What Is Insurance?

Insurance is a broad term that refers to any agreement where you can receive financial compensation or benefits for specific losses. However, these losses must meet particular qualifications as outlined in the insurance policy. Most insurance contracts include provisions regarding:

• The timing of a loss: When the loss occurred and whether it’s covered by the policy.
• The type of damage: For example, auto insurance may cover collision-related damages, while homeowners’ insurance may cover hail damage.
• Specific exclusions: Certain situations or conditions that the policy won’t cover.
• Covered individuals or properties: Details about who or what the policy protects.
• How losses are determined and paid: The process for assessing damages and providing compensation.

Insurance contracts are often lengthy and complex, containing all the terms and conditions of your coverage. When you file a claim, the insurance company uses an insurance adjuster to determine if your loss qualifies for coverage and how much they should pay.

Types of Insurance in Connecticut

Insurance can cover nearly any type of loss. Common types of insurance include:

• Auto insurance
• Homeowners’ insurance
• Life insurance
• Health insurance
• Renter’s insurance
• Travel insurance
• Pet insurance
• General business liability coverage
• Flood insurance

For most individuals, the most common insurance types are auto, health, and homeowners’ insurance. Every policy has a limitation, often referred to as “policy limits.” These limits represent the maximum amount the insurance company will pay for a claim.

How Does Auto Insurance Work in Connecticut?

Auto insurance plays a key role in protecting drivers after car accidents. In Connecticut, drivers are legally required to carry a minimum level of auto insurance coverage. Connecticut is an at-fault state, meaning the driver responsible for the accident is liable for the resulting damages. Drivers must have insurance coverage for both property damage and bodily injury.

Here’s an overview of how auto insurance typically works in Connecticut:

1. Notify the Insurance Company

After a car accident, both drivers should immediately notify their insurance companies about the incident. Even if the accident wasn’t your fault, it’s still essential to inform your insurer. If the at-fault driver doesn’t have insurance or if you’ve purchased additional coverage like collision or uninsured motorist coverage, your own insurance company may cover your losses.

2. Initial Investigation

Once you file a claim, the insurance company will conduct an initial investigation. They’ll gather information about the accident, including what happened, who was involved, and the extent of damages and injuries. This helps the company determine whether your loss is covered under the policy and the potential payout amount.

3. Decision to Accept or Deny the Claim

Based on the findings of their investigation, the insurer will decide whether to accept or deny your claim. They’ll evaluate the specifics of your policy and the circumstances of the accident to reach a decision. If the claim is accepted, the insurer may pay for damages, defend a lawsuit, or take other actions based on the policy terms.

4. Further Investigation

If the claim is accepted, the insurance company may conduct a more detailed investigation. This could involve obtaining medical records, gathering witness statements, or consulting with experts. This process can take time and often continues even if you file a lawsuit.

5. Negotiation or Lawsuit

At this stage, the insurance company may attempt to negotiate a settlement with you. If negotiations fail, you may need to pursue a lawsuit to recover compensation. A skilled personal injury attorney can represent your interests, whether in settlement discussions or in court.

Why Choose Bert McDowell Injury Law?

Insurance companies are in the business of making money, which means they may try to minimize your claim or deny it altogether. At Bert McDowell Injury Law, we fight to ensure that accident victims in Connecticut receive the compensation they deserve. We understand how insurance companies operate and will work tirelessly to protect your rights.

If you’ve been injured in an accident, don’t let the insurance company take advantage of you. Contact Bert McDowell Injury Law for a free consultation today. Call us at 475-231-3274 or fill out our online form to get started.