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Nashua, NH Car Accident Lawyer

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Car crashes disrupt lives in an instant. One moment you’re heading to work on Amherst Street or picking up groceries on Broad Street—then someone’s reckless driving changes everything. When another driver’s bad decision leaves you dealing with serious injuries and a growing stack of bills, a Nashua car accident attorney at Coates Law Office can step in to help you pursue the compensation you need to move forward.

Our car crash lawyers understand the ripple effect a serious collision has on a person’s life. We’ve represented countless injury victims across New Hampshire, helping them hold careless drivers and uncooperative insurance companies accountable. Our legal team brings years of experience handling New Hampshire personal injury claims, including car crashes that occur on busy Nashua roadways like the Everett Turnpike, Kinsley Street, and Daniel Webster Highway.

Every client gets one-on-one attention, regular updates, and legal strategies tailored to their situation. We stay focused on results and work to resolve your case efficiently. Whether through negotiation or, when necessary, litigation, we’re fully committed to protecting your rights and helping you obtain the maximum compensation possible.

If you or someone you care about suffered injuries in a crash someone else caused, contact Coates Law Office for a free consultation. We’ll listen to your story, explain your options, and help you take the next step toward getting your life back.

Nashua Car Accident Guide

Why Choose Coates Law Office to Handle Your Nashua, NH Car Accident Claim?

Bradford Coates | New Hampshire personal injury attorneyChoosing the right attorney after a crash can make all the difference in how your case turns out. With so much on the line—your health, your income, and your future—you need a law firm that knows how to get results and puts your needs first. Coates Law Office brings a client-centered approach to every car accident case in Nashua. Here’s what sets us apart:

Year of Experience

For years, our legal team has handled personal injury claims across New Hampshire, including those involving complex auto collisions. We understand the insurance tactics, medical documentation, and legal procedures that influence your ability to recover compensation—and we use that insight to your advantage.

Deep Knowledge of Nashua and New Hampshire Law

We’ve handled countless cases involving wrecks on the Everett Turnpike, Daniel Webster Highway, and high-traffic intersections throughout Nashua. That local insight helps us investigate thoroughly and identify liable parties more efficiently. We also stay up to date on changes in New Hampshire’s traffic laws and injury claim procedures to keep your case strong.

Proven Track Record of Results

Our firm has recovered substantial settlements and verdicts for clients injured by negligent drivers. While no two cases are the same, we bring the same level of commitment to every client—whether the injury involves a fender bender or a life-changing crash.

Personalized Attention

You won’t get passed off to an assistant or treated like just another file. At Coates Law Office, we believe every client deserves direct access to their attorney, prompt responses to their questions, and regular updates about their case.

Customized Legal Strategies

We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Your injuries, your losses, and your goals shape how we build your case. Whether that means aggressive negotiation or preparing for trial, we tailor our approach to fit your situation.

Recognized for Excellence

Nashua Office - Coates Law OfficeOur attorneys have earned recognition within the legal community, including Top 40 Under 40 rankings from the National Trial Lawyer and memberships in the Million Dollar and Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forums. These accolades reflect our commitment to high standards in legal service and client advocacy.

Communication You Can Count On

Legal jargon and silence don’t help anyone. We explain your options in plain language and return your calls promptly. You’ll always know what’s going on with your case—and what comes next.

No Upfront Fees

You don’t need to pay anything upfront to get started. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means our fee comes from the compensation we help recover. If we don’t secure a financial outcome for you, you won’t owe us a legal fee.

An Experienced, Former Prosecutor Fighting for You

Attorney Bradford Coates brings valuable insight to every car accident case, thanks in part to his background as a former prosecutor. That experience means he understands how opposing counsel approaches claims, prepares evidence, and challenges liability. He uses that knowledge to stay one step ahead—anticipating strategies the defense might use and building stronger arguments on your behalf. His courtroom experience and command of New Hampshire law give clients an edge, both in negotiations and if the case goes to trial.

If you’re recovering from a crash and looking for a legal team that puts you first, Coates Law Office is ready to stand by your side.

Our Nashua Car Accident Law Office

Visit our main office in Nashua to meet with a member of our legal team to discuss your case.

