Keene, NH Car Accident Attorneys

We’re Ready to Fight Back for You

After a crash, the first few days can feel like a blur. You're trying to answer phone calls, juggle doctor visits, and figure out how to get your car fixed—sometimes all before the adrenaline has even worn off. 

You're probably exhausted. Maybe hurting. Definitely frustrated. And through it all, you're left wondering what you’re supposed to do next, and who you can trust to guide you through it.

That’s where things often get harder than they should. Insurance companies push for quick statements. Medical bills start showing up. You might be missing work or struggling to rest because the stress won’t let up. If this sounds familiar, we’re sorry you’re in this position. You deserve time to recover without being buried in red tape.

Our Keene car accident attorneys at Horn Wright, LLP, represent individuals and families throughout town who never asked to be in this situation. We help you make sense of your options, push back when others try to take advantage, and work to recover the compensation you’re entitled to under New Hampshire law. 

You don’t need to figure all of this out on your own. Our New Hampshire law firm is here to help you get through this.

You've Just Been in a Car Crash in Keene: Next Steps

In the first moments after a crash, you may not know what to do. That’s perfectly understandable. But the steps you take right after an accident can shape your recovery, both physical and financial.

Start by getting yourself and others to a safe location. Whether the accident happened on Winchester Street, Court Street, or Route 101, traffic can be dangerous. Pull over safely and turn on your hazard lights.

Call 911. Even if the accident seems minor, a police report will be an essential part of your case. It also ensures emergency services check everyone for injuries, even the hidden ones you may not feel immediately.

Document everything. Use your phone to take pictures of the scene, including vehicle damage, license plates, road conditions, and injuries. Exchange information with the other driver but avoid discussing fault.

Now, here are a few things you definitely want to avoid:

• Don't admit fault. Even saying "I'm sorry" could be twisted against you later. It’s better to stay quiet and stick to the facts when speaking to anyone at the scene.
• Don't skip medical treatment. Injuries like whiplash or internal bruising may not show symptoms right away. A medical record also strengthens your case and documents the harm you’ve experienced.
• Don’t post about the accident on social media. It might seem harmless but could damage your claim. Even vague updates can be used out of context by insurance adjusters or defense attorneys.

What Causes Most Car Accidents in Keene?

Keene's roads see more than their fair share of traffic problems, especially during the winter months. But accidents don’t just happen because of bad weather. Most are caused by decisions people make behind the wheel.

Distracted driving is one of the biggest contributors. Sure, texting is dangerous, but even adjusting your GPS, sipping coffee, or flipping through music on Route 9 can take your attention off the road long enough to cause a crash. On roads like West Street, where traffic moves quickly, even a moment of distraction can lead to disaster.

Aggressive driving is another issue. We see it all the time on Base Hill Road and the intersection near Key Road. Speeding, tailgating, and weaving through traffic not only raise the risk of an accident but also increase the chances of serious injury.

Then there's the weather. Anyone who's lived in Keene knows how slippery Roxbury Street gets after a snowfall or how dangerous the roads near Monadnock Marketplace can become during a cold snap. 

Ice, snow, and reduced visibility create the perfect storm for accidents.

Understanding Your Rights After a Keene Car Accident

After a crash, it’s easy to feel powerless. But here’s the truth: you have rights. And you have the legal ability to seek compensation for the harm you’ve suffered.

You may be entitled to payment for:

• Medical bills, including hospital stays, physical therapy, and future treatments. These costs can pile up quickly, even for minor injuries. You shouldn't have to carry that financial burden when someone else caused your pain.
• Lost income from time off work or reduced earning ability. Missing paychecks can throw your entire household into chaos. If your injuries prevent you from returning to your job or force you into a different role, you deserve compensation that reflects that impact.
• Pain, suffering, and emotional distress. This includes things like anxiety, sleep issues, and the toll the crash takes on your relationships. These aren’t just abstract concepts. They affect your everyday life.
• Property damage to your vehicle. Whether it’s minor repairs or a totaled car, the cost of getting back on the road adds up fast. We’ll work to make sure you aren’t stuck footing the bill for someone else’s mistake.

New Hampshire uses a "modified comparative fault" system. This means you can still get compensated as long as you’re less than 51% at fault for the crash. So even if you think you may have made a mistake, don’t assume you’re out of luck. 

Our personal injury attorneys help clients in Keene understand how these rules apply to their unique situation.

Dealing with Insurance Companies: What They Don't Want You to Know

Insurance companies might act like they're on your side, but make no mistake: their goal is to protect their bottom line. That’s why their first offer is often way too low.

An adjuster may call you quickly, sounding polite and even concerned. They’ll ask for a recorded statement and might encourage you to settle fast. But accepting an early offer can be a big mistake, especially if your injuries haven’t been fully diagnosed.

