Navigating the challenges of a car accident is critical, especially when there is so much on the line. Our Albuquerque car accident lawyer is ready to help you fight for the maximum compensation you are owed. At Zinda Law Group, our Albuquerque personal injury lawyer is committed to providing our clients with exceptional legal support.
You Deserve a Trusted Car Accident Lawyer in Albuquerque
If you or a loved one were injured in an auto accident in Albuquerque, Zinda Law Group is here to help you recover. We know that automobile accidents can be stressful, and the road to recovery can be long. If you were injured in a car accident due to someone else’s negligence, call our Albuquerque car accident lawyers.
You may be entitled to compensation. At our firm, we know you have many choices regarding who handles your claim, but our Albuquerque car accident attorneys are here to help guide you through the legal process. Our car accident attorney in Albuquerque, NM, can help you.
We will work with you to not only help you recover the maximum compensation for your injuries but also handle everything from the insurance companies to ensure you get the proper medical care. Call us or use our website to schedule a free consultation with an Albuquerque personal injury attorney today. You pay nothing unless we win your case.
John (Jack) Zinda
Founder / CEO
Over 100 years of combined experience representing injured victims across the country.
Available 24 / 7|Free ConsultationWhy Should You Hire Our Albuquerque Car Accident Lawyers for Your Car Accident Case?
Car accidents in Albuquerque can be stressful experiences for anyone. However, once you begin the legal process, a whole new set of concerns kicks in. While the aftermath of a car accident may be new and scary for you, the experienced Albuquerque car accident attorneys at our firm know how to handle these situations.
Our car accident lawyers can help you navigate the legal process by explaining your options, dealing with insurance companies, and pursuing maximum compensation in your case. With our experience, our car accident lawyer in Albuquerque, NM, can guide you in numerous ways. Here are a few reasons why you should consider hiring our experienced car accident lawyers in Albuquerque:
- Answering your questions
- Evaluating your claim
- Dealing with insurance companies
- Handling investigations
- Strategizing your legal approach
- Preparing for trial
- Navigating the rules of evidence
- Knowing the local rules
- Maximizing compensation
Answering Your Questions
You should never have to go through the legal process alone, especially if this is your first time dealing with personal injury law. Car accidents range in severity, and your case may have nuances that only an attorney will understand. The car accident lawyers at our firm will answer all your questions so you can focus on your recovery.
Evaluating Your Claim
First, an attorney will be able to tell you whether you have a claim that is worth pursuing. If you are unlikely to win your case, it’s best to know immediately whether it is worth your time and effort. A personal injury lawyer will help you explore your options to ensure you make the best decision moving forward.
Dealing with Insurance Companies
Next, although insurance companies seem friendly and trustworthy, it is important to remember that they are a business and prioritize their financial bottom line. Insurance adjusters are skilled in drawing you into conversations and getting you to say things that may damage your case. An Albuquerque car accident attorney will know how to communicate and negotiate with insurance companies in a way that does not hurt your claim.
Handling Investigations
Personal injury lawyers know how to conduct investigations and have access to investigative techniques that the average person doesn’t. For example, car accident lawyers and their investigators can use cutting-edge technology to demonstrate who may have been at fault. Frequently, these techniques can help you build your case and have a successful lawsuit.
Handling the Paperwork
Additionally, car accidents typically come with tons of paperwork and evidence, including photos, medical records, videos, police reports, witness testimony, and more. To non-lawyers, these things often become overwhelming. However, a car accident lawyer and their investigators will know what to look for when they receive the materials involved in your case.
Strategizing Your Legal Approach
In an ideal scenario, your claim would take little time to resolve, and you would continue with your life as if the car accident never happened. Unfortunately, personal injury claims can often get very contentious, and some result in a trial instead of a settlement. If your case goes to trial, arbitration, or mediation, it is important to have an experienced personal injury lawyer on your side.
Preparing for Trial
Your Albuquerque car accident attorney will spend hours and hours prepping your case for trial. They will piece the evidence together into a cohesive, persuasive story to help you pursue maximum compensation. In a trial, this includes the opening statement, questions for witnesses, and lessening the impact of evidence that doesn’t work in your favor.
Navigating the Rules of Evidence
People who do not practice law are surprised to learn how complicated the rules of evidence can be. An experienced car accident attorney knows how to argue for good evidence to help your case. Plus, they can prevent bad evidence from being presented in front of the judge and jury.
Knowing the Local Rules
Certain procedural rules in your city must be followed with every car accident case. An experienced Albuquerque car accident lawyer understands the rules within your jurisdiction and will know the next steps in your case. Don’t try to figure out the legal process without an experienced professional by your side.
