Fleeing the scene of an accident is a crime in Connecticut. Drivers who commit hit-and-run car accidents can be held liable for the damage caused by their negligence, but it can be challenging to build a case in these types of accident claims. Working with an experienced auto collision attorney ensures you have the best possible chance of recovering compensation after a hit-and-run car accident in Litchfield.
The attorneys at D’Amico & Pettinicchi, LLC, cannot guarantee any specific outcome, but we do promise to work tirelessly to build a strong case and represent your best interests throughout every stage of your accident claim. We have over 100 years of combined experience to draw from when fighting for our clients, and our extensive legal background is evident in everything we do.
Drivers involved in a motor vehicle accident are legally required to stop at the scene of the accident in Litchfield and throughout the state of Connecticut. Failure to do so can result in penalties like fines and jail time.
Is it relevant in a civil accident claim that hit-and-runs are illegal in Connecticut? Yes, because the state’s system of modified comparative negligence places a high priority on fault when deciding how to award compensation for damages. While the person who commits the hit-and-run may not necessarily be at fault for the accident, their choice to flee the scene usually has an impact on an accident claim in Litchfield.
Not only is leaving the scene illegal, but doing so also makes the hit-and-run driver look guilty. Why do drivers flee the scene of an accident? There are numerous reasons that drivers do not stay at the scene, and attempting to avoid the consequences of the crash is among the most common. Drivers who commit hit-and-runs often panic after the collision, sometimes due to one of the following reasons:
For an accident claim to be successful, you must be able to prove that the other driver is at fault through their negligent actions leading up to the hit and run. Establishing fault can seem like an insurmountable challenge when the driver leaves the scene, but an experienced hit-and-run accident attorney can help you build a case and potentially identify the other driver.
By reviewing the evidence, investigating the scene of the accident, and talking to eyewitnesses, our attorneys may be able to put the pieces together to get closer to identifying the at-fault driver. Even in cases where the hit-and-run driver is unknown, having a lawyer to handle your accident claim is a tremendous benefit. Gathering documentation, preserving evidence, negotiating with insurance companies, and keeping track of deadlines will be necessary whether you know the other driver’s identity or not.
In Connecticut, all drivers are required to have uninsured motorist coverage. This is coverage provided by your own policy and is triggered when a driver hits you and leaves the scene such that they cannot be identified. It is vital that you have sufficient amounts of uninsured motorist coverage on your auto insurance policy, and we recommend a minimum of $300,000 or more if you can afford it. Remember, this may be the only insurance coverage you may be able to access for your injuries if the other driver cannot be identified. And you will need us by your side to fight with your insurance company for the fair compensation you deserve.
You deserve to have a trusted advocate in your corner when faced with the uphill battle of a hit-and-run accident claim. Our car accident attorneys will do everything in our power to get you the compensation you are entitled to. Contact us to schedule a free remote or in-person consultation to discuss the details of your hit-and-run car accident in Litchfield.