Top

Car Accidents Involving Rocks Or Natural Debris

New Hampshire is known for its beautiful scenery, filled with mountains, lakes, fall foliage, and more. Along with that beauty comes the risk of natural debris. Last summer, a New Hampshire woman died after crashing into trees. In April 2021, a New Hampshire woman hit a tree on a Vermont road and died. A fire ensued mid-May 2021 after a driver hit a deer on Rt 118 in Dorchester.

study published by AAA in 2016 found that over a three year period, from 2011-2014, “road debris was a factor in an estimated average of 50,658 police-reported crashes (95% Confidence Interval: 42,066 – 59,250) which resulted in 9,805 injuries (7,714 – 11,896) and 125 deaths (104 – 144) annually.” Additionally, debris-related accidents were more likely (4x) to take place on an Interstate highway. Their study was not limited to natural debris, however. It also included unsecured loads that fell off of moving vehicles, for example.

Road debris can also cause drivers to lose control of their vehicles, resulting in the driver choosing to swerve in avoidance but hitting something else.

Common Road Hazards in New Hampshire

A quick look at the NH Motor Vehicle Accident Report shows 18 examples of “fixed objects,” five of which may be considered rocks or natural debris in some circumstances: tree, rock/side slope, embankment, culvert, and the ubiquitous “other.

Liability and Natural Debris

It can be difficult to hold someone liable for natural debris, such as rocks or animals; however, it’s important to examine the accident for specific causes. For example, if a road is overgrown with shrubbery and tree branches due to a lack of maintenance, it may be possible that the responsible party failed to meet their duty to maintain the property. In New Hampshire, this is referred to as a duty of care.

Tenn And Tenn, P.A., Personal Injury Attorneys

Car accidents involving natural debris can be more complicated than other accidents when recovering the cost of damages or the loss of compensation. The attorneys at Tenn And Tenn, P.A. can help you determine if you have a case. Call (888) 332-5855 for your free consultation today or reach out online.

Categories: 
Related Posts
  • Who is Responsible if I’m Hit by a School Bus? Read More
  • Why Are Injuries Suffered in Red-Light Crashes So Severe? Read More
  • What if I’m Injured by a Trailer That Came Unhitched on the Road? Read More
/
Why Choose Tenn And Tenn Let Our Family Help Your Family
  • A Family Firm

    We are a family committed to providing excellent service to our clients.

  • Statewide Service
    We work hard to obtain the best results possible for clients throughout New Hampshire.
  • Trial-Tested Attorneys
    Our lawyers are experienced courtroom advocates who are ready to take your case to trial to obtain justice.
Free Injury Consultations Available Contact Us Today

Whether you have questions or you’re ready to get started, our award-winning legal team is ready to help. Complete our form below or call us at (888) 332-5855.

  • Please enter your first name.
  • Please enter your last name.
  • Please enter your phone number.
    This isn't a valid phone number.
  • Please enter your email address.
    This isn't a valid email address.
  • Please make a selection.
  • Please enter a message.
  • By submitting, you agree to be contacted about your request & other information using automated technology. Message frequency varies. Msg & data rates may apply. Text STOP to cancel. Acceptable Use Policy

Please do not include any confidential or sensitive information in a contact form, text message, or voicemail. The contact form sends information by non-encrypted email, which is not secure. Submitting a contact form, sending a text message, making a phone call, or leaving a voicemail does not create an attorney-client relationship.