Insurance Claim Rights in Connecticut
Connecticut is an at-fault state with modified comparative fault that bars recovery at 50% or more fault. The state has strong consumer protections, including mandatory uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage that must match your liability limits by default. Connecticut also has strict claim payment timelines.
25/50/25
Min. Liability
2 yrs
PI Deadline
2 yrs
PD Deadline
Yes
Diminished Value
Fault System
How Connecticut's At-Fault (Tort) System Works
Connecticut is an at-fault (tort) state. This means the driver who caused the accident is financially responsible for the other party's damages. After an accident, you file a claim against the at-fault driver's insurance company. If the claim is denied or undervalued, you have the right to file a lawsuit to recover your damages.
Deadlines
Statute of Limitations in Connecticut
Personal Injury
2 Years
You have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit in Connecticut. Missing this deadline permanently bars your right to seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Property Damage
2 Years
For property damage claims (vehicle repairs, total loss, personal property), Connecticut allows 2 years to file a lawsuit. This includes diminished value claims if applicable. Report damage to your insurer as soon as possible: report to insurer promptly; within 30 days recommended.
Coverage Requirements
Minimum Auto Insurance in Connecticut
Connecticut requires all drivers to carry at least 25/50/25 in liability coverage. These numbers represent the minimum bodily injury per person / bodily injury per accident / property damage limits in thousands of dollars. While these are the legal minimums, higher coverage is strongly recommended.
Bodily Injury / Person
$25,000
Maximum per injured person
Bodily Injury / Accident
$50,000
Maximum per accident total
Property Damage
$25,000
Maximum for property damage
Diminished Value
Diminished Value Claims in Connecticut
Connecticut Allows Diminished Value Claims
After an accident in Connecticut, your vehicle may lose market value even after high-quality repairs — this is called "diminished value." Connecticut allows you to file a diminished value claim against the at-fault driver's insurance to recover the difference between your vehicle's pre-accident and post-repair market value. The amount recoverable depends on the vehicle's age, mileage, damage severity, and repair quality.
Calculate your diminished valueKey Laws
Important Insurance Laws in Connecticut
Connecticut follows a modified comparative fault rule with a 50% bar (Conn. Gen. Stat. § 52-572h).
Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage is mandatory and must equal your liability limits unless you select lower amounts in writing.
Connecticut requires insurers to pay claims within 35 business days after reaching a settlement agreement.
Resources
Connecticut Department of Insurance
If you have a complaint about your insurance company or need help with a claim dispute in Connecticut, contact the state Department of Insurance. They regulate insurance companies operating in Connecticut and can assist with claim disputes, bad faith complaints, and coverage questions.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions About Connecticut Insurance Claims
Is uninsured motorist coverage required in Connecticut?
Yes, Connecticut requires uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage. By default, it must equal your liability limits. You can choose lower UM/UIM limits but must do so in writing. This provides important protection against uninsured or underinsured drivers.
What is the statute of limitations for auto accident claims in Connecticut?
Connecticut has a 2-year statute of limitations for both personal injury and property damage claims from a car accident. This applies to filing a lawsuit, not just reporting the claim to insurance.
How does Connecticut's comparative fault rule affect my claim?
Connecticut uses a modified comparative fault system. If you are found 50% or more at fault, you receive nothing. If you are less than 50% at fault, your recovery is reduced by your fault percentage.
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