Why Car Accidents Happen in Albuquerque

Vehicle accidents are not uncommon in New Mexico. In fact, during the most recent reporting year on file, there were more than 40,000 incidents reported to the New Mexico Department of Transportation. Out of these incidents, nearly 18,000 individuals were injured, and 483 people lost their lives. Here, we want to review some of the most common causes of car accidents in Albuquerque and throughout New Mexico.

Speeding or Driving Too Fast For Conditions

Data provided by the New Mexico DOT indicates that more than 4,500 total collisions during the most recent reporting year in the state involved speeding. This equates to more than 11% of all total crashes that year. Drivers who speed or operate too fast for roadway conditions present significant hazards on the roadway. They are often unable to react to changing conditions on the roadway in a timely manner, and incidents at higher speeds are much more likely to cause catastrophic injuries.

Drug or Alcohol-Impaired Driving

The NM DOT indicates that there was an increase in the total number of alcohol-involved crashes from 2020 to 2021. During the most recent year of data available, we can see that 5.3% of all crashes in the state were the result of alcohol-impaired driving. However, 7.3% of all fatal crashes involved alcohol in 2021, the highest percentage in five years.

Any driver impaired by alcohol or drugs presents an incredible danger to themselves and others on the roadways of New Mexico.

Distracted Driving

Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates that distracted driving can occur in a number of ways, including a driver taking their eyes off the road, their hands off the wheel, or their mind off of driving. The information also shows that around 20% of incidents involving extracted driving affect those not in vehicles, such as pedestrians, bicyclists, scooter riders, etc.

Failing to Yield The Right of Way

Drivers who fail to yield the right of way when required to by law create major hazards on the roadway. This includes drivers who fail to yield when merging into traffic, making a turn, changing lanes, or entering and exiting driveways or alleyways.

Following Too Closely

Following other drivers too closely, also known as tailgating, is the leading cause of rear-end accidents in Albuquerque and throughout New Mexico. Rear-end collisions, contrary to popular belief, are not just “minor” incidents. They must be taken seriously because individuals often sustain whiplash injuries and other types of delayed symptom injuries as a result.

Do You Need Legal Assistance After a Car Accident?

If you or somebody you love has been injured in a car accident caused by the negligent actions of another driver, reach out to an attorney today. An Albuquerque car accident lawyer will have the resources needed to help you throughout this entire process. They can investigate your claim, help determine liability, and handle all communication with the insurance carriers on your behalf. The goal is to recover the compensation you need for medical bills, lost income, property damage, and any pain and suffering you endure.