Car Accident Attorney in Portsmouth, New Hampshire
Helping Those Injured In Car Accidents
At Elmore Law Office, we understand that car accidents can instantly change lives. One moment, you’re going about your day, and the next, you’re left reeling, often unsure of what hit you—both literally and figuratively. The aftermath of a crash can be overwhelming, with mounting medical bills, lost wages, and the emotional toll of recovery adding to the stress.
That’s where we come in. Our experienced Portsmouth auto accident and injury lawyer has spent over two decades representing injury victims across New Hampshire and Massachusetts, securing the compensation they need to rebuild their lives.
Let us handle the legal complexities of your case, starting with a free consultation so you can focus on healing.
What Types of New Hampshire Car Accident & Injury Cases Does Elmore Law Office Take?
A car accident is undoubtedly traumatizing, compounded by severe and catastrophic injuries that leave the injured person and their families grasping for answers about who can be held liable for the immense damages they are incurring and those on the horizon. This is why we are here.
Our Portsmouth car accident attorney represents clients who have been injured or tragically lost their loved ones in all types of crashes, whether they happened on the Interstate, city streets, residential communities, or rural roads.
That includes, but is not limited to:
After an accident, it’s common to receive a call from an insurance company—whether yours or the other party’s. It’s essential to note the company name and the representative’s details for future reference while staying calm and polite.
However, you are not obligated to engage in these conversations if you’re unprepared. Insurance adjusters often seek statements that could harm your case. Never admit fault, speculate on the accident’s cause, or discuss your injuries. Avoid signing documents, agreeing to recorded statements, or providing unnecessary information.
Instead, please direct them to us. Our experienced Portsmouth car accident and injury attorney can handle all communications with the insurance companies, sparing you from potential missteps and ensuring your case isn’t jeopardized.
Who Can Be Held Liable for Car Accidents, Injuries, and Fatalities in New Hampshire?
In New Hampshire, determining liability for car accidents, injuries, and fatalities involves identifying the parties responsible for causing the collision. Depending on the circumstances of the crash, liability can fall on one or more individuals or entities.
Here are the key parties that may be held accountable:
- The At-Fault Driver
The driver whose negligence caused the accident is typically the primary party held liable. Common forms of negligence include speeding, distracted driving, impaired driving, or violating traffic laws.
- Employers
If the at-fault driver operated a vehicle as part of their job, their employer may be liable under “vicarious liability.” This often applies to commercial vehicle drivers, delivery personnel, and drivers behind the wheel of company-supplied cars, trucks, or SUVs.
- Vehicle Owners
In cases where the at-fault driver was operating a vehicle they didn’t own, the owner may share liability if they allowed the driver to use the car knowing they were unfit to drive, including those who are impaired, lack a license, or have a history of reckless behavior.
- Vehicle Manufacturers
If a defective vehicle part or system—such as brakes, airbags, or tires—contributed to the accident, the vehicle’s manufacturer could be liable under product liability laws.
- Third Parties
Other parties, such as pedestrians, bicyclists, or other drivers indirectly involved in the accident, could share liability if their actions contributed to the crash.
- Alcohol Providers
Under New Hampshire’s dram shop laws, establishments or individuals who over serve alcohol to a visibly intoxicated person may be held liable if that individual causes an accident.
Establishing liability requires gathering evidence such as police reports, witness statements, surveillance footage, and expert testimony. New Hampshire follows a modified comparative fault rule, meaning an injured party can recover damages if they are less than 51% at fault for the accident. However, their compensation will be reduced by their percentage of fault.
We understand navigating liability in car accident cases can be complex. At Elmore Law Office, we have extensive experience investigating accidents and holding the right parties accountable. We work tirelessly to ensure victims and their families receive the compensation they deserve for medical bills, lost wages, and emotional suffering. Contact us today for a free consultation.
What Compensation Can I Pursue After Being Injured in a New Hampshire Auto Accident?
