Hartford Pedestrian Accident Lawyers
Skilled Attorneys for Bicycle and Pedestrian Accidents in Hartford, CT
Catastrophic and life-threatening injuries frequently occur when motorists fail to exercise proper caution around pedestrians and bicyclists. Negligent drivers who speed through intersections, ignore crosswalks, or fail to check blind spots when turning can cause devastating accidents. Pedestrians and cyclists have little to no protection in a collision, making them vulnerable to severe injuries.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian or bicycle accident, obtaining skilled legal representation is essential to securing compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. Insurance companies often attempt to settle cases quickly, offering low amounts that do not fully cover a victim's financial losses. At Woolf & Ross Law Firm, LLC, we have over 60 combined years of experience handling complex personal injury and fatal accident claims. Our attorneys fight aggressively to counter insurance company tactics and pursue maximum compensation for injury victims. Contact our Hartford bike accident lawyers today to schedule a free initial consultation.
Investigating the Causes of Bicycle and Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian and bicycle accidents can happen for many reasons, but most are caused by negligent motorists who fail to observe their surroundings. Our law firm takes a comprehensive approach to investigating these accidents, working with accident reconstruction specialists, reviewing surveillance footage, and interviewing eyewitnesses. We examine all possible factors that may have contributed to a crash, including:
- Distracted Driving: Drivers who text, talk on the phone, adjust their GPS, or engage in other distractions may fail to notice bicyclists and pedestrians. A momentary lapse in attention can lead to a serious accident, especially in urban areas where pedestrian and bicycle traffic is heavy.
- Failure to Yield at Crosswalks: When they are crossing the street, pedestrians have the right of way, but negligent drivers may not stop as required by law. A failure to yield can cause a pedestrian to be struck while legally crossing an intersection.
- Speeding and Reckless Driving: Excessive speed reduces a driver's reaction time, and they may be unable to stop for a pedestrian or cyclist. Reckless driving behaviors such as running red lights, making turns without making sure the road is clear, or weaving through traffic can increase the risk of a collision.
- Dooring Accidents: Cyclists riding alongside parked cars may suffer serious injuries when a driver or passenger opens a car door without checking for oncoming bicycles. This type of accident, known as "dooring," can send a bicyclist crashing to the pavement or into moving traffic.
- Impaired Driving: Drivers who operate vehicles while under the influence of alcohol or drugs have slower reaction times and impaired judgment, making them more likely to strike pedestrians and cyclists.
- Poor Road Design or Maintenance: Unmarked crosswalks, lack of pedestrian signals, and poorly designed bike lanes can contribute to accidents. Additionally, potholes, uneven pavement, and debris in bike lanes can cause cyclists to lose control, leading to severe injuries. If a poorly maintained road contributed to an accident, a government entity or road maintenance company may be held responsible.
Representing Victims of Hit-and-Run Accidents
Bicyclists are fully entitled to use traffic lanes. However, serious accidents often occur when bicyclists are run off the road by aggressive or careless motorists. When drivers strike bicyclists or pedestrians, they may not remain at the scene of the accident. If you are the victim of a hit-and-run accident, we will spend time meeting with law enforcement and any available witnesses to determine the identity of the at-fault driver.
Unfortunately, our investigative work does not always identify drivers of hit-and-run accidents. In this case, we will work closely with you to understand whether you can receive underinsured or uninsured motorist coverage. We will help you obtain compensation for your medical needs, lost wages, and pain and suffering up to the limits of your insurance policy.
Pursuing Maximum Compensation for Bicycle and Pedestrian Accident Victims
The attorneys at our firm develop compelling legal arguments complete with medical testimony. We will work with your doctor or other medical specialists to demonstrate the full extent of your injuries, including:
- Paralysis
- Broken bones and road rash
- Spinal cord injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
We are committed to obtaining a full recovery for your current and future medical care, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any other expenses associated with the accident.
Contact Our Hartford, Connecticut Bicycle Accident Attorneys
When injuries occur after a vehicle strikes a bicyclist or pedestrian, the attorneys at Woolf & Ross Law Firm, LLC can help victims secure compensation for their injuries. We will work to hold negligent drivers accountable. Contact us today by calling 860-290-8690 to schedule a free initial consultation. We handle serious injury and wrongful death claims, and we are available for evening and weekend appointments when necessary. Se habla Español.