Rio Rancho Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Pedestrian Accident Attorney in Rio Rancho, NM

Pedestrians in Rio Rancho face real risks every time they walk near traffic. Unlike drivers, they have no protection from vehicles, and even a low-speed collision can cause serious injuries. A Rio Rancho pedestrian accident lawyer can pursue the recovery you deserve.

Intersections like NM 528, Southern Boulevard, and Unser Boulevard are especially dangerous when drivers are distracted, speeding, or fail to yield. A single moment of inattention can change a pedestrian’s life forever. If you were hit while walking, a Rio Rancho personal injury lawyer can seek compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and emotional trauma.

Hire a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

At Berenson & Associates, PC, our pedestrian accident lawyers work hard to represent injured pedestrians in Rio Rancho and all over New Mexico. We understand the serious consequences of a pedestrian accident, so we strive to obtain compensation for our clients’ suffering. Our team is focused, strategic, and aggressive when necessary to fight for our clients’ rights.

At Berenson & Associates, PC, founding attorney Rachel Berenson has been named a Super Lawyers’ Rising Star and is certified in crash reconstruction. This gives us unique insight into how to prove fault and liability in these cases. We work closely with our clients to determine the full extent of their losses. We can then use New Mexico’s pedestrian accident laws to work toward a fair settlement, which can cover medical bills, time missed from work, and long-term needs for rehabilitation.

Where Pedestrian Accidents Happen in Rio Rancho?

In 2023, 679 pedestrians were injured or killed in New Mexico. Dangerous intersections in Rio Rancho where pedestrian accidents happen include NM 528, Southern Boulevard, and Unser Boulevard, all of which can be extremely busy during rush hour and in front of shopping centers.

Accident-prone areas also include school zones and residential areas without sidewalks, especially if there are children or older adults who are walking. These areas are often dangerous due to a combination of factors, including high-speed traffic, a lack of lighting, and the absence of crosswalks.

Parking lots and driveways can also be a source of pedestrian injuries, as drivers often fail to yield to people in crosswalks. Others don’t look for pedestrians before opening car doors or backing up. Identifying where an accident took place can determine liability as well as reveal factors such as faulty road design or driver negligence.

What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident?

Your safety and health are the top priorities if you experience an accident while walking. Call 911, and get prompt medical attention. Then, to the extent possible, document the incident. Take pictures of your injuries, along with the vehicle and the surrounding accident scene. Obtain the driver’s information as well as the name and contact information of any witnesses.

Ask for a copy of the police report as soon as it becomes available. Refrain from providing detailed statements to the driver’s insurance company before speaking with an attorney. Maintain records of all treatment and associated costs. These actions can protect your legal rights and assist your Rio Rancho pedestrian accident attorney in building a strong claim. They can pursue your compensation while you focus on recovery.

Injuries and Long-Term Effects of Pedestrian Crashes

Injuries in pedestrian accidents can be severe due to the vulnerability of pedestrians. Pedestrians who are struck by vehicles often sustain:

• Traumatic brain injuries
• Fractures
• Internal injuries
• Spinal cord damage
• Significant soft tissue injuries

The recovery process may involve lengthy rehabilitation, multiple surgeries, and extended periods away from work.

In the worst cases, permanent disabilities or reduced mobility can impact the pedestrian’s quality of life. The injured party may also suffer from emotional trauma, including anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder. These physical and psychological consequences are considered when assessing compensation in a pedestrian accident claim. They also highlight the gravity of driver negligence in pedestrian collisions.

FAQs About Rio Rancho Pedestrian Accidents

Q: What Is New Mexico Doing to Reduce Pedestrian Deaths?

A: New Mexico is actively working to reduce pedestrian fatalities through its “Target Zero” initiative, which aims to eliminate all traffic-related deaths by 2050. Preliminary data shows that New Mexico saw 94 pedestrian deaths in 2024, marking a slight 4% decline compared to 2023. According to NMDOT, this reduction reflects progress toward long-term safety goals.

Q: Can I Still File a Claim If I Was Hit Outside a Crosswalk?

A: Yes, you can still file a claim, even if you were hit outside a marked crosswalk. Crosswalk laws may apply when assigning fault, but drivers are always required to yield to pedestrians. New Mexico is a comparative negligence state, so you can still collect damages, even if you are partly at fault. The exact amount of compensation depends on the facts and location of the accident.

Q: What Types of Compensation Can Pedestrian Accident Victims Recover?

A: Victims of pedestrian accidents can recover different types of damages. Some of the most common losses pedestrians suffer include:

• Medical bills
• Lost income
• Future medical treatment
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress

In cases involving serious injury and permanent disability, victims can also recover additional damages.

The nature of your injuries and how the incident changed your life dictate which types of damages you can claim. An assessment can determine the full value of your claim.

Q: How Is Fault Determined in a Pedestrian Accident Case?

A: Fault in a pedestrian accident case is determined based on:

• The facts of the case
• The police report
• Witness statements
• Applicable traffic laws
• Physical evidence from the accident scene

If a driver violates a traffic law, they may be found at fault for the accident. If a pedestrian crosses the street outside a crosswalk or other designated safe area, they may also be partially at fault for the accident. Comparative negligence rules apply.

Contact a Rio Rancho Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

If you were injured in a pedestrian accident in Rio Rancho, you could be eligible to recover damages for your medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering. Our team at Berenson & Associates, PC, can explain your rights and work to get you the result you deserve. Schedule your consultation today.