If you’ve been injured in a car accident in New Hampshire, you may be entitled to compensation to help you recover financially, physically, and emotionally. Depending on the specifics of your case, you could pursue economic and non-economic damages.
Here’s a breakdown of the types of compensation you may be eligible to receive:
Economic Damages
Economic damages compensate you for the tangible financial losses resulting from the accident, including:
Medical Expenses
- Emergency room visits, hospital stays, and surgeries.
- Medication and medical devices.
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation.
- Future medical care for long-term injuries.
Lost Wages
- Income lost due to time off work for recovery.
- Lost benefits, such as healthcare or retirement contributions.
Future Lost Income
- Compensation for reduced earning capacity if your injuries prevent you from returning to your previous job or career.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages address the less tangible, yet equally impactful, consequences of an accident, such as:
Pain and Suffering
- Physical pain and discomfort caused by your injuries.
- Ongoing or chronic pain from long-term conditions.
Emotional Distress
- Mental anguish, anxiety, or depression resulting from the accident.
- Trauma caused by the accident or the recovery process.
Physical Impairment
- Loss of mobility, function, or use of a body part.
- Disabilities resulting from the accident.
Loss of Consortium
- The impact of your injuries on your relationship with a spouse or loved ones.
Loss of Enjoyment of Life
The inability to participate in activities or hobbies you once enjoyed.
The amount of compensation you can recover depends on several factors, including:
- The severity of your injuries and the extent of medical treatment needed.
- The accident’s impact on your ability to work and earn a living.
- The degree of fault assigned to each party.
- The insurance coverage available from the at-fault party and your policy.
Maximizing your compensation requires a thorough understanding of the law and the ability to negotiate effectively with insurance companies.
Our skilled car accident and injury attorney in Portsmouth can gather and present compelling evidence to establish liability and damages, accurately calculate your current and future losses, and negotiate a fair settlement or represent you in court if necessary. At Elmore Law Office, we are dedicated to helping car accident victims secure the compensation they deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us handle the legal complexities while you focus on your recovery.
What If the Driver Who Was Liable for My Crash Uninsured or Underinsured?
New Hampshire does not require drivers to have auto insurance, but drivers must be able to prove they can cover the costs of any damages or injuries they cause in an accident.
This is known as the Motor Vehicle Financial Responsibility Law (FRL).
Drivers can prove financial responsibility by:
- Purchasing auto insurance.
- Depositing $100,000 in cash or securities with the state treasurer.
If drivers choose to purchase insurance, they must have a policy that includes:
- $25,000 in bodily injury coverage per person.
- $50,000 in bodily injury coverage for accidents involving multiple people.
- $25,000 in property damage coverage.
- At least $1,000 in medical payments coverage.
If you have an auto insurance policy in New Hampshire, you must carry uninsured motorist coverage. The amount of uninsured motorist coverage you carry equals your bodily injury liability coverage. This means you can still recover damages even if the other driver involved in your car accident is uninsured or underinsured.
The difference is that you must file an accident claim with your insurance company when this happens. These claims are often more complicated and usually require the help of an experienced attorney to avoid paying out-of-pocket costs related to the accident.
How Long Do I Have to File a Car Accident and Injury Claim in New Hampshire or Massachusetts?
The statute of limitations for car accident claims is three years in New Hampshire and Massachusetts. However, that doesn’t mean you have three years to contact an attorney about your case. There are specific notice requirements for specific types of personal injury claims. Sometimes, you may only have a few days after a crash to file a claim notice, or you will lose critical rights.
What Are The Do’s And Don’ts Of Communicating With My Insurance Company?
After an accident, you likely will receive a phone call from an insurance company, whether that is yours or the other party’s insurer. You should first confirm and note down the company and the name of the person you are speaking to. Remember to remain calm and polite to make that interaction and future conversations easier. You don’t have to talk to them if you are not up to it. An experienced personal injury attorney knows how to handle insurance companies and can take over those communications on your behalf.