400 Amherst Street, Suite 102
Nashua, NH 03063
Phone: (603) 262-5766

Coates Law Office - Nashua Streetview

Common Car Accident Injury Types

new hampshire association for justice iconCar crashes affect the body in ways most people don’t expect—until it happens to them. The force of impact, even at lower speeds, can cause damage that lingers for weeks, months, or even permanently. Injuries vary based on the nature of the collision, your position in the vehicle, and whether safety features like airbags deployed properly. Below are some of the most common injury types we see in Nashua car accident claims, along with how they can affect your health and quality of life.

Whiplash and Soft Tissue Injuries

Whiplash is one of the most common injuries from rear-end collisions, especially in congested areas like Broad Street or Amherst Street. It occurs when the head and neck are suddenly jerked back and forth, straining muscles, ligaments, and tendons. People often feel fine right after the crash, only to develop pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility days later. While some cases resolve with rest and physical therapy, others lead to chronic pain or long-term issues with neck movement.

Concussions and Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)

A sudden jolt or blow to the head during a collision—like hitting a steering wheel, dashboard, or even just from the force of impact—can cause a concussion or more serious traumatic brain injury. Symptoms might include headaches, confusion, dizziness, memory loss, nausea, and difficulty concentrating. In some cases, symptoms don’t show up right away. Left untreated, brain injuries can have lasting effects on mood, cognition, and daily function. High-speed wrecks on Route 3 or rollover accidents on Kinsley Street often result in these types of head trauma.

Broken Bones and Fractures

When a crash forces the body against a hard surface or crushes limbs in a confined space, bones can break. Common fractures include arms, wrists, ribs, collarbones, and legs. Some are clean breaks that heal with casting or bracing, while others require surgery, pins, or plates to stabilize. Fractures can keep you off your feet for weeks and may interfere with your ability to work or perform everyday tasks.

Back Injuries and Herniated Discs

The spine absorbs much of the shock in a collision. A sudden impact can compress vertebrae, shift discs out of place, or pinch nerves—leading to severe back pain, numbness, and even sciatica. Herniated discs are especially common in side-impact crashes and rear-end collisions. These injuries often require long-term treatment, including physical therapy, epidural injections, or spinal surgery.

Neck and Spinal Cord Damage

More serious than a typical neck strain, spinal cord injuries can cause partial or complete loss of function in limbs, depending on where the spine is injured. Even non-paralyzing spinal injuries can lead to lifelong mobility issues, nerve pain, or loss of sensation. Victims often face extensive medical treatment, home modifications, and assistive devices just to regain a sense of independence.

Lacerations, Bruises, and Contusions

Shattered glass, loose objects, and hard interior surfaces can cause deep cuts and bruises. Some lacerations may be superficial, while others require stitches, surgery, or skin grafts. Visible scarring or disfigurement can result, especially when injuries affect the face, arms, or hands. Severe bruising, or contusions, might also indicate deeper damage to underlying muscles or organs.

Joint Injuries – Knees, Shoulders, and Wrists

A driver gripping the wheel during impact might suffer wrist fractures or torn ligaments. Passengers bracing themselves can injure knees or dislocate shoulders. These types of injuries often go overlooked at first, but they can limit range of motion and make it difficult to walk, lift, or carry out basic tasks. In some cases, torn ligaments require reconstructive surgery and extensive rehab.

Internal Injuries

Not all damage shows up on the outside. The force of a crash can cause internal bleeding, bruised lungs, or damage to organs like the spleen or liver. These injuries may not present symptoms immediately but can become life-threatening if left untreated. Emergency medical care is often needed, and recovery may involve surgery and hospitalization.

Every injury, no matter how “minor” it seems at first, deserves medical attention and legal consideration. If you’ve been hurt in a car crash in Nashua, don’t assume things will get better on their own. Coates Law Office can help you document the full scope of your injuries and fight for the compensation you need to recover.

Types of Nashua, NH Car Accident Cases We Handle

awardCar accidents happen in many different ways, and each type presents unique challenges when it comes to proving fault and recovering compensation. At Coates Law Office, we’ve handled a wide range of motor vehicle accident cases in and around Nashua.

Whether the crash happened on a major highway like the Everett Turnpike or a neighborhood street like Manchester Street, we know how to approach the investigation, gather the right evidence, and hold the responsible party accountable. Here are some of the most common types of cases we handle.

