Car Accidents

Car accidents are among the most common scenarios where individuals find themselves needing the expertise of a personal injury lawyer. In Connecticut, Bert McDowell Injury Law is dedicated to ensuring that victims of car accidents receive the compensation they deserve. If you or a loved one have been injured, call us today at 475-231-3274 for a free consultation. Let’s break down the essentials you need to know about personal injury claims and how they work in Connecticut.

What Are Damages in Personal Injury Cases?

Personal injury cases center around “damages,” which refer to the monetary compensation awarded to victims for their losses. These damages are categorized into two main types: special damages and general damages.

Special Damages

Special damages cover specific, measurable costs associated with the injury. Examples include:

• Medical Expenses: Hospital bills, physical therapy, medication, and future medical costs related to the injury.
• Property Damage: Costs for repairing or replacing your vehicle or other damaged belongings.
• Lost Wages: Income lost due to missed work while recovering from the accident.
• Out-of-Pocket Expenses: Costs like transportation to medical appointments or hiring help for household tasks you can no longer perform.

General Damages

General damages are less tangible and harder to quantify but equally significant. They compensate for the broader impact the accident has on your life. Examples include:

• Pain and Suffering: Physical discomfort and emotional distress caused by the accident.
• Mental Anguish: Anxiety, depression, or trauma resulting from the event.
• Disfigurement: Permanent scars or changes to your appearance.
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Inability to participate in activities you once enjoyed.
• Loss of Consortium: Impact on your relationship with a spouse or family members due to the accident.

Understanding Fault and Compensation in Connecticut

Connecticut operates under a “comparative negligence” rule, which means that your ability to recover compensation depends on your percentage of fault in the accident. If you are found to be partially at fault, your compensation will be reduced by your share of the blame. For example, if you are deemed 20% at fault for the accident, you can still recover 80% of your total damages. However, if you are more than 50% at fault, you cannot recover any damages.

This system emphasizes the importance of building a strong case to prove the other party’s liability. An experienced lawyer from Bert McDowell Injury Law can help gather evidence and advocate on your behalf to ensure you receive the maximum compensation possible.

Types of Car Accidents

In Connecticut, any motor vehicle collision or incident can qualify as a car accident for legal purposes. Common examples include:

• Rear-End Collisions: Often caused by distracted or tailgating drivers.
• Head-On Collisions: These are among the most severe types of accidents.
• T-Bone Accidents: Occur frequently at intersections when a driver fails to yield.
• Hit-and-Run Accidents: Cases where the at-fault driver flees the scene.
• Drunk Driving Accidents: Caused by drivers operating under the influence.
• Distracted Driving Accidents: Often linked to texting or other in-car distractions.

Steps to Take After a Car Accident

If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Connecticut, follow these steps to protect your legal rights:

1. Call 911: Notify law enforcement and request medical assistance if needed.
2. Document the Scene: Take photographs of the vehicles, injuries, and surrounding area.
3. Exchange Information: Collect the contact and insurance details of all involved parties.
4. Talk to Witnesses: If there are bystanders, ask for their contact information and statements.
5. Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not present symptoms immediately.
6. Contact a Lawyer: Speak with Bert McDowell Injury Law at 475-231-3274 before discussing the accident with insurance companies.

Why Choose Bert McDowell Injury Law?

At Bert McDowell Injury Law, we understand the emotional and financial toll that a car accident can take. Our experienced team is here to guide you through the legal process, ensuring that you receive the compensation you need to move forward. We handle every aspect of your case, from investigating the accident to negotiating with insurance companies and, if necessary, representing you in court.

With a proven track record of success, our firm takes pride in advocating for clients across Connecticut. We offer personalized attention and unwavering commitment to each case, so you can focus on healing while we handle the rest.

Contact Us Today

Don’t wait to seek the legal help you need. If you or someone you know has been injured in a car accident, call Bert McDowell Injury Law at 475-231-3274 for a free consultation. Let us fight for your rights and help you secure the compensation you deserve. Remember, you don’t pay unless we win your case.

By choosing Bert McDowell Injury Law, you’re choosing a team that genuinely cares about your well-being and your future.