Maximizing Compensation
There are a lot of factors that determine how much you can recover in a personal injury case. An experienced personal injury lawyer can calculate the value of a personal injury claim and help you receive maximum compensation for your injuries and suffering. Some of the compensatory damages we can help you recover include:
- Lost wages
- Medical bills
- Losses due to pain and suffering
With the help of our car accident lawyer in Albuquerque, NM, you gain insight into what all of your losses are. We also listen to you describe how this case is going to impact your future. This allows us to aggressively pursue full compensation for your losses.
Car Accident Checklist
Accidents can happen in the blink of an eye, so it is important to know what to do in the event of a crash. Below are recommended steps on what to do when you are involved in a car accident in Albuquerque. Do not wait to contact a car accident attorney in Albuquerque, NM, when you need help at any stage.
Try Not to Block Traffic
Some people believe you must stay at the exact collision spot until the police arrive. However, if the accident did not result in a serious injury or death, pulling to the side of the roadway can prevent other accidents, but make sure to tell or signal to the other party that you are moving out of the way of traffic and that you are not leaving the scene. Failing to stop or render aid in an accident is a criminal violation.
Check for Injuries
Airbags do not have to be deployed before you call an ambulance. If you or anyone involved has sustained serious injuries, contact 9-1-1 or emergency services immediately. Make sure to follow any instructions given by emergency services to prevent further injury. Under New Mexico law, the involved drivers have a duty to give reasonable help to a person injured from the accident.
Neil Solomon
Partner
Real results matter. We do not get paid unless we win your case.
Available 24 / 7|Free ConsultationCall the Police
To make sure a record or report of the accident is made, call the Albuquerque police department by dialing 9-1-1. If dealing with a minor accident, you can call the non-emergency number. New Mexico law requires a driver involved in an accident that results in an injury, death, or damage to a vehicle that appears to be $500 or more to call the police immediately.
Some 9-1-1 emergency centers may have Spanish speakers or a translation service available. When you call emergency services, the location of the accident and your current location (if different) are key to preventing delays from getting you help. Most emergency centers do not have GPS tracking capabilities to know your exact location.
If you do not remember what road you are on, look for helpful markers that can give a more precise location, such as cross-streets, restaurants, retail stores, or exits on the highway. If you don’t know which direction you are going, tell the dispatcher where you are coming from and where you are headed. In all situations, our car accident attorney in Albuquerque wants you to be safe.
Jason Aldridge
Attorney
Standing by 24 hours a day, 7 days a week ready to answer in your time of need.
Available 24 / 7|Free ConsultationExchange Information with the Other Driver
Under New Mexico law, both drivers have a duty to give their names, addresses, and registration number of the vehicle driven when the accident results in an injury, death, or damage to a vehicle. Drivers should also be ready to show their driver’s license if asked. We recommend that you follow these steps.
If you hit a vehicle that is not occupied, you have a duty to either find and tell the vehicle owner or driver or leave your information in an obvious place. In a hit-and-run accident, or in the case of an uninsured motorist, it is essential to pay attention to the details of the other vehicle, such as the make, model, license plate, and color. These are just some of the most important steps to take.
These details can be useful to the police and insurance agencies. However, you should not put yourself or others at risk by getting this information. If you are not sure what your rights are, our Albuquerque, NM, car accident attorney can help you.
Contact an Attorney
Documentation is crucial after being involved in an accident. Having your papers in order keeps the process as smooth as possible. However, knowing what receipts or documents are needed for proof later can be difficult, so consulting with an accident lawyer from Zinda Law Group as soon as possible can help you avoid misplacing or throwing away important documents.
Do You Speak Espanol?
If you speak Spanish, our Spanish-speaking car accident attorneys in Albuquerque can help. Our car accident lawyer in Albuquerque, NM can help you. Reach out to us now for a consultation.
Seek Medical Attention
If you were in a car wreck, seek medical attention immediately. Do not ignore any symptoms you may be experiencing, as they may increase over time, even if you do not believe you suffered any serious injuries, it is important to get checked over by a professional. Some injuries are not immediately clear after a crash, and delayed treatment can cause the injury to worsen.
Furthermore, if you wait to seek medical treatment for injuries suffered in an accident, recovering the compensation you need after a crash can be challenging.
Document Any Damage
Take photos of the damage to your vehicle, as well as the other cars involved. If possible, take photos of the location where the accident took place. Your Albuquerque car accident lawyer will use this information later.
