The end of February brought a series of weather-related accidents in New Mexico. A local newspaper article reported on one of the most recent ones, in which a major pileup occurred near Interstate 40. According to reports, over 24 cars and trucks were involved in the disastrous wreck. The Office of Emergency Management, the Potter County Sheriff’s Office, and New Mexico DPS arrived at the scene to assist in the wreck. A New Mexico state trooper explained that the accident was a result of a chain reaction after certain vehicles lost control when it began snowing.
Evidently, the accident began when a few cars crashed into each other. Then, another eight vehicles, including several semi-trucks, got involved as they approached the pile up. In total, over two dozen cars and trucks ended up being involved in the crash.
One of the troopers involved explained that individuals were likely driving too fast for the weather conditions at the time of the accident. Two individuals had to be hospitalized, but they suffered only minor injuries. In addition to this wreck, several other accidents occurred on several major highways in New Mexico that are frequented by long-haul trucks.
Determining Fault in New Mexico Truck Accidents
Although many people understand the importance of abiding by traffic rules and regulations when driving on highways, accidents are still frequent and can be devastating. In the case above, the accident amounted to over 24 cars and trucks, and luckily no one was seriously hurt. However, that is an anomaly in an accident of that magnitude.
The State Troopers indicated that it is likely that individuals were driving too fast for the low visibility. It is important that drivers know that they can still be held liable in these sorts of accidents, even if they were driving the speed limit. Drivers should understand that when there is low visibility or other dangerous weather conditions, their driving habits should be adjusted accordingly–even if this means slowing down to a speed that is under the posted speed limit.
Some adjustments that drivers should make are lowering their speed, keeping a larger amount of distance from the cars in front of them, and making sure that their headlights are set to the appropriate brightness. Headlights should be adjusted according to the type of weather and the time of day. Even when these steps are taken, accidents can still occur, especially on roads where large trucks are prevalent. These steps can not only help save a life, but they can assist you in bringing a claim against another driver who may not have been driving as carefully as you.
Truck Accident Attorneys in New Mexico
If you or a loved one has been injured in a trucking accident in New Mexico, you may consider bringing a personal injury suit against the truck driver or their employer. The incident above shows a particularly complicated case where there will likely be multiple suits and several liable parties. If you have been involved in an accident where multiple trucks or cars were involved, it is highly recommended that you contact an experienced and dedicated attorney. An attorney at the Fine Law Firm can assist you in determining your rights and remedies and provide you with strategic advice regarding your suit. Contact the Fine Law Firm at (505) 243-4541 for a free initial consultation today.
More Blog Posts:
Truck Slams into Bus in Albuquerque, New Mexico Truck Accident Lawyer Blog, January 20, 2015.
Court of Appeals in California Reverses Lower Court Decision on Trucking Accident, New Mexico Truck Accident Lawyer Blog, February 25, 2015.