Rio Rancho Hit and Run Accident Lawyer

Hit and Run Accident Attorney in Rio Rancho, NM

If you are involved in a hit-and-run accident, you may be feeling frustrated and wondering how you will recover compensation for the costs you have incurred. A hit-and-run accident occurs when a driver involved in the accident leaves the scene without offering assistance and without providing any contact information. A Rio Rancho hit-and-run accident lawyer can advocate for your rights and ensure you get the compensation you deserve.

If you are a victim of a hit-and-run accident, you can receive compensation for your injuries and other losses from the at-fault driver. A Rio Rancho car accident attorney can help identify the at-fault driver and hold them responsible.

Why Hire a Skilled Hit-and-Run Accident Lawyer?

Berenson & Associates, PC, can help you recover your losses if you’ve been involved in a hit-and-run collision. Founding partner, Attorney Rachel Berenson, is AV Preeminent-rated by the prestigious Martindale-Hubbell, which evaluates attorneys based on peer and client reviews.

If you or a loved one has been the victim of a hit-and-run accident in Rio Rancho, you want experienced and dedicated legal representation. Our team will conduct an investigation, help identify the responsible party, and build a strong case for you. Our staff will provide personalized and compassionate service every step of the way.

Why Does a Driver Leave the Scene of an Accident?

When a driver leaves the scene of an accident that results in property damage, death, or injury without providing contact information to the other driver or law enforcement or offering assistance, it is considered a hit-and-run accident.

This act of negligence is illegal and may result in harsh penalties. So why would an individual flee the scene of an accident? Motivation for leaving the scene of an accident may include:

• Fear of legal repercussions. Involvement in an accident can lead to misdemeanor charges for damage to property or felony charges if someone is injured or killed.
• Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Data from the New Mexico Department of Transportation show there were 9,465 arrests for driving while intoxicated (DWI) statewide in 2024 and 638 arrests in Sandoval County.
• Lack of documentation for the driver or vehicle. An individual may leave the scene if they do not have a valid driver’s license, if their license has been revoked or suspended, if they lack insurance, or if their vehicle is unregistered. An individual may not want to face the penalties for these violations.
• Panic and fear. An accident can be so traumatic to the driver that they are overcome by fear, panic, shock, and adrenaline, and they irrationally react and leave the scene.

Possible Penalties of a Hit-and-Run

Leaving the scene of an accident for any reason other than to get help makes an individual guilty of a hit-and-run. All drivers involved in an accident are required to stay at the scene and offer assistance.

If an individual leaves the scene of an accident where there were no injuries, it can result in revocation of driving privileges and a misdemeanor charge with a fine of up to $1,000 and a term of less than one year in jail. If serious injuries or a fatality occurred because of the accident, an individual can face fourth-degree felony charges that include loss of driving privileges and up to 18 months in prison.

If an individual knowingly fails to stop after an accident that results in great bodily harm, charges can include a third-degree felony, three years in jail, and loss of driving privileges. If the incident results in a death, the individual can be charged with a third-degree felony, six years in jail, and revocation of the driver’s license privilege.

FAQs About Hit and Run Accidents in Rio Rancho

Should I Get a Lawyer for a Hit-and-Run Case in Rio Rancho?

If you are involved in a hit-and-run case, you may need a lawyer to assist you with collecting damages for the accident. A lawyer can lead an investigation into the accident, work with law enforcement to identify the driver, and negotiate with your insurance company. An individual may leave the scene of an accident for various reasons, such as lack of car insurance, a warrant for their arrest, driving under the influence, or poor judgment.

What Percent of Hit-and-Run Accidents Are Solved in Rio Rancho?

Approximately only 10% of hit-and-run accident cases are solved. According to data from the New Mexico Department of Transportation, 17% of accidents (7,297) in New Mexico in 2023 were hit-and-run. These accidents resulted in 49 fatalities, 1,494 injury crashes, and 5,754 cases of property damage. The low rate of solved cases is often due to insufficient evidence. Solving a hit-and-run case often requires prompt reporting and cooperation from witnesses.

What Is the Minimum Sentence for a Hit-and-Run in Rio Rancho?

Leaving the scene of an accident or a hit-and-run is a serious offense in Rio Rancho, and the sentence is dependent on the severity of the accident. Leaving the scene of an accident that resulted in property damage only is charged as a misdemeanor, resulting in fines and possibly a suspended license. For a crash that resulted in injury, you could face a fourth-degree felony charge, fines up to $5,000, and up to three years in prison.

What Should You Do After a Hit-And-Run Crash in Rio Rancho?

It is important to carefully document the accident with your insurance company and the police department where the accident occurred. The Rio Rancho Police Department is located at 500 Quantum Road, Rio Rancho, New Mexico 87124. You should try to identify the vehicle’s license plate, possibly using your phone to take a picture. Talk to any potential witnesses at the scene and get their contact information. Take pictures of the accident scene.

Contact an Experienced Hit-and-Run Attorney

At Berenson & Associates, PC, our team assists clients with recovering maximum compensation for injuries sustained in a vehicle collision. If you or someone you love has been hurt or killed as a result of a hit-and-run accident, our team of personal injury attorneys will fight for you.

The legal team at Berenson & Associates, PC, has the experience needed to navigate the legal system and defend your rights. Contact us to schedule a consultation. You deserve to work with an experienced hit-and-run attorney who will pursue fair compensation for your case.