Albuquerque Accident Statistics

Drunk Driving and Speed Chasing in New Mexico

Albuquerque, NM (January 7, 2019): New updates are in on an alleged drunk driver who led a police officer on a speed chase. The accused drunk driver failed to maintain position in his lane when a police officer attempted to pull him over. Instead, the accused sped up, reaching speeds as high as 117 miles per hour. The pursuit went on until the accused pulled over and hit a cattle guard before fleeing on foot. That’s when the officer caught him and the accused eventually surrendered. As it turns out, the driver already had four DWI convictions, and a fifth one will mean a mandatory sentence of one to two years in jail.

Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys encourage you to stay safe while on the road. Maintain sobriety, and arrange safe transportation if you are too impaired to drive yourself. If you suffer a personal injury, contact us for a free consultation. Source: KRQE

Illegal Turns at Intersections Cause Concern

Albuquerque, NM (December 23, 2019): At one particular Albuquerque intersection (Coors and Paseo), drivers regularly make illegal right turns as a shortcut maneuver. This is even in spite of the fact that there are signs prohibiting such action and the fact that such an action is dangerous. Pedestrians nearly get hit, as many drivers don’t slow down at crosswalks, and traffic is perilous around rush hour times. The city plans on making lane expansions to alleviate the burden of traffic, but an estimated date of completion has not yet been released.

If you or someone you know suffer a vehicle personal injury, contact Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys for a free consultation. We will help work with you on your personal injury case. Source: KRQE News

ART Bus Accidents Occur Shortly After Service Start

Albuquerque, NM (December 8, 2019): There have been five traffic accidents involving the new Albuquerque Rapid Transit (ART) bus system since the full-service date a little over a week ago. Many drivers are still having a tough time adjusting to the new buses on the roads and continue to inappropriately use the bus lanes as turning and passing lanes. Because of this, two buses have been taken out of service for repairs. Luckily, in the most recent crash, the bus suffered only minor damages, and everyone inside the bus was left uninjured.

Be sure to always drive with prudence and vigilance while on Albuquerque’s roads. Keep an eye out for pedestrians, other vehicles, and hazards that could pose a threat to your safety. Practice safe driving methods, and always obey traffic laws. If you suffer an injury due to the negligence of another driver, contact Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys for a free personal injury case consultation. Source: KRQE News

Snowstorm to Strike New Mexico

Statewide (November 26, 2019): As is the case with many other states this holiday season, New Mexico is expecting heavy snowstorms ahead of Thanksgiving. There are sure to be slippery roads and low visibility, so it is advisable to complete all your holiday traveling as early as possible. 

The New Mexico Department of Transportation and the Public Service Company of New Mexico have both released safety tips just in time for the treacherous weather. Remember, reduce your speed, and pack an emergency kit in case something goes wrong. Additionally, always abide by the law, and practice driver safety at all times.

Most importantly, be aware that the roads are especially dangerous during the snowy seasons. If you suffered a traffic injury caused by the reckless actions or negligence of another driver, contact Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys for a free consultation. Source: KRQE News

K-9 Calamity: Police Dog Bites Homeowner

Albuquerque, NM (November 7, 2019): The Albuquerque Police Department is facing the threat of a potential lawsuit after one of its K-9s attacked an innocent homeowner. Police were surveying the area for a suspect on the loose, and officers told people to stay indoors. The department later lowered the perimeter but received word that the suspect was back in the area, so police set up a perimeter again. This time, though, citizens were not notified. One homeowner went outside during what he thought was a safe time to close his gate, and only then did the K-9 attack him. Officers say they thought he was a suspect, but the victim denies this claim. The victim suffered serious leg injuries and is pursuing a personal injury case.

If you suffered a dog bite injury due to someone else’s negligence, contact Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys for a free consultation. We’ll work with you for the compensation you deserve. Source: KOAT 7 News

New Mexico Roads in Disrepair

Statewide (October 23, 2019): Some of New Mexico’s roads are in an abysmal state of disrepair. Many streets are paved so poorly that some cars suffer damage just from driving over them, and the journey to and from work can be “bumpy the entire trip through,” said Bob Oberer, a driver for the Santa Fe Village Neighborhood Patrol. “You’re gonna get your teeth jarred loose,” he added.

