CT motorcycle accidents occur often in Danbury, Ridgefield, Stamford, Fairfield, and throughout Connecticut roads . While many accidents are simple "fender benders," others may result in substantial property damage and serious injury or even death. Although motorcyclists are often stereotyped as reckless and fast drivers, it is negligent automobile drivers who cause most motorbike accidents. An injured victim of a motorcycle accident can seek damages from the responsible party for the injuries, damages and pain suffered as a result of the accident. The victim must show that the defendant was negligent and responsible for the injuries and other damages that were sustained. A motorcycle accident lawsuit must also be filed before the expiration of applicable statutes of limitation which varies from state to state. The victim can seek compensation for related medical expenses, loss of income or earning potential, partial or permanent disability, psychological suffering, and property damage.

Some motorcycle accidents can be so severe that they result in death. Each state has its own law on fatal accidents and wrongful death claims. Although independent of each other, these laws share some common features. If a death is caused by a motorcycle accident, there will losses associated with the wrongful death including medical expenses incurred as a result of the accident, funeral and burial expenses, pain and suffering of the deceased, future financial support to the heirs, loss of love, society, and companionship.

For a wrongful death claim to arise from a fatal motorcycle accident, the accident must have been caused by another person who has acted negligently. The must be a wrongful act or an act of negligence in the part of the other person. Other responsible parties could include: the motorcycle manufacturer; or the maker of any part of the motorcycle; or other vehicle involved in the accident. The person or party responsible must have adequate insurance or assets to provide the basis of a recoverable legal claim.

There are different laws that apply to a motorcycle accident cases depending on the circumstances of the accident and the jurisdiction in which the accident took place. Sometimes the other driver or person might not be responsible for the wrongful death from the fatal accident. The cause of the accident will determine the type of wrongful death case, and the responsible party. It could have been caused due to a defect in the motorcycle's manufacturing or design. For instance, the breaks fail to work when applied. In such cases, the law of product liability will apply. In certain cases, you can seek damages for wrongful death from the designer or manufacturer. Sometimes, the mechanic who did not repair the vehicle property can be held liable if the improper repairing is a factor which caused the accident. Even poorly maintained roads, messy and confusing construction, unclear signage, improperly designed roads and similar problems can be the cause of a fatal accident. The Government agencies responsible for the roads and highways can be liable for damages in such cases. However, there are special rules that apply to lawsuits against government entities which can have very short notice provisions which must be met in order to have a viable claim.

If you or someone you know has been involved in a motorcycle accident, it is recommended that you seek legal advice immediately.

Before you hire a lawyer, speak to an insurance adjuster, or sign any paperwork contact Hastings, Cohan & Walsh, LLP.