
Mystic Motorcycle Accident Attorney
Mystic, Connecticut, serves as a hub for both relaxing coastal cruises and technical inland rides through the “Quiet Corner” of the state. Yet, whenever you are on the road, it is wise to prepare for the possibility of an accident. If a driver’s negligence puts you on the pavement, you shouldn’t have to fight for your recovery alone. An experienced Mystic, CT, motorcycle accident lawyer can help you pursue the compensation you deserve.
The skilled Mystic personal injury attorneys at Suisman Shapiro Attorneys-at-Law can help you find the right course of action for seeking accountability and compensation. With the help of a Mystic motorcycle accident attorney, you can develop a strong motorcycle accident claim and pursue damages. Throughout your case, you need legal counsel with intimate knowledge of the state’s motorcycle accident laws, as well as experience handling cases like yours. Our firm can help.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
According to recent statistical data from the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT), more than 50 motorcyclists are killed in accidents on Connecticut roads every year. Nationwide, motorcyclist fatalities account for 15% of all traffic fatalities, according to the NHTSA. While each accident is unique, there are often similar circumstances involved. Here are some of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents in Connecticut:
- Driver negligence. Motorcycles are significantly smaller and lighter than other vehicles, which puts riders at risk in accidents. It doesn’t take much for the driver of a larger vehicle to misjudge a motorcycle’s speed or fail to see it at all. The resulting accident can be devastating. Distractions, such as cell phone use or other people in the car, can also be considered driver negligence.
- DUIs. According to recent data from CTDOT, 113 drivers were killed in DUI-related accidents in the state in 2023 alone. Motorcyclists are not safe from impaired drivers. In fact, driving under the influence may make it even harder to see a motorcycle on the road. If you are in an accident with an impaired driver, you may be entitled to pursue damages with a lawyer’s help.
- Road conditions. Connecticut, as well as the rest of New England, can have some harsh winters and brutal rainstorms that can change the conditions of the road in an instant. It’s recommended that you prioritize safety precautions whenever you are riding a motorcycle, but even more so when you are riding on an icy or wet road. Construction zones can make roads less safe as well, due to sand, gravel, or other temporary hazards.
How to Handle the Aftermath of an Accident
You should always remember that every action you take after an accident can be included in your claim. Certain negative actions could result in your claim being denied, but staying calm is essential. Try your hardest to focus on documenting the incident properly and not panicking or losing your temper. Here are some important steps to take after an accident:
- Assess your situation. If you’ve just been in a motorcycle accident, you may want to take some time to calm yourself down, figure out the right way to approach this ordeal, and move forward with a clear head. This can be easier said than done, especially if you are seriously injured.
- If you are injured in a motorcycle accident in Mystic, you can get emergency care at nearby hospitals in Groton and Westerly, including Westerly Hospital or Lawrence + Memorial Hospital. Also, Pequot Health Center, Hartford HealthCare-GoHealth Urgent Care, and Yale New Haven Health Urgent Care can help treat your injuries. Make sure you get medical care after being involved in a motorcycle wreck.
- Don’t try to flee the scene. The worst thing you could do for your case is get back on your motorcycle and try to leave. If you are caught later, you could be charged with fleeing the scene of an accident or even a hit-and-run. The legal penalties you could face might be disastrous. Stay where you are.
- Check for wounds. You may be injured and not aware of it due to shock. You need to take some time to look over your body for injuries, and then, if you have a passenger, check with them. If you do find any injuries, tell the EMTs when they arrive. Be honest with them and let them do what they need to do.
- Call 911. The most important thing you can do right now is involve the authorities. Call 911 and report an accident. When the police arrive and take your statement, be honest about everything that happened, but try your hardest not to admit fault for the accident. Even if you are totally aware that you caused the accident, keep that to yourself. Later, your lawyer can help you figure out what to do about that.
- Document the scene. Once the police have given you permission to do so, you need to start documenting the scene as thoroughly as possible. Take photos of all your injuries, all the damage done to your motorcycle and the car that hit you, and the conditions of the road. Speak to any witnesses who are willing to provide a statement. A knowledgeable attorney can use this in your case.
- Afterward, be sure to contact an injury lawyer to start developing your accident claim. Give them all the evidence you’ve collected thus far. Your lawyer may advise you to contact your insurance and see a doctor for medical documentation, if you haven’t done so already.
Hire a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
If you want to pursue a civil claim after a motorcycle accident, you should hire a motorcycle accident lawyer to oversee your case. It can be good to have someone in charge who knows what they’re doing, appreciates your position, and can offer consistent advice. Our team at Suisman Shapiro has been helping clients succeed in personal injury cases for decades. We’ve even gained recognition as Super Lawyers, among other accolades.
At Suisman Shapiro Attorneys-at-Law, we make sure your Mystic case is handled respectfully and in a timely manner. Contact us to speak to someone about your situation.
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