Rear-End Collisions

Rear-end crashes are among the most frequent accidents in Nashua, especially during heavy traffic on Broad Street, Amherst Street, and at traffic lights on East Hollis Street. These accidents often result from a driver following too closely, texting while driving, or failing to slow down in time. Injuries in these collisions can include whiplash, neck and back injuries, and head trauma. Even low-speed rear-end accidents can cause long-term physical problems, especially for older adults or those with preexisting conditions.

Head-On Collisions

Few accidents are more dangerous than a head-on collision. These crashes often occur on two-lane roads like Ledge Street, where one driver crosses the center line or drives the wrong way. The impact is usually severe and can lead to catastrophic injuries such as traumatic brain injury, multiple fractures, or paralysis. These cases often involve drunk driving, distracted driving, or fatigue, and they typically require a detailed investigation to prove negligence.

T-Bone and Side-Impact Collisions

Also known as broadside accidents, T-bone collisions frequently happen at intersections—such as the ones at Main Street and Kinsley Street or around the DW Highway corridor. These crashes usually involve one driver running a red light or failing to yield. Side-impact accidents are especially dangerous because vehicle doors offer little protection, leading to serious injuries like pelvic fractures, internal bleeding, or spinal cord injuries. Proving liability in these cases often depends on witness statements, video footage, or traffic signal data.

Drunk Driving Accidents

Despite strong DUI laws in New Hampshire, impaired driving continues to cause devastation on roads like Daniel Webster Highway and Route 111. Alcohol or drug-impaired drivers have slower reaction times and poor judgment, making them more likely to cause high-speed, high-impact collisions. Victims of these crashes may be entitled to additional damages, especially if the driver has a history of DUI or if the crash involved egregious behavior. We pursue all avenues to hold drunk drivers financially responsible for the harm they cause.

Distracted Driving Accidents

Texting, talking on the phone, eating, or using in-car apps can all take a driver’s eyes off the road. In Nashua’s busy shopping areas like the Pheasant Lane Mall or on crowded roads during rush hour, even a moment of distraction can result in a serious crash. Proving distraction may involve cell phone records, surveillance footage, or accident reconstruction experts. We know how to uncover the evidence that shows the driver wasn’t paying attention when the crash occurred.

Speed-Related Crashes

Excessive speed remains one of the leading contributors to serious and fatal car accidents in Nashua. On roads like the Everett Turnpike or Broad Street Parkway, drivers who exceed the speed limit reduce their ability to brake in time or react to traffic conditions. These high-speed crashes often result in rollovers, ejections, and devastating injuries. Speeding drivers are usually found at fault, but proving just how fast they were going often requires expert analysis and access to vehicle data.

Multi-Vehicle Pileups

Pileups often occur during winter storms, fog, or icy conditions, especially on highways like Route 3. These crashes involve several vehicles and multiple points of impact, which makes sorting out liability more complicated. One careless or aggressive driver may set off a chain reaction that causes widespread damage. We work to identify each responsible party and determine how insurance coverage applies when many people are involved.

Pedestrian and Bicycle Accidents

Nashua’s downtown areas and residential neighborhoods see plenty of foot and bike traffic. Unfortunately, drivers don’t always yield at crosswalks or watch for cyclists, especially near schools, parks, and shopping centers. These accidents often leave victims with severe or even fatal injuries. We handle pedestrian and bicycle accident claims with the care they deserve, pursuing full compensation for medical costs, long-term care, and other losses.

Each accident is different, but the goal is always the same: helping you recover the financial support you need after someone else’s careless or reckless behavior. Coates Law Office handles these types of car accident cases throughout Nashua and nearby communities. Let us evaluate your situation and fight for the outcome you deserve.

What Types of Compensation Can You Help Me Recover?

multi-million dollar advocates forum iconWhen you’re injured in a car crash, the damage goes far beyond the visible. Medical bills pile up. Work gets missed. Everyday activities become harder or even impossible. If someone else caused the collision, you shouldn’t be left footing the bill. At Coates Law Office, we help accident victims pursue full and fair compensation for all the ways the crash has affected their lives—financially, physically, and emotionally. Here’s a breakdown of the types of compensation you may be able to recover through a personal injury claim.

