Car Accidents

Car Accidents in Connecticut

At Shehu Law Firm, we provide exceptional legal representation for car accident victims in Connecticut. We believe in delivering honest, straightforward advice to help you understand the realities of your case. Our mission is to guide you through the complex legal process with clarity, compassion, and relentless advocacy, ensuring you receive the maximum compensation you deserve.

Why Choose Us?

We know that a car accident can upend your life, leaving you with medical bills, lost income, and emotional distress. When we take on your case, we commit to:

• Candid Guidance: We provide realistic expectations, explaining your case’s strengths and challenges so you can make informed decisions.
• Tireless Support: From initial consultation to final resolution, we invest significant time and resources to build a strong case, whether it settles quickly or requires litigation.
• Maximum Compensation: We fight aggressively to recover all damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future care needs.

Understanding Connecticut’s Car Accident Laws

Connecticut operates under an at-fault system, meaning the driver responsible for the accident is liable for damages, such as injuries and property damage. You may seek compensation through the at-fault driver’s insurance or, if necessary, by filing a lawsuit. Here are key legal points to know:

• Reporting Requirements: If your accident results in injury, death, or property damage over $1,000, you must report it to local police or Connecticut State Police immediately.
• Insurance Mandates: Connecticut requires drivers to carry minimum liability insurance:
  • $25,000 per person/$50,000 per accident for bodily injury
  • $25,000 for property damage
  • Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage to protect against accidents with uninsured drivers or hit-and-run cases
  • Continuous coverage is mandatory; lapses can result in registration suspension or fines
• Statute of Limitations: You have 2 years from the accident date to file a lawsuit for personal injury or property damage caused by negligence. Missing this deadline typically results in your case being dismissed.
• Modified Comparative Negligence: You can recover damages if you’re less than 51% at fault, but your compensation is reduced by your fault percentage. For example, if you’re 20% at fault for a $100,000 claim, you’d receive $80,000. If you’re 51% or more at fault, you cannot recover damages.

Steps to Take After a Car Accident

To protect your rights and strengthen your claim, follow these critical steps:

• Ensure Safety: Check for injuries and call 911 if medical attention is needed. Move vehicles out of traffic if safe.
• Exchange Information: Share your name, address, driver’s license, vehicle registration, and insurance details with other drivers involved.
• Avoid Admitting Fault: Even casual apologies can be used against you. Let the evidence determine liability.
• Document Scene: Take clear photos of vehicle damage, skid marks, road conditions, and injuries. Collect witness contact information.
• Seek Medical Care: Visit a doctor promptly, even for minor symptoms, as conditions like whiplash may not appear immediately.
• Act Quickly: Contact our firm as soon as possible to preserve evidence and meet legal deadlines.

Damages You May Recover

We work tirelessly to secure compensation for all your losses, including:

• Medical Expenses: Doctor visits, hospital stays, physical therapy, prescriptions, and assistive devices (e.g., crutches, wheelchairs).
• Lost Wages: Income lost due to recovery or medical appointments, including used sick leave.
• Pain and Suffering: Physical pain and emotional distress caused by your injuries. Keep a daily or weekly diary to document this.
• Disability: Physical limitations that make daily tasks difficult or impossible.
• Scarring/Disfigurement: Document injuries with high-quality photos (avoid Polaroids; we can arrange professional photography if needed).
• Diminished Earning Capacity: Reduced ability to work due to temporary or permanent disability.
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Activities you can no longer do, do less often, or do for shorter periods (e.g., hobbies, sports).
• Outside Help: Costs for hiring others to perform tasks like housekeeping, lawn care, or childcare. Keep receipts and canceled checks.
• Loss of Consortium: Impact on your marriage, including physical intimacy or shared activities like vacations or outings.

How We Fight for You

Navigating Connecticut’s car accident laws and insurance companies can be overwhelming. Our experienced team handles every aspect of your case, including:

• Gathering Evidence: We collect police reports, witness statements, photos, and expert testimony to build a strong case.
• Negotiating with Insurers: We counter lowball offers to secure fair compensation for all your damage.
• Meeting Deadlines: We ensure lawsuits are filed within the 2-year statute of limitations or other applicable deadlines.
• Maximizing Compensation: We account for every loss, from medical bills to emotional suffering, to ensure you receive the full recovery you deserve.

Why Act Now?

Insurance companies often pressure victims into accepting quick, inadequate settlements. With 12% of Connecticut drivers uninsured, recovering damages can be even more challenging without legal support. By acting promptly, you preserve critical evidence and avoid missing strict deadlines. Our firm is here to guide you every step of the way, offering free consultations and working on a contingency fee basis—no fees unless we win. Contact us today for a free case evaluation. Let us fight for the compensation you need to rebuild your life after a car accident.