Blog

Understanding Proximate Cause in Connecticut Car Accident Cases A car accident can take a serious toll on your physical health, emotional well-being, and finances. If you’ve been injured, it’s essential to understand your legal rights—starting with the concept of proximate cause. Under Connecticut law, proximate cause means that another party’s negligence was a substantial factor in bringing about your injury. According to state jury instructions, if the at-fault driver’s actions played a significant role in the accident, they can be held legally responsible for the resulting harm. While you're focused on healing, the insurance company will work to protect their bottom line. That’s why having experienced legal representation is crucial. At Hastings, Cohan & Walsh, LLP, we handle the legal complexities so you can focus on recovery. Call 203-438-7450 or visit www.hcwlaw.com for a free consultation. You pay nothing unless we win your case.

The surge in e-commerce has significantly increased delivery truck traffic on Connecticut highways, especially along I-84, a key route connecting western Connecticut to Hartford. FedEx, UPS, and Amazon trucks frequently share these roads with commuters, often operating under tight delivery schedules. National data from the FMCSA shows a 12% rise in truck-related accidents between 2019 and 2022, and a 2023 CTDOT report revealed that 18% of commercial vehicle crashes on I-84 involved delivery trucks.

Slips, trips, and falls cause over 1 million emergency room visits annually in the U.S., often due to unsafe property conditions. Connecticut’s premises liability laws hold property owners responsible for maintaining safe environments for visitors. Liability depends on the visitor's status and whether the owner knew or should have known about hazardous conditions. Common causes of these accidents include wet floors, uneven surfaces, poor lighting, and uncleared snow or ice. To prove negligence, victims must show a dangerous condition existed, the owner failed to address it, and it directly caused the injury. Connecticut’s modified comparative negligence rule may reduce compensation if the victim is partly at fault, but recovery is barred if they are more than 50% responsible. Victims should report the incident, document the scene, seek medical attention, and consult an attorney. Hastings, Cohan & Walsh, LLP offers free consultations and legal support for premises liability cases, with no fees unless compensation is recovered.

Workplace injuries can have significant physical, emotional, and financial impacts. Connecticut’s workers’ compensation system provides essential benefits for employees injured on the job, covering medical care, lost wages, and disability benefits. Most employees are eligible, except for certain groups like independent contractors and federal employees, who are covered under different programs. Common workplace injuries include overexertion, slips and falls, and struck-by accidents. To file a claim, injured workers must report the injury promptly, seek medical treatment from approved providers, and complete Form 30C with the Workers’ Compensation Commission. If a claim is denied due to delays, disputes, or challenges, employees can appeal with legal representation. Hastings, Cohan & Walsh, LLP offers guidance to ensure injured workers receive the benefits and compensation they deserve, with no fees unless compensation is recovered.

The statute of limitations sets deadlines for filing lawsuits, and missing these deadlines can forfeit your right to seek compensation. In Connecticut, the time limits vary depending on the type of claim. For personal injury cases, you have 2 years from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit. Medical malpractice claims must be filed within 2 years from the date of the injury or its discovery, with an absolute maximum of 3 years from the negligent act. Property damage claims have a 3-year filing deadline from the date the damage occurred. For wrongful death cases, you must file within 2 years from the date of death, but no later than 5 years from the negligent act. Exceptions to these deadlines may apply in certain circumstances, such as when the injured party is a minor, when the discovery rule applies (as in medical malpractice cases), or when fraud or concealment has occurred. Acting promptly is crucial to avoid case dismissal.

Winter in Connecticut increases the risk of slip and fall accidents due to icy sidewalks, snowy walkways, and inadequate snow removal. These accidents often result in serious injuries, such as broken bones, head trauma, and spinal damage, with elderly individuals being particularly vulnerable. Under Connecticut's premises liability laws, property owners must maintain safe conditions by clearing snow and ice promptly. Victims can pursue claims by proving negligence, causation, and damages. Hastings, Cohan & Walsh, LLP offers legal support for slip and fall cases, helping victims recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Contact them for a free consultation; no fees are charged unless compensation is recovered.

Dealing with insurance companies after an injury can be challenging as insurers prioritize minimizing payouts. This guide offers tips for protecting your rights, including avoiding recorded statements without legal advice, documenting everything, rejecting low initial offers, understanding your policy, and seeking legal representation. It highlights the value of experienced attorneys in negotiating fair compensation and ensuring a smoother claims process.

Bicycle accidents in Connecticut pose serious risks due to driver negligence, road hazards, and dooring incidents, leading to severe injuries and fatalities. This guide outlines common causes, legal protections for cyclists, and the importance of seeking compensation for damages. It emphasizes the role of experienced attorneys in securing justice and fair compensation for accident victims.