Pedestrian Accidents

Walking should be one of the simplest and safest forms of transportation. Whether someone is crossing the street on their way to work, walking their children to school, or taking a stroll in the neighborhood, they should be able to trust that drivers will obey the rules of the road. Unfortunately, pedestrian accidents have become one of the most devastating and persistent public safety issues in Albuquerque and throughout New Mexico.

Unlike motorists who are protected by seat belts, airbags, and the structure of a vehicle, pedestrians are exposed and defenseless when a collision occurs. Even a low-speed impact can result in catastrophic injuries that may take months or years to overcome. In far too many cases, the injuries are permanent or fatal.

New Mexico consistently ranks among the states with the highest pedestrian fatality rates. According to national studies, our state often records more pedestrian deaths per capita than almost anywhere else in the country. This troubling trend is linked to several factors, including distracted driving, impaired driving, poorly designed intersections, and a lack of pedestrian infrastructure in certain communities. Whatever the cause, the human toll is undeniable, and families are left struggling with medical bills, lost income, and the long-term consequences of life-altering injuries.

If you or someone you love has been struck by a vehicle, you may feel overwhelmed by the pain, confusion, and uncertainty that follow. The legal system can provide a path to accountability and financial recovery, but only with the right guidance and representation. That is where Albuquerque personal injury attorney Matthew Vance can help.

The Reality of Pedestrian Accidents in New Mexico

A Widespread Problem

Pedestrian accidents occur in many different settings. Some take place in busy urban areas such as downtown Albuquerque, where cars, buses, and trucks crowd the streets. Others happen in residential neighborhoods where children play and families walk their pets. Rural roads can also be hazardous, especially at night when visibility is poor and drivers may be traveling at high speeds.

New Mexico’s geography, combined with a reliance on automobiles, means that pedestrians often must share roads that were not designed with their safety in mind. Crosswalks may be poorly marked, traffic lights may be mistimed, and sidewalks may be absent altogether. In some areas, pedestrians are forced to walk along the shoulder of the road, putting them dangerously close to fast-moving vehicles.

Common Causes of Pedestrian Collisions

While every case is unique, certain patterns appear again and again in pedestrian accident claims. Distracted driving is one of the most significant contributors. When drivers text, check social media, adjust their GPS, or simply fail to pay attention, they may not notice a person crossing the street until it is too late.

Impaired driving is another major factor. Alcohol and drugs slow reaction times, impair judgment, and make it more likely that a driver will drift into a crosswalk or fail to yield. In New Mexico, where rates of drunk driving remain high compared to the national average, pedestrians often suffer the consequences.

Speeding also increases the severity of accidents. A pedestrian struck at 20 miles per hour has a much higher chance of survival than one struck at 40 miles per hour. Yet too many drivers in Albuquerque and surrounding areas exceed posted speed limits, particularly on wide roads that encourage fast travel.

Other causes include failure to yield at intersections, running red lights, aggressive driving, and poor visibility at night. Even when pedestrians follow the rules, use designated crosswalks, and wear bright clothing, negligent drivers can put them in harm’s way.

The Devastating Impact on Victims

Serious and Permanent Injuries

Because the human body has no protection in a collision with a car, injuries are often catastrophic. Victims may suffer broken bones, spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, internal bleeding, organ damage, or severe lacerations. Many require multiple surgeries and months of rehabilitation. Some are never able to return to the lives they once lived.

For children and older adults, the risks are especially high. Children may not survive the force of a crash, while older pedestrians often face longer recovery times and greater complications. A broken hip for an elderly person, for example, can lead to long-term disability and reduced independence.

Emotional and Financial Burdens

Beyond the physical harm, pedestrian accidents impose profound emotional and financial burdens. Victims may be unable to work, losing wages at the very time when medical bills are piling up. Families may have to adjust their homes to accommodate a wheelchair or provide round-the-clock care. Anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder are common among survivors.

When a pedestrian accident results in death, families are left grieving while also struggling with funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and the abrupt end to financial and emotional support that their loved one once provided.

Legal Options for Pedestrian Accident Victims

Recoverable Damages

New Mexico law allows injured pedestrians to seek compensation when a driver’s negligence caused the accident. The damages that may be recovered include medical expenses, lost income, loss of earning capacity, pain and suffering, emotional distress, rehabilitation costs, and in some cases, punitive damages when the driver’s conduct was particularly reckless.

