Spanish Yes, as long as you are 50% or less responsible for the accident, you can pursue compensation. However, the amount you receive will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are found to be 30% at fault and your total damages are $100,000, your compensation would be reduced by 30%, leaving you with $70,000.
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How to Prove You Are Not at Fault in a Car Accident in Connecticut? 2025
Knowing how to prove you are not at fault in a car accident in Connecticut can be hard for drivers who don’t understand their rights or state laws. If you’re in an accident, seeking an experienced car accident lawyer is necessary.
Common Causes of Car Accidents
Car accidents are one of the leading causes of death in the United States, with 314 traffic deaths occurring in Connecticut in 2024. The most car accidents that year were in Bridgeport, New Haven, Hartford, Windsor, and Waterbury. New Haven experienced the most accidents in the state that year.
Drivers and passengers are the most likely to be victims in a crash, with 131 victims in Connecticut in 2023. Several behaviors can potentially lead to a car accident:
- Cell phone use, GPS use, and even adjusting the radio can be considered distracted driving.
- Driving over the legal speed limit reduces your ability to react in time to any unpredictable incidents.
- Drunk or otherwise impaired driving often causes the most serious injuries compared to other types of accidents. In 2022, in Connecticut, 140 people were killed in alcohol-related car crashes.
- Running red lights, stop signs, or committing other traffic violations can also lead to accidents.
- Poor weather conditions, such as heavy rain, ice, or fog, can reduce driver visibility and create slippery roads.
Steps to Take After a Car Crash
There are certain steps to follow after being involved in a crash, and these steps are vital to your well-being. Start by calling 911 to report the crash and seek medical attention immediately, as you could have potential internal injuries and not know it. Make sure to take photos of the damage, road conditions, weather conditions, and any injuries you sustained.
Don’t leave the scene unless medically necessary. Wait until an officer arrives and speaks to all parties involved in the crash. Get the other driver’s contact, license, and insurance details. Be sure not to admit any fault or apologize at all during this time. Doing so can impact your future case. Do not post about the crash on social media.
Understanding Fault in Connecticut Car Accidents
Understanding state laws to protect yourself is vital. Connecticut follows modified comparative negligence laws. After reviewing the case, courts will then assign a percentage of fault for any parties involved.
This means that if you are found to be 50% or less at fault for the car crash, you may still recover compensation, although it will be reduced by your percentage of fault. However, for those found to be 51% or more at fault for the car crash, no compensation is given.
During your initial consultation with Sorrentino Legal – Injury & Accident Law, our attorneys will evaluate your case from all angles to determine fault and what compensation you may be awarded.
How Do the Courts Determine Fault?
While seeming like a vague concept, determining fault in car accidents involves various concrete steps. The courts will consider all forms of evidence to establish the degree of fault of everyone involved in the crash. This can include:
- Police reports containing the responding officer’s observations, statements from all parties and any eyewitnesses, and any citations issued after the accident
- Photos and videos of the accident scene, either from the parties involved or traffic cameras and dashcams
- Testimonies from anyone who witnessed the car accident
- Medical records of any injuries sustained during the accident
- Accident reconstruction professionals who can analyze available evidence to determine how the accident occurred
FAQs
Can I Recover Damages if I’m Partially at Fault for the Accident?
What if the Other Driver Doesn’t Have Insurance?
If the at-fault driver does not have car insurance, you still have options for financial recovery. Connecticut law requires all drivers to carry auto liability insurance, uninsured motorist coverage, and underinsured motorist coverage.
Uninsured motorist coverage provides compensation if the policyholder is injured by a driver who has no insurance or is involved in a hit-and-run. Underinsured motorist coverage comes into play when the at-fault driver’s insurance is not enough to cover the policyholder’s damages.
How Long Do I Have to File a Claim After a Car Accident in Connecticut?
In Connecticut, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim after a car accident is two years from the date of the incident. This claim can be filed by a driver, passenger, motorcyclist, bicyclist, electric scooter rider, or pedestrian. It also applies to any claims over vehicle damage caused by the crash. Two years may seem like a long time, but preserving evidence early and pursuing claims as soon as possible is key to a good outcome.
What Types of Damages Can I Recover in a Car Accident Claim?
In a Connecticut car accident claim, you may be entitled to recover a variety of damages depending on various factors, including the severity of your injuries and the percentage of fault of all involved parties. Common types are usually medical expenses, lost wages due to missed work, and property damage. You may also be eligible for emotional damage compensation. Working with Sorrentino Legal – Injury & Accident Law can help ensure that all damages are documented properly.
Speak With an Experienced Connecticut Car Accident Attorney Today
If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Connecticut and believe you are not at fault, consult with an experienced personal injury attorney. At Sorrentino Legal – Injury & Law, we are committed to providing compassionate legal representation to those involved in car accidents. Our team understands the complexities of Connecticut’s fault laws and is prepared to assist you every step of the way. Here’s a record of successful car accident claims.
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$1.2 Million Settlement for Rear-End Collision
Successfully proved client was not at fault in a rear-end accident, securing a substantial settlement for injuries and damages. -
$850,000 Verdict in Multi-Vehicle Crash
Demonstrated the negligence of other drivers involved, resulting in a favorable jury verdict for the client. -
$600,000 Settlement for Distracted Driver Accident
Established liability of a distracted driver, ensuring full compensation for medical bills and lost wages. -
$450,000 Settlement in Intersection Collision
Proved client’s right of way was violated, leading to a significant settlement covering pain and suffering. -
$300,000 Settlement for Side-Impact Collision
Successfully argued the opposing driver’s fault, helping the client recover damages for vehicle repairs and injuries.
Contact Sorrentino Legal for a consultation. Our experienced attorneys are here to help you prove your innocence and pursue the compensation you deserve.
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