Rear-End Collisions: Understanding Fault and Compensation

If you have been hurt in a rear-end crash due to someone else's carelessness, that person may have to pay for your medical bills and other damages. That said, having a better understanding of what to do after a fender bender or rear-end car accident in New Mexico is an important first step.

Victims of vehicle accidents often feel overwhelmed and terrified. Your chances of getting the compensation and justice you deserve after an accident increase if you take the proper measures and safeguards at the scene.

Causes of Car Accidents in New Mexico

If you want to know who was at fault in a vehicle crash and get your money's worth, you need to know what caused it. When two or more drivers are involved, such as when one is texting, and the other is going too fast, it may increase the likelihood of an accident. Because of these factors, it is possible for more than one person to be at fault in an accident, even when it comes to fender benders (take chain-reaction collisions, for example).

The state of New Mexico is well-known for its historical significance and stunning scenery, as well as its varied culture. Unfortunately, it is also notorious for a large number of auto accidents. In fact, like many other states, New Mexico ranks high in the number of accidents caused by drivers under the influence. Drivers whose impairments are caused by alcohol, drugs, or a mix of the two are more likely to cause catastrophic accidents. Driving under the influence is still a major issue in New Mexico, leading to serious injuries and even deaths, despite the state's stringent legislation and public awareness initiatives.

Speeding

The state also has a high rate of auto accidents caused by drivers traveling too fast for conditions, particularly when it comes to sudden rear-end crashes. Drivers in New Mexico risk injury or death when they disregard laws and restrictions on speed to recklessly traverse the state's expansive highways. When drivers are too fast for the circumstances, they are less able to respond quickly to changes in traffic, have a harder time stopping, and are more likely to cause serious accidents.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is a major issue in today's technologically advanced society. Distracted driving occurs when a motorist is occupied with anything other than the road, such as texting, eating, updating GPS systems, or using a smartphone. The difference between a safe trip and a terrible disaster may be a split-second choice, so these distractions are dangerous.

Moreover, many risky driving practices fall under the umbrella term "reckless driving," including aggressive driving, tailgating, lane changes without signaling, and ignoring traffic signs and signals. Some drivers in New Mexico are careless, and their actions cause major accidents on the state's roads and city streets.

Inclement Weather

New Mexico experiences a wide variety of meteorological conditions, from blinding dust storms to mountain routes covered in ice during winter. The unpredictable nature of weather patterns makes driving more dangerous. Accidents may occur if drivers are unprepared or do not have the necessary experience to adjust to these situations.

Driver Fatigue

Although it may not be immediately apparent, driver fatigue is a major contributor to accidents in New Mexico. Driving over long periods of time, particularly on the state's vast roadways, may cause drivers to get exhausted. Due to their poor judgment and slower response times, accidents involving drowsy drivers are more likely.

Vehicle Maintenance

Mechanical breakdowns of vehicles may result in accidents if maintenance is neglected. When cars aren't serviced regularly, problems like blown tires, engine problems, and brake failures may happen. Commercial trucking businesses and individual drivers alike have a responsibility to keep their trucks in an accident-free state at all times. Relatedly, teenagers and drivers with little experience on New Mexico's winding roads may not yet have the maturity or discernment to drive safely. Poor decision-making and an inability to cope with unforeseen road conditions are symptoms of inexperience.

Poor Infrastructure

Driving in New Mexico is dangerous due to the state's poorly maintained roads, which include potholes and uneven surfaces. Accidents, swerves, and loss of control of the vehicle are all possible outcomes of these scenarios. The danger of accidents might be heightened when vehicles are caught unaware by inadequate signage or roadwork warnings.

Call a Lawyer Following an Accident in New Mexico

You should contact a vehicle accident lawyer without delay. Gaining full and fair reimbursement for accident-related expenditures may be challenging; a personal injury attorney can help you develop your case, collect evidence, and present your claim in a way that increases your chances of success.

When an attorney doesn't represent drivers, insurance companies may try to get them to admit liability or blame for the accident. When they make a settlement offer, it's usually much less than what victims need to pay for their losses. You should consult an experienced New Mexico car accident lawyer to safeguard your rights.

While you wait for legal representation, avoid discussing the accident or your injuries with authorities or insurance adjusters. Legal representation after an automobile accident may help you communicate with insurance companies and other parties involved in your claim in a way that avoids unintentional admissions of blame, missed deadlines, and missing paperwork.

Contact a New Mexico Auto Accident Attorney

People who are involved in car accidents often have to deal with the most severe consequences, regardless of the circumstances of the event. This is just one of the many reasons why you need to get in touch with a qualified lawyer as soon as possible after suffering injuries at the hands of a careless motorist in New Mexico.

Contact Will Ferguson & Associates now for a no-cost first consultation if you or a loved one has been hurt in an accident caused by a careless driver. For additional information about your potential compensation, call our Albuquerque auto accident lawyers at (505) 243-5566.

If we think you and your loved ones have a good case for compensation, we'll take care of everything. Do not hesitate to call our proficient auto accident lawyers for the sympathetic representation you need. Get in touch with us right away for a free, no-risk consultation to go over the details of your car accident in New Mexico.