Best Car Accident Lawyers in Nashua, NH

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Nashua, New Hampshire?

  The non-emergency contact number of the Nashua Police Department is (603) 594-3500.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Nashua, New Hampshire?

  You can get an official copy of an accident report in Nashua if you are the owner or operator of one of the vehicles involved in the accident. The accident report can be obtained from the NH Department of Safety, Division of Motor Vehicles, by completing Form DSMV 505. You can also call the Division of Motor Vehicles at (603) 227-4040.

• Is there a time limit for filing a Nashua car accident lawsuit?

  The New Hampshire Revised Statutes, Section 508:4 indicate a "catch-all" three-year statute of limitations. This means that all lawsuits arising from a vehicle accident in Nashua, including those that include injuries and damages to a vehicle or other types of property, should be filed within three years. The time limit starts running on the date of the accident. You could lose your right to pursue legal action if you fail to file a lawsuit within the said time frame.

• Can you still file a claim against a negligent driver if you were partially at fault for a car accident in Nashua?

  The New Hampshire Revised Statutes section 507:7-d follows a modified comparative negligence rule. Even if you are partially at fault for a car accident in Nashua, you can still file a lawsuit and recover damages. However, your award will be reduced according to the percentage of your fault. If your share of negligence is greater than that of the defendants, you are not eligible for any compensation.

• What if the driver at fault for a car accident in Nashua does not have insurance?

  In New Hampshire, drivers are not required to have car insurance. You would have two options if you were involved in a car accident in Nashua caused by a driver who has no insurance. First, you can use your own uninsured motorist (UM) coverage. Your insurance company will take care of all the damages. Second, if you don't have personal insurance, you can make a demand or bring a lawsuit against the at-fault driver.

• Can you sue a bar or other establishment that sold you alcohol, causing a car accident in Nashua?

  New Hampshire follows unique dram shop laws. A bar or other establishment can be held liable if they sold alcoholic beverages to a minor or intoxicated person who ended up being a drunk driver and caused injuries in Nashua. The injured party and the drunk driver may bring legal claims against the bar or establishment as long as it can be proven that the establishment negligently served the eventual drunk driver.

• Will you get punitive damages for a car accident case in Nashua?

  In most Nashua car accident cases, New Hampshire courts do not award punitive damages. However, enhanced compensatory damages are awarded when it is proven that the car accident was the result of a malicious, wanton, or oppressive act. Punitive damages are meant to punish defendants for their wrongdoings. This is in contrast to compensatory damages, wherein victims are compensated for their economic and non-economic losses.

• How do I choose a car accident lawyer?

  To select a car accident lawyer, consider the lawyer's experience, focus, and reputation. While nearly any attorney can negotiate with insurers for a settlement, not all attorneys have amassed experience litigating a claim in a court of law. Choose an attorney with a background that includes car accident claimants; it's helpful if the attorney is focused on personal injury law. Lastly, read reviews from previous clients to get a feel for the attorney's helpfulness and responsiveness to clients. The best lawyer for your case is one that you feel comfortable and confident working with.

• What steps should I take after a car accident?

  Immediately following a car accident, get out of traffic as soon as possible and dial 9-1-1. Exchange car insurance information with any other involved drivers and get a police report as soon as possible. Be truthful about what happened, even if you are at fault, but stick to reporting the facts of the accident without offering an opinion on who is to blame. If possible, take photos of your car, other cars at the scene, and the scene itself.

• (When) Do I need a lawyer after a car accident?

  Start working with a car accident lawyer as soon as possible following your car accident (some attorneys even make hospital visits). By reaching out for legal help early on, you avoid some of the pitfalls of trying to handle your claim on your own. Your attorney can also get the ball rolling on reimbursement for your medical bills and lost wages while awaiting the outcome of your claim.

• How long after a car accident can you claim an injury?

  The length of time you can file a claim for an injury following a car accident is governed by the statute of limitations in your state. Although it varies, most states set the statute of limitations for injured parties to seek compensatory damages at three years following the accident or three years after you discover your injuries. In cases where children are injured, the statute of limitations may be longer.

• What do I do after a car accident that I'm not responsible for?

  After an accident that's not your fault, seek immediate medical help if you are injured. Once it's safe to do so, obtain the other driver's contact and insurance information, any statements from witnesses, and photos of the scene. Obtain a police report and contact your insurer and the at-fault party's insurer. If you are injured, schedule a consultation with a car accident attorney to discuss your legal options.

• What happens if someone sues you after a car accident?

  If you have car insurance in force at the time of the accident, your insurance is contractually bound to represent you on any claims that arise, indemnifying you against loss up to the limits of your policy. You can help your insurance company by cooperating fully. If the plaintiff in any lawsuit obtains a judgment above your policy limits, then you can be held personally responsible for any damages awarded.

• What/how much can I expect from a car accident settlement?

  According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average bodily injury claim in 2018 was $15,785. The amount of any particular car accident settlement hinges primarily on the severity of the injuries sustained as a result and whether or not any partial or total permanent disability was caused by the accident. Claims that involve broken bones or nerve damage likely settle for more than claims where soft tissue injuries are present.

• How do I arrange a rental car after an accident?

  To arrange a rental car after an accident, first consider whether your insurance or the other party's insurance will be paying for the rental. If another driver is found to be at-fault for the accident, that driver's insurance may pay the costs. If you are responsible, your insurance may pay if your policy covers such expenses. Speak with your insurance adjuster to determine if you have benefits available.

• How long does it take for car insurance to go back down after an accident?

  Post-accident rate spikes can last anywhere from three to five years, depending on your insurer. However, if damages incurred during the accident are less than $2,000, your rate may not go up at all. Three years is typical for collision and property damage claims. Five years is not uncommon in accidents involving bodily injury claims, DUI or DWI, reckless driving, or serious violations at the time of the accident.

• How to settle a car accident claim without a lawyer?

  To negotiate a car accident settlement without a lawyer, you'll have to prove that the other party was to blame for your damages. Gather evidence at the scene to support your claim, including witness statements and photos. Seek medical treatment for your injuries immediately. Notify the other driver's insurer of your intent to file a claim. If you reside in a no-fault state, you will need to use your personal injury protection (PIP) benefits first before filing a claim against the other party for medical expenses and bodily injury. Be prepared with medical records, police reports, receipts for out-of-pocket accident-related costs, and proof of lost income due to the accident before beginning negotiations.