Earlier this month, an individual driving a stolen truck slammed into another truck as he was attempting to evade police. According to a local New Mexican news report, the accident occurred early last week on Tuesday afternoon. The individual who was driving the stolen truck was driving in a neighborhood near Southern, New Mexico. Police officers attempted to pull the driver over. However, he began to speed away as they signaled for him to do so. As the driver was attempting to escape the police, he ran through an intersection with a three-way stop. Shortly after running the three-way stop, he hit the truck.
As of right now, reports have not clarified whether police officials were in the process of chasing the driver at the specific moment when the accident occurred. Unfortunately, the individual in the truck that was hit was injured along with the suspect. At this point, no more details have been released regarding the accident, but an investigation is still pending.
Bringing a Civil Charge When Criminal Charges Are Not Being Pressed in New Mexico
In New Mexico, it is possible to bring civil charges against a culpable party even though no criminal charges are being filed against the individual. Although the likelihood of success on a civil claim is greater when a person is found criminally responsible, it is far from necessary for a civil lawsuit.
To bring a civil lawsuit of negligence against the wrongdoer, the victim must be able to establish certain elements. The crucial elements for this claim are first to establish a breach of the standard duty owed by the defendant. Second, the plaintiff must establish that the injury was caused as a result of that breach. Finally, the plaintiff must prove they suffered some kind of compensable damages in the accident.
Some Common Examples of Negligence
There are many ways that individuals might act negligently while driving, and some of these behaviors can lead to serious consequences. Some common examples of negligence by a driver are things such as :
- Evading police as they initiate a traffic stop;
- Texting or talking while driving, or otherwise being distracted;
- Fatigued driving;
- Erratic driving; and
- Not properly maintaining a car in working order.
These behaviors are just some examples of negligence that can result in serious injury or death. If you have been injured in a truck accident and suspect that the other party was participating in one of these behaviors, it would be wise to immediately contact an attorney to discuss your rights and potential remedies.
Have You or a Loved One Has Been Injured Because Of Another’s Negligence?
If you or a loved one has been injured or killed because of another’s negligence, you may consider bringing a personal injury lawsuit against the culpable party. The parties that can be named in a personal injury lawsuit may include a specific individual, an entity, or even a municipality, depending on the circumstances of the injury. If you are successful, you may be entitled to monetary compensation for your injuries, including damages for your past medical bills, future medical expenses, and any pain and suffering you endured as a result of the accident. Contact the Fine Law Firm today at 505-889-FINE to schedule a free initial consultation and to discuss the viability of your claim.
More Blog Posts:
Truck Slams into Bus in Albuquerque, New Mexico Truck Accident Lawyer Blog, January 20, 2015.
Semi Truck Driver Charged with Felony after Rear Ending School Bus, New Mexico Truck Accident Lawyer Blog, November 9, 2014.