What Is Considered a Hit-and-Run Accident in Connecticut?
A hit-and-run accident happens when a driver is involved in a crash and leaves the scene without stopping to provide their information or help those injured. This can involve hitting another vehicle, striking a pedestrian, or causing damage to property and then driving away. Leaving the scene of a car accident is a serious crime in Connecticut, and it can also make it harder for injured victims to seek compensation.
What Steps Should I Take Immediately After a Hit-and-Run Accident in Connecticut?
The steps you take after a hit-and-run can affect your health and potential legal claim, so stay calm and act carefully. Do not try to chase the fleeing driver, as this could put you in more danger. Instead, focus on getting help and gathering information from the scene.
Call 911 and Report the Accident
First, call 911. If there’s a chance anyone is seriously hurt, request emergency medical assistance and wait for help to arrive.
The police should also arrive at the scene. Officers will search for the fleeing driver and create an official accident report.
Their report will document the road conditions, the parties involved in the crash, your injuries, and any property damage. It may also include the officer’s opinion about what caused the collision and who is at fault. This report is critical to a successful insurance claim since it provides proof of the accident and may establish liability if the driver is later identified.
Seek Medical Attention Right Away
It’s important to see a doctor as soon as possible after a traffic accident, even if you feel fine. Some injuries, such as concussions or internal bleeding, may not show immediate symptoms but can become serious if untreated. Prompt medical attention also creates a paper trail of evidence linking the accident to your injuries, which makes it harder for the insurer to dispute that they’re connected.
Collect Evidence at the Scene
If it’s safe to do so, gather as much information as possible before leaving the accident scene. Start by trying to remember identifying details about the fleeing vehicle, such as its make, model, color, any portion of the license plate, or what its driver looked like. Then, collect other evidence, such as:
- A written note about the collision’s date, time, and location
- Videos or photos of the scene, including the vehicles involved, property damage, and visible injuries
- Witness statements and contact information
- Notes about any nearby security or traffic cameras that may have recorded the incident
- Insurance and license plate details from any other drivers involved in the crash
Contact a Hit-and-Run Accident Lawyer
A hit-and-run can leave you facing overwhelming stress and uncertainty. Our experienced Connecticut car accident lawyers can help you understand your options and guide you through your next steps. We’re ready to investigate the crash, communicate with insurers, and pursue maximum compensation on your behalf.
Since 1988, our firm has helped countless accident victims and their loved ones rebuild their lives. When you choose us to represent you, you’ll have a team of dedicated legal advocates advocating for your best interests.
The Role of Insurance Coverage After a Hit-and-Run in Connecticut
Connecticut law requires all drivers to carry proof of auto insurance, including liability coverage and uninsured motorist coverage. If you have the state’s minimum required auto insurance coverage, you may be eligible to recover compensation through your own policy, even if the other driver remains unidentified.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
For uninsured motorists, or UM, coverage is mandatory in auto insurance policies in Connecticut. It provides compensation for your losses if you’re injured by a driver who either has no insurance or cannot be identified, such as in a hit-and-run. State law requires at least $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident in UM coverage.
When Should I Report the Claim to My Insurance Company?
It’s best to notify your insurance provider as soon as possible after a hit-and-run. Delays in reporting can give the insurer reason to question or deny your claim.
After you notify the insurer, you must also file a formal claim under your UM policy. Our hit-and-run accident attorneys can help you handle this step. Filing involves submitting evidence to support your request for compensation, such as the police report, medical records, photos and videos, and witness information.
What Are My Legal Options for a Hit-and-Run Accident in Connecticut?
Your legal options depend on whether the driver who fled is identified.
If the driver remains unidentified, a UM insurance claim may be your only option. Our uninsured motorist accident lawyers can help you seek fair compensation for your damages through your insurer, up to your policy limit.
If police locate the driver, you can file a claim against their liability insurance. You may file a UM claim if the driver has no insurance at all, which is often why drivers flee the scene.
If your damages exceed your UM limits, you may also file a personal injury lawsuit against the driver directly. However, this may only be an option if the driver has enough assets to cover your losses.
If the crash causes a loved one’s death, surviving family members may also pursue a wrongful death claim against the driver.
Why Choose Kennedy, Johnson, Schwab & Roberge, P.C. for Your Hit-and-Run Accident Claim?
Maximizing your compensation after being hit by a fleeing driver requires strong legal experience and a deep understanding of Connecticut car accident laws. That’s where our firm comes in. We’ve represented injured people across the state for over 35 years and recovered millions in settlements and verdicts.
Our reputation speaks volumes to the level of advocacy we provide to our valued clients. Other attorneys often refer cases to us because they know we have what it takes to get the best possible results.
We’re committed to providing effective and aggressive representation through every step of your case. This approach has earned us numerous positive testimonials from our past clients:
I had the privilege of being represented by Mr. John Kennedy. He was someone I could trust to be honest and walk me through a difficult time. Taylor, his paralegal, took the time to explain each circumstance that came about. I appreciate the work that was done by Mr. Kennedy and Mr. Nelligan. I would recommend Attorney John Kennedy because of his integrity and genuine concern he showed to me. My experience with them was something I will never forget and will always be thankful for.
Shannon E.
Remarkable law firm! Attorney John Kennedy and his staff were professional and welcoming. If you need a lawyer, stop looking, you’ve found one of the best! He never stopped fighting for me as if though it was personal to him too! He’s straight forward with everything and definitely didn’t disappoint me with an outcome greater than I expected! If I were an attorney in need of a lawyer, this is the man I’d want in my corner time and time again, without a doubt!
Sophie A.
Handled my case with amazing expertise from start to finish. I took their advice at every turn and the end result was nothing less of exceptional. Very professional, nice office space and their Long Wharf location validates parking.
Nate H.
Contact the Experienced Hit-and-Run Accident Attorneys at Kennedy Johnson
Knowing what to do after a hit-and-run in Connecticut can make all the difference in your case’s outcome, and it starts with having the right attorney on your side.
We’re ready to help you move forward, starting with a free consultation about your rights and options. Don’t wait to get the compensation you deserve—call 203-865-8430 or complete our online contact form today.