Whether you are speaking to your insurer or the other party’s company, some things can hurt your case if you say them. First, never admit fault or say anything that suggests you did anything wrong or would have done anything differently. Do not provide possible reasons for the accident, as this could be the agent trying to trick you into admitting fault. Don’t talk about your injuries or offer any additional information. Do not agree to sign anything or to be recorded. If they ask, have them contact your attorney.
When Should I Contact a Car Accident and Injury Attorney in New Hampshire?
If you’ve been involved in a car accident in New Hampshire, contacting an experienced car accident and injury attorney as soon as possible is crucial. Time is critical in building a strong case and securing the compensation you deserve.
Here’s why acting promptly can make a significant difference:
- Preservation of Evidence
The days immediately following an accident are vital for preserving critical evidence. Physical evidence at the accident scene, such as skid marks, debris, and vehicle damage, can disappear quickly due to weather, road maintenance, or traffic. Witnesses’ memories of the event may also fade, making it harder to collect accurate statements. By engaging our attorney promptly, you can ensure a thorough investigation begins immediately, preserving key evidence that could strengthen your case.
- Timely Investigation
An immediate investigation often uncovers details that could be lost if there’s a delay. For instance, traffic camera footage or data from a vehicle’s black box might only be available for a limited time. Our attorney will act swiftly to obtain and analyze this information to comprehensively understand the accident’s causes and identify all liable parties.
- Navigating Insurance Company Tactics
As mentioned, insurance companies often reach out quickly after an accident, sometimes before you can fully understand your injuries or the accident’s impact on your life. Their goal may be to minimize their payout or obtain statements that could be used against you. Our car accident and injury attorney in Portsmouth can take over all communication with the insurance companies, protecting your rights and ensuring you don’t say or do anything that might jeopardize your claim.
- Accurate Assessment of Damages
Some injuries, such as whiplash or traumatic brain injuries, may not be immediately apparent after an accident. You can receive guidance on seeking the necessary medical evaluations and treatment by contacting our lawyer early. We will also work to assess the full scope of your damages, including current and future medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any impact on your quality of life.
- Reducing Stress
The aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming. You may feel stretched thin between dealing with injuries, medical appointments, and insurance adjusters. Our attorney can alleviate this burden by managing the legal complexities of your case, giving you the time and peace of mind to focus on your recovery.
- Maximizing Compensation
Insurance companies are more likely to offer fair compensation when they know you have legal representation. We will negotiate on your behalf, ensuring you don’t accept a low settlement that doesn’t cover your full damages. If necessary, we can take your case to court to fight for the compensation you deserve.
The sooner you contact our Portsmouth car accident and injury attorney, the stronger your case will be. At Elmore Law Office, we understand the challenges you face after a car accident and are here to guide you every step of the way. From conducting a thorough investigation to handling insurance companies and fighting for your rights, we are dedicated to achieving the best possible outcome for you. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us start building your case immediately.
At Elmore Law Office, our Portsmouth Personal Injury Attorneys Also Focus on the Following Practice Areas:
Contact Our Dedicated Car Accident and Injury Attorney in Portsmouth, New Hampshire for Help Today
At Elmore Law Office, we understand how devastating car accidents can be for individuals and their families. Medical bills, lost income, and emotional distress create immense challenges, but you don’t have to face them alone. We are dedicated to helping injured clients secure the compensation they deserve, standing up against insurance companies and corporations that prioritize profits over people. With decades of experience and a proven track record, we provide compassionate, personalized representation tailored to your unique needs.
Transparency and trust are the cornerstones of our practice. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case, and we’ll clearly explain every step of the process upfront. Let us handle the legal complexities so you can focus on your recovery. Contact our Portsmouth office today or call (603) 929-1117 for a free consultation, and let’s take the first step toward justice together.