Yet again, the State of New Mexico reportedly ranked number one in the nation for per capita accidental deaths. This means New Mexico has more unintentional and other injury deaths based on the number of residents than any other state in the country. State of New Mexico Epidemiologist, Dr. Michael Landen, said any death labeled an accident by the State Office of the Medical Investigator is included in the annual statistic. According to Dr. Landen, about 500 people throughout the state die from an accidental drug overdose every year. In addition, about 300 are killed in car accidents and falls. Last year, the state office reportedly investigated at least 1500 deaths.
Dr. Landen believes the high accidental death rate in New Mexico is caused in large part by widespread poverty and substance abuse. He also said an estimated 400 people killed throughout the state last year had alcohol in their system. Dr. Landen stated the number of drug overdose and fall deaths must be addressed before any progress can be made with regard to New Mexico’s overall accidental death rate. Still, Dr. Landen claims some of the deadly accidents that occurred last year were entirely unexpected. For instance, one New Mexico resident died after being kicked in the head by a buffalo. Another individual lost his life after his wheelchair landed in a refrigerator. In addition, at least one person was killed when a tree fell on him and another passed away following an explosion in a mine.
In New Mexico, serious accidents often occur unexpectedly. Unfortunately, many accidents result in catastrophic injury or death. Fatal injury accidents may be caused by defective products as well as the intentional or careless act of another person. If you were hurt as a result of the negligent actions of someone else, you may be eligible to receive compensatory damages. Such damages include the cost of your medical expenses, physical therapy, pain, suffering, lost wages, and more.
If your loved one was killed due to another person’s negligent act, you may be entitled to recover for loss of support and funeral expenses. In specific circumstances, you may also be eligible to receive punitive damages. Punitive damages are normally awarded in order to punish especially egregious behavior or to discourage similar behavior in the future. The amount of time during which you may file a New Mexico personal injury or wrongful death claim is limited. Contact a quality personal injury lawyer to discuss your right to recovery in more detail.
If you were hurt or a family member was killed in a serious injury accident, do not hesitate to contact the Fine Law Firm. Our dedicated Albuquerque personal injury attorneys are available to help you receive the compensation you deserve based on the severity of your harm. At the Fine Law Firm, our capable lawyers have more than 100 years of combined experience handling thousands of New Mexico automobile, truck, motorcycle, and other accident cases. To schedule a free confidential case evaluation, please call the Fine Law Firm today at (505) 889-3463 or contact our hardworking attorneys through our website.
More Blog Posts:
Study Finds State of New Mexico May be Liable for $120 Million in Albuquerque Medical Malpractice Case, New Mexico Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, December 16, 2012
Two Tourists Injured in Santa Fe Pedestrian Accident, New Mexico Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, November 27, 2012
Additional Resources:
NM accidental deaths rank #1, by Alex Tomlin, krqe.com