Preventing Bicycle Accidents in Albuquerque: Tips and Strategies

New Mexico’s pleasant weather provides some of the best road and mountain riding conditions all year long. Because riding is so common in New Mexico, drivers understand that pedestrians and non-motorized vehicles must share the road. The majority of drivers you come across on the road probably offer you the space you need to feel secure. But there are actual risks you encounter every time you drive, such as driving while distracted. Like many bikers, you probably even have a personal tale of a “close call” that included you and another vehicle.

Thankfully, you have the right to make a claim for your medical expenses, missed income from work, and other compensable damages in a car accident brought on by another driver’s carelessness. However, if the other driver accuses you of breaking New Mexico’s cycling regulations, they could attempt to lower your recompense. That’s why it’s important to contact an attorney if you’ve been injured in a bicycle crash; in the interim, read on to learn more about how to prevent these types of incidents.

Bicycle Safety Regulations in New Mexico

In New Mexico, any legally operating motor vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrians are permitted to travel on public highways. Bicyclists have the same rights and obligations as other drivers in addition to these liberties. However, cycling is a riskier pastime since it might be difficult for drivers to see bicycles on the road. Put simply, you have the same right to be on the road as any other vehicle, but you also acknowledge that, in accordance with NMSA § 66-3-702 (1978), you have a general duty of care to operate in a safe, reasonable, and conscientious manner.

Bicycle safety regulations are also covered by legislation in New Mexico. While there aren’t many restrictions in our state, riding a bicycle legally does call for some attention to detail. As outlined, the following five state laws are important to be aware of whether you ride a bicycle often or not:

• Bicycle riding: You must adhere to NMSA Section 66-3-703 (1978) while riding a bicycle. This entails maintaining at least one hand on your handlebars and remaining on the seat and pedals. As per the manufacturer’s guidelines, only the designated number of persons may ride the bicycle. A tandem bicycle, for instance, can accommodate two riders.
• Attaching your bicycle to other vehicles: When sledding, roller skating, or riding a bicycle, you are not permitted to fasten yourself to an automobile for propulsion under NMSA § 66-3-704 (1978).
• Riding on roads and bike paths: As far as is reasonably practical, you should ride on the right side of the road. Additionally, you are not allowed to pass more than two riders. That is unless there are designated places exclusively for bicycle usage. Additionally, according to this legislation, you are not allowed to act in a way that endangers public safety. Carrying articles: As long as it doesn’t interfere with your ability to maintain at least one hand on your handlebars, you are allowed to carry parcels and bundles. For heavier loads, backpacks and panniers are perfect and provide a solution to this issue.
• Bicycle lamps and other equipment: You are required by New Mexico state law on bicycle riders to install a front light on your bike that can be seen from a distance of at least five hundred (500) feet. For the back of your bicycle, you must have a red reflector that can be seen from a minimum of three hundred feet away. In addition, functional brakes and a bell or other sound signaling device for other people are required for bicycles.

In general, New Mexico addresses important concerns related to bicycle safety. In the end, bikers need to know how to ride safely near vehicles. When out and about, bikers should make active use of safety gear, pay attention to traffic signs, and maintain their awareness.

Bicycle Accidents in New Mexico

That said, if you are operating a bicycle in compliance with New Mexico law and are struck by a careless driver, you are protected under civil statutes. New Mexico personal injury law requires the at-fault party to cover the cost of any injuries or property damage they cause. The state also uses the pure comparative negligence standard for evaluating such claims. To safeguard your rights in the event that you are struck by an automobile while cycling, make sure you take the following:

• Get medical help right away, then call the police.
• Prioritize avoiding more injuries from occurring. Avoid providing formal declarations to insurance firms.
• Don’t post any information about your accident on social media.
• Don’t let your case’s statute of limitations date pass.
• Speak with an injury attorney for bicycle accidents in New Mexico

Reach Out to a Bicycle Accident Attorney in Albuquerque

The New Mexico Department of Transportation has given figures indicating that one auto accident is recorded in the state every twelve minutes. This adds up to tens of thousands of injuries from auto accidents in New Mexico each year.

Thankfully, you might be eligible to file a personal injury claim if you sustain injuries in a bicycle accident while driving through the state of New Mexico. Moreover, a knowledgeable group of New Mexico auto accident attorneys can assist you in obtaining justice and defending your legal rights.

New Mexico law provides certain avenues for redress in cases when someone else’s carelessness directly resulted in injuries or other losses. However, it’s essential to hire an experienced New Mexico personal injury attorney to defend your rights if you’ve been hurt due to someone else’s negligence.

No matter the details surrounding your bicycle accident, the New Mexico personal injury lawyers at Will Ferguson & Associates will do everything it takes to get you the justice and compensation you deserve. Our team of lawyers in Albuquerque will set you on the path to a quick and easy recovery when you contact our team at (505) 243-5566 to talk about your case. If our investigation determines that you and your loved ones have a valid claim for compensation, we will manage every step of the claims process for you. Don’t hesitate to call our Albuquerque car accident lawyers and set up a no-risk first appointment.