When people are using the crosswalk or simply walking on the side of the road, they don’t expect to get hurt. But pedestrian accidents caused by negligent drivers happen every year throughout New Mexico. Because pedestrians have no protection in a crash, they are often left with severe injuries. Many times, those injuries are fatal.
That was the case in an accident caused by a hit-and-run driver in Albuquerque last month.
On December 18, a man was crossing Coal Avenue at Tulane Drive in Nob Hill when he was struck by a vehicle. Witnesses allege the driver of the vehicle did not brake before striking the man, who flew over the vehicle and landed on the road, police say. The driver then sped away.
Suspected Driver Found
The pedestrian died at the scene.
Based on information from another witness, police found the suspected driver just a few blocks away and arrested him. The driver is facing multiple charges including homicide by vehicle. He is also suspected of DWI.
According to police, the suspect was driving on a revoked license. He has a history of drug charges on his criminal record and was convicted of DWI in 2016.
Hit-And-Run Injuries
When pedestrians are hit by a car, their bodies absorb the force of impact. This can lead to serious injuries, even at lower speeds. Pedestrians can suffer broken bones, damage to internal organs, and injuries to the head, neck, or back.
Those who survive may require extensive medical treatment, often involving imaging tests, surgery, hospitalization, medication, physical therapy, and months of follow-up appointments with doctors. Some are left with a permanent disability and may not be able to work or take part in their normal activities ever again.
Some pedestrians don’t survive in these accidents. Families are left to grieve their loss. They may also experience financial stress if the victim was a provider. There are final medical expenses and funeral costs to pay.
What causes these accidents? The cause is often a negligent driver. A driver who was speeding or running a red light. Some drivers were texting or talking on the phone at the time of the crash. Others were under the influence of alcohol or drugs. In some cases, a driver was fatigued and fell asleep at the wheel.
Get An Experienced Lawyer On Your Side
Negligent drivers need to be held accountable, but they often deny doing anything wrong. Insurance companies try to pay victims as little as possible by questioning the seriousness of injuries or making lowball settlement offers.
If you or a loved one was involved in a pedestrian accident in Albuquerque, Santa Fe, or anywhere in New Mexico, you need experienced legal representation. At Szantho Law Firm, we fight for our clients every step of the way. Our legal team investigates your accident to get the facts. Andras Szantho is a personal injury attorney who builds strong cases that insurance companies can’t ignore.
Many times, we are able to negotiate a settlement that meets the needs of our clients. But if the insurance company won’t do what’s right, we are ready to take them to court.
Talk to an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer today. Contact us to schedule a free case evaluation.