On average, a car accident in New Mexico occurs once every 14 minutes. However, many of these accidents are preventable. One of the leading causes of car accidents is distracted driving. Texting, talking, or even eating can pull a driver’s attention away from the road and result in a deadly accident. Many victims of distracted driving accidents suffer severe injuries that can significantly impact their daily lives.
If you have been injured in a distracted driving accident in New Mexico, you may be eligible to recover compensation for the losses you have suffered. At Dominguez law, we are committed to helping our clients hold distracted drivers accountable for the suffering they have caused. When you choose us, we will passionately and aggressively fight for your rights.
What Is Prohibited Under New Mexico’s Distracted Driving Laws?
Distracted driving is defined as driving without devoting your full attention to the road. New Mexico has laws in place to prevent distracted driving and keep our streets safe for motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians. New Mexico currently prohibits the following behaviors while behind the wheel:
- Texting, emailing, or typing on a mobile device
- Reading text messages or emails
- Using a handheld device while driving
- Using a hands-free device if the driver is a teen or novice
However, there are many exceptions to New Mexico’s distracted driving laws. For example, you are permitted to use a device if you are accessing your GPS. Additionally, experienced adult drivers may send hands-free text messages.
New Mexico also has no laws explicitly prohibiting other distracting behaviors such as eating and grooming while driving. Instead of banning every distraction, New Mexico law states that drivers must devote their full time and attention to operating their vehicles. If an individual is convicted of distracted driving, they may be fined $25 for the first offense and $50 for subsequent offenses.
Damages You May Be Eligible to Recover if a Distracted Driver Hits You
While the fines for distracted driving are not steep, a distracted driving accident can leave victims contending with significant losses. Victims may have to contend with extended hospital stays and time off of work over the course of their recovery. If you have been injured in a distracted driving accident, you may have the legal right to file a personal injury claim to recover damages. Some damages your lawyer may be able to help you recover include the following:
- Current and future medical expenses
- Lost wages and earning potential
- Significant scarring or disfigurement
- Loss of enjoyment in life
- Acute emotional distress
- Pain and suffering
Your lawyer will investigate every detail of your case to determine which damages you may be eligible to collect. Our attorneys will aggressively advocate for your rights so that the distracted driver may be held fully accountable for their negligent actions.
Speak to a Seasoned Car Accident Attorney at Dominguez Law
If you have suffered an injury in a distracted driving accident, do not hesitate to contact an experienced car accident attorney. At Dominguez Law, our highly-qualified attorneys are committed to fiercely protecting our client’s rights and interests. We understand how challenging recovering from a distracted driving accident can be and are dedicated to making New Mexico’s complex claims process as stress-free as possible. When you retain our services, you can rest assured that your case is in caring and capable hands.
To schedule a free consultation with a member of our skilled legal team, call us at (505) 317-9837 or complete our contact form today. We also speak Spanish.