Personal Injury Accidents in New Mexico
Personal injury accidents occur when an individual suffers injuries and damages due to another party’s negligence or intentional wrongdoing. Personal injury accidents, from car accidents to dog bites, are common in New Mexico and can result in severe injuries and even death.
Knowing the most common personal injury accidents can help you stay safe while navigating state roads and public places. Since accidents still happen despite efforts to prevent them, understanding what to do in such situations is essential. Read on to learn more!
Five Most Common Personal Injury Accidents in New Mexico
The most common personal injury accidents in New Mexico include:
Car Accidents
Car accidents are among the most common personal injury accidents in New Mexico. According to the New Mexico Department of Transportation, 467 car crash fatalities occurred in 2022. Many car accidents in New Mexico are caused by driver inattention, drunk driving, and speeding. If you have been injured in a car accident, it is essential to seek immediate medical attention and contact a personal injury lawyer who can help you recover compensation for your injuries, medical treatments, lost income, and other damages.
Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents are also prevalent in New Mexico due to the state’s scenic views and the popularity of motorcycle riding. In 2022, motorcycle accidents accounted for 55 fatalities in New Mexico. Motorcycle riders are particularly vulnerable to personal injuries since they do not have metal protection around them like car crash victims. Motorcyclists can suffer severe injuries such as head and brain injuries, broken bones, spinal cord injuries, and internal injuries, which can significantly derail their lives.
Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents are another common personal injury accident in Mexico. These accidents can occur when walking or running and can be caused by distracted driving, speeding, and failure to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks. Most pedestrian accidents happen in a hit-and-run or are caused by uninsured motorists, leaving victims with broken bones and head and spinal cord injuries. If you have been injured in a pedestrian accident, an experienced lawyer can help you recover the compensation you are entitled to, including when the accident involved a hit-and-run.
Truck Accidents
Truck accidents are a severe concern in New Mexico. Commercial trucks’ sheer size and weight can result in catastrophic injuries and even death. Several factors, such as driver fatigue, speeding, and equipment failure, can cause these accidents. Pursuing compensation after a truck accident can be pretty complex. Retaining a seasoned personal injury lawyer can help you recover compensation for your injuries and damages from the liable parties.
Dog Bites
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs yearly in the United States, and of every five, one of those dog bites becomes infected. A dog bite can cause severe injuries such as puncture wounds, lacerations, and infections that require immediate medical attention.
In New Mexico, dog owners are responsible for ensuring their dogs do not inflict injuries on others. Victims of dog bites can pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering by filing a personal injury claim against the dog owner.
Filing a Personal Injury Claim in New Mexico
Filing a personal injury claim can be a stressful and complex process, but it is necessary to recover compensation for injuries and damages caused by someone else’s negligence. There are several steps for filing a personal injury claim in New Mexico. These include:
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
It is essential to get checked out by a doctor, even if you feel fine, as some injuries may take time to develop or become visible.
Gather Evidence
Collect and gather evidence from the accident scene, including accident scene photos, witness information, and police reports. This evidence can help support your claim and prove the other party’s liability.
Contact a Lawyer
Personal injury claims can be complex and time-consuming, and it is best to seek legal advice from an experienced personal injury attorney. They can help investigate the case, determine liability, and negotiate with the insurance company for a fair settlement. Your attorney can pursue compensation in court if a settlement cannot be reached.
Contact the Experienced Personal Injury Lawyer in New Mexico Today
If you have been involved in a personal injury accident in New Mexico, our skilled personal injury lawyer at the Ruhmann Law Firm can help you pursue the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to schedule a free initial consultation.