Pedestrians and cyclists have a high risk of sustaining catastrophic injuries if they are hit by a vehicle. In 2023, New Mexico reported 679 pedestrians involved in traffic crashes. There were 303 cyclists involved in accidents that year. This article, by our Santa Fe personal injury attorneys, explores summer safety tips for pedestrians and cyclists that can help prevent tragic accidents.
Summer Safety Tips for Pedestrians and Cyclists in Santa Fe, NM
The New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT) has a safety program that aims to reduce the number of accidents involving cyclists and pedestrians. The “Look for Me” Campaign helps raise awareness of the dangers cyclists and pedestrians face.
You cannot control what a driver may do. However, you can take steps to reduce your risk of being in an accident with a vehicle. Safety tips for pedestrians and cyclists include:
- Avoid lingering in a vehicle’s blind spot because the driver cannot see you, to avoid a crash.
- Make yourself visible to drivers by wearing brightly colored clothing, adding lights to your bicycle, carrying a flashlight, and using reflectors.
- Obey all traffic signals, laws, and signs. Bicyclists must follow New Mexico traffic laws unless there is a specific law for bicycles that differs from motor vehicles.
- Avoid riding a bicycle or walking while impaired by alcohol and/or drugs.
- Remain alert. Distracted cycling and walking can lead to an accident.
- Avoid walking and riding at night, dusk, or dawn. If possible, go with a group to increase your visibility to drivers.
- Do not wear headphones while walking or cycling. If you do, only wear an earbud in one ear so you can hear traffic and horns.
- Wear a bicycle helmet and other safety gear when riding.
Even the safest pedestrians and cyclists may be involved in an accident. Knowing what to do after a pedestrian or bicycle accident is important for protecting your rights.
Steps to Take After a Bicycle or Pedestrian Accident in Santa Fe, NM
If you are hit by a vehicle while walking or cycling in Santa Fe, the following steps can help you when filing a personal injury claim:
- Call 911 to report the crash
- Seek immediate medical treatment for injuries
- Ask bystanders and eyewitnesses for their contact information
- Take photographs and make a video of the accident scene
- Do not admit fault for causing the accident
You could be entitled to compensation for your injuries if the driver caused an accident. However, the insurance company and driver may try to blame you for the accident. Talk with an attorney about your case as soon as possible. An attorney can help you fight allegations of contributory fault that could prevent you from receiving a fair settlement for your claim.
Schedule a Free Consultation With Our Santa Fe Personal Injury Attorneys
Has a negligent driver injured you? If so, you could be entitled to compensation for your injuries. Contact our Santa Fe personal injury attorneys today to discuss filing a pedestrian or bicycle accident claim. Our attorneys help pedestrians and cyclists seek the compensation they deserve from the driver who caused their injuries.