Connecticut Car Insurance Minimums
In Connecticut, insurance is a critical component of responsible vehicle ownership, and drivers are required to carry certain minimum amounts of coverage. However, carrying only the minimum required insurance may not provide sufficient protection in the event of a serious accident. Medical expenses, property damage, and lost wages can quickly exceed the limits of a basic policy, leaving the policyholder personally liable for any additional costs. Make sure to speak with an experienced New Haven car accident lawyer for guidance on navigating these insurance minimums.
Connecticut’s Minimum Car Insurance Requirements
In fault states like Connecticut, the at-fault driver is responsible for paying for the medical expenses, property damage, and other losses sustained by victims in accidents that they cause. Liability insurance coverage can help pay for these damages.
Connecticut law requires all drivers to carry a minimum level of car insurance coverage. Many drivers opt for higher limits to provide greater financial protection, but the mandatory minimum coverage includes:
- $25,000 per person for bodily injury liability
- $50,000 per accident for total bodily injury liability
- $25,000 per accident for property damage liability
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage in Connecticut
In addition to liability coverage, Connecticut also requires drivers to carry uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage. This coverage protects you if you are involved in an accident with a driver who has no insurance or insufficient insurance to cover your damages. State law requires drivers to hold a minimum of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury in UM/UIM insurance.
Penalties for Driving Without Minimum Insurance in Connecticut
Car insurance not only protects drivers financially in the event of an accident, but this coverage also ensures that they comply with state laws. Driving without the required minimum insurance coverage in Connecticut can result in severe penalties.
If caught, drivers may face fines, license suspension, and possible jail time. For a first offense, the penalty is at least $100 and the suspension may last for one month. For second or subsequent offenses, the penalties may increase significantly.
When Minimum Coverage May Not Be Enough After an Accident
If you’ve been injured in an accident caused by another driver, their minimum insurance coverage may not be sufficient to fully compensate you for your losses. For example, if you have suffered severe injuries that require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, or long-term care, the at-fault driver’s minimum bodily injury liability coverage may quickly be exhausted. This can leave you with significant out-of-pocket expenses.
In such cases, you may need to explore additional options for recovering compensation, such as filing a first-party claim under your own policy or pursuing a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault driver. A lawsuit allows you to seek damages beyond insurance policy limits, which is essential if your damages are extensive.
Speak with an Attorney About Your Options for Compensation
Connecticut’s minimum car insurance requirements may not be enough to protect you in a serious accident. If you are trying to recover fair compensation after a collision, a New Haven personal injury attorney from Lynch, Traub, Keefe & Errante can provide the guidance and the resources that you need.
Our lawyers will review your or the at-fault driver’s policy, explain your options, and fight for the highest possible settlement on your behalf. Contact us at (203) 333-3333 and let us advocate for you.