Getting into a car accident is stressful and upsetting – and knowing it was the other driver’s fault can make it even more frustrating. It’s important to take smart steps after an accident because the choices you make can affect what happens next. Reach out to a car accident lawyer in Connecticut and take the following measures to protect yourself.
When it’s Time to Fight The Good Fight℠, contact D’Amico Pettinicchi for help. Noted legal media company Lawdragon called us “go-to warriors… boldly taking on fights thought impossible,” praising our personal injury attorneys as “relentless, compassionate… and a dominant force in the courtroom.” For more than 35 years, we’ve fought for injured victims of negligence and achieved very substantial results.
We can answer your questions about what to do next during your free consultation, and you won’t owe any attorney fees unless we recover compensation for you.
You Didn’t Cause the Crash—Now What?
Don’t panic. If you believe the other driver caused the accident, remain calm. Doing so can help safeguard your right to recover compensation for any accident-related injuries. If you keep a clear head, you’ll be better equipped to act in ways that can support, rather than jeopardize, an eventual car accident claim.
Connecticut is an “at-fault” state, meaning that the driver who caused the accident is responsible for covering the damages related to the accident. However, navigating the claims process can be difficult and confusing, and the insurance company will try to downplay your injuries, delay your compensation, and deny responsibility. At D’Amico Pettinicchi, we know the strategies insurance companies use, and we are prepared to fight back against them.
Prioritize Safety and Medical Attention
First and foremost, protect your safety. If you’re hurt, get medical help right away. Even if you feel okay, you should still see a doctor, because not all serious injuries display symptoms immediately. Additionally, having a record of seeking medical treatment and following through on the doctor’s recommendations links your injuries to the accident and strengthens an injury claim. Save all documentation related to your medical care, including receipts for out-of-pocket expenses.
Call the Police and Get an Official Accident Report
Under Connecticut law (C.G.S. §14-224), you’re required to report any accident involving property damage, injury, or death to the police. Call 911 right away. The responding officer will prepare an official accident report, which can be valuable evidence in a claim. Your car accident lawyer in Connecticut can obtain this report during their investigation.
Gather Evidence at the Scene (If You’re Able)
If your condition permits, take photos and videos of the accident scene, including vehicle positioning and damage, visible injuries, the general surroundings, and any conditions that may have contributed to the collision. If there were any witnesses, get their names and contact information so your attorney can reach out to them later for a statement.
Be Careful What You Say After the Accident
It can be tempting to engage with the other driver after a motor vehicle accident. However, you shouldn’t take this any further than exchanging contact info and insurance details. Don’t reflexively apologize for the crash, or speculate on its causes. Which driver was at fault is ultimately up to the court.
In fact, this policy of staying silent about the accident should extend beyond the crash site. Don’t post about the accident on social media or discuss it with anyone other than your trusted household members, your doctor, and your attorney.
When to Contact a Connecticut Car Accident Lawyer
You should contact an experienced car accident lawyer as soon as possible. The benefits of hiring a lawyer for a car accident in Connecticut will be apparent from the outset, as your attorney will handle everything related to the claims process while you concentrate on healing. This includes gathering evidence, communicating with insurance companies on your behalf, and fighting for every dollar you’re owed after a car accident upends your life.
If you suffered injuries in a car accident that was another driver’s fault, reach out to the team at D’Amico Pettinicchi for support. Founded in 1990, we’ve recovered tens of millions of dollars for deserving accident victims. When it’s Time To Fight The Good Fight℠, contact our office to arrange a free initial consultation with our Connecticut car accident attorneys.