Best Car Accident Lawyers in Albuquerque

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Albuquerque, New Mexico?

  The non-emergency number of the Albuquerque Police Department is 505-242-COPS (or 505-242-2677).

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Albuquerque, New Mexico?

  Traffic accident reports are available in person at the Law Enforcement Center at 400 Roma NW.

• How are car accident lawyers in Albuquerque paid?

  Car accident lawyers in Albuquerque follow the usual personal injury law practice of charging fees on a contingency basis. This means an attorney's fees are only due if a claim succeeds and the client obtains a monetary award. The legal counsel receives a percentage of the settlement or judgment, and a cut of 33% is typical.

• What is the statute of limitations in Albuquerque for car accident suits?

  Albuquerque adheres to the statute of limitations in New Mexico, which states that plaintiffs generally have three years from the car accident to bring a personal injury case before the courts. If the victim passed away at a later date than the accident, the three-year period is counted from the date of death. For property damage claims, the deadline is set at four years from the incident.

• What kinds of personal injuries do car accident victims in Albuquerque usually sustain?

  Car accident victims in Albuquerque typically sustain lacerations and cuts to their skin. Broken bones are common, as are spinal cord injuries and brain trauma that cause paralysis. Internal organ damage may occur without being readily apparent before a doctor’s exam. Victims may also suffer burns, and their ability to function at work may become impaired.

• Who are the parties liable to victims of car accidents in Albuquerque?

  Victims of car accidents in Albuquerque may seek legal compensation from drivers who operated a vehicle while distracted, reckless, or drunk. Injuries caused by defective repairs and faulty parts are compensated by mechanics and product manufacturers, respectively. If the crash happened because the road was unsafe, the government is at fault for poor maintenance or haphazard design.

• If a victim was texting when struck by another car, does the law in Albuquerque prevent recovery for damages?

  Not necessarily, because the comparative negligence laws of New Mexico apply to car accidents in Albuquerque. This allows the judicial system to reduce a plaintiff's award based on how much their misconduct caused the crash. If a victim was texting but otherwise driving at a safe speed while the other driver was drunk and speeding at the same time, the court will allow partial recovery based on the percentage of negligence assigned. This means 30% will be subtracted from the damages awarded to a plaintiff if they are found 30% responsible for the accident.