Albuquerque Accident Statistics

Alcohol, Speed Not Factors in Fatal Pedestrian Crash

Albuquerque (April 15, 2021) – An unidentified pedestrian was killed on Wednesday after being struck by a car while crossing the intersection of Skyline Road and Juan Tabo Boulevard.

According to two APD officers who saw the crash, the man was crossing Juan Tabo from east to west around midnight. One car stopped in the middle of the road as he crossed, but the driver in the next lane did not see him in the roadway and struck him. He was taken to the University of New Mexico Hospital, where he died.

The driver stayed at the scene, and it is not believed that alcohol or speeding played a role in this fatal accident. However, the area where the accident occurred is not well-lit and there are no marked crosswalks nearby. Source: KRQE

APD: Speeding, Racing to Blame for Many Accidents

Albuquerque (March 25, 2021) – The Albuquerque Police Department (APD) has just concluded its citywide weekend speeding and racing operations. The measure, which was put into place last October, has resulted in thousands of citations issued against negligent and reckless drivers.

Speeding and racing has caused countless fatal pedestrian accidents and car crashes throughout the city in recent years. Police targeted areas well-known for street racing, including the Montgomery corridor from Carlisle to Tramway, Coors Boulevard from NM 528 to Central, Paseo Del Norte from I-25 to Tramway, Eubank Boulevard from Montgomery to Lomas, and Unser from Gibson to Paseo Del Norte.

More than 5,000 weekend citations were issued for speeding, 73 for racing, 145 for exhaust or noise, and more than 300 for careless or reckless driving. Source: City of Albuquerque

What Really Causes Albuquerque Pedestrian Accidents?

Albuquerque (March 4, 2021) – According to Albuquerque police, most Albuquerque pedestrian accidents are caused by “pedestrian error”—errors like walking outside of designated crosswalks, or wearing dark clothing at nighttime.

Notably, however, many streets with high pedestrian fatality rates also have poor street lighting and longer distances between signalized crosswalks. While it’s true that motorists are not always at fault for these accidents, city officials seem to have overlooked the role of ineffective infrastructure in causing pedestrian injuries.

If you or a loved one has been injured in New Mexico because of a negligent driver or unsafe roads, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact an Albuquerque personal injury lawyer today to arrange a free consultation. Source: ABQ Journal

High Traffic Volume Causes Hundreds of Accidents

Rio Rancho (February 11, 2021) – One four-mile stretch of highway in New Mexico has been the site of hundreds of car accidents due to high traffic volume, according to Rio Rancho police.

Highway 528 from Westside Boulevard NW to Northern Boulevard NE is a hot spot for vehicle crashes. Between 2018 and 2020, the Rio Rancho Police Department responded to at least 620 reports of motor vehicle collisions in the four-mile section of highway.

Even during the COVID-19 pandemic, which greatly reduced overall traffic, officers still responded to 164 car accidents there last year.

The police department is now targeting the area, which has a high volume of commercial traffic, to help enforce traffic laws and reduce instances of speeding, which may also contribute to the area’s high crash statistics. Source: KRQE

Albuquerque Residents Blame Intersection For Multiple Crashes

Albuquerque (January 21, 2021) – A group of concerned Albuquerque residents are speaking up about an intersection on the city’s westside that has reportedly led to multiple car crashes over the years.

At least 16,000 cars pass through Universe Boulevard and Ventana Road every day. While the intersection was once fortified by a four-way stop, it now only has stop signs for the traffic coming from Ventana. Drivers trying to cross the intersection must yield to the much heavier traffic on Universe, which residents say is risky.

While no fatalities have been reported from intersection accidents here, neighbors in the area believe it’s only a matter of time before a motorist is killed. Meanwhile, city engineers won’t be able to reevaluate the intersection for safety upgrades until after the COVID-19 pandemic. Source: KRQE

28% of Traffic Fatalities Have Involved Alcohol in 2020

Statewide (December 17, 2020) – Fatal New Mexico car accidents caused by alcohol consumption have declined this year, hovering at 28% of all deadly traffic accidents in 2020 as of November.

In comparison, roughly 40% of fatal accidents in 2019 were alcohol-involved, in addition to 38% of deadly accidents in 2018. So far this year, 95 people have died in drunk driving accidents in New Mexico. 247 have died in traffic accidents unrelated to alcohol intoxication.

