Car Accident Attorneys Nashua, NH - Massachusetts Lawyers

Types of Car Accidents Seen in
New Hampshire and Massachusetts Lawsuits

When a driver gets behind the wheel and then drives negligently, they are responsible for any damages they cause. However, some types of auto accidents are more common than others. In the state of New Hampshire, as well as in the state of Massachusetts, common causes of auto accidents include but are not limited to:

Speeding
Distracted Driving
Drowsy Driving
Texting while Driving
DUI, or Driving under the Influence
DWI, or Driving while Intoxicated
Other Reckless Driving

The cause of a car accident can sometimes be unknown or highly debatable. In those instances, it is highly essential to employ a seasoned lawyer who can defend your rights as a car accident victim or survivor.

Types of Car Accidents Seen in Nashua, New Hampshire:

“T-Bone” or Side Impact Accidents

Side Impact Accidents, also called “T-Bone” accidents are common and occur at intersections.

Head-On Collisions

Head-On Collisions are the type of car accident most likely to cause fatalities; these accidents require experienced attorneys to ensure maximum compensation from insurance companies and negligent drivers.

“Fender Benders” or Rear-End Accidents

Rear-End Accidents, also known as “Fender Benders” are among the most common and can frequently cause damages such as whiplash.

Highway Construction Accidents

It is the responsibility of every construction company to do what they can to avoid causing accidents, while other drivers are responsible for driving more carefully around construction sites. Highway construction accident lawsuits are among the most complex of auto accident lawsuits and require dedicated attention from experienced auto accident lawyers.

Intersection Accidents

Usually caused by error, Intersection Accidents take place at intersections or traffic circles and are usually caused by negligence.

Car accidents and their resulting damages can be exhausting to auto accident victims and survivors. The best thing someone who has been in a car accident can do is ensure their legal needs are being met by an experienced car accident lawyer who can protect their assets and defend their rights against negligent drivers and insurance companies.

Shocking Facts about Car Accidents in New Hampshire

New Hampshire is known by most people for being the Granite State, for its serene and wild picturesque landscapes, and for its lakes and adventurous rapids. But to others, it is unfortunately known for some shocking car accident statistics.

In 2017 New Hampshire roads were the sixth-safest in the country when measuring road fatalities per person, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
And when measuring road fatalities per mile driven, New Hampshire roads were third-safest, behind Massachusetts and Minnesota, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Though New Hampshire is known for bad weather such as snowstorms, the numbers show that bad weather has dramatically reduced the number of cars on the road when bad weather is occurring. As a result, it also decreases the number of car accidents.
New Hampshire has the lowest rate of seat belt usage of any state; a striking number of our car accident fatalities are due to lack of usage of seatbelts compared to other states. (73 percent of people who died in car accidents in New Hampshire in 2017 were unseatbelted, as opposed to the 43 percent national rate, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.)
In 2017 almost one-quarter of New Hampshire car crash fatalities involved at least one person with a blood-alcohol content above the legal limit.

Get Help From a Car Accident Lawyer

So many vehicles get on and off the road each day, the number of car accidents is not a surprise. Being involved in a car accident is a very difficult experience, and when you add personal injury into the mix things can seem impossible. All of this is even more true when the accident happened as a result of the actions of a negligent driver. In New Hampshire, a person has three years from the anniversary of the accident to file a personal claim; this is called the statute of limitations.

Therefore, if you were involved in a car accident because of the negligence of another person and have suffered, it is paramount you seek legal consultation. At Buckley Law Offices we offer free consultations because we believe in holding negligent individuals financially responsible and in fighting for the rights of people like you every day.

Pursuing Compensation for Damages from an Auto Accident

The leading cause of vehicle accidents in New Hampshire remains unchanged year after year. Approximately 75% of vehicle accidents are caused by at least one driver’s intoxication, distraction, or excessive speeding according to the New Hampshire State Police.

Have you been injured or has a loved one been killed in a car accident in the state of New Hampshire or Massachusetts? You may be entitled to compensation for financial expenses and damages such as:

Medical Bills
Loss of Income
Pain and Suffering
Loss of Consortium
Loss of Self-Employed Wages

Contact an experienced car accident attorney at Buckley Law Offices today who can help you through the claims process. With over 30 years of experience, our legal team has an understanding of what your case requires and how best to handle the specifics of a personal injury claim. Our lawyer will conduct all of the legal proceedings and file all the necessary legal paperwork on your behalf, while you relax. Call today for a free case evaluation!

10 Essential Questions to Ask the Other Driver’s Insurance Adjuster After a Car Accident

Being involved in a car accident can be a life-altering event, and navigating the insurance claims process often adds confusion and frustration. Whether you’re in Nashua, NH, or elsewhere, having a clear strategy when speaking with the other driver’s insurance adjuster can greatly impact the outcome of your claim. To ensure you’re fairly compensated, asking the right questions is key. Here are 10 essential questions you should ask the other driver’s insurance adjuster after an accident, especially if you need guidance from a car accident lawyer in Nashua, NH.

