Hit-and-run accidents in New Mexico are both dangerous and illegal. Drivers who commit a hit and run may face severe penalties. If you’re the victim of a hit and run accident, it’s important to understand the hit and run laws in New Mexico and work with an experienced Phoenix car accident attorney so you can collect the compensation you deserve.
What Are The Hit and Run Laws in New Mexico?
Under New Mexico law, any driver involved in an accident must stop and provide their contact, insurance, and license information. If a driver fails to do so, they can face criminal charges that range from misdemeanors to felonies depending on the severity of the accident.
Whenever a car accident involves injuries, death, or property damage of $500 or more, drivers must also report the accident to the police.
What Is The Penalty for Leaving the Scene of an Accident in New Mexico?
If an accident only results in property damage, fleeing the scene may be a misdemeanor. A conviction can lead to fines, jail time, and/or the suspension of the offender’s driver’s license.
When an accident results in bodily injury or death, leaving the scene may be a felony. This may come with much more severe penalties, such as significant prison time, hefty fines, and a long-term suspension or revocation of the driver’s license.
The penalties increase if the driver was under the influence of alcohol or drugs at the time of the crash.
In addition to criminal penalties, drivers who commit a hit and run may be financially responsible for the personal injuries and property damage suffered by their victims.
What Procedure Does New Mexico Law Require if Someone Hits an Unattended Vehicle?
New Mexico hit and run laws mandate that any driver who hits an unattended vehicle must immediately stop and attempt to locate the owner or driver of the vehicle. If the driver cannot locate the owner, they must leave a written notice on the vehicle in a visible location. This notice should include the driver’s name, address, and a description of the circumstances of the accident.
What is the Statute of Limitations on a Car Accident in New Mexico?
For personal injury cases, the statute of limitations is typically three years from the date of the accident. This means that if you suffered an injury in a hit-and-run accident, you have three years to file a lawsuit against the responsible party.
If the accident resulted in death, the timeline changes slightly. In the case of wrongful death, the statute of limitations in New Mexico is three years from the date of the victim’s death, rather than the accident itself.
Get Professional Help With Hit and Run Laws in New Mexico
If you’re the victim of a hit and run accident, we at Sargon Law Group are here to help you collect the compensation you deserve. We understand hit and run laws in New Mexico and are committed to achieving the best possible outcomes for our clients. Contact us today for a free consultation so our Phoenix injury lawyer can evaluate your case and help you understand your options.