Somersworth Car Accident Lawyers

If you find yourself needing legal help after a car accident in Somersworth, NH, you’re not alone. At Tenn And Tenn, PA, we understand how overwhelming and confusing it can be to deal with the aftermath of a car accident. Our team is here to help you navigate the complexities of your situation, especially when it comes to handling medical bills, insurance claims, and legal matters.

Understanding the Impact of Car Accidents in Somersworth

In 2019, the Somersworth Office of Highway Safety reported a total of 6,787 car accidents in our area. Out of these, 493 were serious injury crashes and 34 tragically resulted in fatalities. The cost of fatal motor vehicle accidents alone amounted to $143 million in medical bills and lost wages for just one year. This highlights the significant impact that car accidents can have on individuals and their families, both financially and emotionally.

Immediate Steps to Take After a Car Accident

If you are involved in a car accident, the first and most important step is to ensure your safety and the safety of others. Seek medical attention if needed, even if injuries seem minor at first. It is also crucial to avoid speaking to the insurance company, including your own, until you have hired a lawyer. Insurance companies often try to settle claims quickly, which can sometimes be disadvantageous to you. Having a legal professional handle these discussions can help protect your rights and ensure you receive fair compensation.

Legal Options for Car Accident Victims

In Somersworth, NH, victims of car accidents have legal recourse if they are injured due to another driver’s negligence. To pursue a claim, the injured party must prove several key elements. First, it must be shown that the other driver owed a duty of care, which means they had a responsibility to drive safely. Second, it must be demonstrated that this duty was breached, such as by speeding or driving under the influence. Finally, it must be proven that this breach directly caused the injuries suffered.

Driving safely is a legal obligation that includes avoiding actions like texting, aggressive driving, and speeding. A driver who fails to meet these standards can be held liable for any resulting harm. In Somersworth, NH, you have up to three years from the date of the accident to file a legal claim. This timeframe is crucial for gathering evidence and building a strong case, so it’s important to consult with an attorney as soon as possible.

Identifying Driver Negligence

Driver negligence refers to actions or behaviors that fall short of what a reasonable driver would do. This includes things like speeding, running stop signs, texting while driving, and driving under the influence. When a driver’s negligence leads to an accident, they can be held legally responsible for the resulting damages. Proving negligence involves showing that the driver had a duty of care, breached that duty, and that this breach caused the harm suffered.

Types of Compensatory Damages

Victims of car accidents in Somersworth, NH, may be entitled to compensatory damages, which are meant to cover various losses. Economic damages compensate for tangible losses such as medical bills and lost wages, while noneconomic damages address more subjective losses like emotional distress, pain and suffering, and loss of companionship.

The Statute of Limitations for Car Accident Claims

In Somersworth, NH, the statute of limitations for filing a car accident claim is three years from the date of the accident. This means you must file your lawsuit within this period, or you risk losing your right to seek compensation. It is essential to consult with a knowledgeable attorney to ensure that your case is filed correctly and on time.

Mistakes to Avoid After a Car Accident in Somersworth, NH

Neglecting Immediate Medical Care

After a car accident in Somersworth, NH, seeking immediate medical attention is crucial, even if you feel fine. Many injuries, such as whiplash or internal trauma, may not show symptoms right away. Waiting to see a doctor can not only jeopardize your health but also weaken your case. Insurance companies look closely at medical records and may argue that if you didn’t get treatment right away, your injuries might not be as severe as you claim. At Tenn And Tenn, PA, we understand the importance of early medical evaluation. We can guide you through the process of obtaining the necessary medical documentation to support your case.

Ignoring Doctor’s Orders and Skipping Treatments

Following your doctor’s treatment plan is vital for your recovery and for strengthening your case. Skipping appointments or not adhering to prescribed treatments can harm your health and weaken your legal position. Insurance adjusters may use these lapses to suggest that your injuries are not serious or that you are not as affected as you claim. Our team at Tenn And Tenn, PA can help ensure you stay on track with your medical care and maintain thorough records of your treatments, which is essential for building a strong case.

Talking to Insurance Companies Without Legal Representation

It is common for insurance companies to reach out after an accident, but speaking with them without a lawyer can be risky. Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts and may use your statements against you. They might offer you a settlement that seems fair but is often less than what you might be entitled to. Our experienced team at Tenn And Tenn, PA can handle communications with insurance companies on your behalf, ensuring your rights are protected and you receive the compensation you deserve.

Hiring a Lawyer Who is Not a Trial Attorney

Choosing the right lawyer is critical. Insurance companies know which attorneys are trial-ready and which are not. Hiring a lawyer who does not have trial experience can put you at a disadvantage. Insurance companies may offer lower settlements to those represented by non-trial attorneys, knowing that these lawyers are less likely to go to court. At Tenn And Tenn, PA, we are committed to fighting for your rights in and out of the courtroom. Our trial experience ensures that we can negotiate effectively with insurance companies and advocate strongly for your interests.

Somersworth Car Accident Client Story

This client story is for educational purposes only.

Frank had always been a careful driver. He followed all the rules, made sure his seatbelt was on, and never rushed through traffic. But one rainy afternoon in Somersworth, NH, everything changed in a split second. A driver coming from another direction slammed into the side of Frank’s car in what’s known as a T-bone accident. The impact was powerful, and Frank’s life was suddenly upside down.

In the aftermath of the crash, Frank was hurt badly. His car was wrecked, and he was left with serious injuries. The pain was constant, and his days were filled with doctor’s appointments and worrying about how he’d pay for all the medical bills. On top of that, the insurance company didn’t offer him much help. They wanted to settle for a tiny amount that wouldn’t even cover half of his expenses.

Feeling lost and desperate, Frank didn’t know what to do. That’s when he found Tenn And Tenn, PA. He reached out to them, and that’s when he met John Tenn, a dedicated lawyer who promised to fight for him. John listened carefully to Frank’s story, understanding the pain and struggle he was going through.

John Tenn and his team didn’t accept the insurance company’s small offer. Instead, they took the case to trial, believing that Frank deserved much more for what he had been through. They worked hard, gathering all the facts and building a strong case. John was always there for Frank, answering his questions and keeping him updated.

In the courtroom, John Tenn stood tall and argued fiercely on Frank’s behalf. He showed the judge and jury how much the accident had changed Frank’s life and why he deserved fair compensation. Thanks to John’s hard work and determination, the jury agreed. They awarded Frank a much larger amount, which helped cover his medical bills and gave him some peace of mind.

Frank was deeply grateful to John Tenn and the team at Tenn And Tenn, PA. They had turned what seemed like an impossible situation into a victory. For Frank, it wasn’t just about the money; it was about getting justice and feeling like someone truly cared.

Get the Help You Need After a Serious Car Accident in Somersworth

If you have been seriously injured in a car accident in Somersworth, New Hampshire, Tenn And Tenn, PA is here to support you. Our team of dedicated Somersworth car accident lawyers is committed to providing you with the legal help you need during this challenging time. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial burdens you may be facing, and we are ready to stand by your side every step of the way.

At Tenn And Tenn, PA, we offer free consultations to discuss the details of your case. This means you can meet with us and get legal advice without any cost to you. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you do not owe us any money unless we secure a successful result for your claim. This approach allows you to focus on your recovery while we handle the legal aspects of your case with no upfront costs.

Your journey to justice starts with a simple phone call. Contact Tenn And Tenn, PA today to schedule your free consultation and learn how we can help you navigate the complexities of your car accident claim. Let our team of dedicated Somersworth car accident lawyers fight for the compensation you deserve while you focus on healing.