Albuquerque Truck Accident Lawyer

Have You Been Injured In a Truck Wreck?

Contact the Albuquerque truck accident attorneys at Callender Bowlin today at: (505) 302-2995 We’re here to hear your story and offer a free case assessment. If we believe in your case and choose to collaborate, we’ll immediately work towards securing the maximum compensation permitted by law. We’re committed to assisting you.

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Why You Need A Truck Accident Lawyer From Callender Bowlin

In the bustling city of Albuquerque, New Mexico, where the roads are often crowded with large commercial trucks, the risk of truck accidents is a significant concern.

Highways such as Coors Boulevard, I-40, and NM 423 are major trucking arteries, increasing the chances of encountering potentially unsafe big rigs.

In these situations, the role of a specialized Albuquerque truck accident lawyer is paramount. Callender Bowlin, with their profound knowledge of truck accident law, stands ready to provide the legal assistance you need in these challenging times.

Have you or a loved one been impacted by a truck accident in Albuquerque?

The seasoned attorneys at Callendar Bowlin specialize in truck accident cases, offering over 20 years of experience in advocating for victims. Our legal team is deeply familiar with the complexities of truck accident claims, ensuring that your case is handled with the utmost care and professionalism.

We are committed to helping you through the legal process, aiming to secure the compensation you are entitled to after such a traumatic event.

At Callendar Bowlin, we understand the critical importance of having a skilled truck accident attorney by your side. We provide clear, direct answers to your questions and offer a free case evaluation to assess your situation thoroughly.

For dedicated legal support in truck accident cases, contact Callender Bowlin at (505) 302-2995. Our Albuquerque-based team is here to guide you through every step of your legal journey.

And, we’ll come to you!

Why Should You Retain an Albuquerque Truck Accident Attorney?

Dealing with the aftermath of a truck accident can be overwhelming and stressful. While it may be tempting to handle the legal aspects of your case on your own, it’s important to understand why retaining an experienced Albuquerque Truck Accident Attorney like Callender Bowlin is crucial. Here are several key reasons why you should seek professional legal representation:

You Probably have a Lack of Experience Handling Claims

Truck accidents can result in complex and challenging legal proceedings. Victims are often unfamiliar with the intricacies of personal injury law and the claims process. In contrast, insurance companies have teams of experienced adjusters and legal professionals who are well-versed in handling claims. They may use their knowledge to their advantage, potentially leaving you at a disadvantage.

By retaining an Albuquerque Truck Accident Attorney, you level the playing field. Attorneys at Callender Bowlin have the expertise and experience necessary to navigate the legal system and advocate for your rights. They understand the nuances of truck accident cases and can help you build a strong claim.

Insurance Companies Aim to Settle for as Little as Possible

Insurance companies are in the business of making profits, and one way they achieve this is by minimizing payouts to accident victims. After a truck accident, you may be approached by insurance adjusters who appear sympathetic and concerned about your well-being. However, their primary goal is to settle your case for as little money as possible.

An experienced truck accident attorney understands the tactics insurance companies use and can protect your interests. They will negotiate on your behalf to ensure you receive the full and fair compensation you deserve. This includes compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

Handling a Claim is a Complex and Time-Consuming Process

Dealing with a truck accident claim involves a multitude of tasks, such as gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, obtaining medical records, and negotiating with insurance companies. The process can be overwhelming, especially when you are trying to recover from injuries and return to your normal life.

By retaining an attorney, you can focus on your recovery while the legal professionals handle the intricacies of your case. Attorneys at Callender Bowlin have the resources and experience to efficiently manage the entire claims process. They will work tirelessly to ensure your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you need to move forward.

Maximizing Your Compensation

When you’re dealing with the aftermath of a truck accident, it’s not just about getting any compensation; it’s about getting the maximum compensation you are entitled to. Truck accident victims often have a range of damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. Calculating these damages accurately and negotiating with insurance companies to ensure you receive full and fair compensation can be a daunting task.

Truck accident attorneys at Callender Bowlin have a deep understanding of how to evaluate the true value of your claim. They work with experts, gather evidence, and build a compelling case to present your damages comprehensively. This can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case, ensuring you don’t settle for less than you deserve.

Avoiding Costly Mistakes

Handling a truck accident claim without legal representation can be risky. Insurance companies are known for using various tactics to exploit any mistakes or inconsistencies in your claim. Even a small error or a misstep in communication could jeopardize your chances of receiving fair compensation.

By having an attorney on your side, you can avoid costly mistakes. Attorneys are well-versed in the legal procedures and can guide you through the process, ensuring all paperwork is filed correctly, deadlines are met, and negotiations are handled professionally. This attention to detail can make a substantial difference in the success of your claim.

