Backing-Up Car Accidents in Manchester, NH

Don’t Let Someone’s Wrongdoing Turn Your World Upside Down

Let’s be honest—car accidents are stressful. 

But when it’s a backing-up accident, there’s an extra layer of confusion. You were just trying to park, leave the driveway, or head home from the grocery store when it happened. Suddenly, you’re left with damage, frustration, and a million questions swirling in your head.

You don’t have to figure this out alone. If you’ve been in a road mishap, our trusted legal team at Horn Wright, LLP, is here to help. Our car accident lawyers in Manchester know how overwhelming these situations can feel, but we’ll guide you every step of the way. 

With our legal expertise and a deep commitment to the local community, we’ll make sure you don’t feel alone in this process.

Backing-Up Accidents: More Than Just a Fender Bender

These crashes might seem minor on the surface, but they can be a big deal. Think about how easily they happen. You’re reversing out of a parking spot at Market Basket, double-checking your mirrors, and bam! You collide with another car, a cyclist, or even a pedestrian.

These accidents are incredibly common in Manchester, especially in places like crowded parking garages on Elm Street or driveways in quiet neighborhoods. Here are a few examples of how they usually unfold:

• A driver backs out of a parking spot without checking for oncoming traffic. Maybe they’re in a rush or just didn’t see you coming.
• Two cars back up simultaneously and crash. In crowded parking lots, drivers often focus too much on their own movements and fail to notice other vehicles reversing nearby.
• A pedestrian or cyclist is struck by a car in reverse. This risk is especially high in busy spots like Hanover Street, where people walking and biking are constantly on the move.

The truth? Accidents happen in the blink of an eye, usually when you’re not expecting them.

Sorting Out Fault: It’s Rarely Simple

Determining fault in a car crash can be tricky. Who made the wrong move? Who should’ve been paying closer attention? The answers aren’t always clear.

In New Hampshire, the rules of comparative negligence mean that even if you’re partially at fault, you can still recover damages—so long as you weren’t more than 50% responsible. Here’s how it often plays out:

• If you back into a moving car, you’ll likely be considered at fault. Moving vehicles almost always have the right of way.
• If someone backs into you while you’re parked or stopped, they’re probably at fault. But documenting this with photos or witness accounts is critical.

Evidence can make or break your case, and that’s why gathering it right after the accident is so important. Examples include:

• Eyewitness statements: A bystander may have seen exactly what happened, offering critical details about who had the right of way.
• Video footage: Dashcams or security cameras often capture the full story, especially in high-traffic areas like the Mall of New Hampshire.
• Accident reconstructions. In complicated cases, experts can analyze the scene to determine exactly how the crash occurred.

It’s not just about proving fault; it’s about making sure the truth comes to light.

The Unexpected Toll of a Backing-Up Accident 

Reversing collisions might not grab headlines, but the physical and emotional toll can be serious. Think about it: even a low-speed crash can leave you with injuries that disrupt your life. Here are some common ones:

• Whiplash. A sudden jolt can strain your neck and shoulders, leaving you stiff and sore for weeks or longer.
• Bruises and fractures. Even if the impact seems minor, hitting a seatbelt or door can leave you with painful bruising or broken bones.
• Head injuries. If your head hits the steering wheel or seat, it could lead to a concussion—or worse.

Let’s not overlook the risks for pedestrians and cyclists. A reversing car in a busy spot like the downtown area can cause life-altering injuries, such as broken bones, spinal damage, or even permanent disabilities.

It’s not just about the physical toll. Accidents like these can leave you feeling shaken, anxious, or hesitant to get behind the wheel again. That’s why prioritizing your physical and emotional recovery is so important.

5 Key Steps to Take After a Motor Vehicle Accident

When an accident happens, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Your heart’s pounding, your mind’s racing, and you’re unsure of the next move. But staying calm and taking the right steps can make all the difference.

1. Photograph and Document the Scene

• Take clear photos: Capture the damage to your vehicle, the other car, and the surroundings.
• Look for critical details: Include tire marks, debris, or anything else that helps explain how the accident happened.

1. Exchange Information

• Get the other driver’s name, phone number, and insurance info. These pieces of information can also be valuable for your MV-104 form.
• Don’t forget the witnesses. If anyone saw what happened, their perspective could be invaluable.

1. Call the Police

• Even if it’s a minor accident, having a police report can save you from future headaches.

1. Get Checked Out by a Doctor

• You might feel fine in the moment, but injuries like whiplash or concussions often show up hours—or even days—later.

1. Notify Your Insurance Company

• Report the accident promptly: Share what happened and include any photos or documents you’ve gathered. The more details you provide, the smoother the process will be.

Taking these steps ensures you’re not only safeguarding your well-being but also strengthening your case for any claims or compensation.

Protecting Your Health and Your Rights in Manchester, NH

Let’s be honest: dealing with a backing-up accident is overwhelming. Between the insurance calls, legal questions, and endless uncertainty, it’s hard to know where to start. That’s why we’re here.

At Horn Wright, LLP, we’ve guided countless residents through situations just like yours. We know the ins and outs of New Hampshire’s legal system and how to handle tough fault disputes. But more than that, we’re here to support you, every step of the way.

Whether you need help securing compensation, navigating insurance claims, or just understanding your next steps, we’ve got you covered. Our experience as one of the best law firms in America, combined with our deep connection to the Manchester community, ensures you’ll have a team you can trust from beginning to end.

You don’t have to go through this alone—we’re here for you. Contact our personal injury attorneys today, and let’s start building the path toward resolution together.