At Action Law Group, we know there are a lot of moving parts after an auto accident – from the need for medical attention to matters of insurance and information gathering. While these issues may seem foreign or frustrating, they’re crucial to positioning yourself for a fair financial recovery.
If you or someone you love were injured in a crash, protecting your right to compensation begins with taking the right steps from the get-go. The following reminders can aid you in your post-accident journey, as can our award-winning legal team whenever you call or contact us online.
1. Ensure Safety First
- Check for Injuries: Immediately assess yourself and others for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 to request medical assistance.
- Move to Safety: If it's safe and the vehicles are drivable, move them to the side of the road to prevent further incidents. On East Haven's busy routes, such as Main Street and Hemingway Avenue, this is crucial to avoid additional collisions.
2. Contact Law Enforcement
- Report the Accident: Connecticut law mandates reporting accidents that result in injury, death, or significant property damage. Dial 911 to summon the East Haven Police Department. An official report will be invaluable for insurance and potential legal claims.
3. Exchange Information
- Gather Details: Collect the following from all involved drivers:
- Full names and contact information
- Driver's license numbers
- Vehicle registration details
- Insurance policy numbers and provider contacts
4. Document the Scene
- Photographic Evidence: Use your smartphone to capture images of:
- Vehicle positions and damages
- Road conditions and any skid marks
- Traffic signs or signals
- Any relevant landmarks, especially if the accident occurred near known high-risk intersections like Route 1 and Frontage Road in East Haven.
- Witnesses: If there are bystanders, request their contact information and statements, as their accounts can be pivotal.
5. Notify Your Insurance Company
- Prompt Reporting: Inform your insurer about the accident as soon as possible. Provide them with all gathered information and cooperate fully during their investigation.
6. Understand Connecticut's Legal Framework
- Statute of Limitations: In Connecticut, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Delaying beyond this period may forfeit your right to seek compensation.
- Comparative Negligence: Connecticut follows a modified comparative negligence rule. You can recover damages if you're less than 51% at fault. However, any compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
7. Seek Medical Attention
- Immediate Care: Even if injuries seem minor, consult a healthcare professional promptly. Some injuries may not manifest symptoms immediately but can have long-term effects.
- Follow Up & Adhere to Treatment Plans: Attend all follow-up appointments and adhere to your doctor’s treatment plan. Consistently following medical advice is crucial for your recovery and also strengthens your injury claim by documenting the extent and impact of your injuries.
8. Preserve All Related Documentation
- Maintain Records: Keep meticulous records of:
- Medical treatments and expenses
- Repair bills
- Correspondence with insurance companies
- Any other accident-related expenditures
9. Consult a Personal Injury Attorney
- Legal Guidance: Navigating the aftermath of a car accident can be complex. An experienced attorney can help protect your rights, negotiate with insurance companies, and pursue fair compensation on your behalf.
- No Upfront Cost & Free Consultations: At our firm, there is no cost to hire us, and we only charge a fee if we secure a recovery for you. We also offer free consultations to help you understand your legal options without financial risk.
10. Be Cautious with Communications
- Limit Discussions: Avoid discussing the accident details with anyone other than your attorney, insurance company, and law enforcement. Refrain from posting about the incident on social media, as such posts can be used against you in legal proceedings.
Injured in a Car Crash? Action Law Group Can Help.
It can be difficult to take all the right steps after an accident, which is why our firm offers step-by-step legal support to victims injured in car crashes throughout East Haven and beyond. Whether you or someone you love were hurt on a highway, at an intersection, or in a parking lot, our award-winning attorneys have the experience to fight for the compensation you deserve.
Action Law Group is available 24/7 to help! Call (203) 439-3143 or contact us online for a FREE consultation.