Portsmouth, NH Car Accident Attorneys

Here's How to Set Things Right Again

A car accident can hit you like a ton of bricks. You’re driving along Lafayette Road—then everything spirals. You’re dazed, shaken, and surrounded by flashing lights. It’s scary. Disorienting. Emotionally overwhelming.

In Portsmouth, people in your shoes often feel anxious about their health, rattled about their vehicle, and completely unsure of where to start. Then come the bills. The calls. The endless paperwork. It’s a lot to handle—especially when you’re just trying to recover.

That’s where our Portsmouth car accident lawyers at Horn Wright, LLP, step up. We understand how chaotic this feels. We take over the legal aftermath and protect your rights, so you can concentrate on getting better. 

When you're ready, our Manchester law firm is here.

Traffic Collisions in Portsmouth Are Life-Altering Moments

Car accidents change everything in an instant. They don’t just leave dents in metal. They shake you to your core. 

You're not only dealing with physical pain, but a ton of emotional weight, too. Sleepless nights. Constant worry. Maybe even missing work or feeling scared to get back behind the wheel. It takes a toll.

In Portsmouth, we see serious wrecks happen on routes like Lafayette Road (Route 1) and Market Street. These aren’t just minor fender-benders. During peak hours or tough weather, they can turn devastating. 

Whether it's a multi-car pileup near the Portsmouth Traffic Circle or a sudden rear-end crash near the South Mill Pond, these accidents hit hard.

In fact, data from New Hampshire's Department of Safety shows that car accidents in Rockingham County have been steadily increasing year over year. And Portsmouth, being a hub of activity and a key access point to the coast, sees more than its share.

What Should You Do Immediately After a Car Crash in Portsmouth?

You’re shaken up, your car's a mess, and you're not sure what to do next. That’s totally normal. But your actions in the first few minutes and hours can make a huge difference.

Here are the steps to take right away:

• Exchange names, insurance details, and contact info with the other driver. Make sure the information matches what’s on their registration and insurance card. If anything feels off, note it and mention it to the police.
• Take clear photos of all vehicles, the scene, and any visible injuries. These photos can be powerful evidence later. Try to capture multiple angles, including the surrounding area and any road signs or signals.
• Never admit fault, even if you feel responsible. Stick to the facts when speaking with others at the scene. Anything you say could be used against you later in the claims process.
• If anyone is injured or the crash is serious, call 911 right away. Portsmouth Police Department will arrive and create a report. This official report becomes a crucial part of your claim. It’s one of the first things insurance companies and attorneys will review.
• Even if you feel "okay," get checked out. Portsmouth Regional Hospital is nearby and equipped to assess hidden injuries that don’t show up immediately. It’s always better to be safe and get a professional opinion right away.
• Your adrenaline might be masking something more serious. Getting checked now protects your health and your claim. Skipping this step could raise red flags later.

Dealing with Insurance Companies Can Feel Like a Nightmare: Here’s How to Keep Them Honest

Insurance adjusters have one job: protect their company’s money. That means they may minimize your injuries or push a quick settlement. And when you're already overwhelmed, it's tempting to just take what they offer.

But here’s the truth: that quick offer likely isn’t fair.

In New Hampshire, drivers must carry liability coverage, but it doesn't always stretch far enough, especially in serious crashes. You need to know your rights and protect yourself.

Here are a few smart ways to deal with insurance companies:

• Don’t give a recorded statement without legal advice. Insurance reps may ask tricky questions to get you to downplay your injuries. A lawyer can guide you on what to say and what not to say.
• Keep detailed records of every phone call, email, and document. Even a quick voicemail could prove important. Create a folder to organize everything in one place.
• Don’t sign anything until you're sure what it means. Some forms waive your right to further compensation. Always read the fine print and ask questions if you're unsure.
• The more documentation you have, the harder it is for them to undercut your claim. It's not about being paranoid. It's about being prepared.

Think of it as building your case from day one. The stronger your paper trail, the better your chance at fair compensation.

Proving Fault Isn’t Always Clear, But We’ll Help You Understand Who’s Really Responsible

Accidents can get messy fast. Just because someone hit you doesn’t automatically mean they’re legally at fault. Liability can depend on timing, traffic laws, and small details that aren’t always obvious.

Let’s say you’re rear-ended on Woodbury Avenue. Sounds simple, right? But what if your brake lights weren’t working? Or what if the driver says you cut them off? Things like this can muddy the waters.

Then there are more complicated situations, like intersection collisions downtown. With pedestrians, cyclists, and one-way streets, determining who had the right of way can get tricky.

