New Hampshire Car Accident Lawyer: How to Handle Red Light Violation Crashes and Maximize Your Compensation
Understanding Red Light Violation Crashes in New Hampshire
🚦 Common Causes of Red Light Accidents
Red light violation crashes occur when a driver ignores traffic signals, leading to dangerous collisions. The most common causes include:
- Distracted driving (texting, eating, or adjusting GPS)
- Speeding to beat the red light
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Poor visibility due to weather conditions
- Driver fatigue or inattention
⚖️ Legal Consequences for Violating Red Lights in New Hampshire
Running a red light in New Hampshire is considered a traffic offense and can result in fines, license points, and liability in civil lawsuits. If a driver is found at fault in an accident caused by running a red light, they may face:
- Fines ranging from $89 to higher amounts for repeat offenses
- Increased insurance premiums
- Civil liability for personal injuries and property damages
Steps to Take Immediately After a Red Light Accident
📸 Document the Scene
If you're involved in a red light crash, collect as much evidence as possible:
- Take photos of vehicle damages, traffic signals, road conditions, and injuries.
- Gather witness statements and obtain their contact details.
- Look for surveillance cameras that may have recorded the incident.
🚑 Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine, some injuries manifest later. Seeking medical care immediately can strengthen your claim by linking the injuries directly to the accident.
📞 Report the Accident
Call law enforcement and ensure an official police report is filed. The report can serve as a crucial piece of evidence in determining fault.
👨⚖️ Contact a Car Accident Lawyer
Consulting a New Hampshire car accident attorney early in the process helps protect your rights and increases the chances of securing maximum compensation.
Determining Liability in a Red Light Crash
🔍 Using Evidence to Establish Fault
Fault is determined based on evidence such as:
- Traffic camera footage proving a red light violation
- Dashcam recordings from nearby vehicles
- Witness testimony supporting your account of the accident
- Police reports detailing the circumstances of the crash
🚗 Comparative Negligence in New Hampshire
New Hampshire follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning if you are found less than 51% at fault, you can still recover damages. However, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Compensation Available for Red Light Accident Victims
💰 Economic Damages
Victims can claim financial losses, including:
- Medical expenses (current and future treatment)
- Lost wages due to inability to work
- Property damage to your vehicle
😔 Non-Economic Damages
These damages compensate for non-financial hardships:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress and trauma
- Loss of enjoyment of life
🏥 Punitive Damages (In Rare Cases)
If the at-fault driver acted recklessly or was driving under the influence, courts may award punitive damages to punish them and deter similar behavior.
Strategies to Maximize Your Compensation
📑 Gather Strong Evidence
Your case is stronger with:
- Detailed medical records proving injury severity
- Expert testimony from accident reconstruction specialists
- Employment records showing lost wages
🤝 Avoid Speaking to Insurance Companies Without Legal Advice
Insurance adjusters often minimize payouts. Having a lawyer handle communications ensures you don’t inadvertently weaken your claim.
⌛ File Your Claim Within the Statute of Limitations
New Hampshire law allows three years from the accident date to file a personal injury claim. Missing this deadline means losing your right to compensation.
🛑 Do Not Accept Early Settlement Offers
Insurance companies may offer quick settlements that do not fully cover your losses. Consult an attorney before accepting any offers.
How a Car Accident Lawyer Can Help
📝 Case Evaluation and Legal Strategy
A skilled attorney will analyze your case, gather evidence, and determine the best course of action to maximize compensation.
💼 Negotiating with Insurance Companies
Lawyers have experience dealing with insurers and can negotiate better settlements than victims who handle claims independently.
⚖️ Litigation Support If Necessary
If negotiations fail, an attorney can file a lawsuit and represent you in court to fight for fair compensation.
Comments
Post a Comment