In wrongful death cases, surviving family members may also seek damages for funeral costs, loss of financial support, and the loss of love, guidance, and companionship.

Time Limits on Filing a Claim

Victims must be aware of the statute of limitations. In New Mexico, most personal injury claims, including pedestrian accidents, must be filed within three years of the date of the injury. If the claim is not filed in time, the opportunity to recover damages may be permanently lost. Because certain exceptions may shorten or extend the time limits, it is essential to speak with an attorney as soon as possible.

How Attorney Matthew Vance Can Help

Skilled Legal Advocacy

Attorney Matthew Vance has built his practice on representing injured individuals in Albuquerque and across New Mexico. With years of experience handling personal injury cases, he understands the complexities of pedestrian accident claims. He knows how to investigate the scene, gather medical records, consult experts, and negotiate with insurance companies that often attempt to minimize payouts.

Insurance adjusters are trained to protect the interests of their employers, not the victims. They may argue that the pedestrian was partially at fault, undervalue medical costs, or delay the process until victims are desperate to settle. Having an attorney who has previously worked on the defense side, as Mr. Vance has, provides a critical advantage. He knows the tactics insurers use and is prepared to counter them with strong evidence and effective advocacy.

Personalized Representation

What sets Matthew Vance apart is his commitment to personal attention. Many law firms hand off cases to associates or paralegals, leaving clients feeling overlooked. At the Law Office of Matthew Vance, clients work directly with him throughout their case. He provides updates, answers questions, and ensures that his clients understand each step of the process.

This one-on-one representation builds trust and allows clients to feel confident that their voice is heard. For victims of pedestrian accidents who are already dealing with trauma and uncertainty, this level of communication can provide a measure of relief.

Commitment to Justice

Beyond obtaining financial compensation, Matthew Vance is committed to achieving justice for his clients. Pedestrian accidents often highlight broader community problems such as unsafe intersections, inadequate crosswalks, or systemic issues with drunk driving. By holding negligent drivers accountable, each case has the potential to promote safer streets for everyone in Albuquerque and beyond.

Taking Action After a Pedestrian Accident

Immediate Steps

If you are involved in a pedestrian accident, the immediate aftermath can be chaotic. Victims should seek medical attention right away, even if injuries seem minor. Some injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries or internal bleeding, may not be obvious at first but can quickly become life-threatening.

It is also important to document the scene if possible. Photographs of the location, the vehicle, and visible injuries can be powerful evidence. Witness statements and police reports can further strengthen a claim.

The Role of Legal Counsel

While victims focus on healing, an attorney can take on the burden of dealing with insurance companies, investigating the accident, and building the case. This allows victims to prioritize recovery without sacrificing their legal rights.

The sooner legal counsel is involved, the more effective the investigation can be. Physical evidence may disappear, surveillance footage may be erased, and witnesses’ memories may fade. Prompt action helps preserve critical information that can make the difference in a successful claim.

Why Choosing the Right Attorney Matters

Pedestrian accident claims require more than general legal knowledge. They demand a lawyer who understands the medical, financial, and emotional dimensions of these cases. They also require someone who is willing to fight aggressively when insurance companies refuse to treat victims fairly.

Attorney Matthew Vance brings both the technical skill and the human compassion needed to handle these cases. He recognizes that every client’s story is unique and that the outcome of a case can shape the rest of a person’s life. By combining his legal expertise with genuine care for his clients, he offers representation that is both professional and personal.

Contact the Law Office of Matthew Vance Today

If you or someone you love has been injured in a pedestrian accident in Albuquerque or anywhere in New Mexico, you do not have to face the road ahead alone. You deserve an advocate who will listen to your concerns, guide you through the legal process, and fight for the compensation you need to rebuild your life.

Attorney Matthew Vance offers free consultations, giving you the opportunity to discuss your situation and learn about your options without financial risk. Call the Law Office of Matthew Vance or submit an inquiry through the online contact form.

Remember, time is limited. In most cases, you have three years from the date of the accident to file a claim. Waiting too long can jeopardize your rights. Take the first step toward justice and recovery by reaching out today.