Manchester Hit & Run Accident Attorney
If you’ve been injured in a hit and run accident in Manchester, New Hampshire, you’re facing not only physical pain and emotional trauma but also the frustrating reality that the responsible driver fled the scene. At Manning Zimmerman & Oliveira, our experienced Manchester hit & run accident attorney team understands the unique challenges these cases present and is dedicated to helping victims recover the compensation they deserve.
Hit and run accidents are unfortunately common on Manchester’s busy streets, from Elm Street downtown to the Everett Turnpike corridors. These incidents leave victims dealing with medical bills, lost wages, and property damage while the at-fault driver remains unidentified. Our skilled legal team has successfully handled numerous hit and run cases throughout the Queen City, helping clients navigate the complex legal and insurance processes involved in these challenging situations.
Understanding Hit and Run Laws in New Hampshire
New Hampshire law requires all drivers involved in an accident to remain at the scene and provide their information to other parties. Under RSA 264:25, leaving the scene of an accident is a serious offense that can result in criminal charges against the fleeing driver. When someone is injured in a hit and run, it becomes a felony offense carrying significant penalties including potential jail time and license suspension.
For victims, New Hampshire’s modified comparative negligence rule applies to hit and run cases. This means you can recover damages as long as you are less than 51% at fault for the accident. Even if you contributed to the incident in some way, you may still be entitled to compensation for your injuries and losses.
The state also requires all drivers to carry minimum liability insurance coverage, including uninsured motorist protection. This coverage becomes crucial in hit and run cases where the at-fault driver cannot be identified or located.
Common Causes of Hit and Run Accidents in Manchester
Hit and run accidents occur for various reasons throughout Manchester’s diverse neighborhoods and roadways. Drivers may flee the scene due to lack of insurance, outstanding warrants, intoxication, or simply panic after causing an accident. The busy intersections along South Willow Street and the congested areas near the Mall of New Hampshire see frequent hit and run incidents involving distracted or impaired drivers.
Many hit and run accidents involve pedestrians and cyclists, particularly in downtown Manchester where foot traffic is heavy. The Millyard district, with its mix of residential and commercial areas, presents unique challenges for pedestrian safety. Drivers speeding through neighborhoods like Kalivas Union or the North End may strike pedestrians or cyclists and flee rather than face the consequences.
Parking lot incidents are another common type of hit and run accident. Shopping centers throughout Manchester regularly experience cases where drivers damage parked vehicles and leave without providing contact information.
Steps to Take After a Manchester Hit and Run Accident
The moments following a hit and run accident are crucial for both your safety and your potential legal case. First, seek immediate medical attention for any injuries, no matter how minor they may seem. Call 911 to report the accident to Manchester Police, as having an official accident report is essential for insurance claims and any potential legal action.
If you’re able, try to gather as much information as possible about the fleeing vehicle. Note the license plate number, make, model, color, and any distinctive features. Look for witnesses who may have seen the accident or the fleeing driver, and obtain their contact information. Many businesses and traffic lights in Manchester have security cameras that may have captured the incident.
Document the accident scene thoroughly by taking photographs of your injuries, vehicle damage, the accident location, and any debris left by the other vehicle. Contact your insurance company to report the claim, but be careful about giving detailed statements before consulting with an attorney.
How Our Manchester Hit and Run Lawyers Can Help
At Manning Zimmerman & Oliveira, we immediately begin investigating your hit and run case to identify the responsible driver. Our legal team works with accident reconstruction experts, private investigators, and local law enforcement to gather evidence and locate the fleeing vehicle. We review traffic camera footage, canvas for additional witnesses, and examine all available evidence to build a strong case.
We handle all communications with insurance companies on your behalf, ensuring you don’t inadvertently harm your claim. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts in hit and run cases, but our experienced attorneys know how to negotiate effectively for maximum compensation. We’ll work to recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and other losses related to your accident.
Our firm also helps clients understand their insurance coverage options, including uninsured motorist benefits that may apply when the at-fault driver cannot be identified. We ensure all deadlines are met and all necessary paperwork is filed correctly and on time.
Compensation Available in Hit and Run Cases
Victims of hit and run accidents in Manchester may be entitled to various types of compensation depending on the circumstances of their case. Economic damages include medical expenses, both current and future, lost wages from time off work, and property damage to your vehicle or other belongings.
Non-economic damages compensate for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. These damages recognize that hit and run accidents often cause significant psychological trauma beyond the physical injuries. The violation of trust and safety that occurs when another driver flees the scene can have lasting emotional effects.
In cases where the hit and run driver is eventually identified and found to have acted with particular recklessness or while intoxicated, punitive damages may be available to punish the defendant and deter similar conduct.
Manchester Neighborhoods We Serve
Our Manchester hit and run accident attorneys proudly serve clients throughout all areas of the Queen City, including:
- Downtown Manchester
- Millyard District
- North End
- South End
- West Side
- East Side
- Kalivas Union
- Rimmon Heights
- Youngsville
- Piscataquog
- Goffe’s Falls
- Hallsville
- Janeville
- Bakersville
- Amoskeag
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I’m hit by a driver who leaves the scene?
Immediately call 911 to report the accident and request medical attention if needed. Try to remember details about the vehicle and driver, look for witnesses, and take photos of the scene and your injuries. Contact your insurance company and consult with a hit and run accident attorney as soon as possible.
How long do I have to file a claim after a hit and run accident in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims is three years from the date of the accident. However, it’s important to contact an attorney and file insurance claims much sooner to preserve evidence and protect your rights.
Can I recover compensation if the other driver is never found?
Yes, you may still recover compensation through your own insurance company’s uninsured motorist coverage. This coverage is required in New Hampshire and specifically covers situations where the at-fault driver cannot be identified or located.
What if I was partially at fault for the hit and run accident?
Under New Hampshire’s modified comparative negligence law, you can still recover damages as long as you are less than 51% responsible for the accident. Your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Will my insurance rates increase after a hit and run accident claim?
Generally, your rates should not increase for a hit and run accident where you were not at fault. However, insurance company policies vary, and having an attorney review your coverage and advocate for you can help protect your interests.
Contact Our Manchester Hit and Run Accident Attorneys Today
Don’t let a hit and run driver escape responsibility for your injuries and damages. The experienced legal team at Manning Zimmerman & Oliveira is ready to fight for your rights and help you recover the compensation you deserve. We offer free consultations to discuss your case and explain your legal options. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward justice and recovery.
