle Accidents Take Place?
Motorcycle accidents can take place due to several different causes, most of which boil down to some form of human error. The most common causes of motorcycle accidents include other distracted drivers on the road, drivers who do not check the road around them for the presence of motorcyclists, speeding, tailgating, improper turning, sudden lane changes, and dooring accidents.
Hire a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Serving West Haven Today
If you have suffered injury while riding your motorcycle, you need to hire a motorcycle accident lawyer right away. Contact Williams, Walsh & O’Connor, LLC, and schedule a free consultation today.
