What Drivers Can Do Immediately After a Winter Crash in New Hampshire

New Hampshire winters can bring treacherous road conditions, leading to an increase in accidents during the colder months. From slick, icy roads to snowstorms reducing visibility, driving during winter requires extra caution. If you find yourself involved in a car crash during the winter, it’s essential to know what actions to take immediately to ensure your safety and protect your rights in case of injuries or insurance claims. While it’s crucial to act quickly, it’s equally important to stay calm and focused. Your actions right after a crash can impact your recovery, your claim with the insurance company, and potentially any legal proceedings that follow. Let’s walk through the critical steps that every driver should take immediately after a winter crash in New Hampshire.

Prioritize Safety – Ensure No Immediate Danger

The first step in any crash, especially in winter conditions, is making sure that everyone involved is safe. If you’re able to, check yourself, your passengers, and other people involved in the accident for injuries. In cases of severe weather, staying inside your vehicle might be safer until help arrives, especially if there’s poor visibility or ongoing hazardous conditions. If your car is still on the road, turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers about the accident. You may also want to try to move the car off the road if possible to avoid being rear-ended, especially if visibility is reduced by heavy snow or fog. However, if moving your vehicle is unsafe, do not attempt it.

Call 911 – Report the Incident

If there are injuries, or if significant property damage has occurred, call 911 immediately. In New Hampshire, it’s required to report accidents to the police if there are injuries or damages that exceed $1,000. Emergency responders and police will assess the scene, take down critical information, and ensure that the proper medical care is provided. Even if the accident seems minor, it’s always a good idea to have a police report. This documentation can be vital for insurance claims, as well as for legal purposes should you need to pursue compensation for injuries or damages. Ensure the officers complete a report and get a copy of it for your records.

James J. Tenn, Jr.
Attorney

Mary Elizabeth Tenn
Attorney

John J. Tenn
Attorney

Working hard to obtain the best results possible for our clients and fighting to protect their rights.

Do Not Admit Fault – Let the Investigators Handle It

In the heat of the moment, it’s tempting to apologize or admit fault to other drivers or witnesses. However, it’s important to refrain from making any statements about liability at the scene of the accident. In New Hampshire, fault will be determined later through an investigation conducted by the police, insurance adjusters, and, if necessary, legal professionals. Admitting fault prematurely may complicate things down the line, particularly if injuries or damages turn out to be more severe than initially believed. Even if you think the accident might have been your fault, avoid acknowledging it until you’ve had time to assess the situation and gather all necessary information.

Collect Critical Information – Document the Scene Thoroughly

Once everyone is safe, it’s essential to document everything about the accident. Taking accurate notes and photographs can be crucial for insurance claims, potential legal cases, and later proving your side of the story. Here’s a list of key things to collect and document:

• Exchange Information: Share your full name, contact details, driver’s license number, and insurance information with the other drivers involved. Be sure to get the same details from the other parties.
• Take Photos: Use your phone or a camera to capture as much of the accident scene as possible. Include:
  • The condition of your vehicle and others involved.
  • Road conditions (ice, snow, slush, etc.).
  • The area where the crash occurred, including nearby street signs or intersections.
  • Weather conditions at the time of the crash.
  • Any visible damage, skid marks, and relevant crash debris.
• Witness Information: If there were any witnesses to the accident, ask for their names and contact information. Their statements can help corroborate your version of the events.
• Note the Time and Place: Write down the exact time of the crash and the specific location. These details might be helpful later if there are discrepancies about the accident’s cause or location.

The more thorough and detailed you are in documenting the scene, the better prepared you’ll be when filing insurance claims or dealing with legal proceedings.

Notify Your Insurance Company – Report the Accident Promptly

After you’ve ensured safety and taken note of the details, it’s time to contact your insurance company. Prompt reporting of the accident is necessary to start the claims process. Provide them with all the relevant details, including:

• Your description of the accident, including the road and weather conditions.
• The photos and documents you’ve gathered.
• The police report (if applicable).
• Any witness statements that support your side of the story.

Remember, even if you do not intend to file a claim, it’s still crucial to notify your insurer as soon as possible. This helps protect you in case another driver decides to file a claim against you. In New Hampshire, it’s important to follow up with your insurance company in a timely manner to avoid delays in processing your claim.

Consider Legal Advice – Protect Your Rights

If the crash involves serious injuries, property damage, or disputes about fault, it’s wise to consult with an attorney. A personal injury lawyer specializing in motor vehicle accidents can provide guidance on your rights, help with negotiations with the insurance company, and represent you in legal proceedings if needed. An attorney can also help you navigate complex issues like medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering, especially if you have been injured in the crash. Even if you aren’t sure whether you need legal representation, consulting a lawyer early in the process can save you time and stress later.

Follow Up on Your Health and Medical Treatment

Many injuries from car accidents, especially winter crashes, may not appear immediately. Whiplash, back pain, and soft tissue injuries are common after accidents, and they might not be obvious right away. It’s important to visit a healthcare provider for a full evaluation, even if you don’t feel immediately injured. Getting medical treatment right away also helps strengthen your claim in case you need to file for compensation later. Documenting your injuries and following medical advice is crucial for both your recovery and any future legal or insurance claims.

Be Patient – Understand the Insurance Process and Claims Timeline

After the crash, the insurance claim process may take some time. Be patient and allow your insurance company and the involved parties to investigate the situation. Make sure to follow up regularly with your insurance company to ensure your claim is being processed. If you’re seeking compensation for injuries or damages, your attorney can help you stay on track and ensure that your claim is handled fairly.

Stay Vigilant and Avoid Future Crashes – Winter Safety Tips

While you might feel frustrated or stressed after a crash, it’s important to continue being cautious when driving in winter conditions. Snow, ice, and freezing rain can make roads hazardous. Always drive cautiously, reduce your speed, and leave extra space between your vehicle and others. Remember to keep your car in good condition for winter driving—check your tires, wipers, and brakes regularly, and ensure that your headlights are functioning properly. When snow or ice starts to fall, give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination safely. Handling the aftermath of a winter crash in New Hampshire involves more than just exchanging insurance details. Following the right steps immediately after the accident can help protect your health, your legal rights, and your future claims. Remember, safety is always the priority, but careful documentation and timely communication with your insurance company can make a big difference in resolving the situation effectively. If you are unsure about how to proceed after an accident or need assistance navigating insurance claims or legal issues, Tenn And Tenn, PA is here to help. Contact us for a free consultation and ensure that your rights are protected during this stressful time.

To learn more about this subject click here: How Witness Statements Can Help Your Car Accident Case