Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for guidance on your specific situation.

Detailed Answer

Under New Hampshire law, a person injured by another’s negligence may recover special damages, which include out-of-pocket travel expenses incurred for medical care. While New Hampshire statutes do not list travel expenses explicitly, courts routinely award reasonable and necessary expenses as part of RSA 507:4 (Measure of Damages for Personal Injuries).

  1. Record Appointment Details

    Keep a clear schedule of each medical visit, including the date, time, provider name, and purpose (e.g., physical therapy, specialist consultation).

  2. Track Mileage or Actual Costs

    Choose one of two methods:

    • Mileage Method: Multiply your round-trip miles by the current IRS standard mileage rate.
    • Actual Expense Method: Save receipts for gas, parking, tolls, public transit fares, or ride-share costs.
  3. Maintain Supporting Documentation

    Keep all receipts and a mileage log. Use a spreadsheet or a dedicated app to note trip dates, start and end addresses, miles driven, and purpose.

  4. Include in Demand Letter or Pleadings

    Work with your attorney to prepare a detailed statement of special damages. The statement should list each trip, calculated cost, and attach supporting documents.

  5. Verify Reasonableness

    New Hampshire courts award “reasonable” expenses. Avoid excessive round-trips or luxury services. If in doubt, discuss frequency and necessity with your attorney.

  6. Respond to Discovery Requests

    Be prepared to provide copies of your log and receipts during pretrial discovery. Honesty and completeness strengthen your claim.

  7. Document Ongoing Medical Needs

    If you require future treatment, estimate anticipated travel expenses and include them as future special damages in expert disclosures.

Helpful Hints

  • Start logging trips immediately to avoid omissions.
  • Use a GPS or mapping app to verify mileage in case of discrepancies.
  • Organize receipts by date and trip to simplify review by your attorney or the court.
  • Check local rules for electronic filing of exhibits if you litigate in New Hampshire Superior Court.
  • Review New Hampshire Supreme Court decisions for guidance on reasonableness standards.
  • Discuss early with your attorney whether lump-sum settlements or itemized billing better serve your interests.