Crashes between trucks and cars, SUVs or even pickup trucks typically are far more serious for those in a smaller vehicle. New Mexico is no stranger to these crashes, as commercial trucks move goods between the Southwest and other parts of the country each and every day.
In 2022, New Mexico ranked fifth among all states when it came to the percentage of fatal crashes that involved large trucks – at 15%. Close to 100 people died in large truck crashes in the state during that year alone. The vast majority were people who were affected were traveling in smaller, non-commercial vehicles.
Most drivers assume that they’re in more danger of being involved in a crash with a large truck on an interstate highway than on one of New Mexico’s many rural roads where traffic is more sparce. The numbers, however, prove otherwise. According to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2022, over half of fatal crashes involving large trucks throughout the country occurred on rural roads. Almost three-fourths were on roads other than interstates.
Why are rural roads more dangerous places to encounter large trucks?
Size is a big factor. Rural roads usually have only one or two lanes going in each direction. That means smaller vehicles often try to pass slower-moving trucks. This can be dangerous for a number of reasons. Trucks have large blind spots, so their operators may not notice someone passing them. There’s also danger from oncoming traffic if there’s only one lane in either direction.
Speed is also a factor. When there’s little or no traffic, drivers can lose track of how fast they’re going. Speed always increases the risk of serious or fatal injuries.
Finally, for those injured in a crash in a rural area (which in New Mexico can mean the middle of the desert or the mountains), the nearest hospital can be far away. Especially if a crash causes a traffic pile-up, it can take considerable time for first responders to get to victims.
For victims and surviving loved ones of commercial truck crashes, getting compensation can feel like going through a maze. Multiple parties, from the driver to the trucking company and more can try to pass the blame to one another – and to the victims. Getting experienced legal guidance as soon as possible is crucial to getting justice and fair compensation.