If you’ve recently been involved in a car accident in New Hampshire, you might feel overwhelmed, confused, and uncertain about what steps to take next. Your mind may be racing with questions about insurance coverage, medical bills, and how the whole process works. It’s natural to feel this way after such a traumatic experience, and it’s important to know that you’re not alone in this. We understand what you’re going through, and we’re here to help guide you through the complexities of the legal system, particularly when it comes to understanding no-fault insurance and how it impacts your car accident claim.
New Hampshire law can be complex when it comes to car accidents, especially since the state follows a unique approach to insurance coverage. In this blog, we will break down the basics of no-fault insurance, explain how it works in car accident claims, and show you how it can impact the outcome of your case.
What Is No-Fault Insurance and How Does It Work in New Hampshire?
When you are involved in a car accident in New Hampshire, the first thing you should understand is that the state does not require drivers to carry traditional liability insurance. Instead, New Hampshire uses a system known as “no-fault” insurance. This means that, regardless of who is at fault in the accident, your own insurance will cover certain costs, such as medical bills and lost wages, up to a certain limit.
Under no-fault insurance, the focus is on getting you the care you need quickly, without having to wait for someone else’s insurance company to determine fault. Your own insurance policy covers your medical expenses and lost wages, which can provide significant peace of mind after an accident. However, this does not mean that you cannot pursue compensation from the at-fault driver for other damages, such as pain and suffering.
Understanding Personal Injury Protection (PIP) Coverage
In New Hampshire, no-fault insurance is typically tied to a type of coverage called Personal Injury Protection (PIP). PIP is designed to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and even some other expenses like childcare or household help if you’re unable to perform your regular tasks due to the injuries sustained in the accident.
The key to understanding PIP coverage is recognizing that it helps ensure you get immediate assistance after an accident, regardless of who caused it. However, there are limits to how much PIP will cover, and once those limits are reached, you may need to look to other forms of compensation, including suing the at-fault driver for additional damages.
When Can You Sue the At-Fault Driver?
Even though New Hampshire has a no-fault system, you are not always prohibited from pursuing a lawsuit against the person responsible for your injuries. The law allows for lawsuits if your injuries are severe enough, or if they meet certain criteria. For instance, if your injuries involve significant medical costs, permanent disability, or loss of a body part, you may be able to sue the driver who caused the accident.
Additionally, New Hampshire law allows you to seek compensation from the at-fault driver for pain and suffering. While PIP insurance can help with medical bills and lost wages, it does not cover the emotional distress or physical pain you experience as a result of the accident. To pursue these types of damages, you will need to prove that the other driver was at fault and that your injuries meet the required threshold.
The Role of Your Insurance Company in the Claims Process
When filing a claim after an accident in New Hampshire, your own insurance company will be the first to get involved, especially when it comes to no-fault insurance. It’s important to understand that while no-fault insurance provides immediate coverage, there are still steps you need to follow to ensure you receive the full benefits you’re entitled to.
After you file a claim with your insurance company, they will typically cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other expenses up to the limits of your PIP coverage. However, if your injuries exceed the coverage limits, or if you’re seeking damages for pain and suffering, your insurance company will not cover those costs. That’s when you may need to take legal action and seek compensation from the other driver’s insurance company.
The Importance of Documenting Your Injuries
One of the most crucial steps in a car accident claim, whether you are dealing with no-fault insurance or a lawsuit against the at-fault driver, is documenting your injuries and the impact they have had on your life. Make sure to keep a detailed record of all medical treatments, doctor visits, and prescriptions related to your accident. You should also track any lost wages, as well as any other expenses related to your recovery.
Taking photographs of your injuries, keeping receipts for medical bills, and gathering statements from healthcare providers can all help strengthen your case. The more thorough your documentation, the better position you will be in to pursue compensation for the damages you’ve incurred.
What Happens If Your Injuries Are Serious?
If you sustain serious injuries in a car accident, the process of seeking compensation can become more complicated. As mentioned earlier, if your injuries meet the legal threshold for pain and suffering or if they require long-term medical care, you may be eligible to pursue a lawsuit against the at-fault driver.
This process is much different from dealing with a typical no-fault claim, and it requires a more in-depth investigation into the circumstances of the accident. You will need to prove that the other driver was negligent and that their actions directly caused your injuries. At this point, working with an experienced attorney is crucial. The attorney can help you gather evidence, consult with medical professionals, and negotiate with the insurance companies to secure a fair settlement.
The Importance of Legal Help in No-Fault Insurance Claims
Navigating the complexities of New Hampshire’s no-fault insurance system can be challenging, especially if you are dealing with serious injuries or extensive medical bills. Understanding when to rely on your PIP coverage and when to pursue legal action can be difficult. That’s why it’s essential to have a trusted and knowledgeable legal team by your side.
At Tenn And Tenn, PA, we know how frustrating and confusing it can be to deal with insurance companies, medical bills, and recovery after a car accident. Our team is committed to helping you understand your rights and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. We work tirelessly to protect your interests and help you through each step of the process, from filing your claim to negotiating with insurance companies to pursuing legal action if necessary.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident in New Hampshire and need assistance understanding how no-fault insurance works or how to pursue additional compensation, our team at Tenn And Tenn, PA is here to help. We are dedicated to helping you get the best possible outcome for your case. With our experience and commitment to your well-being, we will be by your side every step of the way. Reach out to us today, and let’s start working together to get you the compensation you deserve.