Best Car Accident Lawyers in New Hampshire

About Car Accident Law in New Hampshire, United States

Car accident law in New Hampshire is a set of provisions and legal principles designed to provide protection and remedies to individuals involved in road collisions. These laws govern matters such as determining who is at fault, compensation for injuries or property damage, and legal requirements for accident reporting. Unique to New Hampshire is the absence of a mandatory car insurance requirement for all drivers, however, drivers who cause accidents are still required to pay for damages. Understanding your rights and obligations under New Hampshire car accident law is crucial for protecting your interests after a collision.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

After a car accident, navigating the legal landscape can be challenging, especially if injuries or significant damages are involved. You may need a lawyer in the following scenarios:

• If you have suffered injuries or permanent disabilities due to the accident
• If there is a dispute about who is at fault
• If the other driver is uninsured or underinsured
• If insurance companies are denying or minimizing your claim
• If multiple vehicles are involved and responsibility is unclear
• If you are being sued by another party involved in the accident
• If you need help estimating the true value of your damages and losses
• If you are unfamiliar with New Hampshire’s legal requirements for reporting accidents or filing claims

A knowledgeable car accident lawyer can help guide you through the claim process, negotiate with insurance companies, and ensure your rights are protected throughout settlement or litigation.

Local Laws Overview

Car accident laws in New Hampshire have several key aspects to be aware of:

• Fault-Based System: New Hampshire uses a traditional fault-based system. The driver found to be at fault is responsible for damages resulting from the accident.
• Insurance Requirements: Unlike most states, New Hampshire does not require all drivers to carry auto insurance. However, if you cause an accident, you must show financial responsibility for damages and injuries.
• Reporting Requirements: You must file an accident report with the Department of Safety within 15 days if there is injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000.
• Statute of Limitations: You generally have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit.
• Comparative Negligence Rule: New Hampshire follows modified comparative negligence. If you are 50 percent or less at fault, you can recover damages, though your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. If you are more than 50 percent at fault, you cannot recover damages.
• Uninsured Motorist Coverage: If you purchase auto insurance, uninsured motorist coverage is required in your policy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do immediately after a car accident in New Hampshire?

Stop your vehicle, check for injuries, call 911 if needed, and exchange information with the other driver. Take photos of the scene and contact law enforcement if there are injuries, death, or significant property damage.

Am I required to report every car accident to the police?

You must report an accident if there are injuries, fatalities, or property damage exceeding $1,000. If law enforcement does not investigate at the scene, you must file a written report with the Division of Motor Vehicles within 15 days.

What if I do not have car insurance?

While insurance is not mandatory for everyone, if you cause an accident, you are legally required to pay for the resulting damages and injuries. Failure to show financial responsibility can result in license suspension and other penalties.

What is the statute of limitations for car accident claims in New Hampshire?

You generally have three years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit for personal injury or property damage.

How does fault work in New Hampshire car accidents?

New Hampshire follows a fault-based system, meaning the person responsible for the accident pays for damages. You can seek compensation from the at-fault driver, their insurance, or through a personal injury lawsuit.

Can I still recover damages if I was partially at fault?

Yes, under New Hampshire’s modified comparative negligence rule, you can recover damages if you are 50 percent or less at fault. Your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

What compensation can I recover after a car accident?

You may be eligible for compensation including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and sometimes punitive damages, depending on the circumstances.

Do I need a lawyer for a minor accident?

For minor accidents without injuries, you may choose to handle the claim on your own. However, consulting a lawyer can be helpful if you encounter disputes or unexpected complications.

What if the other driver does not have insurance?

If you have uninsured motorist coverage on your policy, it can help pay for your damages. Otherwise, you may need to pursue compensation directly from the other driver in court.

Are there penalties for leaving the scene of an accident?

Yes, leaving the scene of an accident (hit and run) is a serious offense in New Hampshire and can result in criminal charges, fines, license suspension, and possible jail time.

Additional Resources

These resources can provide helpful information and assistance for car accident matters in New Hampshire:

• New Hampshire Department of Safety, Division of Motor Vehicles
• New Hampshire Bar Association Lawyer Referral Service
• New Hampshire Judicial Branch
• New Hampshire Insurance Department
• Local police departments for accident reports and information
• Consumer protection organizations focused on auto insurance and accident recovery

Next Steps

If you have been involved in a car accident in New Hampshire and need legal assistance, consider the following steps:

• Gather all relevant documentation, including accident reports, photos, insurance policy details, and medical records
• Write down a detailed account of the accident while the details are fresh in your mind
• Contact a qualified car accident lawyer who is licensed in New Hampshire to discuss your situation and receive a case evaluation
• Follow your lawyer’s instructions regarding communication with insurers and other parties
• Focus on your recovery and allow your attorney to handle negotiations and legal processes on your behalf

Taking prompt, informed action can help protect your legal rights and improve your chances of a favorable outcome following a car accident in New Hampshire.