Truck accident in Connecticut: Get legal help without delay
Statistics show that trucks and 18-wheelers often cause the most catastrophic accidents in Connecticut. Injured victims often feel muddled about taking further steps following a truck accident. Since 1994, the state has followed a fault-based system for vehicle collisions and traffic mishaps. If you were injured because of someone else, you should file a claim for compensation. Sadly, not many people manage to get a fair offer, largely because truck accidents are inherently complex. Here’s a look at why you should contact an attorney today.
Truck accidents are tricky to investigate
While it may seem that the truck driver is directly responsible for the accident, it may not be entirely true in many situations. Trucking companies, loading services, vehicle manufacturers, leasing services, and maintenance companies are often a part of such lawsuits. Also, the trucking industry is governed by numerous state and federal laws, which are complex to comprehend, especially for someone who doesn’t understand the legalese. You need a lawyer who can invest time, effort, and resources to discover who is liable for the accident.
Your fault is a critical factor
If you were also responsible for the truck accident in a certain way, the outcome could be drastically different. Connecticut is a modified comparative fault state. When your fault percentage is over 50%, there is no room to recover compensation from the other at-fault parties. However, insurance companies often use these laws to confuse victims and reduce payouts. Hiring a lawyer becomes even more necessary when you are liable for the situation.
You have a short window to file a lawsuit
If insurance negotiations fail, you may need to file a direct civil lawsuit, for which there is a time cap of two years in Connecticut. Even when you set the statute of limitations aside, you must work quickly to gather evidence. Because a considerable amount of info must be obtained from the trucking company, the process can be quite a hassle. You need a lawyer who can get valuable details and keep an eye on deadlines.
Final word
There is no one way to investigate a truck accident, and lawyers are aware of how insurance companies tend to twist facts and details. You don’t need money immediately to retain an attorney, but if you win, they will take a share of the final settlement. Get an attorney before it is too late to fight a fair battle.