Pedestrian Accidents in Santa Fe, NM
Pedestrian Accidents in Santa Fe: Causes, Fault & Your Rights
Pedestrian accidents in Santa Fe often happen suddenly – and usually because a driver acted carelessly. Whether you were hit near the Plaza, along Cerrillos Road, Agua Fria Street, St. Michael’s Drive, or any of Santa Fe’s busy intersections, negligent drivers must be held accountable.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Santa Fe
Most pedestrian crashes in Santa Fe are caused by unsafe drivers. Some of the most frequent causes include:
- Failure to yield to pedestrians
- Failure to stop at crosswalks or red lights
- Speeding or reckless driving
- Road rage or aggressive driving
- Tailgating
- Illegal or unsafe turns
- Failure to use turn signals
- Drunk or drug-impaired driving
- Distracted driving (texting, GPS use, etc.)
- Drowsy or fatigued driving
Because New Mexico is a fault-based state, injured pedestrians can file:
- An insurance claim with the at-fault driver’s insurer, and/or
- A civil lawsuit to pursue full compensation
But negligent drivers aren’t always the only ones who may be responsible.
Who Else Can Be Liable in a Santa Fe Pedestrian Accident?
Some pedestrian accidents happen due to factors beyond driver negligence, including defective parts or dangerous road conditions. Depending on the circumstances, other at-fault parties could include:
- Vehicle manufacturers
- Auto parts designers, distributors, or retailers
- Safety inspectors
- Car dealerships
- Construction companies
- The New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT)
- City or county agencies responsible for road maintenance
A thorough investigation by a Santa Fe pedestrian accident lawyer can reveal every liable party – ensuring you pursue all available compensation.
Can Pedestrians Share Fault in New Mexico?
Yes. Pedestrians can share some responsibility for an accident. Examples include:
- Crossing outside of a crosswalk
- Ignoring traffic signals
- Jaywalking
- Walking while distracted
However, sharing fault does NOT bar you from recovery.
New Mexico follows pure comparative negligence, meaning:
- You can recover compensation even if you are 99% at fault
- Your compensation is reduced based on your share of fault
Example:
If you’re 10% at fault and awarded $100,000, you’ll receive $90,000.
Common Pedestrian Accident Injuries in Santa Fe
Because pedestrians have no protection, injuries are often severe. Common injuries include:
- Head injuries & traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord injuries
- Broken bones & fractures
- Internal bleeding & organ damage
- Deep cuts, abrasions & road rash
- Soft tissue injuries
- Neck & back injuries (including whiplash)
- Amputations
- Facial injuries & dental damage
- Mental health trauma (PTSD, anxiety, depression)
Many victims require long-term rehabilitation and ongoing medical care.
Compensation for Santa Fe Pedestrian Accident Victims
When someone else causes your injuries, you have the right to pursue compensation for all the ways the accident impacted your life.
Economic Damages (Financial Losses)
These cover your measurable financial losses, including:
- Medical bills & hospital care
- Surgery & rehabilitation
- Medications, braces, or medical devices
- Lost wages
- Reduced earning capacity
- Loss of household services
- Property damage (clothing, phone, etc.)
Non-Economic Damages (Personal Losses)
These compensate you for the human impact of the accident, such as:
- Physical pain
- Emotional suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Loss of companionship, guidance, or support
- Scarring or disfigurement
- Damage to reputation
- Mental anguish
These non-economic damages are often the largest part of a settlement.
How to Prevent Pedestrian Accidents in Santa Fe
While accidents can still happen, some safety steps can reduce risk:
For Pedestrians:
- Use marked crosswalks
- Look both ways before crossing
- Wear reflective clothing at night
- Carry a flashlight during low visibility conditions
For Drivers:
- Watch for pedestrians, especially near schools and neighborhoods
- Be extra cautious around events and tourist areas
- Slow down in residential zones
- Never drive distracted or impaired
Even with precautions, accidents still occur. And when they do, you deserve justice.
Get Help After a Pedestrian Accident in Santa Fe
If you were hit by a vehicle in Santa Fe, your injuries, bills, and recovery can feel overwhelming. Our Santa Fe pedestrian accident lawyers fight for maximum compensation and justice for victims throughout Northern New Mexico.
We understand the trauma you’re facing—and we’re here to help.
Call The Law Giant Injury Lawyers at (505) 337-4259 or contact us online for a free case evaluation. You pay nothing unless we win your case.
