New Mexico Car Accident Attorney: Fighting For Injured Crash Victims
If you were injured due to another driver’s negligence, you deserve compensation
Recovering from a serious car accident is never easy. You often need to deal with medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and replacement transportation. Your life may be changed forever due to an injury that causes chronic pain or a permanent disability. You may have even lost a loved one.
Knowing what to do after a car accident in New Mexico can be confusing. Even knowing what your rights are might not be clear. You need to act fast. But you need to be smart. That’s why it’s critical that you contact an experienced New Mexico car accident lawyer to fully understand your rights and the legal options available to you.
You may be legally entitled to compensation if you’ve been hurt in New Mexico due to another motorist’s reckless behavior. Unfortunately, insurance companies are often looking for ways to pay injury victims as little as possible. To get the money you deserve during this difficult time in your life, you need a hard-hitting New Mexico car accident attorney who will fight for your rights. You need Szantho Law Firm. To find out how we can help with your potential car accident injury claim, give us a call or contact us online today to schedule a free case review.
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FAQs about New Mexico car accidents
If you’ve been in a car accident in New Mexico, it can be overwhelming to know what to do next. Below are some common questions and answers to help guide you through the process and understand your rights. Click on the following to learn more:
- I was in a car accident. Now what?
- How did your car accident happen? Common types of auto wrecks in New Mexico.
- What are common injuries in New Mexico car accidents?
- Do I need to see a doctor after my car accident, even if I feel OK?
- How is fault determined in New Mexico car accidents?
- How do insurance companies handle claims involving serious car accident injuries in New Mexico?
- Do I need a car accident lawyer?
- What damages can I claim after a car accident on busy New Mexico streets?
- Why is it important to document my recovery after a car accident in New Mexico?
- How much is my injury claim worth?
- Should I accept a settlement offer from the insurance company?
- Can I still pursue a claim if I was partially at fault for the accident?
- What should I do if a loved one passed away in a fatal car accident in New Mexico?
- What sets Szantho Law Firm apart?
I was in a car accident. Now what?
- Remain at the scene. You could be arrested if you leave the scene of a car accident.
- Call 911.
- If it’s safe to do so, move your car out of the way of traffic.
- Record your accident by taking photographs of your car, skid marks, property damage signage, weather conditions, and anything else at the crash scene.
- Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver or drivers.
- Talk to witnesses and get their names, phone numbers, and addresses.
- Call a personal injury lawyer as soon as you can.
- Call your insurance company promptly to report the accident, but just focus on the facts. Tell them to contact your attorney if they have any further questions or concerns.
How did your car accident happen? Common types of auto wrecks in New Mexico.
Car accidents can take many forms, each with unique circumstances that affect injury severity and potential for compensation. From rear-end collisions and T-bone crashes to incidents involving uninsured drivers, understanding the specifics of each accident type is essential for a strong claim. Here’s a breakdown of common accident types and the challenges you may face in each situation.
- Rear-End Collision - Rear-end collisions often occur on busy streets, near work zones, and at crosswalks, frequently due to distracted drivers, even though texting while driving is illegal in New Mexico. While rear-end crashes may seem straightforward, insurance companies might downplay the injury severity, making it critical to have attorney Andras Szantho investigate and advocate for you.
- Distracted Driving - Drivers have a duty to stay focused, yet many rear-end collisions result from distractions like texting, phone use, and eating. Proving distraction may involve eyewitness reports, driver statements, or phone records. Our legal team will work diligently to hold the distracted driver
- Speeding - Speeding increases the likelihood of severe crashes and fatalities in New Mexico. Demonstrating speeding can be key in a claim. We’ll investigate eyewitness accounts, police reports, and other evidence to establish fault, and we’re prepared to take your case to trial if needed.
- T-Bone Collisions - T-bone crashes, often at intersections due to traffic violations, can cause severe injuries or fatalities. The Szantho Law Firm can prove fault and fight insurers trying to minimize your claim. We stand up to insurance companies to secure the compensation you deserve.