Can I Get a Car Rental While My Car is Being Repaired?
Most insurance policies provide for a rental car if you’re not at fault, but it’s important to clarify this with the insurance adjuster. In New Hampshire, even if rental coverage isn’t included in your policy, the at-fault driver’s insurance should cover your rental while your vehicle is repaired. Ensure you know how long you can use the rental and any limitations on the type of vehicle provided.
Am I Entitled to Compensation for the Loss of Use of My Vehicle?
If you’re not able to use your vehicle because of the accident, you may be entitled to compensation even if you don’t need a rental car. Loss of use compensation covers the cost of not having your car, often equivalent to the daily rental rate of a comparable vehicle. This is especially important if you work from home or don’t require a rental for other reasons, as you can still claim this compensation in New Hampshire.
Do I Have to Accept the Adjuster’s Valuation of My Totaled Vehicle?
Never feel pressured to accept the first offer. The insurance adjuster’s appraisal may not always reflect the true value of your vehicle. It’s a good idea to compare their offer with sources like Kelley Blue Book, NADA.com, or local dealership prices in Nashua to ensure the offer is fair. If the offer seems too low, negotiating is possible, and a car accident attorney in Nashua, NH, can assist if necessary.
What Are the Insurance Policy Limits for the At-Fault Driver?
Understanding the at-fault driver’s policy limits is crucial because it sets the maximum payout you can receive. If your medical bills or vehicle repair costs exceed these limits, you may need to pursue compensation from other sources. A car accident lawyer in Nashua, NH can help evaluate if the available coverage is sufficient and whether legal action is warranted for additional compensation.
What Are the Reserves Set for This Claim?
While insurance adjusters often keep this information private, asking about the reserves (the amount the insurance company has set aside to pay for the claim) shows that you’re knowledgeable about insurance practices. Though they may not disclose specifics, this question demonstrates your understanding and could encourage a more transparent negotiation.
How Long Have You Worked as an Insurance Adjuster?
The experience level of the adjuster can influence how your claim is handled. Newer adjusters may have stricter guidelines or less flexibility when negotiating a settlement. If the adjuster is inexperienced, they may need to seek approval from a supervisor for larger payouts, potentially slowing down the process. Asking this question gives you insight into what to expect during negotiations.
Have You Ever Had Your Decisions Overridden by a Supervisor?
This question can signal to the adjuster that you’re willing to escalate your claim if necessary. Insurance adjusters have supervisors who may step in to review decisions, especially if negotiations become difficult. Letting the adjuster know that you understand this hierarchy could encourage them to offer a fair settlement to avoid unnecessary delays.
Have Any of Your Cases Been Awarded Higher Compensation at Trial?
By asking this question, you’re subtly indicating that you know car accident claims can go to trial if a fair settlement isn’t reached. Mentioning trials can put pressure on the adjuster, as litigation costs more for insurance companies. This could prompt the adjuster to offer a higher settlement to avoid a court battle. If you’re considering legal action, consulting a car accident lawyer in Nashua, NH, is a smart move.
Are You Likely to Increase Your Offer If a Lawsuit Is Filed?
This is another question that hints at your willingness to pursue a legal claim if necessary. Knowing whether the insurance company has increased settlement offers post-lawsuit can help you decide if litigation is a viable option. In many cases, insurers are willing to offer higher compensation after a lawsuit is filed to avoid the time and expense of going to court. This is where the expertise of a Nashua car accident attorney becomes invaluable.
Is Any Fault Being Assigned to Me for the Accident?
In New Hampshire, which follows a modified comparative fault rule, your compensation could be reduced if you’re found partially at fault. The insurance company may try to assign some blame to you to lower your payout. Be sure to ask this question so you can understand how much fault, if any, they’re attributing to you. If you believe fault is being unfairly assigned, you should consult with a car accident lawyer in Nashua, NH, who can help dispute the determination.

Key Tip: Remain Calm and Professional During All Interactions

Dealing with insurance adjusters can be frustrating, but it’s essential to stay professional and polite. Aggressive or confrontational behavior can negatively affect your negotiations. Remember, adjusters control the payout, and while you should be firm and informed, maintaining a calm demeanor is critical to getting the best outcome.

When to Contact a Car Accident Lawyer in Nashua, NH

If negotiations with the insurance adjuster stall or if you’re unsure how to proceed, reaching out to a car accident attorney in Nashua, NH is a wise decision. A lawyer can handle the more complex aspects of your claim, such as dealing with lowball offers, fighting unjust fault assignments, and ensuring that you receive the maximum compensation available.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What should I do if the insurance adjuster offers a low settlement?

If the initial offer seems too low, don’t hesitate to negotiate. Consult a car accident lawyer in Nashua, NH to help you evaluate the offer and push for a fair settlement.

Can I sue if I’m not happy with the insurance settlement?

Yes, if negotiations don’t lead to a satisfactory outcome, you can file a lawsuit. A Nashua car accident attorney can help assess whether litigation is in your best interest.

How long do I have to file a car accident claim in New Hampshire?

In New Hampshire, the statute of limitations for filing a car accident claim is typically three years. However, consulting with a lawyer soon after the accident is advisable.

What if the other driver is uninsured or underinsured?

In these cases, your own insurance policy’s uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage may apply. A lawyer can help ensure you access all available compensation.

Will my insurance premiums increase if I’m not at fault?

In most cases, your premiums shouldn’t increase if you’re not at fault, but it’s important to check your policy for details or consult a lawyer.

How much does a car accident lawyer in Nashua, NH, cost?

Most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case.

For more information on navigating car accident claims, consider consulting a Nashua car accident lawyer. They can guide you through the complexities of dealing with insurance companies to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

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