New Mexico is an at-fault state for car accidents. Therefore, if someone causes a car accident, they could be liable for the damages caused by the collision. However, the injured party has the burden of proven fault to establish liability.
If you’re at fault in a car accident in Albuquerque, there are important things you must do. The steps you take after a car accident can help protect your rights. After a car crash in the area, protect yourself by:
Reporting the Accident to the Police
New Mexico Statutes Annotated §66-7-206 requires the driver of a vehicle to report an accident that results in any of the following:
- A fatality
- Injuries
- Property damage of $500 or more
The report must be made immediately by the quickest means possible. Generally, calling 911 is the quickest way to report an accident to the police. The emergency operator will dispatch the correct law enforcement agency with jurisdiction over the accident scene.
You are required to exchange information with the other drivers involved in a car accident. However, if the police investigate the crash, they will gather this information to include in the car accident report. If you are unsure what to do, ask the police officer at the accident scene.
Check for Injuries
Check to determine if anyone is injured and in need of medical attention. If so, tell the 911 operator that you need emergency medical services.
Asking for EMS can help if you are at fault for a car accident. If the injured party refuses medical treatment, your insurance company might use that information to dispute their claim.
Document the Accident Scene
Gather evidence that can be used during the insurance claim and personal injury case. Take photographs of the accident scene and make a video. There are always two sides to a story, and having evidence to back up your side can help if you are at fault for a car accident in Albuquerque.
Report the Accident to Your Insurance Company
Report the car accident to your insurance provider as soon as possible. Failing to contact your insurance company promptly could void your coverage. Your insurance company should provide legal representation if you are sued for a car accident.
All drivers are required to have liability insurance in New Mexico. The minimum car insurance requirements are:
- $25,000 in bodily injury coverage for the death or injury to one person
- $50,000 in bodily injury coverage for the death or injury to two or more people
- $10,000 in property damage coverage
Liability insurance compensates injured victims when you cause an accident. However, the injured party must prove that you caused the accident.
It is up to your insurance provider to determine whether you are liable. Even if you claim you are not liable, your insurance company could decide to pay the claim. If that happens, talk with a personal injury attorney about your legal rights.
Seek Medical Treatment for Your Injuries
You should also seek prompt medical treatment for your injuries. If the other driver is partially to blame for causing the accident, you could have a claim against the driver for damages. However, delays in medical care could hurt your chance of receiving compensation for your injuries.
Things Not To Do After an Albuquerque Car Accident
It is also important to know what to avoid doing after a car accident when you’re at fault. Things you should not do after a car crash include:
- Admit fault or apologize for the accident
- Become angry and yell at the other driver
- Discuss the facts of the accident with anyone at the scene other than the police
- Make assumptions that you are at fault
- Leave the scene of the accident before the officers tell you it is okay to leave
Many factors contribute to the cause of a car accident. It may appear you are at fault, but that might not be the case. Additionally, other parties could be partly to blame for causing the accident, which could reduce your liability for damages.
How Can a Car Accident Lawyer Help if You’re at Fault for a Car Accident in Albuquerque, NM?
It is best not to make assumptions of fault or admit fault without seeking legal counsel. A car accident attorney can examine your case, advise you of your legal options, and explain what may happen next.
Even though your insurance company handles the claim, it will protect its best interest over your best interest. Having sound legal advice in Albuquerque protects you. Get more info here.
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