Although overall deadly DUI accidents have decreased in 2020, impaired driving remains a significant problem on Albuquerque roads. Check out these tips for preventing drunk driving from Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys. Source: UNM

APD Hopes To Curb Crashes Caused By Street Racing

Albuquerque (November 19, 2020) – The Albuquerque Police Department (APD) has identified five major hot spots for illegal street racing and intends to crack down on those who engage in reckless driving behaviors such as speeding.

Montgomery Boulevard between Carlisle and Tramway and Coors Boulevard between N.M. 528 and Central are just a few of the areas in which police have identified high concentrations of drag racing, leading to a number of serious Albuquerque car accidents.

Other drivers, motorcyclists, bicyclists, and pedestrians are all at an increased risk of being injured or killed by street racing or speeding in these areas, especially at night. APD will be working with the community and other city departments to hopefully put an end to this dangerous trend. Source: Albuquerque Journal

Snowstorm to Blame For 133 Albuquerque Crashes

Albuquerque (October 29, 2020) – The first considerable snowstorm of the season caused over 130 Albuquerque car accidents in just 24 hours, according to Mayor Tim Keller, who held a news conference Tuesday morning about the record-setting amount of snowfall.

About 2.9 inches of snow blanketed Albuquerque International Sunport and surrounding areas, although even more snow was reported from the foothills to the West Side.

Unfortunately, the sudden change in weather threw many drivers for a loop. Snow and ice made for slick roadways and dozens of vehicles spun out and crashed.

At least 133 wrecks have been attributed to the weather, and 31 people have been injured. The Albuquerque personal injury lawyers at Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys reminds drivers to reduce their speed and drive carefully in winter weather. Source: Albuquerque Journal

Cause of Fatal Motorcycle Accident Still Under Investigation

Santa Fe (October 1, 2020) – Police are still investigating who was at fault in a deadly motorcycle accident that took place on September 30 on NM Highway 14.

32-year-old Kevin Ray Forsberg of Albuquerque was killed when the Harley Davidson he was riding collided with a pickup truck driven by a 17-year-old male around 11:20 a.m. yesterday.

The pickup truck driver was making a left turn onto the highway when Forsberg struck the front passenger side of the truck. He later died of his injuries while the 17-year-old was unharmed.

It is currently unknown whether speed or impairment were a factor in this tragic accident. Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys extends their heartfelt sympathies to Mr. Forsberg’s family and friends during this difficult time. Source: NM DPS

Mother of Three Killed By Reckless Driver in Albuquerque

Albuquerque (September 17, 2020) – A 33-year-old woman was killed over the weekend when a reckless driver ran a red light and struck her vehicle as she was turning left onto Unser Boulevard from Tower Road.

The victim, Erika Chavez, was on her way to pick up breakfast for her family, and was killed instantly. Her three-year-old daughter in the backseat suffered bruises but was otherwise unharmed. Chavez leaves behind two other children and her husband.

The driver, who has not yet been identified, was traveling at speeds of 120 miles per hour when he ran the red light. Investigation into this deadly car accident is still ongoing. Source: KRQE

March 2021 Traffic Fatalities Report

Statewide (April 8, 2021) – According to the Traffic Research Unit at the University of New Mexico (UNM), there were 33 traffic deaths throughout the state in March 2021. The total number of people killed this year in traffic accidents is up to 87.

Of the 33 deaths, 20 were related to SUV, pickup truck, or car accidents. Six people were killed in pedestrian accidents, five died in motorcycle accidents, and one person was killed in a bicycle accident.

Alcohol-involved crashes accounted for seven deaths in March. Although about 20% of traffic fatalities have been alcohol-related in 2021, overall drunk driving deaths are down by 50% compared to this time last year. Source: UNM

February 2021 New Mexico Traffic Fatalities

Statewide (March 18, 2021) – According to the Traffic Research Unit at the University of New Mexico (UNM), there were 20 traffic deaths throughout the state in February 2021, a 25.9% decrease from February 2020. It’s also the lowest number of traffic accident deaths recorded in one month since November 2017.

Of the 20 deaths, 11 were related to SUV, pickup truck, or car accidents. Two people were killed in semi-truck or bus crashes. An additional five people were killed in pedestrian accidents, along with one bicyclist and one person in an unknown vehicle type.

