Best Car Accident Lawyers in Danbury, CT

FAQs

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

  You may call the Danbury Police Department at 203-797-4611 for non-emergencies.

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

  The Danbury Police Department's records and property division handles all police accident and incident reports. You may reach out to them at 203-797-4680.

• What is the timeframe for filing car accident claims in Dansbury?

  According to the state's law, you have a maximum of two years from the date of your car accident to make a claim in Danbury. This timeframe, however, could differ depending on the situation. For example, you need to make a claim with the at-fault party's insurance company first before you can pursue a lawsuit following a vehicle accident. Most of the time, the insurance will have specific dates that you must adhere to in order to submit a claim.

• How long after an accident can you file a police report in Dansbury?

  A car accident in Danbury that resulted in more than $1,000 in damage must be reported within five days of the incident. Immediately following the collision, the police will submit a report on your behalf. This report will include the specifics of the accident in the report, which might aid in identifying the true cause of the incident.

• Are car accident victims in Danbury eligible to file a claim if they are partially at fault?

  Danbury follows the state's fault-based insurance law, where the individual who causes the car accident is financially liable for the resulting damage and injuries. However, if the victim is partly at fault for the collision, it does not automatically hinder them from filing a claim. According to the modified comparative negligence principle, the person at fault may still recover compensation, given that they are less than 50 percent liable for the accident.

• How do Danbury lawyers compute for the compensation of the car accident victims?

  If the preventable car accident was caused by a negligent driver, employer, vehicle owner, vehicle manufacturer, or another person, that party is financially liable for the victim's losses and injuries. Danbury lawyers calculate the damages and compensation by considering a variety of factors. These include:

  • Past and future medical costs
  • Property damages
  • pain and suffering (physical, mental, and emotional)
  • Rental car fees
  • Legal fees

• Can a car accident victim in Danbury still file for a claim if the party at fault has no insurance?

  Car accident victims in Danbury can file an uninsured or underinsured driver claim on their own vehicle insurance coverage, as required by law. This coverage applies if the plaintiff gets in a vehicle collision with an uninsured motorist or if the at-fault driver's insurance coverage is insufficient to cover the damages.

• 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.