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Car Accident — Connecticut

Car Accident in Connecticut — What You Need to Know

Connecticut has specific laws that directly affect the value of your car accident claim and your deadline to file. Understanding them before you speak with any insurance company is critical.

Statute of Limitations

Connecticut statute of limitations for car accident claims: 2 years from the date of the accident (CGS § 52-584). Missing this deadline permanently bars your claim.

Connecticut Modified Comparative Fault — 51% Bar

Connecticut follows modified comparative fault with a 51% bar (C.G.S. § 52-572h). You can recover as long as you are 50% or less at fault. Connecticut requires minimum liability coverage of 25/50/25. Connecticut is a mandatory uninsured motorist state — all auto policies must include UM/UIM coverage unless expressly rejected in writing.

Connecticut-Specific Tip

Connecticut has mandatory uninsured motorist coverage requirements and specific rules about stacking UM coverage from multiple policies. Connecticut also requires insurers to offer underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage. Always check whether your own UM/UIM coverage applies before relying solely on the at-fault driver's policy.

📊 Connecticut follows modified comparative fault with a 51% bar.

What To Do After a Car Accident in Connecticut

1

Call 911 — a police report is required for insurance claims involving injury in Connecticut

2

Exchange insurance, license, and vehicle registration information with all drivers

3

Photograph all vehicles, license plates, road conditions, traffic signals, and injuries

4

Get witness contact information before anyone leaves the scene

5

Seek medical attention within 24 hours — even if you feel fine

6

Do NOT admit fault or apologize at the scene

7

Report to your own insurer but do not give a recorded statement to the other driver's insurer without an attorney

8

Contact a Connecticut personal injury attorney before accepting any settlement offer

Frequently Asked Questions — Car Accident in Connecticut

How long do I have to file a car accident lawsuit in Connecticut?

2 years from the date of the accident. 2 years from date of injury (CGS § 52-584). Missing this deadline permanently bars your claim regardless of how serious your injuries are.

What fault rules apply to car accidents in Connecticut?

Connecticut follows modified comparative fault with a 51% bar (C.G.S. § 52-572h). You can recover as long as you are 50% or less at fault. Connecticut requires minimum liability coverage of 25/50/25. Connecticut is a mandatory uninsured motorist state — all auto policies must include UM/UIM coverage unless expressly rejected in writing.

How much is a car accident case worth in Connecticut?

Connecticut car accident settlements depend on injury severity, medical costs, lost wages, and strength of liability. Minor injury cases may settle for $10,000-$50,000. Serious injury cases frequently settle for $100,000 to over $1 million.

Do I need a Connecticut personal injury attorney for a car accident?

Studies consistently show that represented accident victims receive 3-4 times more compensation than unrepresented victims — even after attorney fees. Connecticut PI attorneys work on contingency, so there is no upfront cost to get representation.

Ready to speak with a Connecticut attorney?

No upfront cost. Contingency fees — you only pay if you win.

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