Motorcycle Accident Attorney Nashua, NH

Buckley Law Offices Can Help You After Motorcycle Accidents

If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, or have lost a loved one in a motorcycle accident, our team of New Hampshire personal injury attorneys who specialize in motorcycle accidents are here to help. Buckley Law Offices has over thirty years of experience fighting to help innocent people who have been injured in motorcycle crashes across New Hampshire get the financial compensation they are owed. You should not be responsible for the reckless or negligent actions of another driver or motorcyclist, and we are passionate about that. We will fight to ensure you get the compensation you require.

Motorcycles are as iconically American as cowboys, apple pie, and pickup trucks. The image of a motorcyclist cruising down a scenic New Hampshire road is one of tranquility and freedom. For this reason, motorcycles attract riders of all ages and generations and backgrounds looking for tranquility, freedom, and travels.

Unfortunately, when other vehicle operators, municipalities, or motorcycle manufacturers act negligently, motorcyclists are put at serious risk of injury and death. Due to the vulnerability of motorcyclists, crashes can have a devastating impact. Crippling injuries such as broken bones, fractured bones, trauma, concussion, brain injuries, road rash, internal injuries, lower-extremity injuries, spinal cord injuries, and death are common in motorcycle crashes. With over 4,000 motorcycle accident deaths in the United States in 2018, the impact of these accidents cannot be overstated. This is especially true if you are the primary money earner for your household and you are unable to return to work due to the injuries you suffered during your accident.

Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries
in Massachusetts and New Hampshire

Injuries suffered during a motorcycle crash can be catastrophic. Every part of the body is vulnerable during a motorcycle accident. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration released results of a study that indicated most deadly and severe injuries in motorcycle crashes happen when the front of the motorcycle collides with the car or object causing the crash. Here is a list of some of the most common injuries motorcycle riders face after a crash:

Fractures
During accidents, motorcycles can fall over and collapse because they are not stable upright on their own. Crashes happen unexpectedly, and sometimes the rider’s legs get caught underneath the motorcycle when it collapses. If a rider tries and fails to catch themselves safely, they can suffer arm and wrist breaks as well. And in the worst-case scenario, the bike rolls over the rider causing more severe fractures.
Internal Injuries
When a rider is hit with something hard that does not break the skin it can cause blunt-force trauma, and when it does pierce the skin it can cause something called penetration trauma. Both blunt-force trauma and penetrating trauma signify internal injuries. These can be difficult to recover from.
Lower-extremity Injuries
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration concluded in a study of lower-extremity injuries that they were the most frequently seen type of injury in motorcycle crashes. Of all the lower-extremity injuries, leg injuries were the most common. The most common type of leg injury was a fracture.
Road Rash
When a motorcyclist falls to the road and their skin makes contact with the road surface, something called “road rash” occurs. Road rash is a type of skin abrasion that can range from mild to severe, and the most severe of these injuries will require immediate medical attention because they are very susceptible to permanent scarring and/or infection.
Spinal Cord Injuries
It is unfortunately common for motorcycle crash victims to suffer from spinal cord injuries. When the spinal cord is injured it can mean paralysis for the crash survivor. Doctors call this paraplegia or quadriplegia depending on the type of paralysis. No matter the extent of the paralysis, this type of injury usually causes permanent disability for the victim.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration conducted a study that concluded (out of over 104,000 motorcyclists) 15% of helmeted motorcyclists and 21% of unhelmeted riders suffered from a traumatic brain injury after motorcycle crashes around the US in 2018. Traumatic brain injuries also unfortunately accounted for over fifty percent of the riders in the study group who did not survive their motorcycle crash.

You Deserve Legal Help After a Motorcycle Crash

At Buckley Law Offices in Nashua, NH, we believe in holding responsible individuals accountable for their negligent actions. If you suffered an injury or loss due to a motorcycle accident caused by someone else’s negligence, our experienced motorcycle accident lawyers can help you pursue a personal injury suit against the responsible party. We will fight to ensure you receive maximum compensation you are entitled to. We have been recovering financial means for our clients for over thirty years.

Have you been injured or has a loved one been killed in a motorcycle 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

Our personal injury team specializing in motorcycle accidents is ready to hear from you about your motorcycle accident lawsuit. We are professional, experienced, easy to talk to, and eager to help. If you are interested in speaking with us we offer free no-risk, no-obligation consultations and case evaluations to people like you every day. Time is of the essence in any personal injury lawsuit so don’t wait to contact a New Hampshire or Massachusetts personal injury attorney at Buckley Law Offices about your motorcycle accident. Call us today for your free consultation.

motorcycle accident attorney massachusetts

Motorcycle Accident Lawyer NH: Understanding Your Legal Rights and Options After a Crash

Riding a motorcycle offers a sense of freedom and exhilaration that few other vehicles can match. But along with that freedom comes a greater level of risk. Motorcyclists are more exposed to serious injuries in the event of an accident, and they often face challenges in proving fault and securing fair compensation. If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident in New Hampshire, it’s crucial to work with a knowledgeable motorcycle accident lawyer NH to protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in New Hampshire

Motorcycle accidents can happen for many reasons, often due to the negligence or recklessness of other drivers. Some of the most common causes include:

Distracted Driving: Drivers who are texting, talking on the phone, or otherwise distracted may not see motorcyclists, leading to dangerous collisions.
Failure to Yield: Drivers frequently fail to yield the right of way to motorcycles at intersections, causing accidents.
Left-Turn Collisions: Many motorcycle accidents occur when a vehicle makes a left turn in front of an oncoming motorcycle, underestimating the bike’s speed or failing to notice it altogether.
Lane Changes: Motorcycles are smaller and often go unnoticed when drivers change lanes. This can lead to sideswipe accidents and serious injuries.
Speeding or Reckless Driving: Speeding drivers have less time to react to motorcycles, increasing the likelihood of a crash.
Road Hazards: Potholes, debris, and uneven pavement can pose a significant risk to motorcyclists, causing them to lose control and crash.

