Bridgeport Bicycle Accident Lawyer

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Bicycle Accident Attorney in Bridgeport, CT

Biking is a popular way to commute, stay active, and enjoy the outdoors in Bridgeport. However, when negligent drivers fail to safely share the road, bicyclists face the risk of serious or fatal injuries. If you were injured in a bicycle accident in Bridgeport, a Bridgeport bicycle accident lawyer can help you obtain your entitled compensation.

At Weber & Rubano, our attorneys help clients pursue damages through bike accident cases for medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering.

Bridgeport Bicycle Accident Lawyer

About Weber & Rubano

Weber & Rubano has been representing complex personal injury claims for many decades, including bicycle accident cases that involve severe injuries and insurance company issues. The firm has earned a reputation for both compassionate client service and aggressive legal representation.

Our Bridgeport personal injury lawyers take the time to understand each client’s individual circumstances, and we work hard to ensure that our clients receive the largest financial recovery possible under the law. We are dedicated to helping Bridgeport accident victims receive maximum recovery through settlements or legal trials.

What to Do After a Bicycle Accident in Bridgeport

A bicycle accident is a frightening experience, but it’s important to take the right steps immediately after an accident to protect your health and your legal rights. Bridgeport cyclists involved in crashes should prioritize safety, documentation, and timely medical care. The following actions can strengthen your injury claim and help secure fair compensation:

  • Get to a safe place and call 911. Report the accident to the police and request emergency medical services if necessary.
  • Seek medical attention. Even if you believe your injuries are minor, some symptoms may not manifest for a few hours. You will need a medical record that connects your injuries to the crash.
  • Document the scene. Take photographs of your bicycle, the other vehicle, the road conditions, your injuries, and traffic signs.
  • Get witness information. Collect names, phone numbers, and statements from any witnesses who were present.
  • Obtain a copy of the police report. A police report is one of the most crucial pieces of evidence in most claims.
  • Don’t speak with the other party’s insurance company. Do not give a statement to the other party’s insurer until after you have consulted with an attorney.
  • Contact a Bridgeport bicycle accident lawyer. A lawyer walks you through your claim, takes care of negotiations with the insurance companies, and works to get you full and fair compensation.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Bridgeport

Drivers who cause Bridgeport bicycle accidents often act negligently and show a blatant disregard for cyclists’ rights. Distracted and speeding drivers, as well as motorists who fail to yield at intersections and “door” cyclists, cause many crashes. Factors such as poor road conditions and inadequate bicycle infrastructure may also contribute to an accident.

Even the most cautious and vigilant cyclists can become injured when a motorist fails to share the road responsibly. A skilled bicycle accident lawyer can help determine how your crash occurred, who may be liable, and what compensation you may be entitled to. Identifying the cause of an accident is a key first step in pursuing a claim.

Injuries Resulting from Bicycle Accidents

A cyclist is in a much more vulnerable position when an accident occurs without the kind of physical safety that is often afforded by a vehicle. This is why injuries caused by bicycle accidents can be very serious.

Wearing a helmet does not prevent cyclists from sustaining serious injuries such as broken bones and traumatic brain injuries. These types of injuries can result in long-term health problems, costly medical bills, time away from work, and, in some cases, a life-changing permanent disability.

A Bridgeport bicycle accident lawyer can ensure that your injuries are accurately accounted for in your settlement, as well as any future medical care you may need.

Liability and Comparative Negligence in Connecticut

A modified comparative negligence rule informs Bridgeport bicycle accident laws. This means you may still be able to recover compensation, even if you bear some of the blame for causing the accident, as long as you’re found to be no more than 51% at fault.

If you’re found to be 20% at fault, for example, your compensation will be reduced by 20%. You should expect the insurance representative to attempt to assign most of the accident liability to you. Insurance companies may vigorously defend against claims when faced with strong legal representation.

A Bridgeport bicycle accident attorney can help you develop the strongest possible case to support your version of events and counter any attempts to exaggerate your share of the blame and/or downplay the other party’s responsibility.