What Causes Truck Accidents in Albuquerque?

Truck accidents in Albuquerque can be caused by various factors. What is most important to victims is that when they are caused by negligence, they can typically recover compensation. Some of the more common causes of truck crashes in Albuquerque include:

Driver Error

• Distracted Driving – Truck drivers, like all motorists, are susceptible to distractions on the road, including mobile devices and other attention-diverting activities.
• Fatigue – Long hours behind the wheel can lead to driver fatigue, impairing a truck driver’s ability to make quick and informed decisions.
• Speeding – Pressures to meet delivery schedules can result in truck drivers exceeding speed limits, reducing their ability to react to sudden changes on the road.

Poor Truck Maintenance

• Neglected Vehicles – Trucks, like any machinery, require regular maintenance to ensure safety. Neglected maintenance can lead to mechanical failures that contribute to accidents.
• Overloaded Trucks – Overloading a truck can strain its mechanical components, affecting handling and braking capabilities.

Inexperienced Drivers

• Lack of Training – Inexperienced or insufficiently trained truck drivers may struggle to navigate the complexities of driving a large vehicle in diverse road conditions.
• Poor Judgment – Inexperienced drivers may make suboptimal decisions in critical driving situations.

Alcohol and Drugs

• Substance Abuse – Unfortunately, as a group, truck drivers are at high risk of substance abuse. The use of alcohol or drugs impairs a driver’s cognitive and motor skills, increasing the likelihood of accidents.

Drivers Ignoring Adverse Weather

• Drivers are required to change their driving to stay safe under the conditions. Unfortunately, many truck drivers ignore adverse weather, putting everyone on the road at risk.

New Mexico Truck Accident Statistics

In recent years, heavy trucks have been a significant concern on the roadways. According to the University of New Mexico’s 2021 Annual Crash Report, large trucks accounted for 7.2 percent of all reported crashes. What’s even more alarming is that these crashes have a disproportionately high impact on fatalities, contributing to 17.6 percent of all traffic-related deaths. This trend is especially troubling as it marks the highest level of fatalities in heavy truck-involved crashes in over a decade, with a total of 85 lives lost.

Things didn’t improve with time. Fast forward a year later, in 2022, and the New Mexico roadways appear to be even more dangerous. Check out this 2022 accident statistics table:

Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, heavy-truck crashes have continued to represent a substantial percentage of all accidents, remaining at 7.2 percent. Furthermore, when considering their presence in crashes relative to their overall representation on the road, heavy trucks, which make up just 4.5 percent of all vehicle types, are responsible for 10.8 percent of vehicle types involved in fatal crashes. These statistics highlight the urgent need for improved safety measures and increased awareness when it comes to heavy truck operations on our roadways.

Large Trucks are Subject to Federal Regulations

Drivers of commercial trucks in Albuquerque and nationwide are subject to strict federal regulations enforced by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These regulations cover key areas:

• Vehicle Safety and Maintenance – Ensuring trucks are well-maintained to prevent mechanical failures.
• Driver Qualifications and Hours – Establishing driver qualifications and limiting driving hours to combat fatigue.
• Training – Requiring drivers to have proper training.
• Financial Responsibility – Mandating financial responsibility to cover accident costs.
• Licensing and Compliance – Regulating licenses for carriers, brokers, and freight forwarders.
• Safety Measures – Enforcing rules for alcohol levels, electronic logging devices, cargo security, and hazardous materials.

Violating these regulations can constitute negligence and be grounds for seeking damages in truck accident cases. These rules, alongside traditional accident investigations, play a critical role in ensuring safer trucking practices.

Common Semi-Truck Accidents

Semi-truck accidents encompass a variety of accident types, each with its own characteristics and risks. What they all share in common is the ability to leave victims with extremely serious injuries. Some of the most common include:

• Head-On Collisions – Head-on collisions involve a semi-truck colliding with a vehicle from the opposite direction. These often result in severe injuries or fatalities due to the size and weight of trucks.
• Rollover Accidents – Rollovers occur when a semi-truck tips over onto its side or roof, often due to speeding, abrupt lane changes, or improperly loaded cargo.
• Rear-End Collisions – Rear-end collisions happen when a semi-truck strikes the vehicle in front of it, often due to driver distraction, fatigue, or inadequate braking distance.
• Override Accidents – Override accidents occur when a semi-truck runs over a smaller vehicle in front of it, often unable to stop in time, resulting in severe damage.
• Jackknife Accidents – Jackknife accidents happen when a semi-truck’s trailer swings outward, forming a sharp angle with the cab. Loss of control is a common cause.
• Underride Accidents – Underride accidents involve a smaller vehicle getting wedged beneath the rear or side of a semi-truck during a collision, often leading to catastrophic injuries.
• Blind Spot Accidents – Semi-trucks have large blind spots where smaller vehicles can be invisible to the driver. Lane changes or turns without proper checks can lead to accidents.
• Tire Blowouts – Blown tires on semi-trucks can cause drivers to lose control, potentially resulting in accidents, with tire debris posing risks to other vehicles.

