New Mexico Rear-End Accident Lawyer
Albuquerque car accident attorney who will fight for you
You’re a responsible driver who follows the rules of the road and takes safety precautions every time you head out onto New Mexico’s roads. While being a responsible driver lessens the likelihood of being involved in a crash, it doesn’t guarantee that a crash won’t happen. Rear-end accidents happen when you least expect them. An inattentive driver could strike you from behind while you’re sitting at a red light, stopping at a stop sign or slowing down in traffic.
The driver who hits another vehicle from behind is almost always at fault. If you have been involved in a rear-end accident, you may be entitled to compensation for any injuries incurred as a result. That’s why you’ll need the legal advocacy of an experienced New Mexico rear-end car accident attorney who will fight for you. Contact Szantho Law Firm so we can further discuss your options. We handle cases in Albuquerque, Santa Fe and throughout the state.
Why do rear-end accidents happen in New Mexico?
Rear-end accidents usually happen in stop-and-go intersections but can also happen on busy roads when traffic slows down. You can also be rear-ended by a speeding driver while turning out of a side street or get rear-ended by a drunk driver at night.
Rear-end accidents often happen due to:
- Distracted driving
- Drunk or drugged driving
- Drowsy driving
- Speeding and reckless driving
- Brake failure
- Other defects
What types of injuries are sustained in rear-end accidents?
Many rear-end accidents happen at low impact, but even at relatively low speeds, injuries sustained in a rear-end accident can be severe. They may include:
- Whiplash and other spinal injuries
- Back and neck pain
- Broken bones
- Head injuries
- Organ damage
- Paralysis
- Death
In New Mexico, who is at fault for a rear-end accident?
In general, the driver in the rear vehicle is presumed to be at fault for a rear-end crash and thus liable (financially responsible) for any injuries caused. However, there are some circumstances where the driver in front can be at fault; for instance, if the brake lights were out, or if the driver slammed on the brakes unexpectedly. Even if you were rear-ended at an intersection where you were stopped, you can’t assume that an insurance company won’t try to hold you partially responsible in order to reduce your claim.
What should I do after a rear-end crash?
It’s important to take a rear-end crash seriously, even if it happened at a low speed. Your first step should be to secure the scene to avoid another crash occurring. Pull over to the side of the road or find a parking lot if you can. Make sure you exchange insurance and contact information with the other driver, take photos of the crash scene and speak to witnesses. Always call the police so they can examine the crash scene and create a thorough accident report, and always get medical attention as soon as possible. Lastly, you should file a claim with your insurance company, but keep your comments to a minimum and refrain from speaking to the other driver’s insurance company.
Do I need to see a doctor after a rear-end collision?
It’s tempting to just “walk it off” after a low-speed crash, but it’s also dangerous. Rear-end crashes sometimes cause injuries like whiplash, concussions, internal injuries and other injuries that can have delayed symptoms. If you don’t get checked out right away, you may aggravate an injury you didn’t even know you had. Moreover, getting a medical evaluation creates a record of your injuries in case an insurance company later disputes them.
Should I take a settlement from a car insurance company when I’m rear-ended?
Insurance companies often downplay rear-end accidents and offer quick settlements to get your claim off their books as soon as possible. It’s important to remember that they’re trying to protect their bottom line, and once you take their money, that’s it; you can’t go back for more. We strongly recommend reviewing any settlement offer with an attorney before you sign.
Take your rear-end accident settlement claim seriously from the start
When you’re rear-ended, don’t go it alone. Before you talk to the insurance company, contact us for a free consultation to discussion your legal options. Once you contact our firm, we’ll inform the insurance company that they can send any further correspondence to our office while you focus on getting better. If they have any questions, they can ask attorney Andras Szantho.
For years, attorney Szantho has helped injured crash victims maximize their compensation, and he is prepared to take on some of the most complex cases. With a vast amount of legal knowledge, Szantho knows how to negotiate with stubborn insurance companies and take them to trial if they refuse to pay. We’ll thoroughly investigate your crash and build a strong case for the full amount of compensation you deserve for the full cost of your injuries, and we’ll stand up to the insurance company on your behalf from start to finish.
Find out how the Szantho Law Firm can help you. Contact us online or call today at 866-853-2462.