Farmington Truck Accident Lawyer

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Trucks are easy to spot on the highway, and it can be easy to navigate around them. But accidents occur, no matter how cautious you are. Due to their size and weight, trucks can cause significant damage and severe injuries. If you or a loved one has been injured in a trucking accident, seeking legal assistance is crucial. The experienced truck accident lawyers at Patscheck Law in Farmington are here to help you navigate the complexities of your case and secure the compensation you deserve. Contact us at (505) 325-9898 or use our online contact form today.

Common Causes of Farmington Truck Accidents

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), New Mexico sees a considerable number of truck accidents each year, many resulting in serious injuries or fatalities. 1,079 people were reported injured in the latest data available. 466 people were killed in accidents with trucks.

Truck accidents around Farmington can occur for various reasons. Many crashes involve negligence or hazardous conditions.

Some of the most common causes include:

Driver Fatigue

Truck drivers often work long hours without adequate rest. They can become fatigued or use impaired judgment.

Distracted Driving

Activities like texting, eating, or using a GPS while driving can take a driver’s eyes off the road.

Speeding

Exceeding the speed limit is particularly dangerous for trucks. Their size can make stopping in time difficult.

Impaired Driving

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs significantly increases the risk of accidents.

Poor Vehicle Maintenance

Inadequate maintenance of trucks can lead to mechanical failures. If trucks are not properly cared for, there can be issues, such as brake or tire malfunctions.

Overloaded or Improperly Loaded Cargo

Overloading or incorrect loading of cargo can affect the truck’s balance and handling.

Adverse Weather Conditions

Rain, snow, fog, and other weather conditions can make truck control challenging, especially if the driver is not adequately trained or prepared.

Typical Injuries Caused by Truck Accidents

Truck accidents often result in severe injuries due to the sheer size and force of the vehicles involved. Some of the most common injuries include:

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)

Head injuries can range from concussions to severe brain damage. Victims with head injuries can suffer long-term cognitive and physical impairments.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Damage to the spinal cord can cause paralysis and other serious disabilities. These injuries can greatly affect the victim’s quality of life.

Broken Bones

The impact of a truck collision can result in fractures and broken bones. Broken bones can require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.

Internal Injuries

Internal bleeding and damage to organs are common in high-impact truck accidents. These damages often require emergency medical intervention.

Lacerations and Burns

Victims can suffer from deep cuts and burns, leading to permanent scarring and disfigurement.

Fatal Injuries

Tragically, many truck accidents result in fatalities. Surviving family members may be entitled to wrongful death compensation.

Damages Available in a Truck Accident Claim

You may be entitled to compensation if you’ve been injured in a truck crash. These can be grouped into three categories:

  • Economic Damages: These cover the tangible financial losses you’ve incurred from the accident. These damages can include medical expenses, lost wages, loss of earning capacity, and property damage.
  • Non-Economic Damages: These compensate for intangible losses such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. Calculating non-economic damages often requires an experienced attorney.
  • Punitive Damages: You may be awarded punitive damages in cases of particularly egregious negligence or misconduct. These are meant to punish the at-fault party and deter similar behavior in the future.

Liability in a Truck Accident

Determining liability in a truck accident involves multiple parties, such as the truck driver, trucking company, vehicle manufacturer, or maintenance provider.

A Farmington truck accident lawyer will thoroughly investigate your case, gathering evidence such as:

  • Eyewitness Testimony: Statements from witnesses can provide crucial details about the accident.
  • Police Reports: Official reports often include critical information about the accident scene, contributing factors, and initial assessments of fault.
  • Medical Records: Documentation of your injuries and treatment can link the accident to your medical condition.
  • Expert Testimony: Specialists in accident reconstruction, vehicle mechanics, and medical fields can provide insights that support your claim.

What is Negligence in New Mexico Personal Injury Cases?

To prove negligence in a semi-truck accident case, you must establish the following four elements:

  1. Duty: The defendant owed you a duty of care.
  2. Breach: The defendant breached that duty through action or inaction.
  3. Causation: The breach of duty caused your injuries.
  4. Damages: You suffered actual damages (e.g., medical expenses, pain, and suffering).

How to File a Truck Accident Claim in Farmington

After a truck accident, follow these steps to protect your rights and strengthen your claim:

  • Call 911: Report the accident and seek immediate medical attention for any injuries.
  • Move to Safety: If possible, move your vehicle to a safe location to prevent further accidents.
  • Exchange Information: Collect contact and insurance information from the truck driver and any other parties involved.
  • File a Police Report: Ensure an official record of the accident is created.
  • Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries.
  • Contact Your Insurance Company: Report the accident to initiate your claim process.
  • Keep Detailed Records: Maintain records of all expenses related to the accident, including medical bills and lost wages.
  • Consult a Truck Accident Lawyer: An experienced attorney can guide you through the legal process, helping you gather evidence and negotiate with insurance companies.

How Can a Personal Injury Lawyer Help Me?

Navigating the aftermath of a big rig crash can be overwhelming. A personal injury lawyer can provide invaluable assistance by:

  • Handling Legal Procedures: Ensuring all legal documents are correctly filed within the statute of limitations.
  • Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Advocating on your behalf to secure a fair settlement.
  • Gathering Evidence: Collecting and preserving crucial evidence to build a strong case.
  • Providing Emotional Support: Offering guidance and support throughout the recovery process.