New Mexico Truck Accident Laws

Truck accidents are a serious concern, and New Mexico truck accident laws play a critical role in holding trucking companies and drivers accountable. These laws, which combine state and federal regulations, are designed to ensure public safety and provide a pathway for those injured in truck-related accidents to seek fair compensation. Knowing how these laws work can help individuals better understand their rights after a collision.

Legal Responsibilities Of Truck Drivers And Companies

Truck drivers and the companies that employ them are subject to strict regulations in New Mexico. Drivers must adhere to state laws regarding speed limits, road safety, and hours of service. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) also plays a significant role in regulating the trucking industry, setting limits on the number of hours a driver can operate and requiring regular vehicle maintenance.

Trucking companies are responsible for ensuring their drivers meet licensing requirements, complete adequate training, and follow both state and federal regulations. Companies are also required to maintain their fleets to reduce the likelihood of mechanical failures that could lead to accidents.

Violations of these rules, whether by drivers or companies, can result in severe consequences, including liability for damages if an accident occurs.

Determining Liability In Truck Accidents

In New Mexico, determining liability after a truck accident often involves examining various factors. Trucking accidents can involve multiple parties, including the driver, the company, and third parties such as maintenance providers or manufacturers of defective truck parts. The trucking industry is required to maintain thorough records, including driver logs and maintenance reports, which can be critical when investigating an accident.

New Mexico uses a fault-based system for semi-truck accidents, meaning the at-fault party, such as a truck driver, trucking company, or third party, is responsible for damages. Driver negligence, poor truck maintenance, or third-party actions like faulty repairs can lead to liability. Under New Mexico’s comparative negligence law, compensation is possible even if the injured party shares fault, though it is reduced by their fault percentage. Semi-truck accidents often involve multiple parties and complex regulations, making legal guidance essential. An experienced attorney can help secure evidence, handle negotiations, and work to obtain fair compensation for injured individuals.

Statutes Of Limitations And Filing Claims

New Mexico truck accident laws include a statute of limitations for filing personal injury claims. In most cases, victims have three years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. If the accident involves a fatality and leads to a wrongful death claim, the statute of limitations is typically two years. Missing these deadlines can result in the forfeiture of your right to pursue compensation.

Additionally, if a government entity is involved in the accident, such as a municipal vehicle, there are shorter timelines and additional filing requirements to consider. This adds an extra layer of complexity to the legal process.

Compensation For Victims

Victims of truck accidents in New Mexico may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. The amount of compensation will depend on the severity of the injuries, the degree of fault, and other specific factors related to the case. Proper documentation, including medical records and accident reports, is essential when seeking damages.

Our team at Truck Law is committed to helping clients secure fair compensation under New Mexico truck accident laws. We recognize that recovering from an accident can be challenging, which is why we focus on addressing the legal aspects while you focus on healing.

How We Can Help

Truck accidents can result in devastating consequences, and the legal process to recover compensation can be overwhelming. If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, contact us today. At Truck Law, we’re dedicated to helping clients protect their rights and pursue justice. Call us now to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward recovery.