Getting struck by a vehicle while walking in Hartford can change your life in an instant. Whether it happens downtown near Bushnell Park or while crossing a busy intersection on Albany Avenue, the impact can result in serious injuries, high medical bills, and missed time at work. Unfortunately, getting fair compensation from an insurance company isn’t always easy. Many accident victims quickly learn that insurers may try to reduce or deny their claims.
If you were hit while walking in Hartford, understanding how to deal with the insurance process is crucial. A Hartford pedestrian accident attorney can help guide you through your options and protect your right to recover the full amount you’re owed.
What to Know About Connecticut’s Contributory Negligence Rule
Connecticut follows a modified comparative negligence rule when it comes to injury claims. This means that even if you were partly at fault for the accident, you may still be able to recover compensation—as long as your share of fault does not exceed 50%. If you’re found to be more than 50% responsible, you may not be eligible for damages.
This rule plays a big role in pedestrian accident cases. For example:
- If you crossed outside of a crosswalk on Capitol Avenue and a driver failed to yield, both parties could share some fault.
- If a driver ran a red light near Trinity College and struck you in the crosswalk, the driver may be entirely liable.
- If you were distracted by your phone while walking on Main Street and didn’t notice a turning car, your percentage of responsibility could be questioned.
Insurance companies will almost always use this rule to their advantage by trying to shift blame to the pedestrian. That’s why documenting the scene, gathering witness statements, and getting legal representation early on is key.
Dealing with the Insurance Company After a Pedestrian Accident
After an accident, you can expect a call from the driver’s insurance company. What you say during these conversations can affect your claim. Insurers might seem friendly at first, but their goal is to save money—not help you recover fully. Keep these tips in mind when dealing with insurance:
- Don’t admit fault. Even saying something like “I didn’t see the car” can be used against you later.
- Avoid recorded statements. Politely decline to give a recorded statement without talking to a lawyer.
- Don’t settle too soon. Insurers often offer low settlements early, before the full extent of your injuries is known.
- Keep records. Save all your medical bills, accident reports, photos, and any communication related to the accident.
- Know your rights. You’re not required to accept the insurance company’s first offer or provide more information than necessary.
If you’ve been injured near Hartford Hospital, Pope Park, or any other local area, make sure you take action that protects your long-term interests.
Why a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Can Make a Difference
Legal support can level the playing field when going up against powerful insurance companies. A pedestrian accident lawyer will investigate the incident thoroughly, gather evidence to support your case and calculate the true value of your losses. This includes not just your medical-related expenses but also lost income, pain and suffering, and the costs of future care needs.
Many people underestimate how much their case is worth or don’t know how to challenge a low settlement offer. An attorney can negotiate for a fair payout and take the case to court if necessary. This is especially helpful in Hartford, where intersections like those on Broad Street or near the XL Center often involve heavy traffic and complex fault scenarios.
Your lawyer will also know how to deal with insurance tactics and challenge claims of contributory negligence. By collecting surveillance footage, police reports, expert opinions, and eyewitness accounts, they build a strong case to support your side of the story.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Hartford
Pedestrian accidents can happen for many reasons. Knowing how and why these incidents occur can help support your claim.
- Speeding in urban areas
- Distracted or drunk driving
- Failing to yield at crosswalks
- Turning without checking for pedestrians
- Poor visibility at night or in bad weather
In areas with heavy foot traffic like near the University of Hartford or Union Station, the risk of pedestrian collisions rises. Identifying the cause of your accident is a critical step toward securing compensation.
Talk to a Hartford Pedestrian Accident Attorney Today
If you were injured while walking in Hartford, don’t try to deal with the insurance company alone. You may be entitled to compensation covering far more than your immediate medical bills. Having a skilled lawyer is important. One who can fight for the best outcome and handle the stressful legal process so you can focus on healing. Contact a Hartford pedestrian accident attorney today to discuss your next steps and get the support you need.
