Best Car Accident Lawyers in Rio Rancho

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the Rio Rancho Police Department is (505) 891-7226.

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

  A copy of the police report may be obtained by sending a request to the New Mexico Department of Public Safety IPRA and Accidents Department (PO BOX 1628). The request may also be sent via email to dps.ipra@state.nm.us or lerb.accidents@state.nm.us.

• What are the advantages of getting a car accident lawyer in Rio Rancho?

  The advantages of getting a car accident lawyer in Rio Rancho include the know-how in recovering maximum compensation even for cases which involve parties with insufficient insurance. It also provides clients with charges that may be included in the computation of their compensation claim, such as pre-existing conditions and post-accident lifestyle.

• What are the most common injuries suffered by car accident victims in Rio Rancho?

  The most common injuries suffered by car accident victims in Rio Rancho include back, shoulder, knee, hand, and wrist injuries. They also suffer disfigurement, fractures, amputation, and burns, as well as more severe cases such as spinal cord and traumatic brain injuries. The victims may also suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder.

• Are non-economic damages recoverable in Rio Rancho?

  Non-economic damages are recoverable in Rio Rancho, and they cover cases of bereavement, depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Courts arrive at a value for non-economic damages by using the multiplier method wherein the total amount for suffered economic losses is multiplied by any number from 1.5 to 5—after which the resulting value is added to the amount for economic damages. For instance, economic damages amounting to $100,000 will yield non-economic damages of $350,000 if the multiplier used was 2.5.

• What areas in Rio Rancho are prone to car accidents?

  Accident-prone areas in Rio Rancho include roads along Enchanted Hills and Mariposa. Considered the most accident-prone is the intersection of Paseo del Volcan and Iris Road. Other roads to look out for are Unser and Cabezon Boulevard which had over 50 crashes in the past decade and the King and Unser intersection which has an average of seven crashes per year.

• How much monetary compensation can a car accident victim in Rio Rancho recover?

  A car accident victim in Rio Rancho may recover anywhere between $5,000 and millions of dollars. The amount of monetary compensation would depend on several factors, including the age, health, and income level of the victim, as well as how the car accident occurred and how much fault can be attributed to the other party.

• How do I choose a car accident lawyer?

  To select a car accident lawyer, consider the lawyer's experience, focus, and reputation. While nearly any attorney can negotiate with insurers for a settlement, not all attorneys have amassed experience litigating a claim in a court of law. Choose an attorney with a background that includes car accident claimants; it's helpful if the attorney is focused on personal injury law. Lastly, read reviews from previous clients to get a feel for the attorney's helpfulness and responsiveness to clients. The best lawyer for your case is one that you feel comfortable and confident working with.

• What steps should I take after a car accident?

  Immediately following a car accident, get out of traffic as soon as possible and dial 9-1-1. Exchange car insurance information with any other involved drivers and get a police report as soon as possible. Be truthful about what happened, even if you are at fault, but stick to reporting the facts of the accident without offering an opinion on who is to blame. If possible, take photos of your car, other cars at the scene, and the scene itself.

• (When) Do I need a lawyer after a car accident?

  Start working with a car accident lawyer as soon as possible following your car accident (some attorneys even make hospital visits). By reaching out for legal help early on, you avoid some of the pitfalls of trying to handle your claim on your own. Your attorney can also get the ball rolling on reimbursement for your medical bills and lost wages while awaiting the outcome of your claim.

• How long after a car accident can you claim an injury?

  The length of time you can file a claim for an injury following a car accident is governed by the statute of limitations in your state. Although it varies, most states set the statute of limitations for injured parties to seek compensatory damages at three years following the accident or three years after you discover your injuries. In cases where children are injured, the statute of limitations may be longer.

• What do I do after a car accident that I'm not responsible for?

  After an accident that's not your fault, seek immediate medical help if you are injured. Once it's safe to do so, obtain the other driver's contact and insurance information, any statements from witnesses, and photos of the scene. Obtain a police report and contact your insurer and the at-fault party's insurer. If you are injured, schedule a consultation with a car accident attorney to discuss your legal options.

• What happens if someone sues you after a car accident?

  If you have car insurance in force at the time of the accident, your insurance is contractually bound to represent you on any claims that arise, indemnifying you against loss up to the limits of your policy. You can help your insurance company by cooperating fully. If the plaintiff in any lawsuit obtains a judgment above your policy limits, then you can be held personally responsible for any damages awarded.

• What/how much can I expect from a car accident settlement?

  According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average bodily injury claim in 2018 was $15,785. The amount of any particular car accident settlement hinges primarily on the severity of the injuries sustained as a result and whether or not any partial or total permanent disability was caused by the accident. Claims that involve broken bones or nerve damage likely settle for more than claims where soft tissue injuries are present.

• How do I arrange a rental car after an accident?

  To arrange a rental car after an accident, first consider whether your insurance or the other party's insurance will be paying for the rental. If another driver is found to be at-fault for the accident, that driver's insurance may pay the costs. If you are responsible, your insurance may pay if your policy covers such expenses. Speak with your insurance adjuster to determine if you have benefits available.

• How long does it take for car insurance to go back down after an accident?

  Post-accident rate spikes can last anywhere from three to five years, depending on your insurer. However, if damages incurred during the accident are less than $2,000, your rate may not go up at all. Three years is typical for collision and property damage claims. Five years is not uncommon in accidents involving bodily injury claims, DUI or DWI, reckless driving, or serious violations at the time of the accident.

• How to settle a car accident claim without a lawyer?

  To negotiate a car accident settlement without a lawyer, you'll have to prove that the other party was to blame for your damages. Gather evidence at the scene to support your claim, including witness statements and photos. Seek medical treatment for your injuries immediately. Notify the other driver's insurer of your intent to file a claim. If you reside in a no-fault state, you will need to use your personal injury protection (PIP) benefits first before filing a claim against the other party for medical expenses and bodily injury. Be prepared with medical records, police reports, receipts for out-of-pocket accident-related costs, and proof of lost income due to the accident before beginning negotiations.