Detailed Answer
Soft tissue injuries like sprains, strains, and whiplash cause pain, stiffness, and functional limits. Insurers assess settlement value by estimating economic and non-economic damages under Connecticut law.
1. Economic Damages
- Medical Expenses: Include all bills for treatment, therapy, and future care. Use your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage first. (Conn. Gen. Stat. § 38a-334: cga.ct.gov/current/section/38a-334.htm.)
- Lost Wages: Document time missed at work. Include lost benefits, overtime, and reduced earning capacity.
- Future Care Costs: If you need ongoing therapy or chiropractic care, get a prognosis from your provider.
2. Non-Economic Damages (Pain & Suffering)
Non-economic damages compensate for pain, emotional distress, and loss of daily activities. Connecticut does not cap these damages in personal injury claims.
Adjust medical bills by a multiplier (1.5x–5x) based on injury severity, recovery time, and lasting impact.
3. Liability and Comparative Negligence
Determining fault affects your settlement. Connecticut follows pure comparative negligence. Your recovery reduces by your percentage of fault. (Conn. Gen. Stat. § 52-572h: cga.ct.gov/current/section/52-572h.htm.)
4. Statute of Limitations
File your lawsuit within two years from the accident date. (Conn. Gen. Stat. § 52-584: cga.ct.gov/current/section/52-584.htm.) Missing this deadline can bar your claim.
Disclaimer: This article provides general information. It does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney to discuss your case.
Helpful Hints
- Seek immediate medical evaluation and follow all treatment recommendations.
- Keep organized records of bills, receipts, and correspondence.
- Track all days missed from work and calculate income loss.
- Use a pain journal to document daily symptoms and limits.
- Discuss settlement strategies with a Connecticut personal injury attorney.
- Consider the multiplier method to estimate pain and suffering value.
- Factor in any long-term care or rehabilitation needs.