New Mexico Pedestrian Accident Attorney

Were you hit by a car? We'll help you get back on your feet

Some of the most dangerous car accidents in New Mexico involve cars striking a pedestrian, jogger, skater or biker. Without a vehicle to absorb the force of the impact, people often suffer broken bones, internal bleeding and other injuries. Even though these accidents usually happen at low speeds, they often result in serious injury or even death.  A New Mexico pedestrian accident attorney can help you recover financial compensation.

Pedestrian accidents can seem straightforward at first glance – if a car hits you, it seems clear that the driver is at fault. However, these cases are often more complicated than they appear, making it challenging for injured victims to secure full compensation.

The problem is getting even worse in Albuquerque and throughout New Mexico, where the number of pedestrian fatalities has consistently climbed. Over 70 people die each year in pedestrian accidents in New Mexico, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Such startling numbers explain why New Mexico consistently ranks among the top 10 most dangerous states for pedestrians nationwide. And many years, including several recent ones, New Mexico had the highest pedestrian fatality rate per capita of any state in the country, according to the Governors Highway Safety Association.

People using a crosswalk or walking along the side of the road have the right to walk safely. If you've been injured or lost a loved one in a pedestrian accident, you have the right to hold the negligent motorist accountable. You have a right to compensation for your injuries, whether your accident happened on Central Avenue in Albuquerque or in a small community.

Injured? Contact us for a free consultation

If you’ve been hurt in a pedestrian accident in New Mexico, we are here to help you get the compensation you deserve. Navigating the aftermath of an accident can be overwhelming, but with our experience in personal injury law, we’ll make the legal process easier for you. A free case consultation with us can give you valuable insight into your legal options, help you understand your rights, and ensure you’re not left covering the costs of medical bills, lost wages, and other damages on your own. Reach out today to get the support and justice you need.

What are the common causes of pedestrian accidents in New Mexico?

Pedestrian accidents in New Mexico can happen in a variety of situations. While these accidents can occur anywhere, there are certain factors that contribute more frequently to these incidents. It's important to understand these causes, as they often point to negligence on the part of drivers, road authorities, or property owners. Below are some of the most common causes of pedestrian accidents in New Mexico:

• Distracted driving – Drivers who are texting, talking on the phone, or otherwise distracted are less likely to see pedestrians crossing the road, leading to dangerous and often fatal collisions.
• Failure to yield – Many pedestrian accidents happen when drivers fail to yield the right of way at crosswalks, stop signs, or intersections. This is a common problem in both urban and rural areas in New Mexico.
• Speeding – Speeding drivers are more likely to cause pedestrian accidents because they have less time to react when they see someone walking. Speeding is particularly dangerous in residential areas and school zones.
• Driving under the influence – Accidents involving alcohol or drugs are common in New Mexico. Impaired drivers often fail to notice pedestrians or make dangerous driving decisions that put walkers in harm’s way.
• Poor visibility – Accidents frequently occur at night or in low-light conditions when drivers cannot see pedestrians clearly. Poor street lighting or inadequate signage can make the problem worse.
• Reckless or aggressive driving – Drivers who are speeding through intersections, running red lights, or engaging in other reckless behaviors pose a serious danger to pedestrians.

Understanding the common causes of pedestrian accidents is essential when seeking compensation for your injuries. A personal injury lawyer can help you establish negligence and hold the responsible party accountable, ensuring that you receive the compensation you deserve.

What are common types of injuries in pedestrian accidents in New Mexico?

