You’re safely driving along and minding your own business when, out of nowhere, another driver’s carelessness disrupts your life. Every car accident is upsetting, but when another driver causes you to suffer injuries and damage to your vehicle, it’s a very difficult situation. Receiving compensation for your losses is often critical to effectively recover from such an accident, and understanding the basics can help ensure that you obtain the compensation you deserve under the law.
Reporting the Accident
If you’ve been in a car accident that results in at least $1,000 in property damage, you have five days to report the accident to a law enforcement agency. It is always, however, a good idea to report any car accident to the authorities. In fact, this step could ultimately prove important to receiving compensation for your losses, as the police report may play a role in your insurance claim.
Your Car Accident Claim
In Connecticut, people resolve most car accident claims through the car insurance companies, especially when the circumstances of the accident are straightforward and it’s clear who is at fault. While going to court is typically expensive and can be riskier than settling with the insurance company, a lawsuit is sometimes the most appropriate mechanism for obtaining adequate compensation for the full range of damages suffered. Your experienced Connecticut personal injury attorney will help guide your unique claim in the appropriate direction.
The Important Elements of Your Claim
While every car accident has its own distinct set of circumstances, there are certain elements that will likely play a critical role in how much compensation you will receive:
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To what degree—if any—you share fault for the accident
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The amount and quality of evidence that supports that the other driver was negligent or otherwise at fault
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The amount of insurance coverage (insurance companies don’t pay over the limits set by the policy)
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The degree of damage to your vehicle
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The type and severity of your physical injuries and the need for any future medical treatment
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The degree of pain and suffering you endured
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The amount of time and wages you lost on the job
If the damages associated with these factors are extensive, your claim may need to proceed toward a lawsuit to help ensure that you receive the compensation you’ll need to travel the path toward a full recovery.
The Insurance Company
Insurance companies are in the business of making profits and are well-versed in making lowball settlement offers in order to maximize those profits. Your skilled Connecticut personal injury attorney will aggressively advocate on your behalf to the insurance company, whether this involves pursuing a settlement or a lawsuit.
If Another Driver Has Left You Injured, Contact an Experienced Connecticut Personal Injury Lawyer Today
If someone else caused your accident and injuries, you need experienced legal counsel. The dedicated legal team at Leighton, Katz & Drapeau has faithfully served Connecticut for nearly 30 years, and we’re here for you. Car accidents are difficult, but we can help. Please contact or call us at (860) 875-7000 today.
