Involved in an Accident with a Commercial Vehicle in New Mexico? Here’s What You Need to Know

Experiencing a car accident can be a distressing event, but accidents involving commercial vehicles—such as trucks, buses, and delivery vans—often present additional complexities. Given their size and weight, these accidents can lead to more severe injuries and complicate the determination of liability, as multiple parties may be involved.

If you find yourself in the aftermath of a commercial vehicle accident in New Mexico our dedicated team of personal injury attorneys is here to guide you.

What Constitutes a Commercial Vehicle?

Commercial vehicles differ from private vehicles primarily in their purpose. These vehicles are used for business operations and can include:

Delivery Vehicles: Trucks and vans used by companies such as FedEx, UPS, Amazon, and other delivery services.
Company Cars: Vehicles owned by businesses and used by employees for work-related tasks.
Buses: This category includes school buses, city transit buses, and charter buses.
Trucks: Ranging from pickups to large semi-trucks and eighteen-wheelers.
Specialized Vehicles: Taxis, tow trucks, utility vehicles, and others used for commercial purposes.

Due to their potential to cause significant harm, commercial vehicles are subject to stricter regulations, and their drivers are held to higher standards of care.

Understanding Settlement Values in Commercial Vehicle Accidents

It’s natural to wonder about the potential settlement value after an accident. However, various factors can influence this amount, including:

Severity of Injuries: More severe injuries often lead to higher medical costs and longer recovery times, affecting the settlement.
Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, the loss of income can significantly impact your claim.
Future Earning Capacity: Injuries that affect your ability to work in the future can lead to increased compensation.
Pain and Suffering: Non-economic damages, such as emotional distress and loss of enjoyment of life, also contribute to the overall settlement value.

An experienced attorney can provide an accurate assessment of your case and potential compensation.

Why You Should Hire an Attorney for Your Commercial Vehicle Accident Case

Dealing with commercial vehicle accidents can be more intricate than typical car accidents. Here are several reasons to consider hiring a qualified attorney:

The Challenges of Insurance Negotiations

Commercial vehicles often come with complex insurance policies. Insurance companies may offer low initial settlements or use tactics to prolong negotiations, hoping you settle for less. An attorney can help navigate these challenges and advocate for the compensation you deserve.

Ensuring Fair Representation

Large commercial entities often have substantial resources and legal teams dedicated to protecting their interests. An experienced lawyer ensures that your rights are upheld and that you receive fair treatment throughout the legal process.

Determining Liability

Accidents involving commercial vehicles may have multiple parties at fault, complicating liability determination. An attorney can conduct a thorough investigation to identify all responsible parties, ensuring you receive full compensation.

Navigating the Legal System

The legal process can be complex and overwhelming, especially while recovering from injuries. An attorney can handle all necessary paperwork, adhere to deadlines, and represent you in court, allowing you to focus on your recovery.

Important Deadlines for Filing Your Claim

In New Mexico, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including those resulting from commercial vehicle accidents, is three years from the date of the incident. Failing to file within this timeframe can bar you from recovering any compensation, regardless of the strength of your case. It’s crucial to consult with an attorney promptly to ensure your claim is filed correctly and on time.

Let Our Experienced Team Advocate for You

Recovering from a commercial vehicle accident can leave you feeling vulnerable and uncertain. Don’t face this journey alone.

At the Law Offices of Kenneth G. Egan, our experienced attorneys are committed to helping you secure the compensation you need to move forward. We work on a contingency fee basis—meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case.