In Branford, bicycle accidents occur frequently due to congested roads as well as an increasing number of cyclists in the area. If you are injured in such an accident, contacting a Branford bicycle accident lawyer is essential for making sure you’re properly compensated for any pain and suffering caused. In many cases, a Branford personal injury lawyer can also help ensure your rights are fully protected throughout the claims process.
Here at Jacobs & Jacobs, we serve the Branford community and surrounding areas by representing individuals involved in bicycle accidents. Our firm offers consultations to discuss your case in detail. Our team can navigate Connecticut’s legal system and local town regulations.
Local organizations, like the Connecticut Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Board, work to make the state safer for bicyclists and pedestrians. Nevertheless, even with a 30% increase in annual spending in 2023, accidents are still incredibly common.
In 2022, there were four bicyclist fatalities and a total of 329 reported bicyclist crash injuries in the state. Common causes of bicycle accidents can include:
To combat these incidents in Branford, Connecticut the Main Street (Route 146) Scenic Highway Gateway Study proposed several safety enhancements. These included proposing wider sidewalks (separated from the roadway by a grass strip and curbs), marked and raised crosswalks, and better lighting.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2021, a total of 2.2% of total traffic fatalities in the United States were bicyclists. A bicycle accident claim involves seeking compensation for injuries or damages resulting from a collision involving a bicycle. Connecticut uses a “modified comparative negligence” rule, which means you can recover damages unless you are more than 50% at fault.
However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are found to be 20% at fault and awarded $100,000, you will receive $80,000. Fault is based on factors such as which party failed to yield, whether traffic laws were properly followed, and if either party was distracted or intoxicated.
There is a two-year deadline to file a claim for bicycle accident injuries in Connecticut, so it’s important to act promptly. Some cases involving government liability may have shorter deadlines. Jacobs & Jacobs can thoroughly investigate each case to determine liability and advocate for fair compensation, based on all evidence.
Bicycle accident claims in Branford are handled through Connecticut’s Superior Court system; specifically, the New Haven Judicial District. Damages in a bicycle accident claim can cover a variety of losses:
Connecticut law permits compensation for these damages only when fault is established. Jacobs & Jacobs can carefully document all damages and preserve evidence related to the accident, enabling us to effectively support our clients’ claims.
Compensation for a bicycle accident in Branford widely depends on injury severity, fault, and documented damages. Consulting an experienced personal injury firm is crucial for customized advice. Jacobs & Jacobs evaluates each case’s specific circumstances to estimate potential recovery. Having legal guidance can improve your chances of obtaining fair compensation.
Fault in bicycle accidents depends heavily on the specific circumstances of a case. Bicyclists are not treated the same as pedestrians, so they may have a greater responsibility for accidents. Drivers may be held responsible for causes such as distracted driving, speeding, or violating traffic laws. However, cyclists can also share fault if they also fail to adhere to traffic laws or are proven to be negligent. Determining fault requires a detailed investigation of all the evidence.
If you accidentally hit a cyclist, you are legally required to stop immediately, check for injuries, and report the accident to the police. You must also exchange contact and insurance information with the cyclist and fully cooperate with law enforcement. Liability will be determined based on fault. If you’re found responsible, you may be subject to a personal injury claim. At the scene, be sure not to admit any fault, as this could affect the outcome of your case.
Car insurance may cover bicycle accidents, depending on the type of coverage and who is at fault. If a driver hits a cyclist, their liability insurance can cover the cyclist’s injuries and property damage. In Connecticut, optional MedPay or uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage may also apply, especially in hit-and-run cases. The attorneys at Jacobs & Jacobs can navigate insurance complexities and pursue compensation through the appropriate channels, based on your specific situation.
Our firm offers consultations to review your case and provide guidance on your legal options. Jacobs & Jacobs serves Branford and the nearby communities with experienced representation for bicycle accident claims. Contact our team today to protect your rights and begin pursuing compensation.