Santa Fe, NM Truck Accident Attorney

Experienced New Mexico Injury Attorney Handling Semi-Truck Accidents

Santa Fe sees a significant amount of commercial truck traffic due to its location as a hub for commerce and transportation. While these large vehicles play a vital role in the local and national economy, they also pose serious risks on the road. Commercial truck accidents can be devastating for anyone who is involved.

If you have been injured in a Santa Fe truck accident, it is important to understand the potential causes of your accident and your options for pursuing compensation for the damages you have suffered. At James Kennedy, P.L.L.C., our experienced attorney is dedicated to representing victims of commercial truck accidents, and we will fight tirelessly for your rights.

Different Types of Collisions

There are numerous situations where people in other vehicles may become involved in collisions with 18-wheelers and other large trucks. These may include:

• Rear-end collisions: These accidents typically occur when a smaller vehicle is stopped or moving slowly and a truck fails to stop in time, resulting in the truck striking the other vehicle from behind. The force of the impact from these accidents can cause serious injuries such as whiplash, traumatic brain injury (TBI), spinal cord damage, broken bones, and more.
• Jackknife accidents: Jackknifing occurs when the trailer portion of the truck swings outward while the cab remains straight or slides sideways due to a loss of control or sudden braking by the driver. The angle of a truck and trailer in these situations resembles a jackknife, hence the name. Jackknife accidents often result in multi-vehicle collisions, because other drivers may not have enough time or space to avoid colliding with a truck or its trailer. These accidents can result in devastating injuries and even fatalities.
• Underride accidents: These types of accidents may occur when a smaller vehicle collides with the rear or side of a commercial truck, becoming partially or completely wedged underneath the trailer. Due to the difference in height between passenger vehicles and trucks, underride collisions often cause damage to the areas of vehicles where drivers and passengers sit, such as windows or rooflines. The impact force of an underride accident can cause catastrophic injuries, including head trauma, amputations, spinal cord injuries, internal organ damage, or even death. Underride guards on trucks are designed to prevent these accidents; however, they may not be properly maintained, or they may not meet safety standards.
• T-bone collisions: These accidents occur when one vehicle strikes another at a perpendicular angle. T-bone accidents typically occur at intersections when a truck driver ignores traffic signs or signals or fails to yield the right of way, leading to a collision with another vehicle traveling through the intersection. These crashes can result in serious injuries for those involved because there is less protection offered by side doors. Victims may suffer broken bones, traumatic brain injuries (TBI), spinal cord damage, internal bleeding, or other serious injuries requiring extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.

Causes of Commercial Truck Accidents

A variety of factors can contribute to commercial truck accidents in Santa Fe, including:

• Distracted driving: Distractions are common among all motorists, but commercial drivers are at an increased risk because of the long hours they spend on the road. Cell phones, radios, or other on-board systems can take a truck driver's attention away from safely operating their vehicle.
• Fatigued driving: Truck drivers often face demanding schedules and tight deadlines, which can lead to fatigue. Long hours of continuous driving can lead to drowsiness and reduced reaction times, ultimately resulting in accidents.
• Speeding: In an effort to meet strict delivery deadlines or make up for time lost due to traffic congestion or weather conditions, commercial truck drivers may exceed the posted speed limits on a road or highway. Speeding significantly increases the likelihood that a truck driver will lose control of their vehicle and become involved in an accident.
• Improper loading: Maintaining proper weight distribution is critical for trucks. Overloading or unevenly distributing cargo can lead to instability during braking or turning, potentially causing rollovers or other types of accidents.

Contact Our Santa Fe Truck Accident Lawyer

If you have been involved in a truck accident in Santa Fe, it is important to seek legal representation as soon as possible. At James Kennedy, P.L.L.C., our attorney has extensive experience handling complex truck accident cases. We will thoroughly investigate your case and fight tirelessly on your behalf to obtain the compensation you deserve. Contact us today at 915-544-5200 to schedule a free consultation. Let us focus on protecting your rights while you focus on healing and rebuilding your life.