Identifying the type of accident that injured you can help determine who is liable for your losses. For example, if your accident involved a tire blowout, the tire manufacturer may be liable. On the other hand, if it was caused by the truck driver, the trucker or his or her employer may be liable.

Who Can Be Liable in a New Mexico Truck Accident?

Determining liability in a New Mexico truck accident can be a complicated task due to the multiple parties involved in commercial trucking operations. When accidents occur, responsibility may extend beyond just the truck driver. Here are some potentially liable parties:

• The Truck Driver – The driver may be liable if their negligence, such as speeding or distracted driving, contributed to the accident.
• The Trucking Company – Trucking companies can be held responsible for accidents caused by factors like inadequate training, overloading, or failing to maintain their fleet.
• The Truck Owner – If the truck is owned separately from the trucking company, the owner may bear liability for maintenance issues or mechanical failures.
• The Maintenance Crew – Those responsible for maintaining the truck, including mechanics and maintenance companies, can be liable if their negligence led to a mechanical failure or defect.
• The Cargo Loading Company – If cargo is improperly loaded, leading to imbalance or spillage, the company responsible for loading the cargo may be held liable.
• Truck Manufacturers – If a defective truck part or component contributed to the accident, the manufacturer may be liable for product liability.
• Shippers and Brokers – Those involved in coordinating shipments may share liability if their actions or decisions contributed to the accident.
• Government Entities – Poorly maintained roads or inadequate signage can make government entities liable in some cases.
• Third-Party Contractors – Parties hired by the trucking company, such as third-party logistics providers or maintenance contractors, may share liability.

What Kinds of Damages are Available in a Albuquerque Truck Accident Case?

When you’re involved in a truck accident in Albuquerque, the damages you may be eligible to recover are crucial to rebuilding your life. Truck accidents often result in a range of physical, emotional, and financial hardships. Here are the types of damages that can be pursued in an Albuquerque truck accident case:

• Medical Expenses – Truck accidents can lead to serious injuries, necessitating medical treatment, surgeries, hospital stays, rehabilitation, and ongoing care. Damages can cover all past and future medical costs related to the accident.
• Lost Income – If the accident prevents you from working, you can seek compensation for lost wages and future income, including potential promotions or career advancements that were affected by the accident.
• Lost Quality of Life – Serious injuries from a truck accident can lead to a diminished quality of life, affecting your ability to enjoy daily activities, hobbies, or even maintain relationships. Compensation can address this loss of enjoyment and life-altering changes.
• Physical Pain and Suffering – Compensation can be sought for the physical pain and suffering experienced due to the accident, including any ongoing pain or disability caused by the injuries.
• Emotional Pain and Suffering – The emotional toll of a truck accident can be significant, resulting in anxiety, depression, PTSD, or other psychological issues. Damages can help cover therapy, counseling, and treatment for emotional distress.
• Property Damage – In addition to personal injuries, truck accidents often lead to damage to your vehicle and personal property. Damages can include the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle.
• Punitive Damages – In cases of extreme negligence or misconduct, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the at-fault party and deter similar behavior in the future.
• Wrongful Death Damages – In the tragic event of a fatal truck accident, surviving family members may seek damages for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and the emotional toll of losing a loved one.

How Long Do Victims Have to File a Claim?

Under New Mexico law, you have two years from the date of your accident to file a truck accident claim. That said, if the government was involved, you may only have six months. Either way, it is your best interest to contact an attorney as soon as you can. If you wait too long to file your claim, it may mean that you are unable to recover any compensation for the losses you wrongfully suffered.

Call a Albuquerque Truck Accident Attorney Today to Schedule a Free Case Evaluation

If you have been injured in a truck accident in the Albuquerque area, you should contact  a lawyer as soon as you can.

At Callender Bowlin, we know how devastating truck accidents can be for victims and their families and do everything we can to hold truckers, truckers, truck manufacturers, or other parties accountable for the injuries they cause.

To schedule a free case evaluation with a truck accident lawyer in Albuquerque, call our office today at (505) 302-2995, or contact us via our secure online form.