Hobbs Truck Accident Lawyers

Overall Motor Vehicle Statistics in New Mexico

According to the New Mexico Department of Transportation’s Crash Analysis and Reporting Unit, there were 401 fatal crashes and 32,382 injury crashes in New Mexico in 2020. It is worth noting that these figures include all types of motor vehicle crashes, not just those involving trucks.

As for truck-specific accident statistics in New Mexico, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) provides data on commercial motor vehicle crashes nationwide. According to FMCSA data, there were 2,886 total crashes involving commercial motor vehicles in New Mexico in 2019.Of these crashes, 57 were fatal, and 1,052 resulted in injuries.

Common Truck Accident Injuries in Hobbs New Mexico

Truck accidents can be very serious and can result in a range of injuries, some of which can be life-threatening or even fatal. Some common injuries that can result from a truck accident in Hobbs, New Mexico include:

1. Head injuries: Head injuries are common in truck accidents and can range from mild concussions to more serious traumatic brain injuries.
2. Back and spinal cord injuries: Back and spinal cord injuries can occur when a truck collides with another vehicle or object, causing the spine to compress or twist. These injuries can result in paralysis, loss of sensation or function, chronic pain, and other long-term complications.
3. Neck injuries: Neck injuries, including whiplash, are also common in truck accidents. These injuries can cause pain, stiffness, limited range of motion, and other symptoms.
4. Broken bones: Truck accidents can result in broken bones, including fractures of the arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis.
5. Internal injuries: Internal injuries, such as organ damage or internal bleeding, can result from the force of impact in a truck accident.
6. Burns: Burns can result from a fire or explosion following a truck accident, or from contact with hot surfaces or chemicals.
7. Psychological injuries: Truck accidents can also cause psychological injuries, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or depression.

It is important to seek medical attention after a truck accident, even if you do not feel any immediate pain or discomfort. Some injuries, such as whiplash or internal injuries, may not become apparent until hours or even days after the accident.

The Difference Between a Car and Truck Accident in New Mexico

According to the state of New Mexico, there are some important differences between car and truck accidents. Here are a few key differences to keep in mind:

1. Severity of injuries: Truck accidents are more likely to result in serious injuries or fatalities than car accidents due to the size and weight of trucks.
2. Liability: Liability can be more complex in truck accidents than in car accidents, as there may be multiple parties involved, such as the driver, the trucking company, and the manufacturer of the truck or its components.
3. Regulations: Trucks are subject to federal and state regulations that do not apply to passenger cars. For example, truck drivers are required to follow strict rules regarding hours of service and vehicle maintenance, and trucks must meet certain safety standards.
4. Insurance coverage: Trucks are typically covered by commercial insurance policies, which can have higher liability limits and different coverage requirements than personal auto insurance policies.
5. Evidence: Evidence in a truck accident may be more complex to collect and analyze than in a car accident due to the number of parties involved and the potential for multiple factors contributing to the accident, such as driver fatigue or equipment failure.

It is important to work with an experienced attorney who understands the differences between car and truck accidents and can help you navigate the legal process accordingly.

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

Why hiring a truck accident attorney in Hobbs, New Mexico is important

Hiring a truck accident attorney is important for several reasons. Here are some key reasons why you should consider hiring an attorney if you have been involved in a truck accident:

1. Protect your rights: An experienced truck accident attorney can help protect your legal rights and ensure that you receive the compensation you are entitled to. They can help you navigate the complex legal process and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.
2. Investigate the accident: An attorney can conduct a thorough investigation of the accident, including reviewing police reports, interviewing witnesses, and consulting with experts to determine the cause of the accident and who is liable. This can help strengthen your case and improve your chances of obtaining a favorable outcome.
3. Determine liability: Liability can be complex in truck accidents, as there may be multiple parties involved, such as the driver, the trucking company, and the manufacturer of the truck or its components. An attorney can help determine who is liable for your injuries and losses and hold them accountable.
4. Maximize your compensation: An attorney can help you maximize your compensation by calculating the full extent of your damages, including medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future damages. They can also negotiate with insurance companies to ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses.
5. Court representation: If negotiations with the insurance company are not successful, an attorney can file a lawsuit on your behalf and represent you in court. They can advocate for your rights and help you obtain the compensation you deserve.

Overall, hiring a truck accident attorney can help protect your rights, improve your chances of obtaining a favorable outcome, and ensure that you receive the compensation you are entitled to. Contact Ornelas & Serna today for your FREE consultation.