Accidents involving commercial trucks or tractor-trailers in New Hampshire can result in severe injuries, property damage, and even fatalities. Truck drivers and trucking companies are held to high standards of safety under New Hampshire state law. If you or a loved one is involved in a truck accident, it is essential to understand the various laws that govern these types of cases.
Table of Contents
Overview of New Hampshire Truck Accident Laws
New Hampshire law requires commercial truck drivers and trucking companies to follow the state’s regulations governing safe driving practices. These regulations are in place to ensure that large commercial vehicles operate safely on New Hampshire’s roads and highways. If a truck driver or trucking company violates these regulations, they may be held liable for any damages that result from an accident.
Trucking Regulations in New Hampshire
The following are a few of the trucking regulations set forth by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) that New Hampshire truck drivers must follow:
- Drivers must have a commercial driver’s license (CDL)
- Trucks must be inspected according to federal and state regulations
- Drivers are allowed to drive no more than 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off-duty
- Drivers are limited to driving no more than 14 hours after coming on duty
- Drivers must take a mandatory 30-minute break after driving for eight hours
- Drivers must maintain a logbook, recording all duty status changes, including driving, rest, and off-duty periods
- Trucking companies must provide adequate training and supervision for their drivers
- Trucking companies must ensure that their drivers follow all trucking regulations
- Trucking companies must maintain accurate records regarding maintenance and inspection of their trucks
Negligence and Liability in New Hampshire Truck Accident Cases
In New Hampshire, proving negligence is essential in a truck accident case. Negligence occurs when a driver or trucking company fails to meet the state’s standard of care, resulting in the accident. Negligence can include actions such as driving under the influence, speeding, distracted driving, and overloading a truck.
However, negligence alone does not automatically make a party liable for the accident. It must be proven that the negligence caused the accident and resulted in damages. Damages can include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage.
Statute of Limitations in New Hampshire Truck Accident Cases
In New Hampshire, there is a statute of limitations on how long a victim of a truck accident has to file a personal injury claim. The statute of limitations is three years from the date of the accident. If the case involves a wrongful death, the statute of limitations is three years from the date of the victim’s death.
Seeking Legal Representation For a Truck Accident Case
If you or a loved one is involved in a truck accident, it is essential to seek the assistance of an experienced personal injury attorney. Trucking companies and their insurers have teams of lawyers and insurance adjusters working to reduce their liability in any given case. An experienced and qualified attorney can help you navigate the complexities of the legal system and fight to ensure that you receive the compensation that you are entitled to under the law.
Contacting a Personal Injury Attorney in New Hampshire
If you have been involved in a truck accident in New Hampshire, it is crucial that you contact a personal injury attorney as soon as possible. The attorneys at Smith-Weiss Shepard & Winkleman, P.A. have over 30 years of experience handling truck accident cases and are ready to help you with yours. Contact us today for a free consultation by phone at (603) 635-4099, or visit our website at swslawoffice.com.