Hobbs Distracted Driver Accident Attorney

New Mexico holds the grim title of having the highest rate of distracted driving accidents in the U.S. In 2021, a life was shattered by a distracted driver every 29 minutes in New Mexico alone. If you’ve been injured in an accident with a distracted driver in Hobbs, New Mexico, the aftermath can feel overwhelming. But there’s hope. A Hobbs distracted driver accident lawyer such as W. Shane Jennings can help you seek justice and rebuild.

Shane understands the legal complexities of distracted driver car accident claims in Hobbs, New Mexico and will fight for your rights. You can pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and emotional trauma with his support.

Reach out to the Law Office of W. Shane Jennings today.

Alarming Trend of Distracted Driving Accidents in Hobbs, New Mexico

New Mexico holds a shocking distinction: the highest rate of distracted driving accidents in the entire United States. In 2021 alone, these crashes, fueled by phone calls, texts, and the careless lure of notifications, stole lives every 29 minutes – a staggering 195 fatalities. 21.5% of injury crashes and 8.3% of fatal crashes in the state stemmed from driver inattention.

As a distracted driver accident attorney in Hobbs, W. Shane Jennings is aware that the consequences of distracted driving extend far beyond personal tragedy. It also has a significant economic impact, costing billions each year. The NHTSA estimates that in 2020 alone, distracted driver crashes totaled a staggering $469 billion in financial losses. This includes medical costs, lost wages, property damage, and productivity losses.

Initiatives like the “Don’t Text, Just Drive” campaign, spearheaded by the New Mexico Department of Transportation, are actively tackling this epidemic. Through powerful visuals and impactful messaging, they remind us that a text, a call, or a fleeting notification can shatter lives instantly.

The fight extends beyond awareness. The New Mexico Department of Public Safety actively enforces distracted driving laws, reminding us that the consequences of recklessness are not just personal but legal and financial as well.

If you are the victim of a distracted driver’s negligence, know you are not alone. In the face of shattered bones, lost wages, and emotional scars, an experienced attorney can help.

What Are Examples of Distracted Driving?

Distractions in Hobbs, New Mexico, manifest in various forms, each capable of compromising your ability to react and make safe driving decisions. As a distracted driving accident lawyer in Hobbs, Shane Jennings has them broadly categorized into three main groups:

Visual Distractions:

These are anything that pulls your eyes away from the road, like:

Cell phone use: Texting, making calls, scrolling through notifications – these actions leave you virtually blind to the world around you.
Fiddling with the radio or navigation system: Reaching for buttons, adjusting settings, or trying to find the perfect song can steal your focus.
Eating or drinking: From grabbing a quick bite to sipping a soda, even seemingly harmless actions can occupy your hands and attention.
Looking around the vehicle: Searching for that dropped phone, adjusting the rearview mirror, or simply glancing at passengers are all potential distractions.

Manual Distractions:

These engage your hands and take them off the wheel, compromising your control over the vehicle:

Texting or typing on your phone: This is arguably the most dangerous form of manual distraction, taking your eyes and hands entirely off the task.
Eating or drinking: As mentioned, handling food or drinks can hinder your ability to control the wheel effectively.
Applying makeup or grooming: While these tasks may seem inconsequential, they can significantly impact your ability to react to sudden changes in traffic or road conditions.

Cognitive Distractions:

These occupy your mind, diverting your focus from the present:

Daydreaming or lost in thought: Letting your mind wander can leave you unaware of your surroundings and potential hazards.
Engaged in conversations with passengers: While lively discussions are enjoyable, they can quickly draw your attention away from the road.
Listening to loud music or audiobooks: Intense distractions like these can drown out essential traffic sounds or emergency vehicle sirens.

By understanding these categories and recognizing the many forms distracted driving can take, we can become more conscious and responsible drivers. If you require immediate legal assistance reach out to a Hobbs distracted driver accident attorney today at the Law Office of W. Shane Jennings.

We’ve established that distracted driving isn’t just about cell phone addiction; it’s a multifaceted beast disguised as everyday activities. The spectrum of distractions expands far beyond the familiar buzz of a phone. Let’s delve deeper into the unexpected culprits lurking within our cars:

Beyond the Obvious:

Emotional Turmoil: A heated argument, a personal crisis, or even overwhelming happiness can cloud your judgment and divert your focus from the road.
Drowsiness and Fatigue: Operating a vehicle while sleep-deprived is akin to driving under the influence – your reaction time plummets and awareness dwindles.
Pets and Passengers: Our furry companions or lively passengers can require unexpected attention, momentarily taking your eyes off the road.
Grooming and Appearance: Adjusting mirrors, fixing your hair, or applying makeup might seem harmless, but these actions can hinder your ability to make quick maneuvers.
Technical Tweaks: Fiddling with GPS settings, searching for music, or even adjusting the air conditioning can be enough to distract you from the crucial task at hand.

