If someone else was to blame for the brain injury that you or a loved one suffered in a New Hampshire car accident, you may be entitled to substantial financial compensation. The fact that you have suffered a severe injury does not mean that the insurance company will automatically pay you every dollar that you deserve. A successful outcome in your brain injury case requires a fair amount of legwork and fighting with the insurance company. At the same time, you and your family are dealing with the prospect of a serious and permanent injury that can impose substantial burdens.
The best thing that you can do is to contact a New Hampshire car accident lawyer as soon as possible. It does not cost you anything to speak to a car accident attorney during an initial consultation, and you pay nothing unless you win.
Brain Injuries After a New Hampshire Car Accident
Brain injuries are among the most serious and life-altering consequences of a car accident. Even a seemingly minor collision can result in a traumatic brain injury (TBI) due to a sudden jolt or impact to the head. Common types of brain injuries from car accidents include concussions, contusions, and diffuse axonal injuries, which can affect memory, coordination, speech, and emotional regulation. Symptoms may not appear immediately, making prompt medical evaluation critical. Long-term effects can include chronic headaches, cognitive impairments, mood disorders, and the inability to return to work. These injuries often require extensive treatment, such as neurological evaluations, therapy, and ongoing care. Because the costs and impacts of brain injuries can be substantial, accident victims should consult with an experienced personal injury attorney.
Estimating Your Damages After a New Hampshire Car Accident
Estimating your damages after a New Hampshire car accident involves calculating both economic and non-economic losses. Start by tallying economic damages, which are easily documented. These include medical expenses (emergency care, surgeries, therapy), property damage (vehicle repairs or replacement), and lost income from missed work. You should also account for future medical costs and diminished earning capacity if your injuries are long-term.
Non-economic damages are more subjective and include pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. These are often estimated using methods like the multiplier method, where your total medical costs are multiplied by a number (typically 1.5 to 5) based on the severity of your injury.
Your New Hampshire car accident attorney will work with expert witnesses as necessary to learn the full extent of your damages. This information is critical to have before you file a claim so you are not vulnerable to accepting a settlement that pays you less than you deserve.
The Legal Process After a New Hampshire Car Accident
After a car accident in New Hampshire, the legal process typically begins with seeking immediate medical attention and reporting the accident to law enforcement. Once the situation is stabilized, you should notify your insurance company and begin documenting the incident—collecting photographs, witness statements, medical records, and police reports. New Hampshire is an at-fault state, meaning the driver responsible for causing the accident is liable for resulting damages. You may file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurer or pursue compensation through a personal injury lawsuit.
Hiring a personal injury attorney can be vital during this process. Your lawyer will investigate the crash, gather evidence, calculate damages (medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering), and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, the case may proceed to court.
New Hampshire law gives you three years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. Acting promptly improves your chances of securing maximum compensation and protecting your rights. Throughout the process, maintaining detailed records and following medical advice are key to strengthening your claim. A knowledgeable New Hampshire car accident lawyer can guide you through each step and advocate for the compensation you deserve.
Why You Need a Car Accident Attorney for Your Case
Suffering a brain injury in a car accident can turn your life upside down. Whether it’s a concussion or a more severe traumatic brain injury (TBI), the effects can be long-lasting and unpredictable—impacting your ability to work, think clearly, maintain relationships, or live independently. In these situations, hiring an experienced personal injury attorney is critical.
First, brain injuries are often complex and difficult to prove. Symptoms may not show up immediately, and diagnostic tools like CT scans or MRIs may not fully reflect the damage. An attorney can help gather and present the medical evidence, expert opinions, and personal documentation needed to demonstrate the full impact of your injury.
Second, insurance companies are not on your side. They often try to minimize brain injury claims or offer quick, low settlements before the full extent of your injuries is known. An attorney can handle all communication with the insurer, protect you from being taken advantage of, and negotiate for the full compensation you’re entitled to.
Third, calculating damages in brain injury cases requires a long-term view. You may need ongoing treatment, rehabilitation, or assistance with daily tasks. A skilled attorney will factor in future costs, lost earning potential, and non-economic damages like pain and suffering.
When Should I Hire a Car Accident Attorney? Now
You should hire a New Hampshire car accident lawyer as soon as possible after the crash—especially if you suffered serious injuries, such as a brain injury, or if fault is disputed. Early, local, legal representation helps preserve evidence, manage communication with insurance companies, and protect your rights from the start. If the insurance company offers a low settlement or denies your claim altogether, a lawyer can negotiate on your behalf and pursue fair compensation.
Additionally, if you have missed work, faced significant medical bills, or experienced emotional distress, an attorney can help you calculate the full extent of your damages. In New Hampshire, you have only three years to file a personal injury lawsuit, so do not wait—consulting a personal injury attorney early can significantly strengthen your case.