- Drunk Driving - Drunk driving remains a leading cause of deadly crashes in New Mexico. Proving fault may require police and eyewitness reports and, in some cases, identifying the person who supplied alcohol to the driver. Contact us to handle every step of your claim.
- Uninsured/Underinsured Drivers - Despite mandatory insurance laws, New Mexico has a high rate of uninsured drivers. Claims involving uninsured or underinsured drivers can be complex. Attorney Andras Szantho will navigate these challenges and pursue compensation for your damages.
- Hit-and-Run Accidents - Hit-and-runs are illegal, but they still happen. If the at-fault driver isn’t found, uninsured motorist coverage may help. We’ll help you review your options and fight for the compensation you deserve.
- Intersection Accidents - Intersections are hotspots for various crashes, including side impacts and rear-end collisions. If you were following traffic laws, you shouldn’t bear the cost of someone else’s negligence. Our firm aggressively fights for your rights, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.
When it comes to securing compensation, insurance companies can be quick to minimize or deny claims. Working with a lawyer can help you navigate these complexities, ensuring you don’t face the process alone and increasing your chances of a fair outcome.
What are common injuries in New Mexico car accidents?
Car accidents on New Mexico’s busy highways and rural roads often lead to serious injuries, each impacting victims' lives in different ways. From the physical pain and medical bills to the potential loss of income and lifestyle changes, car accident injuries can create lasting challenges. Understanding the types of injuries common in New Mexico car accidents can help you recognize the full extent of your suffering and the compensation you may be entitled to. Here are some injuries that frequently result from car accidents:
- Whiplash and Neck Injuries - Often caused by sudden jolts, whiplash can lead to chronic neck pain, headaches, and limited mobility. These symptoms might worsen without proper treatment.
- Spinal Cord Injuries - Accidents on high-speed routes can result in severe spinal cord damage, potentially causing paralysis or lasting nerve damage, affecting a person’s ability to work and enjoy life as before.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs) - Common in side-impact or high-speed crashes, TBIs range from concussions to severe brain trauma, leading to memory loss, mood changes, and cognitive issues.
- Broken Bones and Fractures - Fractures are typical in New Mexico car accidents, especially rollover accidents. They can require extended rehabilitation and may have lasting effects on mobility.
- Internal Injuries - High-impact collisions can cause internal bleeding or organ damage, which may not be immediately apparent. Prompt medical evaluation is crucial for these injuries.
- Burns and Lacerations - These often occur in more serious crashes, especially where there is a risk of vehicle fire. Burns and lacerations can lead to scarring and require extensive medical treatment.
- Soft Tissue Injuries - These injuries affect muscles, ligaments, and tendons, causing pain and restricted movement. Without medical care, these injuries may worsen over time.
If you’ve suffered any of these injuries in a New Mexico car accident, you deserve to know your options for recovery and fair compensation. Consulting with a lawyer can help ensure you’re fully informed about the compensation available to you and provide support through every step of the legal process.
Do I need to see a doctor after my car accident, even if I feel OK?
Yes. See a doctor even if you feel fine. Car accidents can cause internal injuries with delayed onset symptoms or traumatic brain injuries like concussions. Seeing a doctor is best for both your health and your injury claim. If you wait to see a doctor, the insurance company might downplay your injuries and deny you fair compensation for your accident injuries.
How is fault determined in New Mexico car accidents?
Fault in New Mexico car accidents depends on four specific elements that establish liability. To hold someone responsible for damages, certain conditions must be met, demonstrating that their actions or negligence led to the accident. Here are the four key factors that must be true for someone to be liable for damages in a car accident:
- Duty of Care - The driver had a legal responsibility to operate their vehicle safely and follow traffic laws, such as yielding, observing speed limits, and maintaining control over their vehicle.
