Getting into a car accident can be overwhelming and disorienting, especially if you’re injured on a busy road like I-91 or CT-10. Understanding what to do after getting injured in a car accident in Connecticut is important for protecting your rights and well-being. Explore the critical steps you need to consider if you find yourself in a scary situation.
Your first priority after an accident is to ensure the safety of you and your passengers. Check for visible injuries and move your vehicle to a safer location out of the traffic flow, if possible. Stay in a safe location until help arrives.
It’s important to note that even if you feel okay, there are injuries that may not be immediately apparent. Soft tissue injuries are often the most frequently reported injury after a car accident, which are often not noticeable right away. Having a medic examine you after an accident can catch these signs and symptoms early to prevent more serious issues later on. Yale New Haven Hospital is nearby.
You are legally required to report car accidents to the police if injury, death, or significant damage is caused. Calling 911 provides you with prompt medical assistance. Law enforcement also documents the scene, which is necessary for insurance and legal claims.
Be honest and state the facts when speaking with police, but avoid admitting fault or speculating about what happened. In 2023, 340,468 crashes were reported in Connecticut, involving over 600,000 vehicles. Of these, 208 people lost their lives.
If you’re physically able, you can start collecting evidence at the scene. This information is helpful when pursuing a claim. The more details you get, the stronger your claim can be. Some key evidence to gather includes:
Most insurance policies require prompt reporting of accidents. Contact your insurer as soon as possible to start the claims process. Provide the basic facts of the crash, but avoid making detailed statements about fault or the extent of injuries until you’ve talked with a skilled injury attorney.
Insurance companies may try to settle car accident cases quickly and for less money than you deserve. That’s why it’s so important to hire a car accident lawyer. They can negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.
Knowing your rights under Connecticut car accident laws can help you make better decisions about how to handle claims. For instance, Connecticut follows the fault system, which means that the at-fault driver is responsible for paying damages. If you’re partially at fault, your compensation could be reduced by your percentage of fault.
In most cases, you have two years after the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim, according to the Connecticut statute of limitations. Drivers are also required to carry minimum liability coverage for bodily injury and property damage.
Knowing what to do after getting injured in a car accident in Connecticut is great, but knowing what not to do is equally important. There are various missteps that can weaken your claim, which may give the insurance company a reason to deny you compensation.
Hiring a skilled car accident attorney in Connecticut can help you navigate the legal process, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies for fair compensation. At Jacobs & Jacobs, we investigate the accident and help you identify liable parties, preserving evidence necessary for success.
Our team calculates the full value of your damages and negotiates aggressively with insurers. If necessary, we represent you in court to secure the justice your case deserves. Having experienced legal representation on your side increases your chances of securing a settlement that helps you on the road to recovering physically and emotionally.
If you’re not at fault in an accident, the at-fault party’s insurance should be responsible for covering any damages you sustained, which includes medical expenses and property damage. You may also use your own insurance while waiting for the claim to process. Your insurer then seeks reimbursement from the at-fault party’s insurance company. Disputes over fault or damages can arise, which is why it’s important to document everything.
In Connecticut, you generally have two years from the date of the car accident to file personal injury claims. This time frame is set by the state’s statute of limitations. If you don’t file within the allotted time period, your claim could be denied. It’s always important to act quickly so that evidence isn’t lost and witnesses are easier to locate.
If you’re injured in a car accident, your priority should be seeking medical care immediately. Next, be sure to report the accident to law enforcement and your insurance company. Document the scene by taking pictures, gathering witness information, and keeping records of all medical expenses. You may be entitled to compensation for medical care, lost wages, and pain and suffering in addition to damages to your vehicle.
When talking to the insurance agency, don’t admit fault or speculate on what happened. It’s a good idea to speak with your attorney before talking to the insurance company. Let your lawyer handle communication. Do not downplay your injuries, as this can undermine your claim. Just stick to the basic facts of the accident, such as the date, location, and parties involved.
The Connecticut car accident attorneys of Jacobs & Jacobs can walk you through every stage of your pursuit of compensation after an accident. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.