There are few accidents more deadly than head-on collisions. In fact, depending on the type of vehicle involved in the accident and the age and physical condition of the passenger, survival rates in head-on collisions are typically less than 50%. While head-on collisions are dangerous, they are one of the easiest types of accidents to avoid if both parties are paying sufficient attention to the road.
Head-on collisions are most commonly caused by one driver failing to pay attention to the road ahead of them. This may be because the driver is distracted by a passenger or is texting on their cell phone. In other cases, head-on collisions are caused by drunk or intoxicated drivers who have a difficult time maintaining control of their vehicle. In either case, a drunk or distracted driver can be held liable for any injuries resulting from a head-on collision through a New Mexico personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit.
New Mexico Wrongful Death Lawsuits
As noted above, most head-on collisions are fatal. Thus, many of the personal injury cases that are brought in the wake of a head-on collision are wrongful death cases. A New Mexico wrongful death case must be brought by a personal representative of the deceased person. If successful, any proceeds from the lawsuit will be distributed among the deceased’s heirs according to New Mexico Statutes 41-2-3. Generally speaking, the surviving spouse, children, and grandchildren of the deceased have priority. Secondary beneficiaries include siblings, parents, and the survivors of the deceased’s parents.
Two Killed in West Texas Bus Accident
Late last month, an accident between a pick-up truck and a chartered school bus claimed the lives of two people. According to a local news source covering the tragic accident, the two vehicles collided when the pick-up truck inexplicably crossed over the center line and into opposing traffic. The driver of the bus was unable to avoid the collision, and the two vehicles collided head-on.
The pick-up truck exploded on impact, and the driver of the truck was pronounced dead at the scene. A passenger on board the bus – a teacher and track-and-field coach – also died in the collision. The remaining passengers were treated at the scene or transported to the hospital with minor injuries. Police are investigating the cause of the fatal bus accident.
Have You Been Injured in a New Mexico Bus Accident?
If you or a loved one has recently been injured in a New Mexico bus or truck accident, you may be entitled to monetary compensation. The skilled personal injury attorneys at the Fine Law Firm have extensive experience representing injured clients in a wide range of personal injury actions, including truck and bus accidents. Depending on the circumstances surrounding the accident and the nature of your injuries or loss, you may be entitled to damages to help you cover the cost of your past and future medical expenses, the time you spent away from work, and any pain and suffering you endured as a result of the accident. Call 505-889-FINE to schedule a free consultation today.
More Blog Posts:
Fatal Bus Accident May Have Been Caused By Texting Driver, New Mexico Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, April 5, 2017.
Employer Liability in New Mexico Truck Accidents, New Mexico Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, April 27, 2017.