When Bicycle Accidents Involve Dangerous Property Conditions

Not every bike accident involves a car. Sometimes, a dangerous condition on a property can cause a crash. Property owners face legal responsibility to keep their premises safe for pedestrians and visitors who enter their property.

Dangerous conditions like cracked pavement, broken fencing, loose gravel, and poor lighting can all cause serious bicycle accidents. A Bridgeport bicycle accident attorney can tell you if the property owner was negligent and if you have a claim under premises liability law.

Bicycle Accidents Involving Other Motor Vehicles

While cars are commonly involved in bicycle crashes, accidents can also involve trucks, buses, motorcycles, or even government vehicles. These other motor accidents often result in more serious injuries due to the size and weight of the vehicle involved.

For example, a collision with a delivery truck or city bus can cause catastrophic damage. Additionally, these cases are often complicated by complex insurance coverage and municipal claims.

A Bridgeport bicycle accident attorney can help you with these multi-layered cases, so you know your options and aren’t intimidated by big insurance companies and legal teams representing truck and commercial drivers.

Why You Shouldn’t Rely on Insurance Alone

When you have a bicycle accident, many people believe that an insurance claim will take care of all of their losses. Insurance companies aim to minimize their payouts rather than ensure you receive complete compensation.

Medical costs, rehabilitation, lost wages, and pain and suffering are often grossly underestimated or overlooked. In addition, if there is any disagreement over who is responsible for the accident, they may deny your claim outright.

A skilled Bridgeport bicycle accident attorney can work on your behalf to negotiate a fair outcome and fight to make sure that your needs are considered in a settlement or litigation. Avoid allowing an insurance company to dictate the compensation value of your case.

FAQs

What Should I Do if I Am Hit by a Car While Riding My Bike in Bridgeport?

If you are struck by a car while riding your bike in Bridgeport, you should get medical treatment, call the police, take photographs, and exchange information with witnesses. Do not make statements to any insurance company.

Contact a Bridgeport bicycle accident lawyer quickly to safeguard your rights and choices while ensuring your claim receives proper handling from the start.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Bridgeport Bicycle Accident?

The liable party in a Bridgeport bicycle accident could be a negligent driver, a property owner, or even a government agency if the road conditions were a factor. Determining fault involves investigating the scene, reviewing traffic laws, and collecting witness statements. A Bridgeport bicycle accident lawyer can help identify all liable parties and build a strong case to recover maximum compensation for your injuries and losses.

Can I Still Recover Compensation if I Am Partially at Fault?

Yes, you can still recover compensation if you are partially at fault for a bicycle accident in Connecticut. Connecticut is a modified comparative negligence state. This means that you can recover as long as you are no more than 51% responsible for the crash. Your damages award will be decreased by your percentage of fault. A Bridgeport bicycle accident attorney can fight to have as little fault assigned to you as possible.

What Damages Can I Recover in a Bicycle Accident Claim?

In a bicycle accident claim, you can recover damages for medical bills, lost income, property damage, and pain and suffering. In severe cases, you may also be entitled to compensation for long-term care, emotional distress, and diminished earning capacity. A Bridgeport bicycle accident lawyer can evaluate your case and pursue maximum compensation based on your injuries and recovery requirements.

How Long Do I Have to File a Bicycle Accident Lawsuit in Connecticut?

In Connecticut, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases, including bicycle accidents, is generally two years from the date of the accident. Failing to file your claim within this time period can result in the loss of your right to recover damages. If your claim involves a government agency or entity or a public roadway, there may be shorter notice periods that apply.

Hire a Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Over the past six years, Connecticut has seen a steady increase in vehicle collisions involving bicyclists, rising from 0.44% to nearly 1% of all reported crashes. If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident in Bridgeport, don’t wait to hire a bicycle accident lawyer and get the legal support you need.

The experienced attorneys at Weber & Rubano are ready to diligently protect your rights and help you get full and fair compensation. Call today to schedule your free consultation and get started on the path to physical and financial recovery.