Santa Fe Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Santa Fe Pedestrian Accident Attorney

If you or a loved one was injured while walking in Santa Fe, you may be entitled to compensation, and an experienced Santa Fe pedestrian accident lawyer can help you fight for it. Pedestrian accidents are often severe and life-changing, and the legal process following an accident can be confusing and frustrating.

At Egolf + Ferlic + Martinez, LLC, we know how difficult it can be to recover from a pedestrian accident both physically and financially. We are here to help you navigate the legal process and secure the compensation you deserve.

The Severity of Pedestrian Accidents

A pedestrian accident occurs when a pedestrian is hit by a vehicle. This includes cars, trucks, motorcycles, and scooters, among other vehicles. The accident usually occurs in a crosswalk, intersection, or parking lot. The injuries can be life-threatening because a person on foot is not protected when struck by a motor vehicle. Distracted driving, along with speeding and failing to yield, are typical causes of pedestrian accidents.

In 2022, the New Mexico Department of Transportation recorded 94 pedestrian fatalities. 15.4% of pedestrians involved in crashes were under the influence of alcohol. 22.1% of accidents involving pedestrians occurred in dark conditions.

The intersection congestion from highways and high pedestrian numbers from tourism creates major safety concerns. These dangers also make it important for victims to be aware of their rights and legal options.

Common Injuries in Pedestrian Accidents

When a pedestrian is struck by a vehicle, they have a high chance of suffering some kind of injury. Some of the most common injuries in pedestrian accidents include:

• Broken bones
• Cuts
• Bruises
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Spinal injuries
• Internal bleeding
• Permanent disfigurement
• Psychological and emotional damage, such as PTSD and anxiety

Even minor injuries may require long-term care and extensive medical bills. It’s important to note that if you were in a pedestrian accident, symptoms of injuries may not show up right away, so it’s important to seek medical attention as soon as possible, even if you feel fine.

Understanding Pedestrian Accident Laws in New Mexico

No driver in New Mexico is allowed to drive without proper minimum mandatory insurance. In New Mexico, these requirements include the following:

• $25,000 for bodily injury or death of one person,
• $50,000 for bodily injury or death of two or more people, and
• $10,000 for property damage in an accident.

Under New Mexico law, pedestrians have the right of way in crosswalks and drivers must yield to them in intersections when turning. However, this doesn’t give pedestrians the right to cross the street whenever and wherever they desire. Jaywalking is illegal, but drivers still have a responsibility to avoid an accident whenever possible.

Additionally, New Mexico operates under pure comparative negligence, meaning that even if you were partially at fault for an accident, you can still recover damages. Your settlement amount is reduced by the percentage of fault you are determined to be responsible for.

Compensation in a Pedestrian Accident

When you are injured in a pedestrian accident, it is not just your medical bills that can be the subject of a claim for compensation. You may also be entitled to damages for past and future medical expenses, loss of earning capacity, lost income, and the costs of rehabilitation and long-term care.

There may also be damages for pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and other forms of non-economic loss. In cases of wrongful death, surviving family members may be able to make a claim for funeral expenses and loss of companionship. A qualified lawyer can assist you in obtaining complete financial compensation for your case according to the specific details of your case.

About Egolf + Ferlic + Martinez, LLC

Egolf + Ferlic + Martinez, LLC is founded on the principle of effective advocacy. Our experienced attorneys have been providing strategic, aggressive, and compassionate legal representation in Santa Fe. We live and work in the Santa Fe community, and we care about helping our clients.

We stand beside injury victims in Northern New Mexico, and we’re here to help when you need it most. We understand pedestrian accident cases, and a Santa Fe pedestrian accident attorney can help you seek compensation.

FAQs

Does Insurance Pay if a Driver Hits a Pedestrian?

Yes, if a driver is determined to be responsible for hitting a pedestrian, their auto liability insurance usually covers pedestrian injuries, lost wages, and other damages. However, the extent of coverage may vary depending on the driver’s policy limits and the specific situation. In some cases, pedestrians may also be eligible for compensation through their own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage if the driver is underinsured.

How Long After an Accident Do You Have to File a Claim in New Mexico?

In New Mexico, most personal injury claims, including pedestrian accidents, are subject to a three-year statute of limitations. This means that you have three years from the date of the accident to file a claim. If your claim involves a government entity, you also need to file a formal notice of claim within 90 days. If you fail to meet these deadlines, you may lose your right to seek compensation.

What Is the Average Payout for a Pedestrian Hit by a Car in New Mexico?

Payout amounts for pedestrians hit by a car in New Mexico vary based on the details of your case. Factors that can influence payout amounts include medical bills, the level of fault or negligence, the extent of the pedestrian’s injuries, and the effect the injury had on the pedestrian’s life, such as their ability to work and the amount of pain and suffering they endured.

What Does it Cost to Hire an Experienced Pedestrian Accident Lawyer in New Mexico?

Every personal injury attorney in New Mexico with experience helping pedestrian accident victims sets their own fee agreements. Attorneys base their costs upon their level of experience and the amount of time they may need to represent your interests during your pedestrian accident claim.

If you’re ready to hire a lawyer, contact our office to schedule an initial meeting so there aren’t any financial surprises. Reach out to our team to hear more about what legal services we provide.

Hire a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Today

If you were injured in a pedestrian accident, hire a pedestrian accident lawyer right away at Egolf + Ferlic + Martinez, LLC. We can help you seek the justice you deserve. Contact us today to get started.