Internal Distractions:

Daydreaming and Zoning Out: Letting your mind wander to that upcoming vacation or reliving a recent conversation can leave you oblivious to the ever-changing traffic scenario.
Emotional Distress and Worries: Financial hardships, personal struggles, or everyday anxieties can occupy your mental space, impairing your driving focus.
Impatience and Aggression: Rushing to meet a deadline or getting worked up by other drivers can cloud your judgment and lead to impulsive, risky decisions.

What Are New Mexico’s Distracted Driving Laws?

While awareness and responsibility are crucial in combating distracted driving, as a Hobbs distracted driver accident lawyer, W. Shane Jennings always underlines that understanding the legal landscape is equally important. In New Mexico, specific laws aim to curb the dangers associated with cellphone use behind the wheel.

New Mexico prohibits texting while driving through NMSA § 66-7-374. This law encompasses texting activities, including reading, writing, sending, or receiving texts, emails, or instant messages. Holding a device in your hand for these purposes is also illegal.

Exceptions and Penalties:

It’s important to note that the texting ban comes with a few exceptions, such as summoning emergency help or utilizing your phone as a hands-free device with voice commands. However, violating the law can result in significant consequences, including fines, points on your license, and even driver’s license suspension.

Beyond Texting: Cell Phone Use Restrictions

While texting takes center stage, New Mexico’s approach to distracted driving extends beyond. The state prohibits handheld cellphone use for any purpose while driving, except again for emergencies or hands-free operation. Engaging in calls, browsing the internet, or playing games on your phone are all considered illegal activities under these restrictions.

Protecting Lives, One Law at a Time:

These laws send a clear message – the road demands our undivided attention. New Mexico takes a firm stance against distractions, aiming to create a safer environment for everyone on the highways. As responsible drivers, understanding and adhering to these regulations is not just a legal obligation but a moral imperative.

How To Prove Distracted Driving in Hobbs, New Mexico

In Hobbs, proving distracted driving in court can be challenging, but with the proper evidence, it’s possible. To make a strong case, you or your Hobbs distracted driver accident lawyer need different kinds of evidence:

Direct Evidence:

Eyewitness testimony: Did anyone see the driver using their phone or doing something distracting?
Cell phone records show that the driver used their phone around the time of the accident.
Police reports: These may mention distractions noticed by the officers.

Indirect Evidence:

Accident reconstruction: Experts can analyze the crash to see if there are signs of distracted driving.
Traffic camera footage: If available, this can show what the driver did before the crash.
Witness testimony on behavior: Even if they didn’t see the phone, witnesses could describe erratic driving.

Remember, the strength of your case hinges on the evidence you gather, so gather as much as you can. Seek assistance from an experienced legal representative who can collect evidence effectively.

What Compensation Can I Expect After a Distracted Driver Accident in Hobbs?

As a distracted driver accident attorney in Hobbs, W. Shane Jennings is often asked about compensation. When seeking compensation, there are two main categories of damages you may be entitled to, as aptly stated by legal experts. Economic damages cover tangible costs such as medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage.

On the other hand, non-economic damages address intangible losses like pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, and mental anguish.

A skilled attorney in Hobbs, New Mexico, understands that the impact of a distracted driving accident extends beyond financial losses. They will advocate for maximum compensation, considering the long-term consequences of your injuries and ensuring you have the support needed to move forward with your life.

Is There A Time Limit To File a Distracted Driver Accident Claim in New Mexico?

New Mexico imposes a general three-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including those arising from distracted driver accidents. You have three years from the accident date to file a lawsuit against the responsible party in court.

However, it’s essential not to wait. While three years may seem like a long time, valuable evidence can disappear, memories fade, and witnesses become more complicated to track down as time passes. Acting promptly is crucial for preserving evidence, obtaining early medical records, and ensuring the accuracy of witness accounts.

Knowledgeable Auto Accident Attorney in Hobbs, New Mexico

At the Law Office of W. Shane Jennings, you’ll find a dedicated Hobbs distracted driver accident attorney who understands the intricacies of the law and the emotional challenges you’re facing. With years of experience and a steadfast commitment to his clients, attorney W. Shane Jennings is here to guide you through every step of the process.

With a focus on justice and compassion, W. Shane Jennings will work tirelessly to ensure your rights are protected, and your voice is heard. From navigating insurance negotiations to representing you in court, you can trust his expertise and unwavering support.

Choose the Law Office of W. Shane Jennings for the advocacy and representation you deserve. Contact us today to take the first step toward justice and a brighter future.

In addition to Hobbs, Shane also serves Las Cruces, Llano, TX, and more.