In Connecticut, car accidents can happen anytime. Statistics show that tens of thousands of motor crashes can occur in a year, leading to injuries and deaths. Although nobody expects to be in a motor vehicle collision, you must be aware of what to do when you find yourself in this situation. Also, you must know when to seek legal help following a car crash to help secure monetary compensation for all injuries and losses you suffer because of the negligence or wrongdoing of another motorist.
Minor versus Serious Car Accidents
In general, minor car accidents are low-speed crashes that lead to minimal vehicle damage and no injuries to drivers or passengers. They include fender benders, low-speed collisions that happen in driveways or parking lots, or sideswipe accidents that have limited impact. But even in this type of situation, speak with a lawyer before you accept a settlement from an insurance company to ensure fair treatment. With most attorneys, you can schedule free initial consultations.
No matter the severity of the collision, collect documentation at the scene. It is safe for you to do so, take pictures of vehicle damage from several angles, along with any debris, skid marks, or road signs that may show what occurred. Get the other driver’s contact and insurance information.
Contact the police following any accident, no matter how minor it may be. The police will create an office report that can contain evidence should a dispute over fault or liability arise. Also, obtain the names and contact details of eyewitnesses since you might need their statements later on.
Meanwhile, serious car crashes lead to severe injuries to all parties involved and major vehicle damage. They include high-speed collisions, rollovers, head-on crashes, accidents that involve huge commercial trucks, accidents that lead to airbag deployment, and crashes that require vehicle towing.
When Hiring a Lawyer May Be Necessary
Considering hiring an attorney when your situation involves the following:
- Medical attention is required. If you sustained severe injuries that require medical treatment, a lawyer can navigate the accident claims process for you and pursue reasonable compensation. Severe injuries come with substantial medical bills and lost wages. You must account for these losses together with other damages like pain and suffering.
Even minor injuries such as muscle strains and whiplash can require ongoing medical treatment. More severe injuries such as compound fractures, concussions, internal trauma, or spinal damage can lead to costly medical expenses. Your attorney can fight to make sure your final settlement accounts for all current and future medical expenses and lost income.
- Significant property damage. If a car accident leads to major vehicle damage your lawyer can help secure a reasonable settlement for property damage. Usually, insurers will undermine property damage claims by offering actual cash value for a car instead of the cost of replacing it. an attorney can accurately value vehicles with the help of the valuation experts. Also, they can seek repair estimates from a trusted mechanic or body repair shops to increase your claim.
- There is a dispute over fault. In Connecticut, a modified comparative negligence rule is used when at least two parties are involved in an accident. under such a system, you may seek compensation if you are not more than 50% at fault for the accident. But your percentage of fault will reduce your damage award.
Insurance providers will usually shift the blame onto you to reduce the possible payout. Your lawyer can collect evidence such as accident reports, witness testimony, and photos to make a strong case for the liability of the other driver. Keep in mind that vital evidence can quickly disappear and the memories of eyewitnesses can fade. Thus, you need to hire a car accident attorney as soon as possible after a car accident.
