Car Accident Statistics in New Mexico
Across the state of New Mexico, car accidents happen every day. According to the University of New Mexico, motor vehicle crashes are the number one cause of injury and death for residents in New Mexico aged one to 24 years old.
Each year, the number of car accidents changes widely based on several factors. Here are some of the most notable stats surrounding car accidents in New Mexico.
Top Contributing Factors to Car Accidents in New Mexico
Suppose we can understand the most common contributing factors that cause car accidents in New Mexico. In that case, we may be able to concentrate statewide prevention efforts better.
The 2018 New Mexico Traffic Crash Annual Report says that the following are the top contributing factors in car accidents and car accident fatalities:
- Distracted driving – 20.6% of all crashes
- Speeding – 5% of total crashes
- Failure to yield to the right of way – 14.5% of total crashes
- Following too closely – 11.4% of all crashes
How Age Contributes to Car Accidents
There have also been multiple distinctions surrounding drivers’ ages causing motor vehicle accidents in New Mexico.
- Ages 20-24 reported 44 fatalities, and ages 25-29 reported 46 fatalities. Both age groups accounted for the highest number of car accident fatalities
- The highest reported percentage of crashes were from the age group 15-19 with 10.5% of all crashes
- From 2014-2018 the number of seniors in crashes jumped by 31.2%
New Mexico Car Accidents: Where Do They Occur?
Rural areas have some of the highest numbers of car accidents across New Mexico. Sadly, pedestrians accounted for around fifty percent of all urban road fatalities while more than sixty-six percent of pedestrians fatalities on rural roadways.
Unsurprisingly, Doña Ana, Bernalillo, and Santa Fe counties have the highest number of crashes. But Bernalillo also has the most significant number of accidents involving drunk drivers. McKinley and Taos counties also had rates of at least 10 alcohol-involved crashes per 100 million vehicle miles traveled.
Common Injuries Seen in New Mexico Car Accidents
In 2018, there were more than 350 fatal motor vehicle accidents, but more than 13,500 collisions produced severe injuries. Being fortunate enough to survive the accident doesn’t mean you make it out unscathed.
Common injuries in New Mexico car accidents:
- Traumatic brain and head injuries
- Back injuries
- Paralysis
- Loss of limbs
- Other severe and life-altering injuries
When you have suffered critical injuries in a car accident caused by someone else, you may have grounds for legal action against the guilty party. Let The Law Giant investigate your case and hold liable parties accountable.
Get Help From a Car Accident Lawyer in New Mexico
When you have suffered critical injuries in a car accident and are unsure of where to turn for help, reach out to an experienced New Mexico car accident lawyer at Law Giant Injury Lawyers. Schedule your free, no-obligation consultation with Law Giant Injury Lawyers when you fill out our online contact form or call 505-900-0000.