State and city officials are aware of the treacherous status of New Mexico’s roads, many of which are at their worst in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Director of Albuquerque’s Department of Municipal Development Patrick Montoya said, “We do have areas on the west side where the soil conditions and the materials that we used as a test many, many years ago have, in fact, not proven to hold up.” This means that, in many cases, some roads are especially dangerous to drive on, and the chances of an accident go up exponentially.

While approximately $40 million is used each year to repair the roads, it would cost over $1 billion to fix everything at once. The department is doing its best, however, to play catch-up and repair what they can to keep people safe.

If you got in an accident on a dangerous road, contact Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys. We’ll work with you on your personal injury lawsuit. Source: KRQE News

Balloon Barrage: Fires at the Fiesta 

Rio Rancho, NM (October 7, 2019): On Monday, two people suffered injuries after a hot air balloon struck a power line and ignited a fire. The gondola made a hard landing in Rio Rancho, NM. And this wasn’t the only accident of its kind. Many hundreds of hot air balloons took to the sky as part of the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. Unfortunately, some were in for a bumpy ride. In another incident, one pilot accidentally got caught on a tree and then a light pole, causing the pilot to engage in a forced landing.

It’s possible to suffer from burns and other serious injuries while riding a hot air balloon. If you have suffered such injuries, contact Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys. We’ll give you a free consultation and discuss your compensation. Source: NPR News

Recreational Marijuana Legalization On the Table

Statewide (September 25, 2019): Governor Michele Lujan Grisham is meeting with her work group for the fifth and final meeting today, Wednesday, September 25 to discuss legislation for properly legalizing recreational marijuana. The meeting is open to the public, and citizens are encouraged to voice their questions and concerns. Albuquerque City Councilor and Chairman of the work group has much to say. “What do you do when more people are accessing marijuana? And how do police respond to that, and what do we do with new marijuana revenue? Do we put it into education, do we do drug treatment?” Others are concerned about affordability and public safety issues.

Lerner and Rowe would like to remind you to stay safe on the road. Regardless of whether marijuana becomes legal in New Mexico, you should never drive under the influence of mind-altering substances. Stay sober and alert on the road, and keep an eye out for others’ reckless actions, too. Source: KOAT7 News

Drinking and Driving Causes Another Fatal Crash

Albuquerque, NM (September 12, 2019): 31-year-old New Mexico driver Brian Leonard recently got sentenced to 10 years in prison for his reckless behavior that ended up killing a 69-year-old man. Police say Leonard had a BAC of 0.21%, which is more than twice the base level of intoxication. Furthermore, this wasn’t Leonard’s first traffic offense: he had received a conviction eight years ago for aggravated DWI, and he had pled guilty to vehicular homicide.

If you’ve been drinking alcohol, ingesting medications, or smoking/vaping mind-altering substances, stay off the roads. Always stay sober when driving, and if you suspect that someone on the road is under the influence, stay away from them. Pull over and alert the authorities. Source: AlbuquerqueJournal

Serial Drunk Driving is Dangerous

Santa Fe, New Mexico (August 14, 2019): A New Mexico man was recently arrested for what is now his twelfth DWI. While no one was injured because of the man’s reckless driving, that doesn’t excuse driving under the influence in the first place. New Mexico takes driving under the influence seriously, yet sadly, the land of enchantment has a serious problem with drunk drivers. 

In 2015, 30% of fatal accidents involved someone at or above the legal BAC limit. 

On the whole, New Mexico drivers are ranked quite close to the bottom when it comes to the skill and safety of its drivers. This lack of precaution by drivers is thus exacerbated by those who make poor decisions and drive on the road while impaired.

If you or someone you know suffered an injury or wrongful death from a drunk driver, contact Lerner and Rowe for a free consultation. We’ll work with you on your personal injury case. Sources: KRQE and Albuquerque Journal 

More Bikes on the Roads

Albuquerque, New Mexico (July 24, 2019): Mayor Tim Keller announced that bicycle patrols will now ride throughout the city in an effort to interact with the community. At least 22 officers are to be stationed throughout Albuquerque. Business owners and other citizens can get to know the officers in a friendly manner, showing that there’s no reason to fear our men and women in blue. Additionally, this measure will hopefully make the city safer by deterring crime. Furthermore, when a crime does happen, a bicycle patrol may be nearby and can arrive at the scene quickly.

