Connecticut House Bill HB05145

Connecticut 2017 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/4/17
• Refer: 1/4/17

Caption

An Act Limiting The Recovery Of Noneconomic Damages By Uninsured Motorists.

Impact

The proposed changes could significantly impact how uninsured motorists navigate the aftermath of accidents. Currently, these motorists may claim both economic and noneconomic damages without limitations, potentially leading to substantial payouts that can affect insurance premiums and state-funded healthcare systems. By limiting noneconomic damages, the bill intends to reduce the burden placed on state resources and make the legal landscape more predictable for insurance providers. Proponents argue that this will ultimately encourage responsible driving behavior and discourage individuals from driving without insurance.

Summary

House Bill 05145 seeks to amend chapter 901 of the general statutes by imposing limitations on the recovery of noneconomic damages for uninsured motorists who sustain injuries in motor vehicle accidents. The bill aims to ensure that while uninsured motorists retain the ability to pursue civil actions for certain economic damages, their claims for noneconomic damages will be restricted. This legislative initiative reflects a growing concern about the financial implications of allowing uninsured drivers to seek extensive compensation for intangible losses.

Contention

Discussions surrounding HB 05145 may center on the fairness of imposing limitations on noneconomic damages. Supporters advocate for the bill on the grounds that it prevents abuse of the legal system by uninsured drivers, who might exploit their circumstances to claim extraordinary sums for subjective losses like pain and suffering. However, critics argue that such limitations could unfairly disadvantage genuinely injured individuals who are uninsured, complicating their path to adequately compensate their hardships. Balancing the needs of the injured parties against the potential for systemic abuse will be a core issue as the bill progresses through legislative discussions.