Distracted Driving in New Mexico – What you Need to Know
Driving is something most of us do every day, so it’s easy to be confident enough in your driving to do some multitasking during the daily commute. However, distracted driving can have serious consequences. Let’s talk about what distracted driving is and why you should never do it.
What is Distracted Driving?
Distracted driving is a major issue in New Mexico and across the United States. It is defined as any activity that takes a driver’s attention away from the road, including talking on a cell phone, eating, drinking, changing the radio station, or engaging in any other activity that requires the driver to take their eyes off the road.
Even seemingly harmless activities such as talking to passengers or adjusting the air conditioning can be distracting and dangerous. Cell phone use is particularly hazardous, as it can cause drivers to take their eyes off the road and their hands off the wheel.
It takes only a few seconds of distraction for a driver to miss a stop sign or swerve into oncoming traffic. Even hands-free devices can be dangerous, as they can still be distracting. Drivers may become so focused on the conversation that they forget to pay attention to the road.
This can lead to dangerous situations, such as running a red light, not yielding to pedestrians, or not noticing a bicyclist.
Many distracted drivers don’t feel distracted while driving, but they often engage in distracting driving activities. In fact, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that drivers participate in potentially distracting activities up to 30% of the time they’re driving. Examples of common driving distractions include:
- Texting or talking on the phone
- Adjusting the radio or other car settings
- Eating
- Reaching for fallen objects
- Speaking to passengers
- Smoking
New Mexico Law and Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is a serious issue in New Mexico. The state has strict laws in place to protect drivers and passengers from the dangers of distracted driving. According to the New Mexico Department of Transportation, it is illegal to use a handheld device while operating a motor vehicle.
This includes talking on the phone, texting, and using any other type of electronic device. While this law is in place to protect drivers, passengers, and pedestrians from the dangers of distracted driving, many people still fail to take the necessary precautions to ensure their own safety. The use of cell phones while driving, the prevalence of distracted driving continues to be a major problem.
Despite the fact that many states have implemented laws that prohibit the use of cell phones while driving, the issue of distracted driving still persists. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that in 2018, distracted driving was a factor in 2,841 fatal crashes, resulting in a total of 3,166 deaths. That’s an 8.5% increase from 2017, and a staggering 28% increase from 2014.
Distracted driving is a major problem that has been growing in prevalence over the years, and it is a danger that should not be taken lightly.
Distracted Driving Consequences
While something as simple as speaking to your passengers doesn’t seem distracting, distracted driving can have serious consequences. Driving while distracted can result in:
- Unintended speed changes
- Leaving your car’s current lane of travel
- Loss of vehicle control
Most importantly, distracted driving can make you miss changes in the traffic environment around you, causing a collision. This kind of accident could cause car damage, injury or even be fatal. Every driver has a responsibility to be focused while driving to prevent damage to themselves and others.
Lawsuit Liability
In addition to being dangerous, distracted driving makes you liable in a lawsuit. This means if you cause an accident, you can be responsible for medical expenses, repair expenses and more. If you’ve been in an accident and suspect the other driver is at fault due to distracted driving, call a car accident attorney.
In case of an accident caused by a driving distraction, you should first tend to any immediate medical needs and then collect evidence at the crash scene. This includes taking photos of the damage, gathering contact information, and calling law enforcement. Subsequently, an insurance claim may need to be made.
All along the way it is important to remain informed and to keep track of relevant paperwork. Furthermore, it is essential to understand the various distractions that can be encountered when driving and how to avoid them. If you or someone you know has been involved in such an event, please reach out for assistance in seeking compensation.
If you’re the victim of a distracted driving accident, the personal injury lawyers at Ornelas & Serna Law are ready to fight for you. Contact us today for a free case review, and take the first step toward getting the compensation you deserve.
Distracted Driving Fines in New Mexico
The penalties for being inattentive while driving in New Mexico include a first offense fee of $25 and a second offense fee of $50.
Additionally, if the distracted driver is a professional driver, their permit may be permanently cancelled, effectively barring them from driving professionally for the rest of their life. It is important to note that local penalties may increase the state fine, and payments may be accumulated.
The takeaway: Don’t Drive Distracted!
Staying alert and avoiding any behavior that might take eyes away from the road is crucial in preventing distracted driving-related injuries and fatalities. Obeying traffic laws, having a plan for trips, and staying focused are key to reducing the number of accidents related to distracted driving.
With increased consciousness about the potential consequences of distracted driving, we can create a better environment for all drivers on the road. If you have been injured in an accident caused by distracted driving, the personal injury lawyers at Ornelas & Serna Law are ready to fight for you. Contact us today for a free case review, and take the first step toward getting the compensation you deserve.