Getting into a car accident is always a shock, but in the moments that follow, your actions can shape your recovery, your financial outcome, and your legal rights. A major collision or a minor fender-bender can both have serious consequences, so knowing what to do after a car accident in New Mexico is critical.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you protect yourself, preserve evidence, and understand the right time to contact a personal injury attorney.
Your priority should always be safety. Check yourself and any passengers for injuries. If anyone is seriously hurt, call 911 immediately. If your vehicle is creating a hazard and it’s safe to do so, move it to the shoulder or out of the flow of traffic, if not, turn on your hazard lights and wait for emergency services.
Even if the accident seems minor, always file a police report. In New Mexico, it’s legally required to report a crash if there are injuries, fatalities, or more than $500 in property damage. The responding officer will document the scene and file an official report, which can become important evidence if you file an insurance claim or pursue compensation later.
If law enforcement does not respond to the scene, you can file a report through the New Mexico Department of Transportation Crash Reporting Unit.
Once everyone is safe and medical help is on the way (if needed), start documenting the scene:
Even if you feel overwhelmed, these details can be key in proving fault or defending your rights down the road.
Many accident-related injuries, such as whiplash, concussions, or internal trauma, don’t show up right away. Adrenaline can mask pain, and symptoms may take hours or even days to appear.
Always see a doctor after a car accident, even if you feel “okay” in the moment. A medical exam creates a documented record of your condition and ensures you get timely care if issues develop later. This record also plays a key role if you decide to file a personal injury claim.
You’ll need to inform your insurance provider of the accident but avoid giving a recorded statement or admitting fault before speaking with an attorney, especially if you were injured. Insurance companies often look for ways to minimize their payout.
A personal injury attorney can help guide these conversations to protect your interests.
Soon after a crash, you may be contacted by an insurance adjuster offering a quick settlement. While it may be tempting, these initial offers often fall short of what you’re truly entitled to, especially if the full scope of your injuries isn’t yet known.
Don’t sign anything until you’ve had the chance to speak with a lawyer who understands your rights.
If you’ve been insured, dealing with paperwork, insurance companies, and recovery all at once can feel overwhelming. That’s where we come in.
At VOZH Law, we help New Mexicans navigate every stage of the legal process following a car accident. From medical bills and lost wages to pain and suffering, we fight to secure full and fair compensation for every client.
When you work with our team, you get more than legal guidance; you get a dedicated advocate. We bring:
We’ve helped countless individuals across New Mexico recover from devastating accidents with confidence and clarity.
If you’ve been involved in a car accident and aren’t sure what steps to take next, we’re here to help. At VOZH Law, we offer free consultations and take the time to understand your case from every angle.
Contact us today to get the support you deserve.
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