Here’s what insurers don’t tell you:

• They often undervalue pain and suffering. These damages are harder to quantify, and insurers count on that to offer less. We dig deep to show exactly how the crash disrupted your life, so they can't ignore it.
• They may pressure you into signing away your rights. They might tell you it’s just routine paperwork or a quick fix. But one signature could stop you from ever getting the compensation you truly need.
• Once you accept a settlement, you can’t go back for more, even if your condition worsens. That first check might seem tempting, especially when bills are due. But once you cash it, your claim is closed. For good.

Our car accident lawyers know how to push back against these tactics. We handle the calls, the paperwork, and the negotiations so you don’t have to.

How Do Car Accident Claims in Keene Work?

The legal process starts with gathering evidence. That includes the police report, photos, medical records, and witness statements. Sometimes, we bring in experts to reconstruct the accident scene, especially if liability is unclear.

Next comes negotiation. We’ll work directly with the insurance company to reach a settlement that truly reflects the impact of your injuries. Many cases settle during this stage, saving you the time and stress of going to court.

But if insurers refuse to play fair, we’re ready to file a lawsuit. Your case might go to Keene District Court or Cheshire County Superior Court, depending on the complexity. Either way, we prepare thoroughly, building a strong case to present before a judge or jury.

Common Injuries from Car Crashes in Keene and Why You Shouldn't Ignore Them

Car accidents can cause injuries that change your life. Some, like cuts and bruises, heal quickly. Others stick with you for months or even years.

Whiplash and soft tissue injuries are often overlooked. They might not show up right away, but can cause lasting pain and limited mobility if untreated. These are particularly common in rear-end collisions.

Head and brain injuries can be subtle. You might feel "off" or just extra tired, but these symptoms could signal a concussion or more severe brain trauma. Get checked out at Cheshire Medical Center if you feel anything out of the ordinary.

Fractures, broken bones, and internal injuries are more obvious but no less serious. Car accidents can break ribs, legs, or arms and cause internal bleeding that isn’t always detected immediately.

Financial Compensation: How Much Is Your Keene Car Accident Case Worth?

No two cases are the same. That’s why there’s no simple answer to how much your case is worth. But several factors guide the value:

• The severity of your injuries and recovery time. More serious injuries typically mean longer recovery and higher compensation. If you need surgery or ongoing rehab, that needs to be factored in.
• Medical costs, including future care. This isn’t just about what you've already spent. It’s about what you’ll still need. Future treatments, medications, or therapy sessions should be fully covered.
• Time missed from work. Whether it’s a few days or permanent job loss, every missed paycheck counts. You deserve to be reimbursed for every lost hour and the ripple effect it causes.
• Long-term impact on your life, career, and family. Some injuries change everything, from your ability to drive to how you care for your kids. These long-term challenges carry weight in your claim.
• Emotional distress and pain. It’s not just about physical pain. It’s also about fear, trauma, and a lingering sense of loss. If your mental health has suffered, that matters too.

Let’s say your injuries prevent you from going back to work full-time. Or maybe your car is totaled and you’re stuck without transportation. These things matter. Compensation should account for your full reality, not just the immediate costs.

How Long Do You Have to File Your Claim? Understanding NH’s Statute of Limitations

New Hampshire law gives you three years from the date of your accident to file a personal injury claim. That might sound like plenty of time, but building a strong case takes work.

Evidence can fade. Witnesses move or forget what they saw. Surveillance footage gets erased. The longer you wait, the harder it becomes to prove your case. Acting early gives your attorney the best chance to gather everything needed.

Plus, waiting too long could cause you to lose your right to any compensation at all. That’s why we always encourage potential clients to reach out as soon as possible.

Getting Life Back to Normal: Resources and Support in Keene, NH

Recovering after a car crash isn’t just about your physical injuries. It’s also about getting your life back to a place where you feel safe, secure, and supported.

Keene has some great local resources to help. Cheshire Medical Center offers a wide range of trauma care, rehabilitation, and follow-up services. Monadnock Community Hospital provides specialized physical therapy and recovery programs.

You may also benefit from:

• Counseling and therapy to cope with emotional trauma
• Local support groups for accident survivors
• Community programs that offer transportation, home care, or financial assistance during recovery

These services can be lifelines. Don’t be afraid to reach out for help. You don’t need to do this on your own.

You Need Strong Allies—Horn Wright, LLP, is Here for You

When you’re injured and overwhelmed, you need more than just a lawyer. You need an advocate. 

Our car accident attorneys at Horn Wright, LLP, work tirelessly to protect your rights, hold insurance companies accountable, and secure real compensation for your pain. Whether you’re facing months of recovery or just need help sorting out the legal mess, we’re in your corner from day one. 

Let one of the leading law firms in the country handle the legal battle so you can start focusing on your recovery. 

Call (603) 716-9415 today or leave a message online to schedule your complimentary case review.