Personal Injury Lawsuit in Connecticut
Filing a personal injury lawsuit in Connecticut is a structured legal process. Understanding the steps, deadlines, and modified comparative fault (51% bar) rules will help you make informed decisions about your case.
For informational purposes only. Not legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney.
2 years
Filing Deadline
Modified comparative fault (51% bar)
Fault System
At-Fault
Auto System
$18,000 – $80,000
Avg Settlement
Lawsuit Steps in Connecticut
Hire an Attorney
Most personal injury attorneys in Connecticut work on contingency — no upfront fees. They evaluate your case and advise on whether litigation makes sense.
Investigation & Evidence
Your attorney gathers medical records, accident reports, witness statements, and expert opinions to build the strongest possible case.
Demand & Negotiation
Before filing suit, your attorney typically sends a demand letter and attempts settlement. Most cases resolve without going to court.
File the Complaint
If negotiations fail, your attorney files a complaint in the appropriate Connecticut court. You must file within 2 years of the injury.
Discovery
Both sides exchange evidence, take depositions, and may hire expert witnesses. Discovery typically takes 6–18 months.
Mediation / Trial
Most cases settle during or after discovery. If not, your case goes to trial before a judge or jury under Connecticut court rules.
Key Connecticut Law Facts
Connecticut uses modified comparative negligence under Conn. Gen. Stat. § 52-572h — plaintiffs are barred from recovering if they are 51% or more at fault, and awards are reduced proportionally for any fault below that threshold.
Personal injury claims must be filed within 2 years of the date of injury or discovery of injury under Connecticut General Statutes; product liability and medical malpractice claims have separate rules and prerequisites that must be carefully followed.
Connecticut has no statutory cap on compensatory damages for most personal injury cases, allowing full recovery of medical expenses, lost wages, future costs, and noneconomic damages such as pain, suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life.