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Car Accident Claims New Mexico
If you’ve been involved in a car accident in New Mexico, don’t navigate the claims process alone. Contact Raymon law Group at (505) 390-1040 for a free consultation.
RAYMON LAW GROUP
How Our New Mexico Car Accident lawyer Can Help?
If you’ve been involved in a car accident in New Mexico, don’t navigate the Car Accident claims process alone. The skilled Car Accident Attorneys at Raymon Law Group are here to help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Contact Raymon law Group at (505) 390-1040 for a free consultation. Our dedicated Personal Injury Attorney Team is here to support you through challenging situations, ensuring that your rights and interests are skillfully advocated for and protected.
Types of Car Accident Claims in New Mexico
Car accidents are unfortunate events that can cause physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial burdens. Knowing the types of car accident claims and how to file them can make a significant difference in ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.
At Raymon Law Group, we are committed to providing comprehensive guidance and support to individuals in New Mexico who have been involved in car accidents.
1. Personal Injury Claims
Personal injury claims arise when individuals suffer injuries due to the negligence or recklessness of another party involved in the accident. These injuries can range from minor cuts and bruises to more severe conditions such as whiplash, broken bones, or traumatic brain injuries. In New Mexico, victims of car accidents have the right to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages resulting from the accident.
2. Property Damage Claims
Property damage claims cover the costs associated with repairing or replacing damaged property, including vehicles involved in the accident. This may include the cost of repairs, rental car expenses, or the fair market value of a totaled vehicle. It’s essential to document the extent of the damage and gather evidence, such as photographs and repair estimates, to support your claim.
3. Wrongful Death Claims
Tragically, some car accidents result in the loss of life. In such cases, surviving family members may pursue a wrongful death claim against the at-fault party. These claims seek compensation for funeral expenses, loss of income, loss of companionship, and other damages resulting from the untimely death of a loved one. Wrongful death claims are complex and emotionally challenging, requiring the expertise of experienced legal professionals.
Fault and Liability Regulations in New Mexico
In New Mexico, the system of fault and liability operates on the basis of attributing responsibility in accidents. As an “at-fault” jurisdiction, individuals have the right to pursue recompense for damages resulting from car accidents from the party deemed responsible and their insurance provider.
Should you possess relevant coverage, you have the option to utilize your own insurance. However, it is not mandatory to initiate a claim through your personal policy following an accident. For instance, some individuals opt to utilize their personal collision coverage for vehicle repairs, with subsequent reimbursement sought from the insurance provider of the at-fault party.
Shared Fault Guidelines in New Mexico
The state of New Mexico adheres to a principle of pure comparative fault. This framework allows individuals to pursue claims against other involved drivers even in cases where they are predominantly responsible, with compensation adjusted proportionately according to their degree of fault in the accident.
How to File Car Accident Claim
1. Report the Accident
After an accident, promptly report it to the authorities, such as the police or highway patrol. In New Mexico, accidents involving injury, death, or significant property damage must be reported. A police report serves as an official record, essential for insurance claims or legal proceedings.
2. Seek Medical Attention
Seek medical attention immediately, even if injuries appear minor, as some may worsen over time. Prompt care ensures your health and provides vital documentation to support your claim. Follow your doctor’s treatment plan and keep detailed records of all related medical expenses.
3. Notify Your Insurance Company
In New Mexico, drivers are required to carry minimum liability auto insurance. Notify your insurer of the accident promptly and provide accurate details. Avoid admitting fault or accepting settlement offers before consulting an attorney.
4. Consult with Car Accident Attorney
Managing the aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming, especially with insurance and legal complexities. A skilled car accident lawyer can provide crucial guidance and support throughout the claims process. At Raymon Law Group, our experienced attorneys are dedicated to helping accident victims secure the compensation they deserve.
5. Gather Evidence
Strengthen your car accident claim by gathering key evidence at the scene. Take photos of the vehicles, collect witness statements, and retain all medical records and related documents. Comprehensive evidence builds a solid foundation for negotiations or court proceedings.
