Best Car Accident Lawyers in Concord

FAQs

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

  603-225-8600 is the non-emergency contact number for the Concord Police Department.

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

  Copies of police reports for car accidents in Concord can be obtained in person, by mail, or through email from the Records Division of the Concord Police Department. Public assistance for obtaining reports is available on Monday from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Tuesday through Friday.

• What are the dangerous intersections for car drivers in Concord?

  The Fort Eddy Road, Loudon Road/Route 9, and Exit 14 I-93 interchange are car accident-prone areas in Concord, according to New Hampshire Department of Transportation data compiled by GoLocalWorcester.com. These intersections are included in the list of the top 60 worst crossroads in New England. The intersection of Loudon Road and Route 9 at D’Amante Drive near the Steeplegate Mall was ranked 51st across New England.

• What are the advantages of reaching an agreement with the at-fault parties and their legal team for Concord car accident victims?

  Out-of-court settlements allow car accident victims in Concord to recover damages faster, rather than waiting months or years for their claims to be settled. Taking personal injury cases to trial also adds an element of risk and unknown aspects that can undermine even the strongest of cases. Both parties also mutually decide on a settlement amount.

• Can Concord drivers who are partially at fault in collisions still recover compensatory damages?

  Yes, because Concord adheres to New Hampshire’s modified comparative fault system of liability when determining damages or awarded compensation. An injured person whose fault in a car accident is less than 50% can recover compensatory damages from the other driver. Personal injury attorneys with experience can help strengthen claims against the defendant and refute allegations of contributory negligence.

• When does the personal injury statute of limitations begin for Concord car accident victims who were not aware of their injuries at the time of the accident?

  The statute of limitations for car accident victims in Concord begins at the time they discover their injuries. According to NH RSA 508:4, personal injury lawsuits in Concord must generally be filed within three years of the date of injury. Failure to file a civil lawsuit on time forfeits the claimant's right to any compensation.

• What is the statute of limitations for wrongful death claims in Concord?

  Survivors of Concord car accident victims must file a wrongful death claim within three years of the victim's death, according to New Hampshire law. The right of the deceased's dependents to file a claim is forfeited if a claim is not filed within the specified time frame. Survivors can recover final expenses, lost inheritance, and pain and suffering following a successful wrongful death claim.

• 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.