The Law Offices of Conti, Levy, Salerno & Goodrich, LLC Torrington CT Attorneys | Criminal, Family Law, Injury | Litchfield County 2026-04-24T15:45:14Z https://www.clsglaw.com/feed/atom/ WordPress /wp-content/uploads/sites/1204160/2024/12/cropped-favicon-32x32.png On Behalf of The Law Offices of Conti, Levy, Salerno & Goodrich, LLC <![CDATA[3 common e-bike collision scenarios]]> https://www.clsglaw.com/?p=50423 2026-04-24T15:45:14Z 2026-04-24T15:45:14Z 1. Negligent surveillance E-bikes generally have the right to operate on most roads, provided that they stay in bike lanes when they are available or as far right as possible. Unfortunately, drivers may not watch for e-bikes or other bicycles, resulting in preventable collisions. Especially when approaching an intersection, e-bike riders may need to embrace defensive cycling techniques, such as yielding the right of way to drivers who may not notice their presence.

2. Right-turn collisions

Motorists generally have the right to make a right turn at an intersection after coming to a complete stop, even if there is a red traffic light. Frequently, drivers preparing to turn right check to the left for oncoming traffic. They may fail to look to the right, where an e-bike rider on the sidewalk may be about to cross the road. The crashes that result from these scenarios can be devastating.

3. Dooring incidents

People in motor vehicles frequently fail to check for cyclists and e-bike riders after stopping their vehicles. If a driver or vehicle occupant opens a car door into oncoming traffic, a rider on an e-bike may not be able to stop without hitting the open door. They can end up seriously injured due to blunt-force trauma or even thrown into traffic, which could cause even worse injuries if another driver strikes them. E-bike riders may have the right to hold drivers accountable when motorists are at fault for crashes that cause serious injuries and property damage losses. Consulting with a Connecticut bicycle collision attorney can help e-bike riders review the insurance coverage available and other potential options for financial compensation.]]> On Behalf of The Law Offices of Conti, Levy, Salerno & Goodrich, LLC <![CDATA[What parents need to know about e-bike crash risks]]> https://www.clsglaw.com/?p=50422 2026-04-20T21:40:55Z 2026-04-20T02:04:22Z E-bikes have become increasingly popular with teens and younger riders in recent years, offering a fast and convenient way to get around. For parents, however, it is important to understand that e-bikes are not simply traditional bicycles with a small assist. Many models can reach speeds of 20 to 28 miles per hour, and some modified versions go even faster. That level of speed, combined with inexperience and limited protection, can inspire serious safety risks. One of the biggest concerns is how quickly an e-bike can accelerate. Riders may not fully appreciate how much force they are controlling, especially when transitioning from a standard bike to an electric one. This can lead to loss of control, particularly in crowded areas, on uneven pavement or when navigating traffic. Braking distances are also longer at higher speeds, increasing the likelihood of collisions. Visibility is another major safety concern. Drivers may not expect a bicycle to approach at the speed of an e-bike, especially at intersections or when turning. This mismatch in expectations can result in crashes where drivers misjudge distance or timing. Younger riders are especially vulnerable because they may not yet have the awareness or defensive riding habits needed to anticipate these risks. E-bike riders also face various risks related to where they ride. Some riders use sidewalks, bike paths or roadways interchangeably, which can create unpredictable situations. Pedestrians may not be prepared for fast-moving bikes on sidewalks, while drivers may not see riders entering traffic from unexpected locations. Understanding and following local rules about where e-bikes are permitted is ultimately necessary when it comes to safety.

Preventing e-bike crashes 

Injuries from e-bike crashes can be severe. Higher speeds mean increased impact force, which increases the likelihood of head injuries, fractures and internal trauma. While helmets can reduce the risk of serious head injury, not all riders consistently wear them. Even with protective gear, collisions with vehicles or hard surfaces can result in long recovery periods and lasting effects. As such, parents should also be aware of the role of supervision and education. Teaching children how to operate an e-bike safely, including proper braking, signaling and awareness of surroundings, can reduce risks. Setting clear expectations about helmet use and appropriate riding areas can also make a difference. It may be helpful to start with lower-speed settings until a rider demonstrates consistent control. E-bikes can be a useful and enjoyable mode of transportation, but they require a level of caution that matches their speed and power. By understanding the risks and taking proactive steps, parents can help reduce the likelihood of serious accidents and better protect their children. ]]> On Behalf of The Law Offices of Conti, Levy, Salerno & Goodrich, LLC <![CDATA[Injury recovery time after a car accident]]> https://www.clsglaw.com/?p=50420 2026-04-15T12:33:24Z 2026-04-15T12:30:08Z common auto accident injuries and their recovery times. [ez-toc]

Facial injuries

Even while wearing a seat belt, a person’s face may strike the steering wheel during an accident, leading to cuts, bruises and broken bones; surgery may become necessary. The overall intensity of the injuries determines how long they take to heal. Recovering from surgery can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months.