Pedestrian accidents often result in severe and life-altering injuries due to the lack of protection walkers have when struck by a vehicle. Knowing the most common types of injuries can help you understand the physical toll these accidents can take and why seeking compensation is so important. Here are some of the most frequent injuries suffered by pedestrians in New Mexico:

• Fractures and broken bones – The force of a vehicle impact often causes pedestrians to suffer broken arms, legs, ribs, or hips. Fractures can require surgery and extensive rehabilitation.
• Head and brain injuries – Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) are common in pedestrian accidents and can lead to long-term cognitive, physical, and emotional impairments. Even a mild concussion can have lasting effects.
• Spinal cord injuries – Damage to the spine can result in partial or complete paralysis, making spinal cord injuries one of the most devastating outcomes of a pedestrian accident.
• Internal injuries – The blunt force trauma of being struck by a vehicle can cause internal bleeding, organ damage, and other serious internal injuries that may require emergency surgery.
• Cuts and lacerations – Broken glass, road debris, or the vehicle itself can cause deep cuts and lacerations, often leading to significant blood loss and scarring.
• Soft tissue injuries – Sprains, strains, and ligament tears can occur when the body is thrown in unnatural directions during a collision. These injuries can cause long-term pain and limit mobility.

Pedestrian accidents can lead to costly medical treatments and long recovery times. If you've been injured, contacting a lawyer can help ensure you recover full compensation for your injuries and related expenses, so you can focus on your recovery without added financial stress.

Pedestrian accident claim complications in New Mexico

One of the main difficulties in recovering compensation after a pedestrian accident is proving liability. Insurance companies and defense attorneys may try to argue that the pedestrian was partially at fault – for example, by not using a crosswalk, wearing dark clothing at night, or being distracted. New Mexico follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning if the pedestrian is found partially responsible, their compensation can be reduced based on their percentage of fault.

Additionally, the process of gathering evidence to prove negligence, such as witness statements, video footage, and accident reconstruction reports, can be complex and time-sensitive. Without this crucial evidence, a strong case can be difficult to build. Insurance companies are also known to downplay the severity of injuries or argue that the victim's medical expenses are exaggerated, creating further hurdles for full compensation.

Injured pedestrians also face the challenge of long recovery times, which can delay their ability to advocate for themselves. This adds pressure to settle for less than what they’re owed, just to get immediate relief. All of these factors highlight why having an experienced personal injury lawyer is essential. They can navigate the legal complexities, gather critical evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies to ensure victims receive the compensation they truly deserve.

Your pedestrian accident will receive our full attention. We're on your side

At the Szantho Law Firm, we will fight for your rights through every step of your recovery process. We want to learn more about your accident so we can build a strong case on your behalf. We want to help you collect the damages (financial compensation) you deserve to keep moving forward.

While it's exceptionally rare for a pedestrian to be found at fault for an accident, that doesn't mean collecting from insurance companies is easy. Insurance companies may argue that your injuries were due to a pre-existing condition rather than a direct result of your accident. They may try to settle your claim for a "lowball" figure before you're sure of the true cost of the accident. They may make unreasonable delays or deny your claim for unclear reasons.

Say ‘No’ to lowball settlements

Attorney Szantho investigates your accident to get the facts. Our legal team thoroughly reviews all documentation, such as accident reports and medical records. We identify and interview witnesses. If needed, we consult with accident reconstruction experts and other specialists. We know how to build a strong case that proves you were the victim of negligence.

When insurance companies see that attorney Szantho is prepared and ready to take them to court, they often agree to talk about a settlement. We aren’t interested in a making a quick deal that helps the insurance company save money. We are only interested in a resolution of your case that meets your needs.

If you’ve been hurt in a pedestrian accident in Albuquerque, Santa Fe, or another New Mexico community, it’s important to talk to an experienced attorney as soon as possible. Over time, important evidence can be lost or destroyed, and the memories of witnesses can fade. The sooner we can get started on your case, the better.

Put a fighter on your side – Contact Szantho Law Firm today

Don't let insurance companies push you around. If you've been injured as a pedestrian, passenger, jogger, skater or biker, stand up for your rights. Contact New Mexico pedestrian accident lawyer Andras Szantho and get the justice you deserve. We will aggressively argue your case every step of the way. Contact us and schedule your free case evaluation. Call 866-853-2462.