Taos Car Accident Lawyer

Taos Car Accident Attorney

Car accidents happen every day. This happens in every state, and New Mexico is no different, even if you drive safely. If you’re in a car accident, you have the right to file a claim against the other driver for your damages. If you want to have the greatest chance of winning your car accident claim, you should hire a Taos car accident lawyer.

Why Choose Us?

At Egolf + Ferlic + Martinez + Cox, LLC, we know that after a terrible loss, it can be hard to figure out what to do next. With our combination of kindness and skill, we can help you navigate this hard time.

We understand that cases of wrongful death and personal injury affect more than just the lives of the people involved. They also change how businesses, governments, and other groups value safety and accountability. We take on these cases to get justice for you and your family and to make our city safer.

The Basics of Car Accidents in New Mexico

Each state has its own laws regarding car accidents. New Mexico is an at-fault state. This means you can file a claim against someone if they caused your accident, even if it was only partially their fault. In states that do not have at-fault laws, drivers can only use their own insurance, except in extreme situations.

You shouldn’t have to pay for the costs of an accident that wasn’t your fault. If you file insurance and personal injury claims, you will not have to. Damage to property, doctor visits, and pain and suffering are just some of the costs that can arise after a car accident. This is why getting compensation is so important for financial security.

Car accidents happen for a number of reasons. Some of these include:

• Distracted driving. It’s easier than ever to be a victim of distracted driving, thanks to all the electronics in cars. You could receive compensation after an accident if you can prove that the other driver was distracted while driving.
• Drunk driving. If you want to drive, you must do so sober. You are likely to be blamed for an accident if you were either drunk or high when the accident happened.
• Careless driving. Drivers should always follow the rules of the road. This includes giving the right of way, signaling to turn, and going the speed limit, among other things. Many car accidents happen because of careless driving, such as speeding, tailgating, running red lights, or weaving in and out of traffic which makes the driver responsible for the crash.

What to Do After a Car Accident

Staying calm is the most important thing to remember after an accident. You need to follow the right steps to give yourself the greatest chance of winning your claim against the other driver.

Right after the accident, check yourself to see if there are any immediate injuries. Even minor injuries should be checked out by a medical professional to ensure there are no underlying issues. If you can, check to see if anyone is hurt or at risk of getting hurt. If someone needs to go to the hospital, call an ambulance and get them medical care right away.

Help anyone who is seriously hurt, then call the police and wait for them to arrive at the scene. While you wait, you should give the other individuals involved in the accident your insurance and contact information. Take pictures of the crash and any injuries. You should also take pictures of the scene; your lawyer can use them as evidence.

Final Steps

Once law enforcement arrives, tell them what happened, but be careful not to say that you were at fault. You should not apologize for the accident because someone could use that against you in court. Don’t add to or change the facts; just state them clearly.

Lastly, you should see a doctor for a checkup to make sure you don’t have any broken bones or internal injuries. You should talk to a lawyer to start the formal process of making a claim as soon as possible.

FAQs

In New Mexico, How Long Do You Have to Make a Claim for a Car Accident?

In New Mexico, you usually have three years from the date the accident occurred to make a claim related to it. This is relevant for personal injury claims. If the accident led to a wrongful death, you have up to three years after the date of death to file a claim. In order to protect your legal rights, you must take action within this time frame.

What Should I Do After a Car Accident?

If you are ever in a car accident in Taos, New Mexico, the first thing you want to do is ensure your safety. Pull over to the side of the road if you can. Seek medical attention for you and everyone else involved if there are immediate injuries. Next, you will want to contact law enforcement to report the accident so they can make a formal report.

When Should You File a Claim for a Car Accident?

If you’ve been seriously hurt in a car accident, your property has been damaged badly, or the insurance payment isn’t enough, you may want to file a claim. If the person who was at fault or their insurance company denies liability, gives too little compensation, or refuses to negotiate fairly, you should engage an attorney for help.

What Is the Charge for a Hit and Run in New Mexico?

A hit-and-run is a very dangerous crime in New Mexico. No matter how bad the accident was, if a driver leaves the scene of an accident that caused damage, injury, or death, they could be charged with a misdemeanor or a felony. A hit-and-run that causes harm or death is usually charged as a felony, which means the guilty party could go to jail, pay fines, or lose their license.

Contact Egolf + Ferlic + Martinez + Cox, LLC

If you have been in a car accident, an attorney at Egolf + Ferlic + Martinez + Cox, LLC, can help you with the next steps. Contact us today for more information.