According to a recent report, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recently announced new back-up camera technology designed to prevent accidents. The NHTSA is a safety branch of the U.S. Department of Transportation that was designed to implement safety programs. The NHTSA is charged with studying accident statistics and determining ways to reduce economic losses, deaths, and injuries related to motor vehicle accidents. The agency does this by examining the most common causes of accidents.
Recently, the NHTSA released information that indicated that over 200 deaths and 15,000 injuries are a result of “backing-up accidents.” Tragically, many of the fatalities in these cases occur to children under the age of five. In light of these startling statistics, the NHTSA will be implementing a new rule that will mandate that all new cars must have backing-up technology. The Administration explains that cars must have this technology even if the cameras are installed as an aftermarket addition.
One owner of a backup-camera manufacturer explained that this feature is not only a safety feature but one of convenience. It can serve as a peace of mind for drivers who otherwise will not have a clear picture of what is behind them. The NHTSA will require this technology in all new cars by spring 2018.
Common Causes of Car Accidents in New Mexico
As the NHTSA reported, one of the most common causes of accidents is the failure of a party to notice another vehicle, person, or object when they are backing up. In addition to the failure to look at one’s surroundings, there are many other common causes of car accidents.
In New Mexico, some of the most frequent reasons a car accident occurs is because one party is texting and driving, they are under the influence of drugs or alcohol, they are fatigued or otherwise distracted, or they are driving in a car with dangerous or defective components. Any of these common occurrences can have a disastrous effect.
New Mexico Statutes Regarding Car Accidents
It is important that after a person has been injured in a car accident, they seek treatment and consider hiring an attorney to discuss their rights and remedies. In New Mexico, an injured party or their representative has three years after a car accident to file a personal injury lawsuit against the culpable party. Moreover, they have four years to file a claim for property damage after an automobile accident. These deadlines are strict and are almost always adhered to by New Mexico courts, so it is important that you contact an attorney to assist you in your case.
Have You Been Injured in a Car Accident in New Mexico?
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident in New Mexico, you may consider bringing a lawsuit against the negligent party that caused your injuries. An Albuquerque car accident attorney from the Fine Law Firm can help you navigate this exceedingly complex area of the law. The attorney will ensure that all of the necessary procedural requirements are met. If you are successful, you may be entitled to damages related to the accident. Contact an attorney at the Fine Law Firm today at 502-243-4541 to schedule your free initial consultation.
More Blog Posts:
State Supreme Court Permits Trial Judge Ability to Adjust Verdict When Jury’s Damages Award “Shockingly” Low, New Mexico Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, October 14, 2015.
Supreme Court of Texas Remands Case After Finding that Spectating a Sporting Event is Not Considered “Recreation” Under Relevant Statute, New Mexico Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, October 7, 2015.