In 2015, there were 111,497 traffic crashes in Connecticut, or more than 300 every day. Car wrecks can occur for a number of reasons, but some are much more common than others. Below is some information about some of the most common causes of car accidents in Connecticut and what victims should do to protect their legal rights in the days and weeks following a crash. For more information or to discuss your case with a car accident lawyer in Connecticut, call our office or contact us online.
Distracted Driving
The Connecticut Department of Transportation (DOT) defines distracted driving as “any non-driving activity a person engages in while operating a motor vehicle.” There are three main types of distracted driving: cognitive, manual, and visual. Some distractions, such as texting, combine all three, making them particularly dangerous.
Speeding
While speeding is relatively common, it is also extremely dangerous. Engineers design roadways with certain speed limits in mind, and exceeding the posted speed limit significantly increases the chances of an accident. In addition, the faster a vehicle is going, the greater the impact of a crash, which means that high-speed collisions tend to cause significantly greater harm to the people involved.
Impaired Drivers
Drunk and drugged drivers are responsible for a significant number of serious traffic accidents each year. Drivers who are under the influence of drugs or alcohol often have slowed reaction time, impaired judgment, and other impairments that affect their ability to safely drive.
Ignoring Poor Weather Conditions
We’ve all seen them: drivers who can’t take their foot of the gas despite poor visibility, slick roads, and other issues related to poor weather. Drivers who choose to ignore rain, snow, ice, wind, or other weather that can make it more difficult to see and stay in control of your car put everyone on the road at risk.
Protecting Your Rights after a Car Accident
If you have suffered an injury in a car wreck, take these steps to maximize the chances that you will get any compensation you are owed under the law.
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Collect as much information as you can about your accident. At a minimum, get the other driver’s name, insurance information, and license plate numbers.
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If possible, get contact information from anyone who may have witnessed the accident.
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Visit your doctor and request a thorough medical evaluation, even if you do not think you’re seriously hurt or that your injuries will heal on their own. A medical record is critical for a successful claim.
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Do not accept a settlement offer, and do not provide the insurance company with a recorded statement
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Retain a qualified lawyer as soon as you can. The sooner you get a lawyer involved, the better your chances of reaching a favorable resolution to your case.
Call Leighton, Katz & Drapeau Today to Speak With a Connecticut Personal Injury Lawyer
A car accident can turn a person’s life upside down in an instant. Fortunately for victims, when a car wreck is the result of someone else’s negligence, they can usually recover compensation under Connecticut law. The lawyers of Leighton, Katz & Drapeau are experienced car accident attorneys who serve clients throughout Connecticut. To schedule a free case evaluation with one of our lawyers, call our office today at (860) 875-7000 or send us an email through our online contact form.
