Earlier this month, New Mexico police apprehended a man after he was involved in an accident and found to be driving under the influence of alcohol. According to one local news report, the man was driving southbound on Coors Street when he rammed into the rear of another car. Unfortunately, the impact was so severe that the rear-ended car ended up rolling about 10 times before coming to a rest.
When police arrived at the scene, they determined that the man causing the accident had a warrant out for his arrest for failing to appear at a traffic court hearing. The two victims of the crash, surprisingly, were not seriously injured, although they were taken to the hospital to be evaluated. Police later revealed that the man was not speeding, but he also did not have insurance, was not wearing a seat belt, and did not have a license. The driver’s record also indicated that he was previously mandated to attend alcohol education classes. The man was arrested but released on bail. Further charges are still pending while the investigation continues.
Pursuing a Personal Injury Case in a Drunk Driving Accident in New Mexico
In the above case, the current reports do not indicate that the two victims were seriously injured. However, this will not always be the case in drunk driving accidents, and it also does not mean that those who suffer non-fatal injuries do not have a claim for the pain and suffering they did endure. In cases where serious injuries take place, often an insurance company will get involved in an attempt to lessen the payout.
In cases where the injuries are not so serious as to be life-threatening, it is possible an insurance company may refuse to award adequate damages, and the only recourse a victim has depends on the outcome of a court case. In all accident cases, it is important that individuals contact an attorney to prevent being taken advantage of and to determine what their rights and responsibilities are.
Stages of a Personal Injury Lawsuit in New Mexico
After seeking medical attention, the next thing a victim should do is contact an attorney. An dedicated attorney can help you determine what your potential avenues of relief are. If the attorney determines yours is a case that should be pursued, they will then begin filing the initial court papers. This is a very crucial stage because if all proper paperwork is not filed, it is possible that the case can be thrown out on a technicality. Next, there is the discovery stage of a personal injury lawsuit. During this stage, each side will begin an investigation to determine what actually occurred. Before trial, the opposing party may attempt to either get the case thrown out or settle it for a nominal amount. It is important to have an attorney because the defendant will almost certainly have an attorney to protect them.
Have You Been Injured in a Drunk Driving Accident in New Mexico?
Serious injuries and damages deserve serious representation, and it is important that if you have been involved in a serious New Mexico DUI accident you consult with an attorney at the Fine Law Firm to discuss your case. As the above discussion illustrates, there are many stages of a personal injury lawsuit, and a diligent and dedicated attorney at the Fine Law Firm can help you navigate this complicated system. If you are successful at settlement or trial, you may be entitled to monetary compensation for the injuries you endured. Contact an attorney at the Fine Law Firm today at 505-889-FINE to schedule your free initial consultation.
More Blog Posts:
State Supreme Court Permits Trial Judge Ability to Adjust Verdict When Jury’s Damages Award “Shockingly” Low, New Mexico Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, October 14, 2015.
Supreme Court of Texas Remands Case After Finding that Spectating a Sporting Event is Not Considered “Recreation” Under Relevant Statute, New Mexico Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, October 7, 2015.