That’s why gathering evidence fast is so important:

• Get names and contact info for any witnesses. Witnesses can back up your side of the story. Make sure to ask them to describe what they saw while it’s still fresh.
• Save all repair estimates and medical bills. These show the financial burden you’re carrying. They also help your lawyer calculate fair compensation.
• Take notes about what happened while it's fresh in your memory. Include the weather, road conditions, and anything unusual. Even small details can turn out to be big later.

We use all this to build a clear picture of what really happened and who should be held responsible. It’s about making sure the truth comes through. The better the evidence, the stronger your position.

How Much Compensation Can You Really Get After a Car Accident in Portsmouth?

When you're injured and out of work, you start worrying about money fast. 

How will you pay your bills? What about next month’s rent? Compensation is supposed to help you stay afloat, but what does that actually include?

Here's what you're generally entitled to in a Portsmouth car accident claim:

• Medical expenses, both immediate and long-term. This includes hospital bills, prescriptions, physical therapy, and any follow-up care. Even travel costs for treatment may count.
• Lost income, if your injuries kept you from working. Pay stubs and employer letters help prove this. If you're self-employed, past tax returns and invoices can show your losses.
• Reduced earning capacity if you can’t return to the same job. An injury that limits your future ability to work deserves fair compensation. Expert opinions often help establish how your career is affected.
• Pain and suffering—both physical and emotional. This isn’t just about physical pain. Anxiety, loss of enjoyment, and relationship strain also factor in.

But here’s the thing: there’s no magic calculator. Every case is different. One injury might sideline you for weeks, while another changes your entire future. That’s why our personal injury lawyers look at the whole picture.

Portsmouth Car Accidents: When Do You Really Need a Lawyer?

Not every accident requires a lawyer. Fender-benders with no injuries? You might be fine on your own. But some situations scream for legal help.

Like when you’re involved in a multi-car crash at the Portsmouth Traffic Circle. Or when you're rear-ended by a truck from a local logistics company and they claim it was your fault.

These are high-stakes, high-complication scenarios. Trying to go it alone could leave you short-changed. Here are signs it’s time to call an attorney:

• You suffered serious injuries or permanent impairment. Long-term consequences need long-term solutions. A lawyer helps ensure your settlement reflects your full recovery path.
• You’re getting pushback from the insurance company. They may deny your claim or delay payments. Legal pressure can shift the dynamic fast.
• You feel overwhelmed and unsure of your rights. If you're constantly second-guessing your decisions, that's a signal. An attorney can give you clear answers and confidence.

Legal help doesn’t just level the playing field. It gives you peace of mind. And that peace of mind means you can focus on healing instead of battling paperwork and phone calls.

Portsmouth Car Accident Laws You Absolutely Need to Know

New Hampshire has some unique rules when it comes to car accident claims. If you live in Portsmouth, here's what you need to understand:

• Statute of limitations: You have 3 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Miss this deadline, and your case likely gets thrown out.That clock starts ticking the day of the crash. Waiting too long could shut the door for good.
• Comparative negligence: New Hampshire follows a modified comparative fault system. If you're found to be more than 50% at fault, you can’t recover damages. But if you're less than 50% at fault, your compensation is reduced by your share of the blame. It’s a balancing act and evidence makes all the difference.

These rules can have a big impact on how much you receive or whether you get anything at all. That’s why it helps to understand them early on.

Skilled car accident attorneys can explain how these laws apply to your situation. That knowledge gives you a real advantage.

Emotional Recovery Matters Too: Here's How Portsmouth Can Help You Heal

The physical injuries often get all the attention after a car crash. But emotional wounds? They run deep. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, mood swings. These are all very real consequences of traumatic accidents.

You might find yourself replaying the moment over and over. Or maybe you're afraid to drive. That kind of stress doesn’t just disappear. Luckily, Portsmouth has resources to support emotional healing:

• Seacoast Mental Health Center offers counseling and therapy for accident survivors. They understand trauma and can guide you through the recovery process. Sessions are private and tailored to your needs.
• Local support groups connect you with others going through similar experiences. Hearing others’ stories can make you feel less alone. It’s a powerful step toward emotional healing.

Don’t brush off what you’re feeling. Emotional recovery is just as important as physical recovery. The road to feeling whole again takes time. But the right support makes that journey smoother.

When Life in Portsmouth Throws You a Curveball, Horn Wright, LLP, Has Your Back

After a crash, you're dealing with so much more than a broken car. You're dealing with shock, pain, and the stress of not knowing what comes next. 

Our car accident attorneys at Horn Wright, LLP, give you clear answers, strong advocacy, and compassionate support every step of the way. We've helped countless locals take back control after serious car accidents, and we're ready to help you, too. 

When you're ready to move forward, one of the leading law firms in the country is here to stand by your side—from the first phone call to the final resolution.

Connect with us today to request your free, no-obligation consultation.