- Breach of Duty - The driver failed to uphold this duty by acting negligently or recklessly, such as by speeding, driving under the influence, or ignoring traffic signals.
- Causation - The driver’s actions must be directly linked to the accident. This means that their breach of duty, such as running a red light, directly caused the collision.
- Damages - The accident must have resulted in actual damages, such as injuries, property damage, or financial losses. Without measurable damages, there is no basis for a compensation claim.
Proving each of these elements often requires a thorough investigation and solid evidence. A New Mexico car accident lawyer can help gather necessary proof and build a strong case for liability, increasing the likelihood of fair compensation.
How do insurance companies handle claims involving serious car accident injuries in New Mexico?
Insurance companies may scrutinize claims involving severe injuries, often questioning the extent of injuries or even disputing fault to reduce payouts. They may employ tactics to downplay serious injuries, particularly if the accident occurred at high speeds where damages can be significant. Working with an experienced attorney can help counter these tactics, ensuring that evidence is properly presented and your rights are protected. This support can make a significant difference in securing full compensation for car accident injuries in New Mexico.
Do I need a car accident lawyer?
To be compensated by the insurance company for a car accident, you need to prove that another driver’s negligence caused your collision and your injuries. Negligent drivers might deny causing your crash, and insurance companies might play fast and loose with the facts to deny your claim. Each type of car accident caused by negligence has specific things that an attorney can investigate to prove the other driver was at fault.
What damages can I claim after a car accident on busy New Mexico streets?
After a car accident on New Mexico’s bustling streets, such as Central Avenue in Albuquerque or the often-congested stretches of I-40, victims are frequently left facing unexpected costs and a lengthy recovery. Knowing which damages you can claim is essential to ensure you don’t shoulder these expenses alone and can focus on healing. Car accident claims can include both economic and non-economic damages, covering not only immediate expenses but also the long-term impact of the accident on your life. Here are the types of damages you may be eligible to claim in New Mexico:
- Medical Expenses - Coverage can include emergency care, surgeries, hospital stays, medications, and any ongoing therapy or rehabilitation needed as a result of your injuries.
- Lost Wages - If your injuries prevent you from working, either temporarily or permanently, you may be entitled to compensation for the income you’ve lost during recovery.
- Loss of Future Earnings - For severe injuries that reduce your future earning capacity, you can pursue damages for the income you would have earned had the accident not occurred.
- Pain and Suffering - Non-economic damages cover physical pain and the emotional toll of living with accident-related injuries. This can also account for issues like chronic pain or physical limitations.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life - If your injuries prevent you from participating in activities or hobbies you once enjoyed, you may claim damages to cover this loss of enjoyment.
- Loss of Consortium - In severe cases, family members may be able to seek compensation for the loss of companionship, support, or affection if the accident impacts relationships with loved ones.
Understanding these damages can give you a clearer view of what fair compensation should look like. By consulting a New Mexico car accident lawyer, you’ll have guidance on which damages apply to your case, helping ensure you receive the full support you need to recover without unnecessary financial burden.
Why is it important to document my recovery after a car accident in New Mexico?
Documenting your recovery is essential for showing the full extent of your injuries and how they impact your daily life. Medical records, photographs, and personal notes can help build a strong case, especially if you experience ongoing pain or limitations. This evidence can be valuable when negotiating compensation with insurance companies. An attorney can use this documentation to advocate for fair compensation based on the true impact of your injuries.
How much is my injury claim worth?
That depends. There isn’t a standard amount because each crash is unique. The specific circumstances of your crash and the injuries you sustained will determine how much you are entitled to in compensation. It could be hundreds, thousands, or maybe even millions. You may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, lost earning potential, and pain and suffering.
Should I accept a settlement offer from the insurance company?
Be careful. Insurance companies are businesses; like any business, they look out for their bottom line. They’ll look for any way to pay injury victims less. If they offer you a quick settlement soon after your accident, they probably think you’re desperate enough to take it. You might feel overwhelmed by your medical bills and car repair costs and may be tempted to settle, even if it is a lowball offer. Don’t do it.
