Late last month, a massive accident occurred near Richland County, North Dakota after foggy conditions led to dangerous road conditions. According to a local news report, the accident involved four large semi-trucks and two school buses that were transporting school children on a field trip.
Unfortunately, four students were injured and one of the bus drivers was possibly seriously injured. The bus driver had to be disentangled from the school bus by emergency personnel and subsequently taken to a local hospital. The uninjured students were picked up by another school bus and taken back to the school, where they were picked up by their parents. Emergency personnel, including police officers, highway patrol, fire trucks, ambulances, and multiple tow trucks were all involved in the cleanup of the highway. It took several hours before the debris and wreckage were cleared from the road. Currently, the Highway Patrol is investigating the accident to determine exactly how such a large accident occurred.
New Mexico Driver’s Duty to Adapt to Inclement Weather
In many cases where such a large scale accident occurs the road conditions are often blamed as the cause or exacerbation of the catastrophe. In many cases the roads may be icy, slick or snow covered. However, as the above case illustrates these accidents can also be caused by something less severe, like fog. New Mexico specifically categorizes inclement weather as snow, ice, fog, rain, dust, or any other highway condition which may limit visibility or otherwise affect the condition of the roadway.
When drivers are proceeding down roads during inclement weather conditions it is important that they adjust their driving to adapt to the road condition. Some examples of this include things such as:
- Slowing down even below the speed limit;
- Refraining from switching lanes;
- Staying out of specific lanes; and
- Either turning on or off their high beams.
Moreover, New Mexico is unique in that drivers need to be aware of extremely high temperatures as well. They should be cognizant of high temperatures and the resulting glare from the sun as well as the possibility of a dust storm.
If a person is injured in a car or truck accident because of another driving not abiding by state rules regarding inclement weather, they may have a viable personal injury lawsuit.
Have You Been Injured in an Accident Because of Dangerous Road Conditions?
If you or a loved one has been injured because of adverse road conditions, it is important that you consult an attorney to discuss your rights and remedies. If you are successful you may be entitled to monetary compensation for the injuries you suffered. This includes payments for your past medical bills, future medical expenses and other damages related to the accident. Contact one of the attorneys at the Fine Law Firm at 505-889-FINE to schedule your free initial consultation.
More Blog Posts:
New Mexico Judge Denies Motion for New Trial in Largest Jury Award in New Mexico History, New Mexico Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, August 6, 2015.
New York Times Reports on Prevalence of Trucking Accidents, New Mexico Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, September 21, 2015.