Unique Challenges Faced by Motorcyclists in Accident Claims

Motorcyclists often encounter bias and misconceptions when filing accident claims. Insurance companies and opposing lawyers may try to argue that the motorcyclist was at fault due to common stereotypes about aggressive or reckless riding. Overcoming these challenges requires strong evidence and an attorney who understands the unique dynamics of motorcycle accidents.
Challenges you might face:

Bias Against Motorcyclists: Many people, including juries and insurance adjusters, may have preconceived notions that motorcyclists are inherently reckless or dangerous. This bias can impact the outcome of your case.
Complex Accident Reconstruction: Motorcycle accidents often require specialized accident reconstruction to establish how the accident occurred and who was at fault.
Severe Injuries and Long Recovery: Motorcycle accidents frequently result in severe injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and fractures. These injuries can lead to long-term or permanent disability, making it challenging to calculate the full extent of damages without expert medical input.

What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident in New Hampshire

Taking the right steps after a motorcycle accident can help protect your health and strengthen your legal case:

Seek Medical Attention Immediately: Even if you feel fine after the accident, some injuries may not show symptoms right away. Always see a doctor to get a thorough examination.
Document the Scene: Take photographs or videos of the accident scene, including damage to your motorcycle, the position of vehicles, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
Collect Witness Information: Get the contact information of any witnesses who saw the accident. Their statements may be crucial in establishing fault.
File a Police Report: A police report can serve as an official record of the accident and may include important details about the other driver’s actions or behavior.
Consult a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer: Contact a New Hampshire motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible to discuss your case and understand your legal options.

Understanding New Hampshire’s Motorcycle Laws

New Hampshire has specific laws that motorcyclists and drivers need to be aware of:

Helmet Law:
New Hampshire does not have a mandatory helmet law for motorcyclists over the age of 18. However, wearing a helmet can protect against serious head injuries and strengthen your case in the event of an accident.
Comparative Fault Rule:
New Hampshire follows a modified comparative fault rule. This means that if you are found to be partially at fault for the accident, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. If you are more than 50% at fault, you may be barred from recovering damages.
Insurance Requirements:
Motorcyclists in New Hampshire are required to carry liability insurance. However, because motorcycle accidents often result in severe injuries, it’s advisable to carry additional coverage, such as uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage and medical payments coverage.

Types of Compensation Available for Motorcycle Accident Victims

If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident in New Hampshire, you may be entitled to several types of compensation:

Medical Expenses: Covers current and future medical costs, including hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing care.
Lost Wages: Compensation for income lost while recovering from the accident, as well as loss of earning capacity if you cannot return to your previous job.
Pain and Suffering: Damages for the physical pain and emotional suffering caused by the accident.
Property Damage: Reimbursement for the repair or replacement of your motorcycle and any personal items damaged in the accident.
Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Compensation if the accident has diminished your ability to enjoy activities or hobbies you once loved.

Why You Need a New Hampshire Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Motorcycle accident cases are complex and often involve significant damages. An experienced New Hampshire motorcycle accident attorney can provide critical support in several ways:

Investigating the Accident: Gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and working with experts to establish fault.
Building a Strong Case: Demonstrating the full impact of your injuries on your life, including physical, emotional, and financial effects.
Handling Insurance Companies: Dealing with insurance adjusters who may try to minimize your compensation or blame you for the accident.
Pursuing Maximum Compensation: Fighting for the maximum settlement or verdict possible, taking into account both your current and future needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
About Motorcycle Accidents in New Hampshire

Can I file a claim if I wasn’t wearing a helmet?

Yes, you can still file a claim even if you weren’t wearing a helmet at the time of the accident. However, not wearing a helmet may impact the amount of compensation you receive, especially if you sustained head or neck injuries.

What if the other driver says I was speeding or being reckless?

An experienced attorney can investigate the accident, gather evidence, and work with experts to counter any claims of reckless riding or speeding.

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

The statute of limitations for personal injury claims in New Hampshire is generally three years from the date of the accident. It’s best to consult with a lawyer as soon as possible to ensure you don’t miss any deadlines.

Can I file a claim if I didn’t have a motorcycle license at the time of the accident?

Yes, not having a motorcycle license does not automatically prevent you from filing a claim. You can still pursue compensation if the other driver was at fault for the accident.

What types of evidence are important in a motorcycle accident case?

Evidence such as photographs of the scene, medical records, witness statements, police reports, and expert testimony are all crucial in proving fault and the extent of your injuries.

Contact a New Hampshire Motorcycle Accident Lawyer for a Free Consultation

If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident, it’s essential to seek legal help as soon as possible. As an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer in New Hampshire, I can help you navigate the legal process, handle negotiations with insurance companies, and pursue the maximum compensation you deserve. Contact me, Dave Buckley, today for a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options.

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