Medical Expenses

Your health comes first, but quality medical care isn’t cheap. Compensation can cover the cost of:

  • Emergency room visits
  • Hospital stays
  • Diagnostic tests (X-rays, MRIs, CT scans)
  • Surgery
  • Physical therapy
  • Chiropractic care
  • Follow-up appointments
  • Medication
  • Medical equipment (crutches, braces, wheelchairs)

We work with your healthcare providers to document these costs and include them in your claim. You shouldn’t have to pay out of pocket for care you needed because of someone else’s bad driving.

Future Medical Treatment

Some injuries don’t resolve quickly. If your recovery stretches into the months or years ahead—or involves a permanent disability—your claim should include those future costs. This might involve:

  • Ongoing physical or occupational therapy
  • Pain management care
  • Reconstructive surgery
  • Long-term medication needs
  • In-home nursing or personal care assistance
  • Future doctor visits and checkups

We consult with medical experts to project these expenses and include them as part of your damages.

Lost Income

Missing work can cause immediate financial strain. Whether you’re out for a week or unable to return at all, compensation should reflect the earnings you’ve lost. This includes:

  • Hourly wages or salary
  • Bonuses and commissions
  • Self-employment income
  • Used sick days or vacation time
  • Missed freelance or contract opportunities

We’ll gather proof of your earnings and any work restrictions to demonstrate how your income has been affected.

Loss of Future Earning Capacity

When injuries make it harder—or impossible—to return to your job, you may be entitled to compensation for future lost earning potential. This takes into account:

  • Your occupation and experience
  • Your pre-injury income level
  • Physical or cognitive limitations
  • Your ability to retrain for a different field
  • How long you would have worked if not for the injury

Vocational experts may be used to calculate what your career path might have looked like had the accident not happened.

Pain and Suffering

The pain you feel after a crash isn’t just physical—it can affect your mood, your sleep, and your daily peace of mind. Pain and suffering compensation helps account for:

  • Physical pain from your injuries
  • Discomfort during recovery
  • Long-term or permanent pain
  • Limitations on daily activities or movement
  • Emotional distress linked to your condition

Though harder to quantify, these damages are a real part of your loss, and we’ll work to ensure they’re factored into your claim.

Loss of Enjoyment of Life

When you’re unable to return to hobbies, family activities, or a social life because of your injuries, that loss deserves compensation too. Maybe you can no longer play sports, go hiking, drive, or even sit comfortably at a family dinner. If the crash has diminished your ability to enjoy the things that made life fulfilling, that loss matters.

Property Damage

If your car was damaged or totaled in the crash, you can recover:

  • Repair costs
  • Vehicle replacement value (if it was totaled)
  • Towing and storage fees
  • Rental car costs while your vehicle is in the shop

We’ll also include damage to any other personal items affected in the crash, such as phones, laptops, or child car seats.

Out-of-Pocket Expenses

Small expenses add up quickly after a car accident. Compensation may cover:

  • Transportation to and from medical appointments
  • Over-the-counter supplies
  • Home modifications if you’re dealing with long-term injuries
  • Temporary assistance with household chores or childcare

We encourage clients to keep receipts and records so we can include every eligible cost in the claim.

Recovering from a car accident is hard enough without worrying about how you’ll pay for it all. At Coates Law Office, we dig into every aspect of your loss to make sure nothing is left out. When we present your claim, it’s based on real numbers, real impact, and a full picture of what you’ve endured.

How Much Is My Car Accident Case Worth?

Every case is different. The severity of your injuries, the available insurance coverage, how much work you’ve missed, and the impact on your daily life all play a role in the value of your case.

We don’t rely on formulas or averages. Our team evaluates each case based on medical records, bills, documentation of missed work, witness accounts, and future impact. Some clients receive tens of thousands in compensation; others recover hundreds of thousands or more. During your free consultation, we’ll give you an honest assessment based on your specific situation.

How Do I Know If I Have a Personal Injury Case?

If another driver caused your accident and you suffered injuries, there’s a good chance you have a claim. Negligence takes many forms—speeding, texting while driving, running a red light, failing to yield. When that negligence results in harm, you may have grounds to file a claim for compensation.

We can review your situation and tell you whether you have a strong case. You don’t have to figure it out alone. Let our legal team examine the facts, answer your questions, and explain what you can do next.

What Should I Do After a Car Accident in Nashua?

