Chaves Co., NM – Injuries Reported in Three-Vehicle Rollover Crash on US 285 at MM 119

Chaves County, NM (March 4, 2026) – On Tuesday, March 3, authorities responded to a three-vehicle crash on US Highway 285 in Chaves County that resulted in injuries and temporary road closures.

According to the Chaves County Sheriff’s Office, both northbound and southbound lanes of US 285 at Mile Marker 119 were closed due to the crash. Officials reported that two of the three vehicles involved rolled over during the incident.

Emergency crews responded to the scene to assist those involved and secure the roadway. Additional details regarding the number of occupants or the circumstances surrounding the crash have not yet been released.

The roadway remained closed for several hours as deputies and first responders worked at the scene. As of 11:00 p.m., all lanes have reopened to traffic. Motorists traveling through the area were advised to use caution and remain alert while emergency personnel cleared the scene. The crash remains under investigation.

We hope those injured in this accident recover quickly.

What Happens If the At-Fault Driver Is Uninsured in Chaves County?

If you are injured in a car accident in Chaves County and the at-fault driver does not have insurance, recovering compensation can become more complicated. Although New Mexico law requires drivers to carry minimum liability insurance, some motorists operate vehicles without valid coverage. When that happens, injured victims must look to other possible sources of financial recovery.

One of the most important protections in this situation is uninsured motorist (UM) coverage. In New Mexico, insurance companies are required to offer uninsured motorist coverage to policyholders, though drivers may reject it in writing. If you have UM coverage as part of your auto insurance policy, you may be able to file a claim with your own insurance company to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages resulting from the crash. This type of coverage is designed to protect you when the responsible driver lacks insurance.

If you do not carry uninsured motorist coverage, your options may be more limited. In some cases, you may choose to file a personal injury lawsuit directly against the uninsured driver. However, even if a court awards compensation, recovery can be difficult if the driver does not have sufficient income or assets. It is also important to evaluate whether any other insurance policies could apply, such as coverage belonging to a household member or another involved party.

Even when filing a claim under your own policy, disputes can arise regarding the value of injuries or the extent of coverage. Insurance companies may require documentation, medical records, and proof of damages before approving payment.

If you were hurt in an accident involving an uninsured driver in Chaves County, speaking with a New Mexico car accident attorney can help you understand your coverage, protect your rights, and determine the best path forward for financial recovery. At Will Ferguson & Associates, we can help explain your legal options and work to protect your recovery. Call (505) 557-1393 today for a free, no-obligation consultation.