New Mexico Truck Accident Attorney
A fully loaded commercial truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, making it a formidable presence on the road. When these massive vehicles collide with smaller cars, the results can be catastrophic. Despite strict regulations governing commercial trucks, there are still approximately 500,000 truck crashes every year in the United States, leading to thousands of fatalities and countless serious injuries. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a New Mexico truck crash, Buchanan Law Firm, LLC is here to help.
Why Choose Buchanan Law Firm, LLC for Your Truck Crash Case?
At Buchanan Law Firm, LLC, we bring over 20 years of experience to every personal injury case, including those involving large commercial trucks. Attorney Deena Buchanan, Esq. is a seasoned trial lawyer with a proven track record in personal injury cases, including those with potential seven-figure damage awards and wrongful death claims. Her dedication to her clients has earned her accolades from colleagues, clients, and judges alike, particularly for her ability to remain calm and composed in the most challenging situations.
Deena’s in-depth knowledge of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSR) and her access to top-tier professionals in trucking industry standards, crash reconstruction, engineering, human factors, and biomechanics make her uniquely qualified to handle truck crash cases. She understands how trucker fatigue, drug use, roadway failure, and driver inattention can devastate a family in an instant. Her commitment to understanding the intricacies of the trucking industry allows her to ask the right questions and maximize the impact of each case she takes on.
Moreover, as a personal injury victim herself, Deena has firsthand experience of how a crash can change your life. Her background as a defense lawyer in personal injury cases also allows her to anticipate the strategies and tactics that insurance companies often use to contest claims, giving you a significant advantage in your case.
What Should I Do After a Truck Crash in New Mexico?
After a truck crash, your priority should be to seek medical attention, even if you feel fine. Injuries from truck crashes can be severe and may not be immediately apparent. Once your health is secured, it is crucial to document the crash scene, gather witness information, and report the crash to the police. Contacting an experienced truck crash attorney as soon as possible is also essential. The sooner you have legal representation, the better your chances of preserving crucial evidence and building a strong case.
How Can Buchanan Law Firm, LLC Help with My Truck Crash Case?
When you hire Buchanan Law Firm, LLC to represent you after a truck crash, we will comprehensively approach your case. We will start by thoroughly investigating the facts and circumstances surrounding the crash. This may include visiting the crash scene, reviewing police reports, and working with expert witnesses to reconstruct the crash. Our goal is to identify the causes of the crash and determine who is liable for your injuries.
We also understand the importance of accurately calculating the full extent of your losses. This includes not only your current medical expenses and lost wages but also future medical costs, loss of earning capacity, pain and suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life. We will work tirelessly for you to receive total and fair compensation for all your losses.
What Types of Injuries Are Common in Truck Crashes?
Truck crashes can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor to catastrophic. At Buchanan Law Firm, LLC, we represent clients who have suffered all types of injuries, including:
- Sprains, strains, and soft-tissue trauma
- Brain and spinal cord injuries
- Burns
- Broken bones
- Paralysis
- Amputation and loss of limb
- Permanent scarring and disfigurement
- Other serious and catastrophic injuries
In the most tragic cases, truck crashes can result in fatalities. We also represent surviving family members in wrongful death claims, helping them seek justice and compensation for their devastating loss.
How Are Truck Crashes Different From Car Crashes?
Truck crashes differ from car crashes in several significant ways. First, the sheer size and weight of commercial trucks mean that the forces involved in a crash are much greater, often resulting in more severe injuries. Second, the trucking industry is subject to a complex web of federal and state regulations, which can play a critical role in determining liability. Third, multiple parties may be involved in a truck crash, including the truck driver, the trucking company, and even the truck manufacturer, making these cases more complex.
What Compensation Can I Recover After a Truck Crash in New Mexico?
The compensation you may be entitled to after a truck crash depends on the specifics of your case. However, common forms of compensation include:
- Medical expenses (current and future)
- Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Loss of consortium or companionship (for spouses and close family members)
Who Can Be Held Liable for a Truck Crash in New Mexico?
Liability in a truck crash case can extend to multiple parties, including:
- The Truck Driver: If the driver was negligent, distracted, fatigued, or under the influence of drugs or alcohol, they can be held responsible for the crash.
- The Trucking Company: Companies may be liable if they fail to properly maintain the truck, do not follow regulations, or pressure drivers to work beyond safe limits.
- The Truck Manufacturer: If a truck or its parts defect contributed to the crash, the manufacturer might be held accountable.
- Cargo Loaders: Improperly loaded or overloaded cargo can lead to a crash, making those responsible for loading the truck potentially liable.
What Are Common Causes of Truck Crashes?
Truck crashes can result from various factors, including:
- Driver Fatigue: Long hours on the road without adequate rest can lead to driver fatigue, a leading cause of truck crashes.
- Distracted Driving: Texting, eating, or other distractions can divert a driver’s attention from the road.
- Impaired Driving: Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol significantly increases the risk of a crash.
- Speeding: Trucks require more time and distance to stop, making speeding particularly dangerous.
- Poor Vehicle Maintenance: Failure to maintain brakes, tires, and other critical systems can lead to mechanical failures and crashes.
How Long Do I Have to File a Truck Crash Claim in New Mexico?
In New Mexico, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim, including those arising from truck crashes, is typically three years from the crash date. However, certain circumstances, such as claims involving government entities or wrongful death, may have different deadlines. It is crucial to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure that you meet all necessary deadlines.
Can I Still Recover Compensation If I Was Partially at Fault for the Crash?
Yes, New Mexico follows a “pure comparative negligence” rule, meaning you can still recover compensation even if you were partially at fault for the crash. However, your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of your fault. For example, if you were found to be 20% at fault, your compensation would be reduced by 20%.
Contact a Proven New Mexico Truck Accident Lawyer at Buchanan Law Firm, LLC
In the aftermath of a commercial trucking crash, you need an attorney with the skill, knowledge, experience, and resources to protect your rights and help you seek justice. To schedule a free consultation with a New Mexico truck accident lawyer at Buchanan Law Firm, LLC, call 505-900-3559 or contact us online. Located in Albuquerque, New Mexico, we serve clients in Santa Fe and the surrounding areas.