Carlsbad Truck Accident Lawyer

Why Hire a Truck Accident Lawyer?

If you have been involved in a truck accident in Carlsbad, New Mexico, it is advisable to hire a truck accident lawyer who is familiar with the laws and regulations of the state. Here are some reasons why:

1. Protect Your Legal Rights: Trucking companies and their insurers have teams of lawyers working to protect their interests, and they may attempt to shift the blame for the accident onto you. A truck accident lawyer can help protect your legal rights and ensure that you are not held responsible for something that was not your fault.
2. Investigate the Accident: A truck accident lawyer can conduct an independent investigation into the accident, gather evidence, and identify all liable parties. This can help strengthen your case and improve your chances of receiving fair compensation.
3. Handle Insurance Companies: Insurance companies are notorious for trying to settle claims for as little as possible. A truck accident lawyer can handle negotiations with the insurance company on your behalf, ensuring that your interests are protected and that you receive fair compensation.
4. Determine the Value of Your Claim: A truck accident lawyer can help you determine the full value of your claim, including compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
5. Represent You in Court: If necessary, a truck accident lawyer can represent you in court, advocating for your rights and presenting your case to a judge or jury.

How Common are Carlsbad Truck Accidents?

Hiring a Carlsbad New Mexico truck accident lawyer can help protect your legal rights, maximize your compensation, and ensure that justice is served.

According to the latest available data from the New Mexico Department of Transportation, in 2020 there were 147 reported crashes involving large trucks in Eddy County, where Carlsbad is located. Out of these 147 crashes, 26 resulted in injuries and 2 resulted in fatalities.

It’s worth noting that these statistics are specific to Eddy County, which includes Carlsbad but also encompasses other cities and towns in the region. Additionally, it’s important to keep in mind that the number of accidents and injuries can vary from year to year, and may be impacted by factors such as weather, road conditions, and driver behavior.

The State of Driving in New Mexico

New Mexico has unfortunately gained a reputation for having some of the worst drivers in the country. In 2015, The Las Cruces Sun News reported that New Mexico drivers were ranked as the second-worst in the entire nation. This ranking takes into account various factors, including rates of drunken driving and careless driving, which have contributed to the state’s decline in driving standards. Previous years’ rankings placed New Mexico as the 19th state with the worst drivers, indicating a concerning deterioration in recent years.

Prevalence of Semi-Truck Accidents in New Mexico

Involvement of Semi-Trucks: Out of approximately 43,000 car wrecks that occur annually in New Mexico, it is estimated that around 1,400 of these crashes involve semi-trucks. The involvement of semi-trucks in accidents is particularly alarming as these incidents are four times more likely to result in fatalities compared to accidents not involving semi-trucks.

Impact on Injuries

New Mexico trucking accidents often lead to severe injuries. Shockingly, one out of every fifteen commercial truck accidents in New Mexico results in severe injuries to one or more drivers. The gravity of these injuries emphasizes the need for swift legal action and fair compensation.

Key Trends and Factors in New Mexico Trucking Accidents

December Crashes: According to the New Mexico Department of Transportation’s 2015 Community Report, December stands out as the worst month for crashes in the state consistently from 2011 to 2015. This surge in accidents during December can be attributed to increased holiday traffic and adverse winter weather conditions, among other factors. The five-year average for December crashes amounts to a staggering 3,977 accidents per month

What Can I Claim In a Truck Accident?

If you have been involved in a truck accident in Carlsbad, New Mexico, you may be entitled to several types of compensation for your damages and losses. Here are some examples of what you may be able to claim in a truck accident lawsuit:

1. Medical Expenses: You can claim compensation for any medical expenses related to your injuries, including hospitalization, surgery, doctor visits, medication, rehabilitation, and any future medical expenses related to the accident.
2. Lost Wages: If you have to miss work due to your injuries, you can claim compensation for any lost wages, including future lost wages if you are unable to return to work or have to take a lower-paying job due to your injuries.
3. Property Damage: If your vehicle or other property was damaged in the accident, you can claim compensation for the cost of repairs or replacement.
4. Pain and Suffering: You can claim compensation for any physical pain, emotional suffering, or loss of enjoyment of life resulting from the accident.
5. Punitive Damages: In some cases, you may be able to claim punitive damages if the truck driver or company acted recklessly or intentionally, such as driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol or violating safety regulations.
6. Wrongful Death: If a loved one was killed in the truck accident, you may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit and claim compensation for their medical expenses, funeral expenses, lost income, and other damages.

In order to determine what you can claim in a truck accident in Carlsbad, New Mexico, it is important to consult with a qualified truck accident lawyer who can evaluate the specific circumstances of your case and advise you on your legal options. Call Ornelas & Serna today for your FREE consultation.