At the Scene

If you’re still at the scene and able to move safely:

  1. Call 911. Report the accident and request medical help if needed.
  2. Take photos. Get images of the damage, license plates, road conditions, and anything else relevant.
  3. Exchange information. Get the other driver’s license, insurance, and contact info.
  4. Speak to witnesses. Ask for names and phone numbers of anyone who saw what happened.
  5. Avoid admitting fault. Stick to the facts when speaking to police or other drivers.

After You’ve Left the Scene

If you’re reading this from a hospital bed or your couch at home, your focus now is on recovery—and getting financial help to deal with everything the crash has caused.

Contacting a car accident attorney should be your next move. Coates Law Office can step in to:

  • Investigate the crash
  • Deal with the insurance adjuster
  • Handle paperwork and deadlines
  • Build a case for full compensation

We’ll manage the legal side while you focus on healing.

How Long Do I Have to File a Personal Injury Claim in New Hampshire?

Lawsuit form with filler and bookNew Hampshire generally allows three years from the date of a car accident to file a car accident lawsuit. For wrongful death claims, the deadline is also three years from the date of death.

Some exceptions may apply:

  • Claims involving minors may be extended until they turn 18.
  • If the at-fault driver leaves the state, the clock may pause temporarily.

If the accident involved a government vehicle or city employee, like a Nashua Public Works truck or a police car, the timeline shortens considerably. You may need to file a notice of claim within 180 days and follow other special procedures.

Waiting too long could cost you the right to pursue compensation. Even if you believe you have plenty of time, acting early gives your attorney a better chance to gather evidence and build a strong case.

New Hampshire Car Accident Statistics

While Nashua offers walkable neighborhoods and scenic routes along the Merrimack River, traffic still poses risks. Here’s a look at recent data from the New Hampshire Office of Highway Safety:

  • New Hampshire reported nearly 122 traffic-related deaths over a recent four-year period.
  • More than 33,500 traffic crashes occurred throughout New Hampshire in a recent year.
  • Nearly 500 crashes resulted in serious injuries.
  • Nearly 26 people suffered injuries or died because of wrecks caused by drunk drivers.
  • Speeding-related accidents claimed 34 lives in a recent year.

Behind every statistic is a person whose life was disrupted. We’re here to help put things right.

 

Nashua Car Accident FAQs

How much does it cost to hire a personal injury lawyer?

At Coates Law Office, you don’t pay upfront. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning we only get paid if we help recover compensation for you.

How long will my case take?

Some cases resolve in a few months. Others take longer, especially if there are disputed facts, serious injuries, or uncooperative insurers. We’ll keep you updated and push for a resolution that doesn’t drag on unnecessarily.

What if I’m partially at fault?

New Hampshire uses modified comparative fault. As long as you’re less than 51% at fault, you may still recover compensation—but your recovery gets reduced by your percentage of fault. We’ll work to limit any blame placed on you and protect your rights.

What is the personal injury claims process?

It usually goes like this:

  1. Investigation and evidence gathering
  2. Medical treatment and documentation
  3. Filing a claim with the insurance company
  4. Negotiation for settlement
  5. If needed, filing a lawsuit and preparing for trial

We’ll walk you through each step and handle the details.

Contact Our Skilled Nashua Auto Accident Attorneys Now

Bradford Coates | New Hampshire personal injury lawyer

Bradford H. Coates, Nashua Car Accident Attorney

A serious crash throws your daily life into chaos. Medical bills pile up. Work gets missed. Recovery drags on longer than expected. You shouldn’t have to shoulder these burdens alone—especially when someone else caused the accident.

Coates Law Office helps Nashua accident victims demand accountability. Whether the insurance company refuses to pay fairly or the at-fault driver denies responsibility, we’re ready to push back. You focus on getting better—we’ll focus on securing the financial support you need.

Call 603-262-5766 now for a free case evaluation. Let us hear your story and explain how we can help.

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Client Testimonial

“I hired Brad Coates to handle my car accident claim. He made sure to explain the process every step of the way and was very thorough leaving no pages unturned. He treated my case with compassion and provided me with the trust and reassurance I needed during this sensitive time. I would highly recommend Brad to anyone I know. If I need any assistance in the future, there is no question about it that I will be calling Brad!”

-Emily C. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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Coates Law Office – Nashua Location

400 Amherst Street, Suite 102
Nashua, NH 03063

Phone: (603) 262-5766