Being the victim of a New Mexico hit-and-run accident can be an isolating and overwhelming event that may leave you with more questions than answers. In the aftermath, you may struggle to find and hold the responsible driver accountable for their actions and recover fair compensation for your injuries. While feeling alone during this stressful time is common, an experienced hit-and-run attorney can provide much-needed answers and support.
At Hunt Law Firm, our skilled hit-and-run accident attorneys offer comprehensive legal advice and other resources to help you get back on your feet and pursue the compensation you deserve. From protecting your rights to helping you understand your legal options, we are ready to walk you through the process from start to finish so you don’t have to face this challenging situation solo.
Contact our New Mexico office today and ask to set up a free initial consultation. Let’s work together to recover fair compensation and put this hit-and-run incident behind you.
What Is a Hit-and-Run Accident?
A hit-and-run accident occurs when a driver refuses to stop, render aid, and exchange information after an accident. New Mexico law requires motorists to stop following any accident that results in injury or death. While at the scene, drivers must also provide their insurance and contact information and attempt to aid injured individuals when necessary.
Drivers who flee an accident scene can face significant penalties depending on the severity of the crash. Crashes involving property damage are typically misdemeanor offenses punishable by fines up to $1,000 and a jail term of less than one year. Hit-and-run collisions that cause serious bodily injury or death can result in fourth-degree felony charges. A conviction can result in fines up to $5,000 and up to three years in jail.
What to Do After a Hit-and-Run Accident
Shocking data from the New Mexico Department of Transportation shows that in 2023, 17 percent of all crashes in New Mexico were hit-and-run collisions. A report from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety also indicates that New Mexico has one of the highest rates of pedestrian fatalities stemming from hit-and-run accidents.
A hit-and-run accident can leave you feeling shaken and unsure of your next steps. With so many hit-and-run incidents prevalent in New Mexico, victims must review what steps they should take following a crash to protect themselves. Your next steps can significantly impact your ability to pursue compensation for your injuries. After a New Mexico hit-and-run collision, follow these steps:
Remain at the Scene and Call Law Enforcement – It may be frightening to remain on scene alone, but move to a safe location and call law enforcement immediately.
Seek Medical Attention – Always put your health and safety first. Even if injuries seem minor, get checked by a medical professional as soon as possible.
Document the Scene – Document the scene as thoroughly as possible. Take photos and videos of the damage to your vehicle, injuries, and the surrounding area. Write down as many details about the crash and the other driver as possible, such as the vehicle’s make, model, and color, what the driver looked like, their license plate number, or any identifying marks, damage, or stickers on the car. Ask witnesses about what they saw and their contact information.
Contact an Attorney Immediately – Contacting an attorney as soon as possible can help increase your chances of potentially finding the responsible hit-and-run driver and building a solid case. They can also help you negotiate for maximum compensation.
Do Not Post on Social Media – It may be tempting to turn your community into a group of sleuths, but do not post about the accident on social media. Let law enforcement and your attorney work on the case. Insurers can use social media posts against you to deny your claim or diminish its value.
Pursuing Compensation After a New Mexico Hit-and-Run Accident
One of the most common questions that a hit-and-run victim asks is who pays for the damage caused by a hit-and-run driver? The answer depends on the circumstances of the situation. When the driver can be found by your attorney or law enforcement, you can follow the state’s fault-based system and file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company. You may also be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against the driver or their insurer, seeking compensation for your injuries.
When an attorney or authorities cannot locate the at-fault hit-and-run driver, you still have legal options for pursuing compensation. New Mexico does not require motorists to carry uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. However, all insurance companies must offer it to motorists. With so many uninsured drivers on New Mexico roadways, adding UM coverage to your policy is wise. Still, even more importantly, UM insurance can help cover your losses following a hit-and-run collision. Victims with UM coverage can file a compensation claim with their insurance company to help cover medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage.
Sometimes, a personal injury lawsuit may be filed against an additional at-fault third party, such as a government entity or parts manufacturer. It helps to hire an attorney to review the best options for pursuing compensation. A skilled hit-and-run attorney can also gather and preserve vital evidence and negotiate on your behalf so you are free to focus on recovering from your injuries.
Contact an Experienced New Mexico Hit-and-Run Lawyer for Help
Victims of New Mexico hit-and-run accidents face unique challenges not common in other motor vehicle collisions. Protecting your legal rights and recovering the money you need can be difficult without the help of a skilled attorney who can thoroughly investigate your situation and find legal solutions to your issues. The legal team at Hunt Law Firm wants to be there for you, offering you the respect, service, and reassurance you deserve.
Contact our office today for a free consultation and let us fight for you.