Brain and head injuries

When the skull hits the steering wheel, window or another hard surface in the vehicle, a head or brain injury such as a concussion can result. With these particular injuries, symptoms do not always present themselves right away, which can prolong recovery. After receiving a concussion diagnosis, overall symptoms often take as many as three weeks to clear. The recovery time for a more severe brain or head injury, such as a subdural hematoma, is difficult to pinpoint, as it depends on the severity of the injury.

Neck injuries

Along with concussions, neck injuries such as whiplash are another common auto accident injury, incurred when the neck whips back and forth. Such injuries can take several weeks before symptoms clear, longer if surgery is necessary. That said, making a complete recovery from a neck injury could take several months.

Spinal cord and back injuries

The back and spinal cord are rather vulnerable in auto accidents. Muscles, tendons and tissues in the back are also susceptible. As far as the general recovery time for such injuries, the window is a few weeks for insignificant strains, but tears and bone injuries often take several months to recover. Direct injuries to the spinal cord often take as long as six months to a year to fully heal.]]> On Behalf of The Law Offices of Conti, Levy, Salerno & Goodrich, LLC <![CDATA[Common life-altering injuries from a motorcycle crash]]> https://www.clsglaw.com/?p=50415 2026-03-25T19:53:42Z 2026-03-25T15:40:49Z High-risk consequences for bikers on Connecticut roads Motorcycle riders can face hazards while navigating the rural roads near Torrington. Traveling through the upland region presents dangers, and high-impact collisions can lead to serious physical trauma such as:
  • Severe road rash: This often involves the loss of skin layers and muscle tissue. A victim may need skin grafts and face the risk of permanent scars.
  • Internal organ damage: Extreme force from a crash can cause hidden bleeding that threatens life hours after the wreck. Doctors must perform surgery immediately to repair torn lungs or a damaged spleen.
  • Multiple bone fractures: A high-speed crash can also result in a broken pelvis or leg bones that never fully heal. These bone injuries typically lead to chronic pain and stiff joints.
  • Traumatic brain injury (TBI): A rider may suffer a TBI that causes lasting mental harm or mood changes. This injury can require lifelong medical care and therapy.
  • Spinal cord damage: A forceful impact to the back can result in partial or full paralysis, forever changing a person’s movement and freedom. A victim can face costly home changes and long rehab stays.
  • Nerve damage: Falling on an arm can stretch or tear the nerves in the shoulder, a condition often called "biker’s arm." This trauma can lead to permanent paralysis in the shoulder, arm or hand, and prevent a victim from returning to work.
Beyond physical wounds, the weight of pain and suffering can be just as life-changing for a victim. This can include post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), severe depression or the loss of enjoyment in daily hobbies and family life. They may need specialized support to address these emotional and mental health challenges alongside their physical recovery.

Aiming to secure a path forward

The long-term impact of a motorcycle crash extends far beyond the initial hospital stay. With legal advice, a victim may receive clarity and guidance during a tough recovery period. In addition, having legal counsel may help them protect their rights as they aim to secure a path forward.]]> On Behalf of The Law Offices of Conti, Levy, Salerno & Goodrich, LLC <![CDATA[Is your teen ready for the responsibility of a driving permit?]]> https://www.clsglaw.com/?p=50355 2026-02-04T22:28:55Z 2026-02-04T21:45:16Z Establish clear expectations with a safety contract A learner’s permit is only the first step in a long education process. While Connecticut law sets the baseline, a family driving contract allows you to define specific household rules. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that teens engage in less risky behavior when parents enforce clear limits. A detailed written agreement moves safety from a vague conversation to a firm commitment. Include these essential sections:
  • Technology boundaries: Require the phone to remain in the glove box or on "do not disturb" to prevent distracted driving.
  • Passenger restrictions: Connecticut law prohibits permit holders from carrying passengers; they may only drive with a licensed instructor or a qualified trainer (such as a parent). Once licensed, 16- and 17-year-olds must still avoid peer passengers for the first year.
  • Curfew rules: While permit holders do not face a statutory curfew (since a parent must be present), licensed teens under 18 cannot drive between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. under state law.
  • The “safe ride” promise: Create a "no-questions-asked" rule where you pick them up if they ever feel unsafe to drive.
These clear boundaries transform driving from an abstract concept into a structured responsibility. By signing this contract and understanding that consequences will result from breaking the rules, your teen acknowledges that road safety requires constant vigilance and respect for the law. Clear communication today prevents dangerous misunderstandings tomorrow.

