Best Car Accident Lawyers in Bristol, CT

FAQs

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

  The Bristol Police Department accepts routine non-emergency calls at 860-584-3011.

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

  The Bristol Police Records Division is at 131 North Main Street, Bristol, CT 06010, and reachable by phone at 860-584-3061.

• Can you hold the manufacturer of automobile parts liable for injuries sustained in a car accident in Bristol?

  Yes, you can sue the manufacturer of automobile parts if you are in a car accident in Bristol. The makers of these components are liable if their defective products cause a crash, like when a faulty tire blows out in spite of being brand new, causing a spin. Broken goods could also contribute to your injuries without causing the incident like when an airbag fails to deploy leading to concussions, opening the producer to suit.

• When must a car accident victim in Bristol go to court?

  Bristol follows the law of Connecticut which imposes a two-year deadline to file a personal injury suit counted from the date of a car accident. If the other driver was drunk and the plaintiff wishes to seek damages from the company or bartender who sold the alcohol, the claimant has a year from the date the booze was sold to go to court.

• What are the damages recoverable in a Bristol car accident case?

  A car accident claimant in Bristol can seek economic, non-economic, and punitive damages. Economic damages are quantifiable sums covering medical costs, lost wages, and rehabilitation. Non-economic damages answer for intangible yet impactful inconveniences like emotional anxiety and psychiatric trauma caused by a crash. Punitive damages are essentially civil fines and are awarded if the negligent party was also breaking the law.

• What are the elements of negligence that a car accident victim in Bristol must prove to the court?

  A car accident victim in Bristol must show that the defendant had a duty of care to prevent the plaintiff from being harmed. This duty must be breached by the party being sued due to some action or inaction. The victim must sustain damage and this damage must be causally linked to the other motorist's conduct. The duty of care element is derived from the community's safe driving practices and traffic laws.

• Why should a car accident claimant in Bristol get a lawyer instead of representing one's self?

  A car accident claimant in Bristol must seek legal representation instead of going solo because an attorney is better equipped and trained to collect and pore through the massive volumes of evidence and paperwork involved in a case. This is key when proving the value and extent of one's medical treatments and lost wages. It is also risky to negotiate with insurers alone and a litigator is indispensable for navigating court processes.

• 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.