Bicycle Accident Attorney In Middletown, CT
Bicycle accidents can have traumatic consequences for those who survive. The emotional and physical toll has a severe effect and can lead to extensive monetary losses. After a crash, you want a strong legal advocate to fight for your rights. A Middletown bicycle accident lawyer can represent your case.
Experienced Personal Injury Law Firm Based in New Haven, Connecticut
Here at Williams, Walsh & O’Connor, LLC, our attorneys understand the widespread effects a crash can have on victims. We have more than 150 combined years of professional experience to guide us during bicycle accident cases, and we use that experience to fight tirelessly for our clients.
When you come into our New Haven office for your consultation, you can sit down with one of our lawyers and explain the full details of your situation. After expressing your desired outcome, we can provide transparent legal advice so you can make informed decisions regarding your case.
The Reality of Crashes in Connecticut
The Connecticut Department of Transportation conducts a Road Safety Audit program to identify safety hazards for those walking and biking. In 2022, they completed six safety audits, spanning an estimated 14.75 miles of highway. However, despite these audits, bicyclists and pedestrians continue to be the most vulnerable in accidents. In 2022, there were four bicyclists who died in a Connecticut crash.
Middletown will begin a road safety study after a rise in deadly crashes across the state. The city plans to hire consultants to examine four major roads using a $720,000 federal grant, with the goal of making local streets safer and working toward zero traffic deaths.
The study will look at 12 miles of busy roads that are important routes for drivers, bicyclists, and pedestrians. Between 2020 and 2025, these Middletown streets have had hundreds of crashes. They include the following:
- Newfield Street had 484 crashes.
- Washington Street had 975 crashes.
- South Main Street had 379 crashes.
- Saybrook Road had 367 crashes.
The Main Street Extension and Pleasant Street also showed significant accident totals.
The need for this work is clear. In 2024, there were 81 traffic deaths in Connecticut, an increase from 68 deaths in 2023.
Connecticut Bicycle Accident Laws
Connecticut courts allow those injured in a bicycle crash to seek compensation for their pain. The state’s courts understand that even victims may have had a role in what caused the accident, so state law allows them to pursue a settlement if they’re found to be 50% or less at fault for the crash. However, any compensation won will be reduced by the victim’s assigned percentage of fault.
For example, if you were hit by a driver who was speeding, they may be assigned 70% at fault for the crash. However, if you ran a red light while on your bike, you may be deemed 30% at fault. If you were awarded $100,000, it would be reduced by 30%, making your final settlement award $70,000.
The judge will rely on the evidence provided in the case to determine fault. This can include:
- The initial incident report
- Your medical records, both at the time of the crash and ongoing treatment
- Photos and videos taken at the time of the crash
- Dashcam and traffic camera footage
- Surveillance footage from nearby businesses or residences
- Eyewitness or expert testimony
Victims have two years to file their bicycle accident claim in Middletown. These cases are generally handled at the Connecticut Courthouse, located at 1 Court Street. While this time limit seems long, your monetary losses may quickly become substantial. If you file your claim after this deadline, your case will most likely be dismissed by the court.
FAQs
What Should I Do After Being Involved in a Bicycle Accident in Middletown?
After a bike crash, call 911. Survivors should seek immediate care at Middlesex Hospital Emergency Room, located at 28 Crescent Street. Be sure to collect the contact and insurance information of all parties involved in the crash, along with that of any witnesses. Take photos of the crash site, any visible injuries, and damage to your bike or vehicle. Then, hire a bicycle accident lawyer at Williams, Walsh & O’Connor, LLC, to represent your interests and provide guidance.
What Should I Avoid Doing After a Bicycle Crash Happens?
After being in a bicycle accident, take several steps to preserve your legal rights. During and after the crash, don’t apologize to anyone or admit any guilt for what happened. Even if you have good intentions, doing so will only be used against you later in your case. Do not argue with the other party involved in the crash, as this will only escalate the situation and make it worse. Then, consult a Middletown bicycle accident attorney about your options.
What Do I Do If the Other Party Won’t Give Me Their Information After a Bike Crash?
If the other party won’t cooperate and give their contact and insurance information, stay calm. Don’t try to fight them about it or confront them. Instead, wait for the police to arrive. Law enforcement can collect their information on your behalf. If the other party tries to flee before police arrive, take a photo of their license plate and the car’s make and model. The police can track them down for you.
Should I Speak to Insurance Companies Only When My Lawyer Is Present?
You can speak to insurance companies if your lawyer isn’t present, but proceed with caution. These companies will do whatever they can to avoid paying. If you say something by mistake, they’ll use it against you. Don’t speculate about what caused the crash or admit fault. Write down what you want to say beforehand, and give only basic facts about the crash. If they ask for a recorded statement, only do so with your lawyer there.
Hire a Bicycle Accident Lawyer
At Williams, Walsh & O’Connor, LLC, our team is dedicated to protecting our Connecticut neighbors during their most difficult times in life. We work hard to get our clients the compensation they need and deserve. Reach out to our New Haven office today to set up your first appointment.
