
When a driver’s negligence leads to a crash, the motorcyclist is often left with devastating injuries and a significant financial burden. If you have been in an accident, an Old Saybrook motorcycle accident lawyer can help you file a motorcycle accident claim against the negligent driver to recover your damages.
At Suisman Shapiro, we stand up for injured motorcyclists to hold at-fault drivers accountable. With over 80 years of experience, we have a deep knowledge of Connecticut’s motorcycle accident laws and the claims process. Our attorneys combine this high level of experience with a dedication to building a case that reflects the unique complexities of each case. We are prepared to fiercely advocate for the compensation you deserve after a crash.
Unfortunately, motorcycling is one of the most dangerous ways to travel. The motorcycle fatality rate is almost 28 times higher than the fatality rate for occupants in passenger vehicles. In Connecticut, 2,942 people were directly involved in a motorcycle accident in 2024.
In Old Saybrook, motorcycle accidents are most common at busy intersections, such as intersections along Route 1. Exiting I-95 is another risky area, with frequent traffic that can make it difficult for a motorcyclist to safely change lanes.
The leading cause of motorcycle crashes is driver error. Errors such as speeding, driving while distracted, and failing to check blind spots can leave a motorcyclist with life-changing injuries. Even when parked, negligent drivers can injure motorcyclists in dooring accidents when they don’t check for oncoming motorcyclists before opening the car door.
An Old Saybrook motorcycle accident attorney can help you prove an at-fault driver’s liability for your damages. They can also navigate complex liability, such as if you share fault for the accident or if another party, such as a vehicle manufacturer or third-party driver, is liable.
An Old Saybrook motorcycle accident attorney can understand your unique damages and calculate an award that fairly compensates you. Some of the most common damages we help clients recover at Suisman Shapiro are:
An Old Saybrook motorcycle accident lawyer can build a legal strategy that is tailored to your case while still meeting the requirements and deadlines set by Connecticut’s motorcycle accident laws. To do this, a lawyer can investigate your accident to gather evidence such as:
When pursuing compensation, a lawyer can make sure you are not undercompensated. This involves carefully analyzing your damages to calculate your total losses. A lawyer can also negotiate with insurance companies, challenging their tactics designed to minimize payouts.
No, motorcyclists do not always have the right-of-way. Motorcyclists have the same rights and duties as other vehicles, and are thus subject to the same right-of-way rules. Drivers must take precautions to avoid a crash and yield to motorcyclists, such as by checking for motorcyclists before turning or before opening the door of a parked car. When drivers fail to yield, they are not only breaking traffic laws but also increasing the risk of an accident.
The new motorcycle laws in Connecticut went into effect on October 1st, 2025, and outline requirements for helmets for motorcyclists, as well as implementing similar rules as motorcycles for high-power e-bikes. According to the new law, helmets must now be worn by riders under 21 rather than under 18. Additionally, e-bikes with batteries over 3,500 watts must be registered and insured, similar to motorcycles.
Yes, Connecticut is an at-fault state for motorcycle accidents. This means injured motorcyclists can file a claim directly against the at-fault driver, rather than through their own insurance. The at-fault driver’s insurance can pay for your damages, but you must have evidence to prove what damages you have suffered and to prove that the at-fault driver’s actions caused the accident.
The person whose negligence led to the accident is at fault. This is often the at-fault driver, but it could be the motorcyclist, a third-party driver, or another party. As long as the victim is not 50% or more at fault, they can hold the other driver or drivers liable for their damages. If you hire a motorcycle accident lawyer, they can examine evidence to identify who to file a claim against.
If you have been injured in a motorcycle crash, you deserve legal representation that can pursue the full compensation you’re owed. Suisman Shapiro can advocate relentlessly on your behalf, negotiating with insurance companies and holding negligent drivers accountable. Contact Suisman Shapiro for a free case consultation to learn how we can support your physical, mental, and financial recovery.