Keep in mind, though, that more bikes on the roads means more people to look out for. Many accidents are caused by distracted drivers not staying vigilant of others around them. Give cyclists ample space, and always yield the right of way. At night, make sure you keep an eye out for bicycle reflectors and reflective clothing. Finally, never drive drowsy or under the influence of mind-altering substances. Staying sober and alert will keep you out of an accident. Source: AlbuquerqueJournal

Compounding Variables Contribute to NM Fatalities

Statewide (June 28, 2019) – Many variables are contributing to New Mexico’s accident fatalities. For example, nearly one fourth of all accident-related deaths involved alcohol this past May. Additionally, alcohol was involved in over 20% of all New Mexico accidents, in general, for May, 2019. Seat belt usage is a huge concern, too. In over 50% of recorded accident fatalities, at least one vehicle occupant wasn’t wearing a seat belt.

When you drive on New Mexico’s roads, make sure you drive sober and with your seat belt fastened. Furthermore, be sure to obey all traffic laws and avoid distractions such as text messages and loud music. Source: New Mexico Monthly Traffic Fatality Report, 2019

Traffic Fatality Update: A Worrying Trend

Statewide (November 15, 2019): This past October, there were 34 traffic fatalities, according to the New Mexico Department of Transportation Monthly Traffic Fatality Report. In 2018 and 2017, there were 44 and 42 traffic fatalities, respectively, for the month of October. 

While there were fewer fatalities in October, comparatively speaking, the overall traffic fatalities are on an upward trend. So far, there have been approximately 347 traffic fatalities since 2019 began. In 2018, there were approximately 331 traffic deaths around this time of the year, and 2017 saw 322 around this time of the year. Hopefully, safety measures such as repairing roadways will help make driving safer in New Mexico.

If you suffered a traffic injury in New Mexico, contact Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys for a free consultation regarding your personal injury case. Source: UNM Traffic Report

Fewer Fatalities in June

Statewide (August 9, 2019): According to the New Mexico Monthly Traffic Fatality Report, there were only 29 traffic fatalities in June 2019. This is a 21% decrease from June 2018 (37 fatalities), and a 14% decrease from June 2017 (34 fatalities). Furthermore, only 3 out of the 29 fatalities involved alcohol, which is 15 fewer than in June 2018, and 4 fewer than in June 2017.

Hopefully the downward trend continues as the year goes on. The ideal situation would be for there to be no deaths on the road. However, accidents do happen, and if you happen to be in one, contact Lerner and Rowe. Don’t drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and stay vigilant while on the road. Source: New Mexico Monthly Traffic Fatality Report

Fatalities Continue to Rise

Statewide (June 14, 2019) – The month of May 2019 saw 37 total traffic fatalities, which is more than May 2018’s traffic-related fatalities (29) and May 2017’s traffic-related fatalities (32). The previous two months of 2019 also saw elevated numbers when compared to the corresponding months of previous years. If trends continue, June will have an even higher amount of traffic-related deaths. To stay safe on the road, make sure you drive defensively, stay vigilant, and obey all traffic rules and laws. Source: NM Monthly Traffic Fatality Report

NM Fatalities

Albuquerque (May 8, 2019) – Since the beginning of the year, there have been over 100 fatalities on New Mexico’s roads. If this trend continues, 2019 will have more deaths than either of the two previous years. Stay safe on the road, and keep an eye out for unexpected hazards, too. Source: New Mexico Monthly Traffic Fatality Report, 2019

4,000 Fewer AFR Calls in New Mexico

Statewide (January 14, 2020): The Albuquerque Fire Rescue (AFR) received 105,000 calls last year, the first time in several years the agency has seen a drop in the number of calls. This is in part thanks to a new program called the Home Engagement and Alternative Response Team (H.E.A.R.T.). The program allows people who frequently call 911 to connect with the appropriate resources in a timely manner, thereby reducing unnecessary expenditures of time, energy, manpower, and other resources.

