Best Car Accident Lawyers in New Haven

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in New Haven, Connecticut?

  The non-emergency contact number for the local police station in New Haven is (203) 946-6316.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in New Haven, Connecticut?

  You can get a copy of the police report for accidents that occurred in 2022 or newer by requesting online via the LexisNexis online service found at https://www.buycrash.lexisnexisrisk.com/ui/home.

• What are the insurance requirements that every driver in New Haven should know about?

  Motor vehicle drivers in New Haven are required to have a minimum of $25,000 for bodily injury liability coverage per person, at least $50,000 for bodily injury liability coverage per accident, and no less than $25,000 for property damage liability coverage. People who fail to show proof of insurance during a traffic stop will be subjected to license and vehicle registration suspensions and fines.

• How does the modified comparative negligence law affect car accident claimants in New Haven?

  The right to compensation and potential recoveries of people involved in a car accident in New Haven are subject to the state’s modified comparative negligence principle. The law states that plaintiffs can recover remuneration, given that their contribution to the accident is no more than 50%. The settlement claimants receive will also be diminished in proportion to their fault in the accident.

• Who can a person sue for damages incurred in a tire blowout accident in New Haven?

  There are several parties a person can sue in a tire blowout accident in New Haven. These include vehicle owners who kept driving with tires that were no longer safe for use and manufacturers who sold tires with factory defects. In commercial vehicle accident cases, trucking companies can be held liable if found neglecting proper maintenance. Additionally, government entities can be sued if the tire blowout is secondary to road defects.

• Can failure to file a police report interrupt car accident claims in New Haven?

  Yes, it can. The Connecticut state requires police reports for minor and major car accidents in New Haven, and involved parties will be subjected to fines if they don’t file one in the given timelines. When claiming insurance, police reports are also part of the requirements, meaning failure to secure them might delay payouts.

• What are the common causes of intersection accidents in New Haven?

  The top causes of intersection collisions in New Haven are drivers trying to beat the yellow light, disregarding traffic signals, changing lanes improperly, and making a left turn with a blocked view. Other accident sources include tailgating, changing speed abruptly, ignoring weather conditions, and failing to yield the right of way.

• How do I choose a car accident lawyer?

  To select a car accident lawyer, consider the lawyer's experience, focus, and reputation. While nearly any attorney can negotiate with insurers for a settlement, not all attorneys have amassed experience litigating a claim in a court of law. Choose an attorney with a background that includes car accident claimants; it's helpful if the attorney is focused on personal injury law. Lastly, read reviews from previous clients to get a feel for the attorney's helpfulness and responsiveness to clients. The best lawyer for your case is one that you feel comfortable and confident working with.

• What steps should I take after a car accident?

  Immediately following a car accident, get out of traffic as soon as possible and dial 9-1-1. Exchange car insurance information with any other involved drivers and get a police report as soon as possible. Be truthful about what happened, even if you are at fault, but stick to reporting the facts of the accident without offering an opinion on who is to blame. If possible, take photos of your car, other cars at the scene, and the scene itself.

• (When) Do I need a lawyer after a car accident?

  Start working with a car accident lawyer as soon as possible following your car accident (some attorneys even make hospital visits). By reaching out for legal help early on, you avoid some of the pitfalls of trying to handle your claim on your own. Your attorney can also get the ball rolling on reimbursement for your medical bills and lost wages while awaiting the outcome of your claim.

• How long after a car accident can you claim an injury?

  The length of time you can file a claim for an injury following a car accident is governed by the statute of limitations in your state. Although it varies, most states set the statute of limitations for injured parties to seek compensatory damages at three years following the accident or three years after you discover your injuries. In cases where children are injured, the statute of limitations may be longer.

• What do I do after a car accident that I'm not responsible for?

  After an accident that's not your fault, seek immediate medical help if you are injured. Once it's safe to do so, obtain the other driver's contact and insurance information, any statements from witnesses, and photos of the scene. Obtain a police report and contact your insurer and the at-fault party's insurer. If you are injured, schedule a consultation with a car accident attorney to discuss your legal options.

• What happens if someone sues you after a car accident?

  If you have car insurance in force at the time of the accident, your insurance is contractually bound to represent you on any claims that arise, indemnifying you against loss up to the limits of your policy. You can help your insurance company by cooperating fully. If the plaintiff in any lawsuit obtains a judgment above your policy limits, then you can be held personally responsible for any damages awarded.

• What/how much can I expect from a car accident settlement?

  According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average bodily injury claim in 2018 was $15,785. The amount of any particular car accident settlement hinges primarily on the severity of the injuries sustained as a result and whether or not any partial or total permanent disability was caused by the accident. Claims that involve broken bones or nerve damage likely settle for more than claims where soft tissue injuries are present.

• How do I arrange a rental car after an accident?

  To arrange a rental car after an accident, first consider whether your insurance or the other party's insurance will be paying for the rental. If another driver is found to be at-fault for the accident, that driver's insurance may pay the costs. If you are responsible, your insurance may pay if your policy covers such expenses. Speak with your insurance adjuster to determine if you have benefits available.

• How long does it take for car insurance to go back down after an accident?

  Post-accident rate spikes can last anywhere from three to five years, depending on your insurer. However, if damages incurred during the accident are less than $2,000, your rate may not go up at all. Three years is typical for collision and property damage claims. Five years is not uncommon in accidents involving bodily injury claims, DUI or DWI, reckless driving, or serious violations at the time of the accident.

• How to settle a car accident claim without a lawyer?

  To negotiate a car accident settlement without a lawyer, you'll have to prove that the other party was to blame for your damages. Gather evidence at the scene to support your claim, including witness statements and photos. Seek medical treatment for your injuries immediately. Notify the other driver's insurer of your intent to file a claim. If you reside in a no-fault state, you will need to use your personal injury protection (PIP) benefits first before filing a claim against the other party for medical expenses and bodily injury. Be prepared with medical records, police reports, receipts for out-of-pocket accident-related costs, and proof of lost income due to the accident before beginning negotiations.