Even low-speed collisions can cause life-changing injuries
If you are walking in New Mexico, especially in cities like Albuquerque, Santa Fe, or Las Cruces, the odds are stacked against you. Despite marked crosswalks, flashing signals, and pedestrian right-of-way laws, pedestrians continue to get hit. Many serious accidents happen right in crosswalks designed to provide safety. That shows the problem is not just with walkers. It is the system.
New Data Highlights a Persistent Problem
According to a recent report by KOB 4 Eyewitness News anbd preliminary data from the Governors Highway Safety Association, New Mexico had a pedestrian death rate of 4.41 deaths per 100,000 people in 2024. That is slightly down from 4.68 in 2023, but it still ranks as the highest rate in the nation for the eighth consecutive year. By comparison, Arizona had 3.6 deaths per 100,000 people, and Mississippi had 3.53.
While the overall number of pedestrian deaths in New Mexico dropped slightly to 94 in 2024, it was an increase from 93 in 2022 and far higher than 81 in 2020. These numbers indicate that progress is slow, and pedestrian safety remains a significant concern.
Where the Danger Is Concentrated
Bernalillo County, which includes Albuquerque, accounted for 51.6 percent of the state’s pedestrian deaths in 2024 while representing only 31.5 percent of the population. Other counties had significantly lower shares of pedestrian deaths compared to their population.
Doña Ana County accounted for 5.38 percent of deaths with 10.78 percent of the population. Santa Fe County had 6.45 percent of deaths with 7.41 percent of the population. The data shows that improving pedestrian safety in Bernalillo County can have a significant impact on the statewide rate.
Why Crosswalks Are So Dangerous
The environment plays a major role in pedestrian accidents. Picture a six-lane arterial road with cars traveling at 45 miles per hour, faded crosswalk paint, and pedestrian signals that take too long to change. These streets were built for traffic, not people.
Driver behavior adds to the danger. Distracted driving, alcohol or marijuana use, and failure to yield at crosswalks increase the risk. At night, poor lighting and dark clothing make pedestrians nearly invisible to drivers. Many pedestrians are forced to gamble every time they step into the street, even at marked crossings.
How Severe Are Pedestrian Injuries?
Even at 25 miles per hour, getting hit by a car can break bones, crush organs, and cause lasting brain injuries. At higher speeds or with larger vehicles, such as SUVs, the results can be catastrophic. Victims often suffer fractures, traumatic brain injuries, spinal damage, and permanent nerve injuries. Many require surgeries, months of rehabilitation, or lifelong care.
The impact is not only physical. Families face lost income, the cost of care, and emotional stress. For many lower-income victims, long-term consequences go unaddressed because they cannot afford support.
What the Law Says About Crosswalks and Fault
New Mexico law requires drivers to yield to pedestrians in all crosswalks, whether marked or unmarked. The state follows pure comparative negligence. This means that even if a pedestrian is partly at fault, they can still recover damages, but the compensation is reduced by their percentage of responsibility. Insurance companies often fight claims to shift blame and minimize payouts.
Steps Being Taken to Improve Safety
Albuquerque is taking action. The city is installing HAWK signals along Central Avenue. These pedestrian-activated signals turn red to stop traffic when someone is crossing the street. New crossings are being added in the middle of streets.
Another major project is the creation of Business Access and Transit lanes, also known as BAT lanes. Central Avenue will be reduced from a six-lane highway to a four-lane road with BAT lanes on the outside. These lanes help drivers access businesses while giving pedestrians extra seconds to cross safely.
What You Should Do If You Are Hit in a Crosswalk
Seek medical attention immediately, even if injuries are not apparent. Call the police and ensure a report is filed. Collect evidence, take photos, and get witness information. Write down what happened while it is fresh in your memory.
Then, contact a New Mexico pedestrian accident lawyer. Insurance companies often attempt to offer low settlements, especially if they believe pedestrians are unaware of their rights. A pedestrian accident attorney can preserve evidence, deal with insurers, and make sure you receive fair compensation for your losses. Keep all medical documents, bills, prescriptions, and appointment logs.
Injured in a Pedestrian Accident in New Mexico? Call Szantho Law Firm
If you were hit while walking, jogging, or biking anywhere in New Mexico, Szantho Law Firm is here to fight for your rights. Our team, led by experienced personal injury lawyer Andras Szantho, will investigate your case, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies. We also work on a contingency fee basis, so you pay nothing up front and no fees unless we recover compensation for you.
Our firm is dedicated to protecting your rights and supporting you throughout every step of the process. Make your case count. Contact us today for a free case evaluation.
"Mr. Szantho and his team are pros… they took on my difficult case and fought for me. They got the maximum compensation for my accident, and the very next call, I learned they also covered my property. This firm is professional, outstanding, and genuinely cares about clients." – Elvis B., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