Getting involved in a car accident in Connecticut can be a stressful and confusing time, especially if you’re a passenger who has been injured. It’s important to know that passengers have rights and options to seek compensation for their injuries.
If you are injured as a passenger in a car accident, it is recommended that you work with a car accident attorney in Connecticut. With legal representation, you can feel confident that your rights are protected.
Common Types of Injuries Sustained
In car accidents, passengers often face a range of injuries. These can be minor, like cuts and bruises, or more serious, such as broken bones or head injuries.
Some of the most common types of passenger injuries seen in car accidents include the following:
- Whiplash: This is caused by the neck being whipped back and forth from the crash’s force, leading to pain and stiffness.
- Concussions: These can occur without a direct blow to the head due to the brain being shaken, affecting its function.
- Fractures: These are common in arms and legs and are caused by impact on the vehicle’s interior or the force of the crash.
- Cuts: These injuries can vary in severity from glass to sharp metal.
- Internal Injuries: Particularly dangerous because they may not be immediately apparent but require prompt medical attention.
Legal Framework for Passenger Injuries in Connecticut
Connecticut’s laws on car accidents and personal injury claims offer protection for passengers injured in car accidents. Some of the most important laws to know are described here.
Understanding Connecticut’s Comparative Negligence Law
If you’re injured as a passenger in a car accident, it’s essential to know about the modified comparative negligence system. This system allows you to receive damages if you’re found to be less than 51% at fault for your injuries. However, the amount you receive will be decreased based on your fault percentage.
Statute of Limitations for Filing a Claim
Acting quickly after sustaining an injury in a car accident is critical. In Connecticut, you have two years from the accident date to file a personal injury lawsuit. Missing this deadline means you could forfeit your right to claim compensation.
Insurance Requirements and How They Affect You
Connecticut mandates that drivers have liability insurance, which helps cover passenger injuries and damages. If the at-fault driver’s insurance cannot fully cover your injuries, you should consider your uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage for additional support.
The Importance of Legal Assistance
Navigating the laws surrounding passenger injury claims in Connecticut can be daunting. Consulting with a legal professional can provide clarity, help you understand how these laws apply to your case, and assist in securing the compensation you’re entitled to