Alcohol-involved crashes accounted for just three deaths last month, a significant decrease compared to previous years. Year to date, 14% of traffic fatalities have been alcohol-related. Source: UNM

January 2021 New Mexico Traffic Deaths

Statewide (February 25, 2021) – According to the Traffic Research Unit at the University of New Mexico (UNM), there were 35 traffic deaths throughout the state in January 2021, a 12.5% decrease from January 2020.

Of the 35 deaths, 23 were related to SUV, pickup truck, or car accidents. An additional 11 people were killed in pedestrian accidents, along with one motorcyclist. Alcohol-involved crashes accounted for just 5 deaths, a significant decrease from last January.

Although impaired crashes were down last month, the number of seat belt-related fatalities was up, with 82.6% of passenger vehicle occupants not using a restraint at the time of the accident. The Albuquerque personal injury lawyers at Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys remind motorists to drive sober and to always buckle up. Source: UNM

2020 New Mexico Annual Traffic Fatalities

Statewide (February 4, 2021) – According to the Traffic Research Unit at the University of New Mexico (UNM), there were 389 fatalities on New Mexico roads in 2020. This number represents an overall fatality decrease of about 8.5% compared to 2019.

All in all, 238 people were killed in car accidents, 78 people were killed in pedestrian accidents, 46 people were killed in motorcycle accidents, 11 people were killed in bus or semi-truck accidents, and 8 people were killed in ATV accidents throughout 2020.

In fatal car accidents, it was noted that 65.1% of deceased occupants were not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash. In addition, data indicates that 130 deaths (about 33.4%) were attributed to alcohol-involved accidents. Source: UNM

December 2020 Traffic Fatalities

Statewide (January 14, 2021) – According to the New Mexico Monthly Traffic Fatality Report, there were 38 traffic deaths in December 2020.

Most deadly accidents involved a passenger vehicle, with 27 deaths reported. An additional seven people were killed in pedestrian accidents.

Bus and semi-truck accidents claimed the lives of three people throughout the state, and one person was killed in a bicycle accident. Notably, no motorcyclists were killed last month, the first fatality-free month since March 2020.

The Albuquerque personal injury lawyers at Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys remind motorists to drive safe and sober. Those who have been injured or whose loved ones have been killed in a traffic accident are encouraged to contact us for a free legal consultation. Source: UNM

NM Traffic Fatalities Decreased in November

Statewide (December 10, 2020) – November has been the least deadly month in 2020 for New Mexico traffic accidents, according to preliminary data obtained from the Traffic Research Unit (TRU) at the University of New Mexico (UNM).

Throughout the state, just 21 people were reportedly killed in traffic accidents last month, a reduction of nearly 50% compared to September, when 40 fatalities were recorded.

Although car accidents, pickup truck accidents, and motorcycle accidents decreased significantly, New Mexico pedestrian accidents remained high, with nine pedestrians killed in November.

If you or a loved one has been injured in any kind of traffic accident, legal help is available. To find out if you may be eligible for compensation, contact an Albuquerque personal injury lawyer today. Source: UNM

October 2020 Traffic Fatalities

Statewide (November 12, 2020) – 25 people were killed in New Mexico traffic accidents in October 2020, according to preliminary data obtained from the University of New Mexico (UNM).

This represents the lowest number of people who died in any month so far in 2020 due to auto accidents, tied with April 2020. It’s also the least amount of people who have died in one month due to traffic accidents since January of 2018, when only 23 people died.

In total, approximately 319 people have been killed on New Mexico roads so far this year. As the Thanksgiving holiday approaches, Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys reminds motorists to buckle up, drive sober, and prepare your vehicle for winter driving in New Mexico. Source: UNM

September 2020 Traffic Fatalities

Statewide (October 8, 2020) – 39 people died on New Mexico roads during September, according to the latest data from the University of New Mexico (UNM). That’s the highest number of traffic fatalities since June, when 44 people died.

September was also the third-deadliest month this year, preceded by June and January, when 40 traffic deaths were recorded.

Year to date, just under 300 New Mexicans have lost their lives due to traffic accidents including car accidents, bicycle accidents, motorcycle accidents, and pedestrian accidents.

If you have lost a loved one in a traffic accident due to a drunk, distracted, or otherwise negligent driver, you and your family could be entitled to compensation. Contact an Albuquerque wrongful death lawyer for a free consultation. Source: UNM

August 2020 Traffic Fatalities

Statewide (September 10, 2020) – There were 33 people killed in New Mexico traffic accidents in August 2020, according to preliminary data from the University of New Mexico (UNM).

