Guide To Navigating Personal Injury Laws In Connecticut: Dos and Don’ts

Accidents happen all the time. However, when a neglectful act causes them, and injuries occur, victims are sometimes left holding the bag.
Connecticut gives victims the right to file a lawsuit to gain compensation for their injuries and losses. Many injury victims think that it’s an easy process. Someone harms them, and they receive a settlement. Unfortunately, it’s never this easy.
If a careless act has harmed you, contact a Personal Injury Lawyer In Bridgeport, CT. They can help you piece your life together by fighting for accountability and the settlement you deserve.
The Dos and Don’ts of a Connecticut Personal Injury Lawsuit
Even the most cut-and-dry smoking gun accident could prove to be troublesome. Connecticut’s personal injury laws can be difficult to navigate for the layperson.
You’ll find lots of legalese in a quick online search that might as well be written in Greek. Adding to the confusion are some mistakes that the uninitiated may feel are harmless but will, in fact, harm their case. Here’s a look at six dos and don’ts for the victims of a personal injury to be aware of.
Do Hire a Lawyer

The most important thing to do after an accident that was of no fault of your own is to contact a personal injury lawyer. No matter how easy you think your case is, without the guidance of an attorney, you’ll most definitely be leaving money on the table.
Most work for a contingency fee, so you won’t have to front them a dime to retain their services. Seek out a law firm with proven experience with your type of case to ensure you’ll receive the maximum compensation possible.
Don’t Procrastinate
Although your injuries could be severe and have you holed up in a hospital, filing a personal injury lawsuit should be done sooner rather than later.
Connecticut’s personal injury statute of limitations is two years, meaning the clock starts ticking on the accident date or when you discovered your injuries. Filing after two years will result in the court refusing your claim.
Do Gather Evidence
To do so, you’ll need to gather evidence proving the accident wasn’t your fault, caused you harm, and suffered damages. The gathering of evidence is more time-consuming than you may think and can include the following:
- Accident reports
- Photos of the accident and your injuries
- Eyewitness statements
- First responders notes
- Emergency room intake and discharge papers
- X-rays, CAT scans, and MRI images
- Medical records and medical bills
- Receipts for out-of-pocket expenses related to your injury
- Medical experts testimony
Don’t Post on Social Media
One of the easiest ways to sabotage a personal injury lawsuit is to post about it on social media. What may seem like a harmless and natural thing to do, is to be avoided.
Anything you post on public platforms can be used against you by the at-fault party’s legal team.
If you claim severe trauma due to the accident, yet your social media paints a different picture, it will harm your case.
Do Follow Your Doctor’s Orders
A Connecticut personal injury lawsuit can only be filed if the plaintiff suffered damages. Not keeping up with your medical appointments or treatments will hurt your case.
Although you may not enjoy those physical therapy sessions, postponing them will give the defendant’s legal team a valid reason to claim your injuries aren’t as severe and life-altering as you claim. Following your doctor’s treatment plan is of utmost importance.
Don’t Accept the First Offer
Regardless of how tempting it may be to sign on the dotted line and take the settlement offer the defendant’s insurance company is offering, they are most likely not offering you a fair amount.
The insurance company’s job is to limit liability and costs, and their first offer is simply a way to see if they can quickly end the litigation. Accepting their first offer is a big mistake. Allow your personal injury attorney to manage all settlement negotiations.
The Dos and Don’ts of Connecticut Personal Injury Laws Explained
Regardless of the type, victims of accidents should always work with an experienced personal injury attorney.
Attempting to file a lawsuit or negotiating with an insurance company without legal representation will never yield the best possible outcome.
Following your doctor’s medical plan and avoiding social media is also important when filing a successful claim. Listen to your lawyer and follow all of their advice. If not, you could sabotage your case or leave too much money on the table. Don’t hesitate; contact a personal injury attorney now.