Albuquerque Pedestrian Accident Attorneys

New Mexico is known for its gorgeous weather all year long. Accordingly, pedestrians are frequently found working and playing outside, whether jogging, taking a trip to a local park, or running errands.

Ensuring pedestrians remain safe and secure is the duty of all motorists. However, many drivers don’t take this duty seriously, which can have tragic consequences. Striking a pedestrian causes serious injuries, some of which may entail lifelong effects. And in the worst-case scenario, a pedestrian accident can lead to the tragic loss of life.

At Martinez, Hart, Sanchez & Romero, we represent catastrophically injured victims and the families of those wrongfully killed in pedestrian-vehicle collisions throughout New Mexico. Our Albuquerque pedestrian accident attorneys provide compassionate, personalized legal counsel and are ready to advocate tirelessly for you and the justice you deserve.

For a free, no-obligation consultation, contact our team at (505) 806-1780. Hablamos español.

What is a Pedestrian Accident?

A pedestrian accident occurs when a person on foot is struck by a vehicle, often resulting in injuries or even fatalities. These accidents can happen due to various factors such as distracted driving, speeding, failure to yield, impaired driving, or poor road conditions.

To succeed in a pedestrian accident claim, several elements typically need to be proven:

1. Duty of Care: The driver owed a duty of care to operate their vehicle safely and responsibly, especially in areas where pedestrians are expected.
2. Breach of Duty: The driver breached that duty by acting negligently or recklessly—such as speeding, running a red light, or failing to yield to pedestrians in a crosswalk.
3. Causation: The driver's breach of duty directly caused the accident and the resulting injuries to the pedestrian. Establishing a clear link between the driver's actions and the pedestrian's injuries is crucial.
4. Damages: The pedestrian suffered actual damages, which might include medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, or emotional distress. Documenting these damages is essential for the claim.

Pedestrian Laws in New Mexico

In New Mexico, pedestrian laws outline the rights and responsibilities of individuals traveling on foot. Here are some key aspects:

• Right of Way: Pedestrians have the right of way in marked and unmarked crosswalks at intersections. Vehicles must yield to pedestrians in these areas.
• Crossing Rules: Pedestrians must use crosswalks when available and obey traffic signals and pedestrian control devices (such as "walk" and "don't walk" signals). Additionally, when crossing at a location without a crosswalk, pedestrians should yield to vehicles unless it's at an intersection or marked crossing point.
• Sidewalk Use: Pedestrians are encouraged to use sidewalks when provided. If no sidewalk is available, pedestrians should walk on the left side of the road facing traffic.
• Prohibited Actions: Jaywalking, crossing highways where pedestrian crossings are prohibited, or failing to yield to vehicles when required can result in citations.
• Shared Responsibility: Both drivers and pedestrians share responsibility for safety. Pedestrians should be aware of their surroundings and make themselves visible to drivers.
• Traffic Signals: Pedestrians must obey traffic signals, and drivers must yield to pedestrians lawfully crossing at signalized intersections or crosswalks.
• School Zones and Crossings: Special attention is given to school zones and crossings, emphasizing lower speed limits and increased caution to ensure children's safety.

New Mexico's pedestrian laws aim to promote safety for individuals traveling on foot and reduce the risk of pedestrian accidents. These laws are crucial for both pedestrians and drivers to understand and follow to prevent accidents and ensure safe interactions on the roadways.

Common Injuries Associated with Pedestrian Accidents 

Unlike the occupants of most motor vehicles, pedestrians have zero protection. In the event of a collision, they do not have heavy vehicle frames, doors, windows, seatbelts, or airbags to protect them from serious injury. As a result, pedestrians are often left with severe, life-changing injuries when they are struck by cars, trucks, and other motor vehicles. 

Some of the most common types of injuries associated with pedestrian-vehicle collisions include: 

These and other catastrophic injuries can have devastating, life-changing consequences for victims and their families. Sadly, many pedestrian accident injuries ultimately prove fatal. 

At Martinez, Hart, Sanchez & Romero, we represent both injured pedestrians and the families of those who pass away due to their injuries and related complications. We understand the tragic nature of these cases, which is why we take the time to provide our clients with the compassionate support and guidance they need. 

Common Reasons Why Pedestrian Accidents Occur

While it’s certainly true that pedestrians should be alert and aware when walking in high-traffic areas, motorists must exercise an even greater level of care because the risk of harm is much higher. 

When reviewing the following common causes for accidents involving pedestrians, driver inattention and negligence is a recurring issue:

• Failure to make a complete stop: Rolling stops, as they’re commonly called, endanger pedestrians crossing the street at a stop sign. They’re also illegal, as motorists are expected to come to a complete stop in this situation.
• Failure to yield in crosswalks: Pedestrians must be afforded the right of way in crosswalks. Drivers should wait until the road is completely clear before moving forward. This is especially important around schools and parks, where kids congregate.
• Going over the posted speed limit: Speeding increases the risk of an accident, but it also causes any injuries or property damage to be much worse should an accident occur. The faster a driver is going, the harder it will be to stop should a pedestrian appear suddenly.
• Not looking when backing out of a parking space: Parking lots are often packed with people going to and from their cars. Drivers must check their rear-view mirror and blind spots before backing out of a space.
• Driving while distracted: Texting while driving, talking with passengers, eating behind the wheel, adjusting a GPS, and daydreaming are all considered driving distractions. When drivers are distracted, their attention is not on the road.
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs: Drivers who are impaired by alcohol or drugs are much more likely to cause accidents, including collisions with pedestrians, due to reduced reaction times, alertness, and other problems associated with intoxication.
• Poor Visibility: Low light conditions, bad weather, or obstructed views (e.g., parked cars blocking visibility) can make it hard for drivers to see pedestrians and vice versa.
• Ignoring Traffic Signals and Signs: Pedestrians might cross against the signal or fail to observe traffic signs, increasing the risk of collisions.
• Driver or Pedestrian Aggression: Aggressive driving or walking behaviors can lead to riskier decisions and less regard for traffic laws and safety.
• Lack of Infrastructure: Insufficient or poorly designed pedestrian infrastructure, like poorly marked crosswalks or inadequate lighting, can contribute to accidents.
• Pedestrian Negligence: Jaywalking, crossing roads outside of designated areas, or suddenly entering traffic without warning can increase the risk of accidents.
• Backing Vehicles: Parking lots and driveways are common areas for accidents when drivers are backing up without noticing pedestrians behind them.