If you’ve suffered a personal injury, seek medical attention right away. After, contact Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys for a free consultation. Source: KOB4

New Mexico Ranked Number 5 on “Most Impaired Driving Deaths” List

Statewide (January 1, 2019): New Mexico ranks 5th highest in the country when it comes to the number of impaired driving deaths in 2019. According to one report, there were 107 car crashes involving alcohol in New Mexico, 2019. While this is fewer than the 2018 figure (139 fatalities), New Mexico has a long way to go when it comes to reducing drinking and driving.

If you suffer an injury from a drunk or impaired driver, contact Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys right away for a free consultation. Also, make sure that you drive sober and alert, without any influence of drugs or alcohol. Source: KRQE 

New Speed Limit Sign Installations in New Mexico

Albuquerque, NM (December 17, 2019): The city of Albuquerque is taking steps to install new speed limit signs. Such signs let drivers know that the traffic lights are timed based on the 30 mph speed limit. The signs are strategically placed at a juncture where crashes have often occurred, according to residents. Mayor Keller is hopeful about the changes, stating, “We know there are some other things that the neighborhood would like, and that’s why we are supporting further study by our council of governments. . . . But in the meantime, we’re going to try this.”

Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys hopes you stay safe on the road. But if you do suffer an injury, contact us for a free personal injury consultation. Source: KOB4 News

The New ART System Is Now Opened

Albuquerque, NM (November 30, 2019): After two years, the Albuquerque Rapid Transit buses are open and operational. Along with these new buses come stricter crackdowns on improper driving practices. Drivers are still often caught using the bus lane illegally to make turns, a habit that can increase the chances of an accident.

The ART is free to ride until the end of the year to thank the people of New Mexico for patiently waiting. However, what isn’t free is the fines imposed on drivers caught violating safe roadway practices. Police fines for illegally using the bus lane begin at $80 and only go up from there. Therefore, when you’re on a New Mexico road, stay safe. Avoid distractions, and always obey all traffic laws. It’s the best, safest thing you can do for yourself, your passengers, and others on the road.

If you do suffer an injury while on the road because of another driver’s negligence or recklessness, contact Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys. We’ll give you a free consultation regarding your personal injury case. Source: KRQE

Pipe Break Cascade: Santa Fe Streets Flooded

Santa Fe, NM (November 17, 2019): A water pipe near Frank Ortiz Dog Park burst open, allowing at least two hundred thousand gallons of water to pour through New Mexico streets. The flooding saturated dirt roads and wreaked havoc on yards and driveways. Officials have since repaired the pipe and cleaned up any trash, debris, and other hazards left in property or on roadways. People who have property damage from the flood can submit a claim with the Santa Fe local government, or they can contact Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys for a free consultation.

Remember, driving in flooded streets is dangerous. Turn around and don’t drown! If you see a road that looks hazardous, your best bet as a safe driver is to avoid that road. However, if you are injured while on the road, contact Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys. Source: KOAT7 News

Cluttered Front Yards Concern Neighbors

Albuquerque, NM (October 31, 2019): Some front yards may be overly cluttered with vehicles, and this concerns neighbors living in such areas. City Planning Director Brennon Williams says, “We don’t want front yards becoming parking lots. . . . There are limitations on how much of the front yard can be used for parking.” Williams emphasizes that the concern is not necessarily on the number of vehicles, but rather on the amount of space used. If a front yard is overly crowded, the area is affected negatively not only in an aesthetic sense, but also when it comes to safety. Too much crowding could potentially make it difficult for drivers—of commercial and emergency vehicles alike—to navigate the streets safely.

If you’re on New Mexico roads, always make sure the streets are free of hazards before proceeding. Whether there is an obstacle in your way, flooding, or something else, don’t traverse if you have doubts about the safety of the road. If you do suffer an injury due to a hazard that could have been prevented, contact Lerner and Rowe for a free consultation. Source: KRQE News

18 Fires Under Investigation

Taos, NM (October 12, 2019): A stretch of 18 human-caused fires near the El Rito Campground area are now under investigation. The fires were started earlier this month and were first detected on October 1. As of now, the fires have burned more than 100 acres and have put both firefighters’ and the public’s safety at risk. While the fire is now contained, the fact that they were all non-accidental means only that the destruction and devastation could have been avoided.

