This is the last post in a series of articles discussing bicycle accident cases in Hartford, Connecticut. When a cyclist is involved in an accident with another vehicle, injuries are often severe and can leave the victim and their family in a precarious physical and financial position. In the aftermath, calls from insurance adjusters, ongoing medical treatments, time away from work, and process of recovery can be overwhelming. The last thing on many victims’ minds is initiating legal action. It is important, however, to understand that retaining counsel as soon as possible can be the key to preserving one’s legal rights to recover compensation from those responsible. If you need assistance following a bike accident, contact our office today to speak with an attorney.
This series has examined the following issues:
- How Connecticut’s comparative fault laws impact a bicycle accident case
- Dealing with insurance companies after a bike crash injury
- The importance of discovery in such matters
- The need for expert witnesses in bicycle accident cases
- What to expect at a bicycle accident trial
- The determination of a victim’s damages
The objective of this series has been to provide valuable information about the points listed above for bike crash victims and their families. First, even if you were partially at fault for the crash, you may still be entitled to recover a portion of your damages under Connecticut’s comparative fault rules. Victims should discuss their concerns with an experienced attorney to understand their rights. Second, it is important to respond to inquiries from insurance companies appropriately to help ensure that your potential claims are given the consideration they deserve. Rather than handle such conversations directly, victims are strongly encouraged to retain an attorney and direct insurance adjusters to communicate with them on their behalf. Third, gathering objective evidence in support of your case through the discovery process is an essential part of any bicycle accident case. Using tools such as subpoenas, depositions, and interrogatories can help establish both the defendant’s liability and your damages. Fourth, in many cases, expert opinions and testimony become necessary to establish facts that require specialized expertise. This is particularly true in bike crash cases involving factual disputes and severe injuries. Fifth, while many cases settle outside of the courtroom, litigation may become necessary when the parties cannot reach an agreement. It is important to know what to expect during the trial process. Finally, in light of the severity of injuries that unfortunately result from many bicycle accidents, damages can be significant. It is important to understand what losses and expenses may be recovered and how such amounts are calculated.
If you have been injured in a bicycle accident, it is important to retain an attorney as soon as possible. This will help ensure that your rights are protected. Our Hartford lawyers are experienced personal injury attorneys and are ready to assist you. We also serve the areas of Wethersfield, New Britain, Rocky Hill, West and East Hartford, Bristol, Glastonbury, and Manchester, as well as the Middlesex County cities of Middletown and Cromwell.