Get a Copy of the Police Report
The City of Albuquerque police department offers electronic and in-person options to obtain traffic accident (crash) reports. If the accident location was not within Albuquerque’s city limits, the county sheriff’s office or state police might respond to your accident. It is essential to know which department you filed the police report with to avoid any issues.
Cole Gumm
Attorney
We are here to ensure you won’t have to face this difficult time alone.
Available 24 / 7|Free ConsultationContact Your Insurance Company
After you call a car accident lawyer in Albuquerque, NM, call your insurance. New Mexico uses a fault-based system for car accidents, meaning that the person who is at fault is responsible for the losses of the other person, which can include medical bills and vehicle repairs. The state also requires everyone to carry minimum insurance coverage in order to register their vehicle:
- • $25,000 for bodily injury or death of one person
- • $50,000 for bodily injury or death of two persons
- • $10,000 for property damage in any one accident
Note that you do not want to file a claim just yet. Let our attorneys handle that process for you instead. Reporting the accident is just the start of the process.
Keep Medical and Vehicle Repair Bills
Keep a record of all your related medical and vehicle repair bills. Even if you did not call or need the paramedics at the time of the accident, contact your primary physician for an appointment. Examples of related medical costs that can be covered are appointments, medication, treatment, and physical therapy sessions.
What Happens When I Contact an Albuquerque Car Accident Attorney?
Contact an attorney if you wish to pursue legal action following a car accident. Hiring a car accident attorney before talking with insurance companies helps to protect your legal rights. During your initial consultation, a personal injury lawyer may speak with you in person or over the phone to collect important information regarding your case.
For instance, the attorney may want to know how the accident occurred and what injuries you sustained. If necessary, the attorney may initiate the formal process of filing a car accident claim. Our car accident lawyers remain by your side throughout this process.
We strongly encourage you not to wait. Contact an attorney immediately. The sooner you do, the sooner we can help you navigate the challenges ahead.
Investigation
The next step in the car accident claim filing process is investigation. During this period, your attorney will work with you to strengthen your claim by taking important measures such as interviewing witnesses, watching traffic camera videos, and searching for other forms of helpful evidence. An investigation may also involve accounting for each of your damages, such as medical bills, lost wages, and property damage.
Negotiation and Case Settlement
The at-fault party or the at-fault party’s insurance company may try to settle your claim. Settlement may involve your attorney and the insurance company communicating back and forth to reach an agreed-upon settlement value. During this step, your attorney may act on your behalf by negotiating with experienced claim adjusters.
The Insurance Company May Refuse
If the insurance company refuses to pay an amount in your best interest, litigating your claim in court may be necessary. Should your claim go to trial, your attorney may advocate for you in front of a judge and jury. Our attorney will answer these questions.
What Are the Common Causes of Car Accidents in Albuquerque?
There are many car accident causes. Our car accident lawyers in Albuquerque, NM, handle most types. Car accidents have many causes, but some of the most common causes of car accidents in Albuquerque are:
- Speeding
- Impaired driving
- Distracted driving
- Failing to yield
- Driving while intoxicated
You may not be sure what the cause of your accident was. That is okay. Our car accident lawyer in NM will investigate to find out.
What Are the Common Car Accident Injuries in Albuquerque?
If you suffered any injury, contact our attorney for guidance. We will work diligently to protect your rights. Car accident injuries range in severity, but some of the most common car accident injuries include:
Soft Tissue Injuries
Soft tissue injuries involve damage to the body’s muscles, ligaments, or tendons. Whiplash is one of the most common soft tissue injuries after a motor vehicle accident and is caused by the rapid movement of the head and neck after a collision. Whiplash can also affect the spine, and some of the common symptoms of whiplash include neck pain, headache, and blurred vision.
Broken Bones
Additionally, many car accidents involve broken bones. The impact of the car crashing into other vehicles or stationary objects may propel a crash victim into the dashboard, steering wheel, windows, or windshield. This force can cause mild to severe bone injuries.
Cuts and Scrapes
When you are involved in a car accident, you may be struck by a few objects in the vehicle. Though some injuries are minor, other types of injuries may require stitches or even invasive procedures. Plus, even though your airbags are designed to protect you during a crash, they can also cause injuries, such as cuts, scrapes, and bruises.
Head Injuries
Head injuries are perhaps some of the most severe injuries sustained in a car crash. Head injuries often result from your head hitting the window or steering wheel of the vehicle. Head injuries can range in severity, however, so it’s important to seek medical attention immediately if you even suspect that you might have hurt your head.