6. Negotiate a Settlement or Litigate
After filing a car accident claim, the insurance company investigates liability and damages, often offering quick, low settlements. Review these offers with your attorney to ensure they cover your losses. If needed, your attorney can take the case to court to pursue fair compensation.
Car Accident Compensation in New Mexico
Insurance companies in New Mexico annually pay out nearly $1 billion in auto accident claims.
Estimating Settlements
For mild to moderate injuries, calculate economic damages like medical bills and lost wages, then multiply by a factor of one to three to include inconvenience, pain, and emotional distress. Minor soft-tissue injuries warrant a one-time multiplier, while more severe injuries, such as fractures or concussions, justify higher multipliers.
Seek Legal Counsel for Severe Cases
Severe injuries and wrongful death cases require the expertise of an experienced attorney to ensure the best outcome for victims and their families.
Average Settlements
In New Mexico, the average settlement for moderate car accident claims is $49,480, ranging from $6,772 to $403,000. Settlements can vary widely based on accident circumstances, injury severity, and insurance policy limits.
Factors influencing compensation for car accidents may include:
- The extent and seriousness of injuries sustained
- Shared responsibility for the accident
- Collisions involving multiple vehicles
- Multiple individuals injured in the accident
- Loss of life
- The extent of available insurance coverage
In situations where you and others sustain significant injuries, the available insurance funds may not be adequate to address everyone’s losses. Coverage may be accessible through the responsible party’s insurance as well as your own policy, contingent upon the specifics of the accident and the additional protections outlined in your policy
Minimum Auto Insurance Requirements in New Mexico
Drivers in New Mexico are mandated by law to maintain auto insurance coverage meeting minimum standards, which include bodily injury liability coverage of at least $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident, along with $10,000 for property damage.
Optional Insurance Offerings in New Mexico
Insurance providers offering auto policies in New Mexico must extend uninsured (UM) and underinsured (UIM) motorist coverage matching the liability limits of the policy. Policyholders retain the option to waive these additional coverages.
With UM and UIM protections in place, you can seek compensation from your own insurer following accidents involving hit-and-run incidents, uninsured motorists, or situations where the responsible party’s coverage is insufficient to address your losses.
Civil Deadlines Matter
According to NMSA 37-1-8, you have three years from your accident to file a claim against your insurer. This period is crucial, as evidence degrades and memories fade. Other civil deadlines may be shorter.
To secure a fair and equitable resolution, it’s imperative not to allow the passage of time to influence your decision-making process. Act promptly to protect your case.
Frequently Asked Questions
You Have Questions. We Have Answers.
After a car accident in New Mexico, it’s essential to prioritize safety by checking for injuries and moving to a safe location if possible. Then, report the accident to the police and seek medical attention for any injuries, no matter how minor.
In New Mexico, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim arising from a car accident is generally three years from the date of the accident. However, it’s crucial to consult with an attorney promptly to ensure compliance with all deadlines.
While you are not legally required to hire an attorney to handle your car accident claim in New Mexico, having experienced legal representation can significantly improve your chances of obtaining fair compensation. An attorney can navigate the legal process, negotiate with insurance companies, and advocate for your rights, allowing you to focus on your recovery.
The timeframe for settling a car accident claim in New Mexico varies depending on the complexity of the case, the extent of injuries, and other factors. Some claims may be resolved through settlement negotiations within a few months, while others may require litigation and could take longer to resolve.
The amount of compensation you may receive for car accident injuries in New Mexico depends on various factors, including the severity of your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. An experienced attorney can evaluate your case and provide an estimate of potential damages.
Location Served
We Represent
Individuals & Families
throughout New Mexico
Raymon Law Group’s Albuquerque personal injury lawyers are based at our main office in the heart of downtown Albuquerque at 500 Marquette Ave. NW, Ste. 1200.
We also have our Office at Santa Fe located at 150 Washington Ave, Suite 201. If you’re unable to visit us, our attorneys are happy to meet you at your home or hospital to discuss your case.
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