Being involved in a car accident can be a very scary and devastating experience. Not only can it be physically and emotionally painful, but it can also take a toll on your financial well-being. Filing a claim against the at-fault driver and his/her insurance company can oftentimes be the only way for you to get compensation. But what exactly is a fair settlement for a car accident in Connecticut? What can you do to ensure you receive the full compensation you need to recover from the accident?
Each Car Accident Is Different
Every car accident is different, and the amount of compensation can vary greatly depending on the unique circumstances of every case.
One important factor which might impact the amount of compensation is the amount of available insurance coverage. This is because insurance companies will generally not pay for sums that exceed the policy limits. If the at-fault driver does not carry sufficient insurance to fully compensate you, an underinsured motorist claim should to be filed on your behalf. An experienced personal injury attorney will be able to help you estimate a fair settlement amount to cover the accident-related damages and losses and pursue the best possible outcome for your circumstance.
Other factors that determine what a fair settlement looks like in a car accident case include:
● which party was at fault or the extent of each party's fault
● the amount of evidence available to prove negligence and damages
● insurance coverage available for both yourself and the other party
● medical bills for past and future treatments
● pain and suffering
● lost wages if you had to take time off from work
Understanding How Car Accident Settlements Work in Connecticut
Connecticut is an “at fault” State. This means that the driver who was at fault in causing the collision is liable for compensation to others injured in the collision. Thus, if you can prove that your injuries were caused by the other driver’s negligence, you will be able to bring claim against the at-fault driver.
Keep track of all your medical bills since your injury-related costs usually make up a significant portion of your insurance claim. You also need to document lost wages and visit an auto repair shop or dealership to get an estimate of the car repair costs.
Report the car accident as soon as possible. Connecticut has a statute of limitations which governs the time to file a personal injury lawsuit. Generally, an injured person has two (2) years from the date of the incident in which to file a claim.
Car accident settlement cases can be complicated, and without the help of a personal car accident attorney in Connecticut, you might be coerced into accepting an insufficient settlement. As established leaders in Connecticut’s legal community, the attorneys at Hirsch Andrade LLP can help you receive the compensation you deserve for your damages. Visit our website or call us at (203) 331-8888 for a free consultation.