If you’re grappling with the aftermath of a motorcycle accident, understanding right-of-way rules is crucial in determining liability. In Connecticut, it falls upon the claimant to establish that the negligence of the other party led to the accident and resulting injuries.
But how do you determine fault in a collision between a car and a motorcycle? Identifying who should have yielded is paramount. For guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out to Vining Law – our seasoned motorcycle accident attorneys are here to assist you.
It’s important to remember that motorcycles are subject to the same road laws as any other vehicle. They are entitled to their own lane and must obey traffic signs and yield when necessary. However, their smaller size does not give car drivers the right to intrude into their lane; doing so can render car drivers liable for any resulting accidents.
Understanding Rights-of-Way in Various Scenarios:
Four-Way Stops: The first driver to arrive at the intersection has the right-of-way. If arrival times are close, the vehicle to the right goes first.
Two-Way Stops: The motorist without a stop sign has the right-of-way.
Yield Signs: The driver with the yield sign must allow others to pass, unless the lane is clear.
Crosswalks: Pedestrians have priority in crosswalks, but motorcyclists can proceed when traffic signals permit.
Lane Splitting: In Connecticut, lane splitting by motorcyclists is not permitted under Connecticut General Statutes §14-289b – a common practice in Connecticut. Lane splitting refers to bikes that weave between traffic that’s moving in the same direction as they are. Technically, lane splitting is the term for riders who are moving while the traffic around them is also moving.
Motorcycle Accidents: Numerous motorcycle accidents stem from drivers failing to yield, resulting in head-on collisions, left-turn incidents, blind spot collisions, and T-bone crashes. As the victim, it falls on you to demonstrate the driver’s negligence.
Facing the Insurance Companies Following a motorcycle accident, insurance companies may be quick to blame the motorcyclist. You’ll need a skilled attorney to counter this, gathering evidence and fighting for a substantial settlement.
Possible Damages in Your Claim Victims of motorcycle accidents may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and more. In tragic cases of wrongful death, families may seek damages for their loss.
Partner with Vining Law Let us guide you through every step of your claim, standing up against insurance company tactics to deny you full compensation. We’re committed to protecting your rights. Contact us today for a free consultation.