Of the 24 people killed in car accidents last month, the data revealed that just 4 of them had been wearing seat belts during the crash. Year to date, almost 67% of those killed in car accidents were not wearing seat belts.

A similar pattern has emerged with motorcyclists. UNM found that of all motorcycle accident deaths so far this year, around 67% of those killed were not wearing a helmet.

Many traffic fatalities can be prevented. The Albuquerque personal injury lawyers at Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys remind motorists to buckle up, wear a helmet, and drive safe. Source: UNM

July 2020 Traffic Fatalities

Statewide (August 20, 2020) – 36 people died in traffic accidents throughout the state in July, according to the latest data from the University of New Mexico (UNM). This represents the third-highest number of accidents in any month year to date. 40 people died back in January, and 47 were killed in June.

Of the 36 fatalities, 22 were car passengers, 3 were ATV riders, 4 were motorcyclists, 4 were pedestrians, and 3 were bicyclists. Overall deaths resulting from traffic collisions are down by about 7% compared to this time last year.

If you have been injured in an accident because of someone else’s negligence, contact an Albuquerque car accident lawyer today for a free consultation. Source: UNM

Two Children Killed in Single-Vehicle Crash

Albuquerque (April 1, 2021) – A seven-year-old girl and a boy who was less than a year old died in a single-vehicle accident early Tuesday morning on Interstate 25. The driver, who was the girl’s mother, along with another adult and two child passengers, were injured.

According to police, 23-year-old Alexis Elizabeth Martinez was speeding on the flyover from westbound I-40 to northbound I-25 when the car accident occurred around 4:00 a.m. The car reportedly became airborne, crossed all lanes of the I-25, and hit a concrete barrier. Martinez’s daughter, Amariah Moya, and the unidentified infant, both died at the scene.

According to the other 23-year-old passenger, both she and Martinez had been drinking the night of the accident. Police say alcohol and speed played a role in the fatal accident. Source: ABQ Journal

ABQ Police Still Searching for Hit and Run Driver

Albuquerque (March 11, 2021) – The Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) is still looking for the hit-and-run driver responsible for the death of a local man. 46-year-old Leroy Garcia was on a walk in the South Valley around 7:00 p.m. on February 27, 2021 when he was hit by a car and killed near the intersection of Rio Bravo and Del Rio.

The driver fled the scene, and no witnesses have come forward. However, based on vehicle debris left at the scene, police believe the driver responsible for Garcia’s death may be driving a red Chevy Tahoe with major front-end damage and a cracked windshield.

Anyone with information pertaining to this deadly pedestrian accident is encouraged to contact the Traffic Investigations Unit by calling 505-798-7000. Source: KRQE

Snowy, Icy Conditions Throughout New Mexico

Albuquerque (February 18, 2021) – Snow and ice continues to impact much of New Mexico as a polar vortex continues to sweep the U.S. Santa Fe received as much as ten inches of snow, while icy roadways led to a temporary closure of Interstate 40 in Albuquerque.

According to police, multiple cars slid off the road on I-40 eastbound from San Mateo to Eubank this morning due to “extremely icy” conditions. Multiple car accidents have been attributed to the weather as people tried to commute to work.

Santa Fe’s roadways have fared slightly better despite the large amount of snowfall, although icy and slick roadways are expected for the rest of the week. Motorists are encouraged to stay off the roads when possible and practice safe winter driving. Source: ABQ Journal | KRQE

24-Year-Old Mother and Infant Killed in Hit-and-Run

Gallup (January 28, 2021) – A woman and an unidentified baby were killed last week in a hit-and-run truck accident on Interstate 40 near Gallup, New Mexico.

According to New Mexico State Police, 24-year-old Jessica Copey was walking on the left shoulder of I-40 with an infant in a car seat when she was hit by a tractor-trailer. The deceased woman and baby were later discovered by police officers responding to a call that a pedestrian had been walking along the highway.

The following day, a large truck with heavy front-end damage was found at a nearby truck stop. Police have arrested and charged the driver, 24-year-old Jagjeet Singh, with leaving the scene of an accident. He has also been charged with possession of methamphetamine, heroin, and drug paraphernalia. Source: ABQ Journal

Major Albuquerque Intersections Scheduled For Upgrades

Albuquerque (January 7, 2021) – Two major Albuquerque intersections will get a much-needed facelift according to the city’s Department of Metropolitan Development.