Protect your loved ones from the unexpected

Even cautious teen drivers face hazards, from unpredictable spring weather to other motorists' mistakes. When an accident happens, the legal and financial fallout can overwhelm a family. You must understand your rights and the complexities of insurance claims following a collision. Skilled legal guidance shields your family’s interests and protects your teen’s well-being.]]> On Behalf of The Law Offices of Conti, Levy, Salerno & Goodrich, LLC <![CDATA[5 Dangerous jobs in Connecticut every worker should know]]> https://www.clsglaw.com/?p=50350 2026-01-26T17:49:22Z 2026-01-26T15:38:57Z danger isn’t always where you expect it to be. Knowing the facts helps families stay safe and understand their legal rights. [ez-toc]

Health care and social assistance

Many people find it surprising to learn that health care is the most dangerous sector in Connecticut for injuries. Nurses and aides face high risks from lifting patients, slips and workplace violence. This industry accounts for over 25% of all work-related injuries in the state.

Transportation and warehouse jobs

Truck drivers who travel on busy roads like I-95 and I-84 often experience the highest number of fatal accidents. Long hours and heavy traffic make this a high-risk job. It ranks among the top sectors for severe accidents in our state.

Construction

Construction sites in cities like Hartford involve heavy machinery and heights. Falls from scaffolds or ladders are a leading cause of harm. While there are fewer total injuries than in health care, construction accidents are often very severe.

Retail work

Working in stores might seem safe, but it ranks among the top four industries for injuries in Connecticut. Workers often get hurt from repetitive lifting, falling objects or slippery floors.

Manufacturing jobs

Connecticut has a large manufacturing base. Workers using powerful equipment face risks from moving parts and loud noises. It remains a major source of workplace injury claims every year.

Understanding your safety and rights

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires your employer to provide you and others with a safe workplace. Additionally, they should give you proper training. If you get hurt on the job, the law usually requires you to use the Workers’ Compensation system. This system pays for medical bills and lost wages. If you suffer an injury, you should file a Form 30C with the Workers’ Compensation Commission to protect your rights. Many workers speak with a workers' comp attorney to help navigate these rules and ensure they receive the full benefits allowed by law.  ]]> On Behalf of The Law Offices of Conti, Levy, Salerno & Goodrich, LLC <![CDATA[3 common causes of multi-car pileups near Torrington]]> https://www.clsglaw.com/?p=50349 2026-01-12T19:52:15Z 2026-01-12T13:49:28Z 1. High traffic speeds The faster that vehicles travel, the more difficult it may be to stop when a collision occurs ahead. State law generally requires that motorists maintain a reasonable following distance. However, in heavy traffic conditions on roads with high speed limits, such as interstates and freeways, drivers may crowd too close to one another on the road. Many of the worst multi-car pileups around Torrington occur on Route 8/Litchfield Turnpike or US Route 22. When one driver loses control ahead on a high-speed road, the vehicles following them may not be able to stop without striking the vehicles involved in the initial collision.

2. Commercial vehicles

Many multi-car pileups begin with a mistake by a semi-truck operator or an issue with a large commercial vehicle. If a semi-truck jackknifes in slippery road conditions, the trailer may block every approaching lane of traffic, resulting in multiple collisions. If a semi-truck rolls over while going around a curve or roundabout, multiple other vehicles may end up involved in the resulting crash. Drivers may want to provide extra space when they are near semi-trucks, especially when traveling at high speeds.

3. Inclement weather

Frequently, multi-vehicle collisions occur during blizzards and other severe weather. Drivers generally need to slow down and increase their following distance when the roads are snowy, icy or wet. The failure to modify driving behaviors to reflect weather conditions can directly increase the risk of a multi-vehicle collision. Drivers approaching the crash may not be able to stop on the slick roads and may end up contributing to the ongoing pileup. Determining who is at fault and what compensation is available can be especially challenging after a multi-vehicle collision. Drivers injured in a multi-car pileup may require legal guidance as they evaluate their options and pursue financial compensation, and that’s okay.]]> On Behalf of The Law Offices of Conti, Levy, Salerno & Goodrich, LLC <![CDATA[Who covers the costs of injuries from a fall on icy pavement?]]> https://www.clsglaw.com/?p=50348 2026-01-12T19:35:13Z 2026-01-12T13:42:10Z Adjacent property owners or tenants are liable Local ordinances clearly hold property owners, property managers or occupants responsible for snow and ice removal. Local authorities recently adjusted the statute to increase the amount of time that residents and businesses have after a storm to address the snow or ice accumulating on sidewalks. Property owners and tenants typically have up to 36 hours after snow stops falling to address accumulated precipitation on the sidewalks adjacent to their properties. If they fail to take appropriate steps to clear the sidewalks, they are then potentially liable for any injuries that others suffer because they slip on snowy or icy sidewalks. Slip-and-falls in parking lots are not subject to the same rules as sidewalk incidents. Generally speaking, parking lots belong to a property owner. The maintenance of the parking lot may be the responsibility of a landlord, a property owner or a business renting the nearby commercial space and utilizing the parking lot. Businesses and landlords need to make their premises safe for visitors, customers and tenants. Failing to do so can lead to insurance claims or even litigation. Individuals hurt in icy weather slip and falls may need help communicating with property owners, evaluating insurance policies and requesting compensation for their losses. Working with a personal injury attorney can be helpful for those hurt in slip-and-falls caused by icy conditions. When property owners or businesses are negligent about maintenance, they may be liable for injuries caused by icy sidewalks or parking lots.]]> On Behalf of The Law Offices of Conti, Levy, Salerno & Antonio, LLC <![CDATA[Signs that you might be headed for a divorce]]> https://www.clsglaw.com/?p=48008 2026-01-26T19:24:10Z 2025-12-16T03:20:11Z Factors for divorce While each couple's journey to divorce is unique, some factors are often listed in divorce proceedings. Some of these include:
  • Financial struggles
  • Infidelity
  • Miscommunication
  • Addiction
  • Emotional and physical abuse