Chest Injuries
Chest injuries, like head injuries, range from superficial to life-threatening, for example, on the lighter end, superficial chest injuries may involve bruises or scrapes. However, chest injuries can also indicate internal damage, such as broken ribs, for example, are common in catastrophic car accidents. Broken ribs often can occur because the chest hits the steering wheel with tremendous force.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Car accidents can cause serious physical injuries, but some can cause other types of trauma, leading to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This means that the car accident affects someone so deeply that they may not function the same way after the accident and may exhibit behavioral changes. For example, some car accident victims feel too anxious to drive, suffer flashbacks, and may require professional help.
Burns
Burn injuries are a risk after an accident, especially if the vehicle catches on fire. If a car starts burning with a passenger or driver trapped inside, severe burn injuries are a huge risk. Make sure our car accident attorney in New Mexico fully understands all of your injuries.
Common New Mexico Car Accident FAQs
In 2021, 30% of New Mexico car crashes resulted in an injury. Car accident victims often have several questions after their accident, and what happens immediately after a collision is just the tip of the iceberg in a claim. Here are a few common questions our personal injury lawyers receive from car accident victims.
Should I Hire a Car Accident Lawyer After a Crash?
Your decision to hire an attorney should account for a few factors. A car accident attorney will work with you to seek compensation from insurance companies that operate to pay you as little as possible. With a free consultation, you can determine if it is beneficial for you to hire a professional.
Do I Need to See a Doctor if I Am Not Hurt?
Doctor’s appointments can be time-consuming, but it’s best to seek a medical evaluation after a crash, even if you don’t think you’ve been hurt. Sometimes, injuries don’t present themselves until days after a car accident, so it’s important to know what you can expect. As your attorney, we encourage you to seek out a visit to the ER in every situation.
How Much Can I Recover After a Car Accident?
After a car accident, you may wonder how to pay your medical bills after a car accident, rehabilitation expenses, and pain and suffering. You can also recover the costs for car repairs and rental car expenses during this time.
If you had to take time off from work due to your injuries, then you may be able to recover the wages you missed during that period. In order to pursue maximum compensation, hang on to receipts and bills related to your car accident to strengthen your claim.
How Much does It Cost to Hire an Attorney?
If you are injured after a car wreck, you’re probably wondering how much it costs to hire a personal injury lawyer. At our firm, we believe that paying for quality representation is the last thing you should worry about after an injury. That’s why we offer 100% free consultations and only get paid if we win your case through a contingency fee, as this is our No Win, No Fee Guarantee.
How Much Is My Albuquerque Car Accident Case Worth?
When people endure a car crash and contact a personal injury lawyer, one of the first things they want to know is how much money they can recover. After a car accident, an attorney can help you seek compensation for medical costs, missed work, car repairs, car rental services, and property damage. The value of your case ranges with severity, but an experienced car accident lawyer in Albuquerque can walk you through what you may be entitled to.
How Long Does It Take to Settle a Car Accident Claim?
Time from injury to settlement varies from case to case, with some personal injury cases resolved in a matter of months, while others can take years. Settlement time typically depends on how soon you hire a personal injury lawyer, how long investigations take, the length of time it takes to gather relevant information from opposing parties, and more. An experienced car accident lawyer serving Albuquerque can provide more information during your first free consultation.
How Much Time Do I Have to File a Lawsuit?
The amount of time to file a lawsuit for your car accident claim varies from state to state. In New Mexico, you typically have three years from the date of a car accident to file suit. An attorney will work with you to make sure you meet deadlines in the legal process.
Let Our Albuquerque, NM, Car Accident Attorneys Help You
At Zinda Law firm in Albuquerque, our Spanish-speaking personal injury lawyers have a wealth of resources and experience handling many types of personal injury cases. After your first confidential consultation, we can determine whether you will be able to seek the maximum compensation available for both economic and non-economic damages in cases like yours. We are here to help you.
The cost of legal services is a legitimate worry and a common reason many people hesitate to reach out to a lawyer. That is why we offer 100% free consultations and a “No Win, No Fee Guarantee.” This guarantee means you do not have to pay unless we successfully obtain a favorable settlement, judgment, or verdict for your case.
We are passionate professionals ready to fight for your best outcome. Do not wait to get the legal guidance you need. With our car accident lawyer in Albuquerque, NM, you have a trusted team by your side.
Contact an Experienced Albuquerque Car Accident Attorney Today for a Free Consultation
If you or a loved one has been injured in Albuquerque, call us or reach out through our website to schedule a free consultation with our personal injury attorneys. Meetings with our Albuquerque car accident lawyer are available by appointment only. Our attorneys at Zinda Law Firm are ready to fight for you.
Jason Aldridge
Attorney
We have successfully represented clients in a wide variety of cases across the country.
Available 24 / 7|Free Consultation