The 98th Street and Benavides intersection in southwest Albuquerque along with the intersection at Lomas and University in the downtown area have been selected as high-traffic corridors that need the most improvement.

98th Street, which sees as many as 20,000 cars a day, will get a $1.8-million upgrade, including ADA-compliant sidewalks, a multi-lane roundabout, walking trails, and dedicated bicycle lanes.

Lomas Road construction will be focused on repaving and fixing potholes, damaged curbs, and pedestrian-unfriendly sidewalks with a $3-million price tag. Unfortunately, it will likely be two to three years before residents start seeing road improvements take shape. (Source: KRQE)

After One Year, ART Bus Crashes Appear to Be Declining

Albuquerque (December 1, 2020) – It’s been a year since Albuquerque Rapid Transit (ART) buses debuted in New Mexico. The initiative made headlines when, within just weeks of starting the service, more than a dozen ART bus accidents were reported.

The ART bus system continued to be plagued by accidents involving both cars and pedestrians well into 2020. The majority of accidents were caused by drivers making illegal U-turns in the bus-only ART lane and jaywalking pedestrians.

ABQ Ride responded to the uptick in Albuquerque bus accidents by installing additional safety measures like pinned curbs and bright red paint in bus-only lanes. While crashes have gone down (the last reported bus crash was in September), overall decreased traffic due to the COVID-19 pandemic may also play a role. Source: KRQE News 13

Woman Killed in Suspected DUI Crash

Albuquerque (November 5, 2020) – A woman was killed last night in a suspected drunk driving accident, according to the Albuquerque Police Department (APD).

The unidentified woman was turning right at the intersection of Chico Road and Eubank Boulevard when she was struck by another vehicle driven by a man named Mohammad Hasani.

Hasani, who was not reported to have sustained injuries, admitted to drinking alcohol, smoking marijuana, and speeding prior to the fatal accident. According to a press release, the APD Motor Unit will charge Hasani with vehicular homicide.

There is no excuse for driving under the influence. If you or a loved one is the victim of an impaired driving accident, an Albuquerque personal injury lawyer may be able to help. Source: Albuquerque Journal

Companies Testing Self-Driving Semi-Trucks in NM

Albuquerque (October 22, 2020) – Multiple companies are testing self-driving commercial vehicles on New Mexico highways.

A spokesperson for the Department of Transportation told lawmakers that “quite a few” companies are either planning to introduce self-driving semi-trucks or have already done so along I-10 from Albuquerque to the Texas state line.

The spokesperson noted that although the semis are self-driving, a fully-credentialed driver is in the vehicle ready to take over at any time. Still, some drivers are a bit wary about sharing the road with an autonomous vehicle of such great size, as semi-truck accidents have high injury and fatality rates for occupants in passenger cars.

Have you sustained injuries in a self-driving vehicle accident through no fault of your own? Contact Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys for a free consultation. Source: KOB4

Two Bicyclists Hit, One Killed in Hit and Run Accident

Albuquerque (October 15, 2020) – One woman suffered injuries and another was killed by a hit-and-run driver on Albuquerque’s West Side on Tuesday.

29-year-old Joshua Downs was driving along Montano Road just west of Coors Boulevard when he struck two bicyclists while turning left.

Instead of stopping to render aid to the victims, Downs sped off. Police later caught up with him at his home where he admitted to drinking shortly before the bicycle accident.

Good Samaritans assisted the two injured bicyclists at the scene, but one of the women died at the hospital. The current condition of the other woman is unknown.

Downs has been charged with vehicular homicide while driving under the influence and leaving the scene of an accident. Source: KRQE

‘Bike Thru Burque Week’ Highlights Cyclist Safety During COVID-19

Albuquerque (September 24, 2020) – New Mexico cyclists are hitting the streets this week in celebration of Bike Thru Burque Week, an annual campaign that encourages people of all ages to get out and ride their bikes around our beautiful city.

Of course, this year looks a little different thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic, and organizers are promoting good safety practices to prevent both coronavirus infections and Albuquerque bicycle accidents.

Riders are advised to stay at least six feet away from other cyclists and motorists, wear a face covering, and to wear other protective equipment like helmets and reflective gear.

Bicyclists should also plan their route ahead of time and choose streets that offer dedicated bike lanes. Source: Bike Thru Burque