Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Albuquerque

Experienced Personal Injury Attorneys in Albuquerque & Valencia County

Has a motorcycle accident left you seriously injured and unable to work? Are you struggling to make ends meet under the crippling financial weight of extensive medical bills? Depending on the circumstances of your personal injuries, you may be entitled to receive compensation for your suffering. At Michael J. Doyle, Attorney at Law, our Albuquerque motorcycle accident attorneys understand your situation and are prepared to go the distance in the pursuit of justice on your behalf.

Countless clients have chosen our firm for the following reasons:

• More than 10 years of successful legal experience
• Personalized, one-on-one advocacy
• No recovery, no fee
• Powerful courtroom presence

Tell us about your case today by calling our office at (505) 219-2176.

Common Injuries from Motorcycle Accidents in Albuquerque

A motorcycle accident can cause a variety of devastating injuries. Due to the extreme difference in weight between a car and a motorcycle, riders almost always suffer worse injuries than a driver in the event of a collision. Depending on the speed at impact, these crashes can potentially be fatal.

Motorcycle injuries often require not only immediate medical attention but also long-term treatment plans. Victims can face months or even years of rehabilitation, therapy, and in some cases, permanent lifestyle adjustments. This makes financial compensation crucial for covering not just immediate medical costs, but also ongoing expenses. Understanding the full extent of your injuries can help build a strong foundation for your legal claim and ensure all possible avenues of compensation are explored.

A motorcycle accident can cause the following injuries:

• Spinal cord injury
• Brain injuries
• Broken bones
• Road rash

Driver negligence is often a contributing factor to these collisions. Failing to check blind spots, speeding, and reckless driving can all lead to a motorcycle collision. If you have been hurt in a motorcycle accident due to another driver’s carelessness, our attorneys can file a personal injury claim on your behalf to pursue monetary compensation. If successful, you could be awarded damages as reimbursement for your pain and suffering, medical expenses, lost wages, and lost earning potential. Since compensation will vary, it is important that you consult with our firm to get a more accurate representation of your eligible damages.

How Long Do You Have to File a Lawsuit After a Motorcycle Accident in New Mexico?

After a motorcycle accident in Albuquerque, understanding the timeframe within which you must file a lawsuit is crucial. This period, known as the statute of limitations, dictates the maximum duration you have to initiate legal proceedings following an accident. In New Mexico, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases, including those stemming from motorcycle accidents, is generally three years. This means that individuals involved in motorcycle accidents have three years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit against the responsible party.

Missing the statute of limitations can result in losing the right to seek legal recourse, no matter how strong the evidence. Therefore, acting swiftly can be essential in preserving evidence, securing witness accounts, and consulting legal professionals to prepare a comprehensive claim. Various factors, such as negotiating with insurance companies or conducting thorough investigations, can take time, making early legal consultation an intelligent approach.

Preparing for a Potential Motorcycle Accident

While no one anticipates being involved in a motorcycle accident, preparing for such an event can help mitigate risks and ensure a smoother recovery process in the aftermath. 

Here are several proactive steps individuals can take to prepare for a potential motorcycle accident:

• Motorcycle Gear & Training: Investing in high-quality gear, including a helmet, gloves, a jacket, and boots, can provide crucial protection in the event of an accident. Additionally, enrolling in motorcycle safety courses and regularly practicing defensive riding techniques can enhance skills and awareness on the road.
• Medical & Insurance Documentation: Maintaining updated medical insurance information, including policy details and emergency contact numbers, can expedite medical treatment following an accident. Similarly, ensuring that your motorcycle insurance policy is current and comprehensive can provide financial protection in the event of injuries or property damage.
• Emergency Contact Information: Carrying a card or storing emergency contact information in a readily accessible location, such as a wallet or phone, can facilitate communication with loved ones or legal representatives in the event of an accident. Also, letting someone know when and where you plan to ride can help them be aware in the event of an emergency.
• Gathering Evidence: In the aftermath of a motorcycle accident, collecting evidence such as photographs of the scene, contact information for witnesses, and any relevant documentation (e.g., police reports, medical records) can strengthen potential legal claims and facilitate the claims process with insurance companies.
• Legal Representation: Having a reputable motorcycle accident attorney can provide peace of mind and ensure access to prompt legal guidance and representation in the event of an incident.

Preparations should also include understanding what to do immediately after an accident occurs. This includes checking for injuries, calling for medical help, and ensuring the accident scene is safe. Legally, it's advisable not to admit fault at the scene, as various factors contributing to the incident may not be immediately apparent. Also, becoming familiar with common motorcycle accident injuries and their symptoms can prompt quicker medical attention, potentially mitigating long-term health impacts.

