Best Car Accident Lawyers in Waterbury

FAQs

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

  The Waterbury Police Department's non-emergency number is (203) 574-6911.

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

  You can now obtain copies of police or auto accident reports online. You can request records online using the following website links: Incident Reports - Visit the City of Waterbury website at https://waterburyct.govqa.us/WEBAPP/_rs/(S(vmvczz5xi0alrjpy35iydtxx))/SupportHome.aspx and select FOIA Request Portal. Accident Reports - Go to BuyCrash at https://buycrash.lexisnexisrisk.com/ui/report/search?state=CT&jurisdiction=WATERBURY%20POLICE%20DEPARTMENT. If your request is not urgent, contact (203) 574-6911, where a police officer will receive your complaint over the phone.

• What is the leading cause of car accidents in Waterbury?

  Driver inattention is the primary cause of serious car accidents in the United States, including Connecticut. Whether you're distracted by a cell phone, GPS device, or anything else, it only takes a split second for things to go wrong. Examples of driver inattention instances common in Waterbury include eating or drinking, manipulating CDs or an iPod, reading, applying makeup, and reaching for the rear seat or glove box.

• How long do you have to bring a lawsuit following a car accident in Waterbury?

  In Connecticut, a lawsuit to obtain damages for bodily injury must be filed within two years. The term for this is the statute of limitations. For your lawsuit to be filed within the statute of limitations, you or your attorney must file a summons and complaint within two years of the accident in Waterbury. Take note that filing a lawsuit is different from negotiating a settlement with the insurance company.

• Can you file a lawsuit for a hit-and-run accident in Waterbury?

  Maybe. This depends on the unique facts and circumstances of your situation. You can file a claim in Waterbury with the motorist's insurance company, for instance, if the police can find the hit-and-run driver and they have insurance. A personal injury lawsuit against them is an additional option. You might not have a chance if the motorist cannot be located or if they do not have insurance. Despite being unable to locate the other driver, uninsured motorist coverage may be able to compensate you for damages.

• How can you get the most money for your damaged vehicle after a crash in Waterbury?

  It is strongly recommended to take your wrecked car to a body shop of your choice to be inspected by an insurance adjuster after an accident in Waterbury. The insurance appraiser will next discuss the extent of the damage to your vehicle with the repair shop's mechanic to arrive at a reasonable settlement.

• What are Waterbury's worst intersections for drivers?

  Waterbury has steep slopes, twisting roads, and several difficult-to-pull-out-of crossroads. The following are some of the worst intersections in Waterbury:

  • Country Club Road/Oronoke Road Intersection
  • East Main Street/Taylor St/Wolcott St Intersection
  • Congress Ave/Bank Street Intersection
  • Fairfield Ave/Highland Ave Intersection
  • Grandview Ave/Bunker Hill Ave Intersection
  • Robbins Street/Watertown Avenue Intersection

• 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.