Steps in the Connecticut Car Accident Claims Process
After a car accident, the journey to compensation begins with a single step. But for many victims, knowing where to start with a car accident claim—and how to keep moving forward—can feel overwhelming. The road ahead may seem long and uncertain, filled with legal jargon, stacks of paperwork, and high-stakes negotiations.
However, by understanding the key stages in the Connecticut car accident claims process, you can approach your case with clarity and confidence. Here is what you need to know about the next steps in filing car accident claims and how New Haven car accident attorneys can guide you through the legal journey.
Investigating the Accident
The very first step in the car accident claims process is to investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident. Our New Haven car accident lawyers will conduct a thorough investigation to uncover all relevant facts, determine who was at fault, and calculate the full extent of your losses.
This may involve collecting documents like police reports, witness statements, medical records, and photos of the damage and your injuries. Your lawyer will also want to wait until you reach maximum medical improvement (MMI)—the point at which your condition has stabilized and further recovery is unlikely—so that you have a clearer picture of how the accident will affect your life moving forward.
Filing a Car Insurance Claim
In Connecticut, you will typically file a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance company before pursuing more aggressive litigation. Connecticut is a fault state, which means that the at-fault party is responsible for paying for the losses that you sustained. The insurer will provide this compensation as long as you can prove that the policyholder caused the accident and your damages fall within the policy’s limits.
Your lawyer will help you prepare a demand letter detailing your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. The insurance company will then review your claim and make an initial settlement offer. At this stage, our personal injury attorneys in New Haven will negotiate with the insurer to reach a fair agreement that accounts for all your losses. If a reasonable settlement cannot be reached, you may need to consider filing a lawsuit.
Pursuing a Civil Lawsuit
If the insurance company refuses to offer a just settlement, your next step may be to file a civil lawsuit against the at-fault driver. Your attorney will initiate this process by filing a complaint with the appropriate court. This initiates the formal litigation process.
During the discovery phase, both sides will exchange evidence, interview witnesses under oath, and build their respective cases. Before the trial begins, your lawyer may engage in pre-trial negotiations with the defendant’s attorney in an attempt to reach a mutually agreeable resolution and avoid the expense and uncertainty of going to court.
If your case settles, you will receive a final settlement offer. If you cannot reach an agreement with the at-fault party, your lawsuit will proceed to trial and the judge or jury will determine the final verdict.
Navigate Your Claim with Lynch, Traub, Keefe & Errante
Navigating the car accident claims process in Connecticut can be complex and time-consuming. The New Haven motor vehicle accident lawyers at Lynch, Traub, Keefe & Errante can guide you through each step so that you can proceed with confidence. We will protect your rights while you focus on recovery. If you are pursuing a car accident claim in Connecticut, call us at (203) 333-3333 to discuss your case and learn how we can help. Don’t wait and contact us today.