A car accident can be a stressful and scary experience. Even if you are okay, the aftermath of an accident can leave you feeling shaken up for days or weeks afterward. Because leaving the scene of an accident is against the law in most states, you probably will not be able to just go home from the scene.
You may need to exchange information with the other driver(s), document the damage to your car, and file a police report. If you were at fault for the accident and got cited by a police officer as such, things can get even more complicated. Depending on where you live, a car accident could add points to your driving record or even suspension of your license.
If that sounds like it might be something that could happen to you after an accident, it’s worth reading this post about how a Connecticut car accident attorney can help you.
1. Help Determine Who Is At Fault
A Connecticut car accident attorney can help you tell your side of the story, gather evidence, and build a case that shows the other driver was at fault. You might have difficulty convincing officers or insurance adjusters that the other driver was at fault if you don’t have evidence to support your claim.
The attorney will talk with you to get your story and find out any details you can remember. They will also look at the scene of the accident and gather evidence about where the vehicles were and skid marks, debris, etc.
2. Negotiate Repair Costs
If you are at fault, the other driver’s insurance company will expect you to cover the cost of their repair and any related expenses. A lawyer can help you negotiate the lowest possible repair cost.
First, they can get all necessary documentation from you to prove the extent of the damages to your vehicle. They can then use these documents to pressure the insurance adjuster to offer you a fair amount for repairs.
3. Help With Medical Bills
If you were injured in the accident, you might have to pay for your medical bills after an at-fault accident.
A Connecticut car accident attorney can help you pursue compensation from the at-fault driver’s insurer to cover the cost of your medical bills. They can also help you apply for government assistance, such as Medicaid or Medicare, that you may be entitled to receive.
4. Help Resolve Issues With Insurance Companies
As mentioned above, an at-fault accident can cause issues with your insurance company. Depending on the extent of the damage, this could be a significant expense.
If you have liability insurance, your insurance company will cover the expenses related to the accident. However, they may place a claim on your policy, which could increase your rates.
A car accident attorney can help you resolve issues with your insurance company and reduce the likelihood of your rates going up. They can look at the claims and estimate how much they will cost. They can then use this information to negotiate with your insurance company on your behalf.
5. Help Prosecute Charges Or Pursue Compensation From The At-Fault Party
In some cases, the at-fault driver may be charged with a crime related to the accident. In other cases, the at-fault driver may have insurance that will pay you for your injuries or losses from the accident.
In the first case, a lawyer can help you navigate the criminal justice system and ensure the driver is held accountable for what they did. In the second case, a lawyer can help you obtain compensation from the at-fault driver’s insurance company. This compensation can help compensate for any losses you suffered due to the accident.
In Conclusion
A car accident attorney can help you in many ways after an accident. Depending on the circumstances of the accident, they can help you determine who is at fault, negotiate repair costs, help with medical bills, resolve issues with insurance companies, and prosecute charges or pursue compensation from the at-fault party.