Retain No-Risk Representation from Our Albuquerque Motorcycle Accident Attorneys

Nobody should be barred from seeking justice due to financial hardship. As a courtesy to our clients, we accept our cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning that you will not pay us a cent unless we are successful. With compassionate advocacy and an uncompromising dedication to protecting your rights, our Valencia County motorcycle accident attorneys are prepared to stand by your side during this difficult time.

Understanding the costs involved in a legal battle can be daunting, especially when coupled with the uncertainty of not knowing if the claim will be successful. Our contingency approach not only minimizes financial pressure but also aligns our interests with your desire for justice and fair compensation. It enables individuals to pursue their claims without the barrier of pricing, ensuring that every person has access to the legal support they deserve, regardless of their financial situation.

Understanding New Mexico Motorcycle Laws for Safer Riding

Motorcyclists in New Mexico are required to adhere to specific state laws designed to ensure not only their safety but the safety of all road users. Understanding these laws is crucial for both everyday riding and in the event of an accident. For example, New Mexico mandates that all riders under the age of 18 must wear a helmet, while riders 18 and older are allowed to make personal choices regarding helmet use. However, helmet use is universally recognized to significantly reduce head injuries and fatalities.

Additionally, motorcyclists must adhere to New Mexico’s vehicle registration and licensing requirements, including obtaining a motorcycle endorsement on their driver's license. This endorsement involves passing a written test, vision test, and skills test, ensuring that all registered motorcyclists are competent in operating their vehicles. Familiarizing oneself with these requirements can prevent unnecessary legal issues and ensure that riders are adequately prepared for various road conditions in Albuquerque.

Albuquerque Road Conditions & Challenges for Motorcyclists

In Albuquerque, road conditions can vary dramatically and influence the safety and experience of motorcyclists. Potholes, loose gravel, and uneven surfaces can pose significant challenges and elevate the risk of accidents. It's crucial for riders to remain vigilant and adapt quickly to changing road conditions to avoid potential hazards.

Additionally, Albuquerque’s unique desert climate can affect road grip, especially during the monsoon season when sudden downpours create slippery surfaces. Motorcyclists should be particularly careful during these weather changes, making slow and cautious maneuvers. Being informed and prepared for these local road conditions can significantly reduce the likelihood of accidents and enhance overall safety for riders in the area.

FAQs About Albuquerque Motorcycle Accidents

What Should I Do Immediately After a Motorcycle Accident?

Immediately after a motorcycle accident, ensure safety first. Check for injuries and call 911 for medical and police assistance. It is crucial to document the scene if possible, taking photos of your injuries and damage to all vehicles involved. Gather names and contact information from witnesses and the other driver(s).

Additionally, obtain a copy of the police report once it's available, as this will serve as an important piece of evidence in any subsequent claims. Importantly, refrain from admitting fault or making definitive claims about the accident at the scene, as various factors can only be identified later through investigation.

How Can I Prove Negligence in a Motorcycle Accident?

Proving negligence requires demonstrating that the other party failed to act with reasonable care, thereby causing the accident. This often involves gathering photographic evidence, witness statements, police reports, and, when necessary, expert testimony.

A successful negligence claim typically shows that the other driver breached a duty of care, causing quantifiable harm or damage. Legal representation can be critical in building a compelling case, guiding you through the necessary collection and presentation of evidence.

Why Is Insurance Documentation Important After An Accident?

Insurance documentation plays a crucial role in processing claims after a motorcycle accident. Complete and accurate records ensure that insurers cannot deny claims on technical grounds. Policy details help in understanding the scope of coverage and compensation one might expect.

Keep all correspondence with insurance providers documented and timely provide any needed information. Consulting with a legal professional can further help navigate any complex insurance processes, ensuring you receive the maximum possible compensation under your policy terms.

Can I File a Lawsuit If I Wasn't Wearing a Helmet?

Yes, you may still file a lawsuit if you weren’t wearing a helmet at the time of your motorcycle accident in New Mexico. However, it’s important to note that not wearing a helmet might impact the outcome of personal injury claims, as New Mexico is a comparative negligence state.

This means that compensation can be reduced based on the degree to which your actions contributed to your injuries. Therefore, it’s essential to obtain skilled legal guidance to navigate how these factors may apply in your specific situation.

What Is Comparative Negligence in New Mexico?

Comparative negligence in New Mexico refers to the way responsibility and compensation are determined based on the relative fault of each party involved in an accident. This system allows a party to recover damages even if they are partially at fault, though their awarded compensation will be reduced by their percentage of fault.

For instance, if you are found 20% at fault for an accident, any compensation you receive would be reduced by 20%. Understanding this framework is crucial in evaluating the potential outcomes of an accident claim and the importance of presenting a strong case that minimizes your attributed fault.

To get started towards retaining the advocacy you deserve, request a free case review by calling (505) 219-2176 today!