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Understanding the Legal Liabilities in New Mexico Hit-and-Run Accidents

Posted in Auto Accidents

Hit-and-runs can be some of the most devastating accidents. Often, victims are unable to get the necessary medical care in a timely manner and suffer more serious injuries as a result of this delayed response. Furthermore, even if a victim survives, they may face a series of hurdles when dealing with all of the various entities that are involved in these cases, such as police officers, investigators, and insurance companies.

Hit-and-Run Accidents

A hit-and-run accident is an accident when a driver is involved in a collision with another person or object and leaves the scene of the accident without rendering assistance, calling for assistance, or providing identifying information. Even if the fleeing driver was not responsible for the accident, they may still be held liable for leaving the scene.

In New Mexico, a driver must not leave the scene of the accident until authorities have been notified and information has been exchanged. It is required that the driver provide appropriate help immediately following the collision, and if they do not, they will likely suffer serious repercussions, including criminal charges. Under New Mexico law, a driver involved in an accident must first stop their vehicle and move to a safe location as close to the scene of the accident as possible. They must then provide assistance to any injured motorists, passengers, or bystanders, including transporting them, if necessary. Additionally, drivers must immediately notify emergency personnel. In New Mexico, if there is personal or property damage over $500, the New Mexico police must be notified.

Finally, it is crucial that anyone involved in an accident provide their contact information and insurance information. If a person hits a vehicle without a driver or passenger, the culpable party must leave a note. Hit-and-run accidents are especially disturbing, and if a driver does leave the scene and is subsequently found, they are likely to suffer serious civil and possibly criminal penalties.

Hit-and-Run Accident in New Mexico Paralyzes Accident Victim

Late last month, a New Mexico man learned the shattering news that he would likely never walk again following a hit-and-run accident that had occurred a few months ago. According to local New Mexico news reports, the man was driving near El Paso when he was run off the road by a Chrysler. The New Mexico State Police were called to the scene, and the man was taken to a hospital. Sadly, the driver was left paralyzed from the chest down. Fortunately, he has since regained very limited use of his arms. Witnesses told police that they attempted to get the license plate of the culpable driver, but the driver sped away too fast. New Mexico State Police have still been unable to locate the driver. The victim remains in an assisted living facility and is unable to care for himself.

Have You Been Injured in a Hit-and-Run Accident in New Mexico?

Hit-and-run accidents are incredibly tragic and can lead to serious injuries and property damage. Although there are many aspects of the law that are convoluted or confusing, it is common knowledge that if you are involved in an accident, you must stop and provide assistance. If you have been injured by another driver who did not stop at the time of the accident, you may be entitled to monetary compensation. Thankfully, police take hit-and-runs very seriously and are able to often apprehend individuals who were involved in these accidents. If the person is found, you may be able to bring a lawsuit for the injuries you suffered. In some cases, you may even be able to bring punitive damages against the culpable party. If you have been injured in a hit-and-run accident, you should contact one of the dedicated attorneys at the Fine Law Firm. The attorneys at the Fine Law Firm have years of experience in all types of personal injury matters. Contact the Fine Law Firm at 800-640-6590 to schedule your free initial consultation.

More Blog Posts:

Appellate Court Affirms Trial Judge’s Decision to Dismiss Case Due to Violation of Statute of Limitations, New Mexico Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, January 3, 2017.

State Supreme Court Partially Reverses Judgment in Personal Injury Case Involving Claims of Governmental Immunity, New Mexico Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, December 1, 2016.

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