New Hampshire Injury Lawyer Blog
New Hampshire motorists should exercise a higher duty of caution when driving during bad weather conditions. While inclement weather may increase the likelihood of a collision, the weather alone is rarely the cause of an accident. Under New Hampshire traffic laws, drivers must adjust their driving to the pertinent road and weather conditions. Even if an accident occurs because of bad weather, a negligent driver may still be held liable.
Drivers can avoid an inclement weather accident by:
Reducing their speed – Slick road conditions contribute to many New Hampshire weather-related collisions.
Leaving a greater distance between vehicles – Allowing a greater distance between cars can provide motorists with additional time to brake.
Maintaining their vehicles – Drivers should take extra steps to conduct maintenance before the winter season.
Recently, New Hampshire news sources reported that hundreds of accidents closed many of the state’s roads and highways. Multiple emergency responders from the Nashua Fore Rescue, ambulances, and New Hampshire State Police responded to a series of accidents on the Evertt Turnpike. The responders faced difficulty reaching the scene because the roadways were covered in ice, and vehicles continued to slam into each other. Many vehicles were off the roadway, and others crashed into guardrails. Firefighters used the jaws of life to free some victims trapped in their cars. Initial reports indicate that emergency responders transported at least six people to hospitals.
Many complex legal issues arise when an accident involves bad weather conditions, multiple accidents or a chain reaction. An experienced New Hampshire accident attorney can help victims, and their families determine liability and apportion fault amongst the parties. An at-fault driver may blame the incident solely on the weather; however, an attorney can investigate the accident to determine the relevant causes. Some common causes include:
- Driving with old and worn tires;
- Driving with broken windshield wipers;
- Driving without headlights;
- Speeding or driving too fast for conditions; and
- Failing to abide by traffic rules and road signs.
Drivers who fail to exercise caution and maintain their duty of care may be liable for the ensuing damages. Damages in these cases typically include payments for medical expenses, ongoing treatment, property damage, lost wages, and pain and suffering. However, at-fault drivers often purport various defenses to avoid paying these damages. An attorney can help victims overcome these challenges and recover the damages they deserve.
Have You Suffered Injuries in a New Hampshire Accident
If you or someone you love has been hurt or died in a New Hampshire car accident during bad weather conditions, you may be eligible for financial compensation from the at-fault party. The New Hampshire attorneys at Peter Thompson & Associates have extensive experience successfully handling complex accident cases. The attorneys on our team can evaluate your case and determine the full extent of damages you or your loved ones deserve. We handle cases stemming from New Hampshire auto accidents, premises liability, defective products, medical malpractice, and nursing home abuse and negligence. Contact our office at 1-800-804-2004 to determine your rights and remedies after an accident.