Earlier this month in Hobbs, New Mexico, one man was killed when the vehicle he was operating was struck by another vehicle being operated by a driver with a suspended license. According to one local news source, the accident took place on southbound NM 132.
Evidently, the driver of a Ford pickup truck was heading southbound on NM 132 when a Jeep attempted to make a left-hand turn in front of the truck. However, as the Ford approached the Jeep, there was not enough time for the Jeep to complete its turn, and the two vehicles collided. The driver of the Jeep was ejected from the vehicle and was pronounced dead at the scene of the accident by emergency responders.
The driver of the Ford left the scene before police arrived, but he was later arrested and charged under suspicion of vehicular homicide, leaving the scene of an accident, driving with a suspended license, and concealing one’s identity. Police have not yet completed their investigation, and additional charges may be filed if the facts warrant them.
Hit-and-Run Accidents in New Mexico
Sadly, this type of car crash is not unique among New Mexico accidents. In fact, it is estimated that there are roughly 1,500 fatal hit-and-run accidents each year across the country, and this number has been rising over the past several years.
To be certain, it takes a certain level of callousness and selfishness to flee the scene of a serious accident. The legislators in New Mexico agree, and they have enacted stiff penalties for those who are found guilty of fleeing the scene of an accident.
In addition to any criminal consequences a driver may face, a civil action may be brought against them as well by the accident victim or their family. It is important for accident victims and their families to know that this is the case even if the fleeing driver was not the one who actually caused the accident. In other words, New Mexico law requires that “any driver involved in an accident resulting in injury to or death of any person” provide their name, address, vehicle registration, and driver’s license to anyone else involved in the accident. Additionally, they must provide any and all “reasonable” assistance, including arranging transport to a hospital. Failing to comply with these requirements can result in both criminal and civil liability.
Have You Been Injured in a New Mexico Hit-and-Run Accident?
If you have recently been involved in a New Mexico hit-and-run accident, you may be entitled to monetary compensation for any injuries you sustained as a result. Similarly, if your loved one was killed in a hit-and-run accident, you may be able to seek recovery through a wrongful death action. In either case, an Albuquerque car accident lawyer at the Fine Law Firm can help you with your case. With decades of collective experience, the attorneys at the Fine Law Firm know what it takes to be successful in a hit-and-run case in New Mexico courts. Call 505-889-FINE today to set up your free consultation.
More Blog Posts:
DWI Suspect Involved in Fatal New Mexico Crash Free on Bond Awaiting Trial, New Mexico Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, July 27, 2015.
Construction Site Accident in Rio Rancho Kills One and Injures Several Others, New Mexico Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, September 8, 2015.