Early signs of struggle in marriage

In many marriages, there are signs that the marriage is struggling enough to be on the path to divorce, but early in the relationship, they might be subtle and missed by both spouses. It might be possible for some couples to work on these issues if they can recognize the signs. Some of these signs include:
  • Constant blaming of the other person
  • Lack of communication between the spouses about serious issues
  • An ongoing expectation that the other person will change, and issues will be resolved
  • A failure to resolve any issues between the spouses

What to do if you recognize signs that your marriage is struggling?

When spouses struggle to communicate healthily and instead find themselves in a never-ending cycle of fights, blame and distance, it might be difficult to find a way out. It might be time for reflection for both spouses, about their roles in the conflict, their actions that might contribute to this and how they want to move forward. Deciding to seek a divorce is difficult for everyone involved. However, if your marriage continues to struggle and the attempts to work on these issues continue to fail, it might be time to make a decision. If that is where you find yourself, you should begin to prepare for the next step, gathering your personal and financial documents and creating a plan that works best for you. It might also be time to consult with a divorce attorney.]]> On Behalf of The Law Offices of Conti, Levy, Salerno & Goodrich, LLC <![CDATA[How to stay civil during a divorce]]> https://www.clsglaw.com/?p=50343 2025-11-12T22:21:18Z 2025-11-10T21:24:24Z Divorce is one of the most emotionally challenging experiences you can face. In Connecticut, staying civil may not only make the process smoother but also protect your well-being and your children’s stability.

Focus on communication and shared responsibilities

Treat your ex-spouse as a co-parent or business partner. You may not get along personally but you still share responsibilities that require cooperation. Keeping your interactions professional can prevent unnecessary disputes and preserve a sense of order for everyone involved. When you have children, put their needs first. Make decisions based on what benefits them most and not on personal grievances. Agree on a fair expense split and document any financial commitments to avoid confusion later. If there has been domestic violence or controlling behavior, trying to stay civil may not be safe. In that case, only communicate through your attorney or the court to protect yourself. To keep conversations constructive, stick to facts and avoid emotional arguments. Centering your discussions on practical issues like schedules, school events or expenses can help reduce tension.

Handle finances and logistics carefully

Money issues often cause the most friction during divorce. Separating finances early can prevent misunderstandings and reduce emotional triggers. You can stay organized by following these steps:
  • Separate accounts: Open new individual accounts to keep spending clear.
  • Create a predictable budget: Establish what each person will cover.
  • Delay major changes: Avoid big life decisions until after the divorce is finalized.
Taking time to document your financial choices can make future discussions easier and limit conflict.

Prioritize your own well-being

Civility starts with balance. Divorce can disrupt your routines but caring for yourself helps you stay calm and think clearly. Eat well, rest, exercise and maintain supportive relationships. Reflecting on what you want your divorce to look like before reacting can help you choose a process that supports peace and stability, says Forbes. Whether through mediation, collaboration or negotiation, focusing on long-term well-being rather than short-term emotion often leads to a healthier outcome. Avoid unhealthy coping mechanisms. Substances like alcohol or drugs might seem like an escape but they often add new problems. Healthy outlets such as journaling, counseling or outdoor activity help you process stress productively.

Some steps you can take

Even when you aim to keep things civil, divorce involves legal rights and financial obligations that deserve careful attention. A Connecticut family law attorney can explain your options, review agreements and help you navigate decisions about custody or property division with confidence. Understanding your rights early may prevent disputes later and help ensure that your choices align with your long-term goals. ]]>