Frequently Asked Questions
What is the first thing I should do after a car accident?
Your safety comes first. Check yourself and others for injuries, move to a safe location if possible, and call 911 immediately. Getting emergency responders on the scene ensures proper medical care and creates an official accident record.
Should I move my car after a crash?
If it’s a minor accident and your vehicle is drivable, move it to the side of the road to prevent further collisions. For serious crashes, leave the vehicles where they are until the police arrive.
Do I have to call the police after an accident?
Yes. Always call the police, even for minor fender-benders. A police report is one of the most important pieces of evidence in a car accident claim and can protect you if there are disputes later.
What information should I exchange with the other driver?
Collect the following details:
Full name and contact information
Insurance company name and policy number
Driver’s license number
License plate number
Take photos of IDs and insurance cards if possible for accuracy.
What if the other driver doesn’t have insurance?
You may still have options. Your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage may apply, and an attorney can help you explore other avenues for compensation.
Don’t assume you’re out of options — contact us today to find out how we can help.
Don’t see your question here? Get personalized answers by contacting AutoLawyerCT now.
Injuries and Medical Treatment
I don’t feel hurt. Do I still need to see a doctor?
Yes. Some injuries (like whiplash, concussions, or internal injuries) may not show symptoms right away. Seeing a doctor immediately protects your health and creates medical records that are critical for any future injury claim.
Protect your health and your claim — schedule a free case review today.
Who pays my medical bills after a car accident?
This depends on your case. Medical expenses may be covered by your own health insurance, your auto insurance, or the at-fault driver’s insurance. An attorney can help identify every available source of coverage to reduce your out-of-pocket costs.
We’ll review your situation and explain every option available to you — at no cost.
Can I be compensated for emotional distress or pain and suffering?
Yes. In addition to medical bills and lost wages, accident victims may recover compensation for non-economic damages such as emotional distress, chronic pain, and loss of quality of life.
Contact us today to see what compensation you may be entitled to.
I have a pre-existing condition. Does that affect my case?
A pre-existing condition does not prevent you from filing a claim. In fact, if the accident made your condition worse, that can strengthen your case. Insurance companies often use pre-existing conditions to undervalue claims, which is why having an attorney is so important.
Let us protect your rights if the insurance company tries to deny your claim.
Legal and Financial Concerns
What is the statute of limitations for filing a claim?
A statute of limitations is the legal deadline for filing a lawsuit. In Connecticut, many personal injury claims must be filed within two years, though certain cases have different deadlines. Acting quickly ensures you don’t lose your right to recover compensation.
Will my car insurance rates go up if I was not at fault?
In most cases, if you are not at fault, your rates should not increase. However, each insurance provider has different policies, so it’s worth confirming directly with your carrier.
The insurance company called me. What should I say?
Be very cautious. Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts and may use your words against you. Never admit fault or agree to a recorded statement before speaking to a lawyer. Let your attorney handle communication to protect your rights.
Do I need to hire a lawyer after an accident?
While you are not required to have a lawyer, working with an experienced personal injury attorney gives you the best chance of maximizing your compensation. Every attorney we work with offers free consultations so you can learn about your options with no risk. Every attorney we work with has agreed to charge you less than the standard 1/3 of funds recovered. The insurance company is filled with professionals fighting against you who spend their days trying to pay you LESS. It’s time to get a professional involved who will spend their day trying to get you paid MORE.
Documentation and Evidence
What kind of evidence should I collect at the accident scene?
If you’re able, gather as much information as possible, including:
Photos of the vehicles, injuries, and accident scene
Contact information for witnesses
A written record of what happened
What if there were no witnesses?
Even without eyewitnesses, your case can still be strong. Attorneys often rely on police reports, medical documentation, accident reconstruction experts, and other forms of proof.
I didn’t take any pictures. Is it too late?
Not at all. While photos are very helpful, other evidence like the police report, medical records, and expert testimony, can also support your case.
Even without photos, we can help build a strong case for you.
Should I get a copy of the police report?
Yes. A police report is a crucial document for your injury claim. If you don’t have one, all attorneys we work with provide clients with a free copy.
Should I keep a journal about my injuries and recovery?
Absolutely. Keeping a personal record of your pain levels, medical appointments, and how the accident affects your daily life can be powerful evidence — and it may also help with your emotional recovery.