Burn injuries are serious and aren’t anything to mess around with. If you or someone you know suffer from a burn injury, seek medical help right away. Then, contact Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys for a free consultation regarding your personal injury case. Source: KRQE News

New Mexico Crime Concerns Citizens

Statewide (October 2, 2019): While New Mexico’s crime rate isn’t at its worst (as it was in 2018), violent and non-violent crime alike have been recent focuses for Mayor Tim Keller. In particular, crime in New Mexico is spearheaded by Albuquerque, the city with just over one-quarter of Mexico’s population. “We know, unfortunately, where Albuquerque goes, the rest of the state goes—especially with crime,” says Keller. “Our administration has been very clear that we have major challenges and that we own those challenges.” While there have been slow improvements, the New Mexico crime rate is overall still extremely worrisome (near the top of the charts), and this is illustrated by the shift from the Unified Crime Reporting Statistics to the National Incident-Based Reporting System, which records even more data than ever before.

If you have been the victim of a violent or non-violent personal injury, contact Lerner and Rowe immediately. We will be happy to give you a free consultation and work with you. Source: KRQE News

Don’t Slip and Slide While Driving

Lordsburg, NM (September 17, 2019): A New Mexico State Police Officer suffered injury while on the road during heavy rain. While the officer was on his way to Lordsburg, his vehicle hydroplaned out of control. This caused him to crash into an F-250 pickup truck driven by a 63-year-old Arizonan. Both drivers were transferred to a local hospital for treatment, and their injuries are not life-threatening.

While everyone turned out fine in this scenario, Lerner and Rowe would like to remind you to stay safe on the roads, especially now that school is back in session. Always mind the weather before you get in your car, and stay especially vigilant during low-visibility conditions. Source: LCSunNews

Drug Epidemic Continues to Rise

Statewide (September 5, 2019): A recent report released by the New Mexico Health Department states that the drug epidemic continues to be of main concern in the state of New Mexico. In 2017, there were 491 drug overdose deaths, but recent findings show that 2018 had even more: a total of 537 drug overdose deaths.  That’s a 9.1% increase. In fact, 2018 marked the year with New Mexico’s second-highest drug overdose deaths amount, surpassed only by 2014’s 540 deaths on record. Of particular concern is methamphetamine use, which was involved in over one-third of 2018’s overdose deaths. Health Secretary Kathy Kunkel wants to assure the public that she and her agency are working to curtail the abuse of both illicit and prescription drugs.

Ultimately, it’s best to seek a health evaluation from a licensed medical practitioner prior to taking a prescribed drug or seeking an alternative form of medication. If you do take a drug, do so responsibly. For example, don’t get behind the wheel while under the influence of medications that can affect your judgment and driving ability. Source: KOB4 News

Learn Martial Arts in Albuquerque

Albuquerque, New Mexico (August 1, 2019): The Dynamic Taekwondo Academy is an excellent facility for learning the Korean martial art. Open to people of all ages, one can start from the basics and work their way up to the black belt, just as Junge Lavinge, a 70-year-old woman, did. One can learn the martial art for competitive purposes, or just to have in the arsenal of one’s self-defense resources. No matter the reason, Dynamic Taekwondo Academy encourages everyone to apply, even if you’re in your 90s (as one of the students is)!

Keep in mind, though, that trying to take the law into your own hands is no substitute for proper legal council in the event of an assault. If you or someone you know has been attacked, contact Lerner and Rowe. We’ll work with you on your personal injury case to help seek the justice you deserve. Source: KOB4

Five Fatalities on Road 128

Jal, New Mexico (July 11, 2019):  A Chevrolet pickup truck traveling west on road 128 collided with a semi-truck on Thursday morning. The pickup crossed into eastbound traffic, where the head-on crash took place. Both vehicles then caught fire, and four people died at the scene, five in total, as was stated by the Office of the Medical Investigator. The investigation is ongoing, and alcohol doesn’t appear to be a factor in the tragic incident. When you drive, make sure you are well rested, and avoid distractions. Safe driving practices can help lessen the chances of getting in an accident. Source: CurrentArgus