Can I still pursue a claim if I was partially at fault for the accident?
Yes, New Mexico follows a "pure comparative negligence" rule, meaning you can still pursue a claim even if you were partially at fault. Your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you were 20% at fault, your award would be reduced by 20%. Working with a lawyer can help minimize any fault attributed to you and maximize your compensation.
What should I do if a loved one passed away in a fatal car accident in New Mexico?
In New Mexico, a wrongful death claim after a car accident can be filed by the personal representative of the deceased’s estate. This is usually a spouse, parent, child, or other close family member. If there is no will appointing a personal representative, the court can appoint one, typically prioritizing immediate family members. The claim is filed on behalf of surviving beneficiaries, and any compensation awarded is distributed among the deceased's spouse, children, or other dependents, as specified under New Mexico law.
What sets Szantho Law Firm apart?
There are many reasons people choose Szantho Law Firm when they’ve been hurt in a car accident caused by another driver in New Mexico:
- Our personalized approach – We take the time to learn about your crash.
- Our comprehensive methods and techniques – We carefully investigate what happened.
- Our familiarity with New Mexico – We have lived and worked here for decades.
- Our hands-on experience – We know how to handle complex legal cases.
- Our in-depth knowledge – We thoroughly understand the state and federal laws that apply to New Mexico car accidents.
- Our proven track record – We consistently secure sizable settlements and verdicts.
- Our negotiating skills – We know how to deal effectively with insurance companies.
- Our fearless courtroom tactics – We don’t back down. We rise to the challenge.
Attorney Andras Szantho knows exactly what to do. A former New Mexico prosecutor and long-time resident, he has the discipline and the drive you need to succeed.
From Albuquerque to Santa Fe, Andras Szantho fights for car accident injury victims throughout New Mexico
At Szantho Law Firm, we’ve helped hundreds of injury victims obtain the compensation they need to move forward after being injured or losing loved ones in a New Mexico car accident. Attorney Andras Szantho brings an athlete’s discipline and energy to every case, and he’ll argue before a jury with all the determination and confidence he gained as a prosecutor.
Legal cases involving collisions can be highly complex and require close attention to detail to successfully litigate. We’ll give you the personal attention you deserve and leave no stone unturned as we look for critical evidence that could bring you victory in court. Our team will investigate the crash site, interview witnesses and pore over your official New Mexico accident report and other documents. Armed with that knowledge, we’ll take the fight to the insurance companies and insist they pay every cent you’re owed.
When you’ve been hurt in a car accident, recovering financial compensation should be simple. You get the medical attention you need to recover as much as possible. Then, the insurance company compensates you for all medical expenses and lost wages, as well as other financial damages you have suffered.
The reality is far more complicated. Insurance companies are not on your side when you’ve been hurt in a crash. They are only interested in paying you as little as possible. So, they may question how bad your injuries are or whether you need certain treatment. They may even try to blame you for causing your collision.
The experienced lawyer you need after your crash
In some cases, an insurance company may contact you soon after the crash with a settlement offer. They may promise quick payment and tell you it’s the best that they can do. Don’t believe them. Their offer won’t even come close to covering your total damages. The insurance company is trying to pay you less than you deserve.
That’s why you need an experienced car accident attorney who will fight for you. We determine the total damages you have suffered and fight to help you recover compensation. In many cases, the insurance company agrees to a settlement. If they won’t agree to a settlement that meets your needs, attorney Szantho will be ready to fight for you in court.
After your crash, you often only get one shot at the justice you deserve. Make your case count. Contact the Szantho Law Firm and schedule your free case evaluation with an experienced New Mexico car accident lawyer.
“Awesome attention to detail and able to resolve my car accident claim with very little effort on my part, especially when I had residual neck pain! I had the insurance payment within just weeks.” – Neale Schwarting