Carlsbad, NM Most Dangerous Intersections
Intersections can be hazardous places for even the most cautious and attentive drivers.
Accidents at intersections are unfortunately becoming more common in Carlsbad and other growing communities in New Mexico.
With our state’s oil industry booming, our streets, roads, and highways are seeing a significant increase in truck and car traffic and accidents.
The highways connected to the state’s oil fields have become filled with dangerous intersections. U.S 285 has become known as “Death Highway,” due to the 49 accidents and two fatalities in 2018, according to the High Country News.
They also report that U.S 285 and state routes 21 and 128, that connect Carlsbad, Hobbs, and Jal, forming a triangle, have become known for being extremely dangerous as well.
According to City Data, the intersection at West Church Street and North Elm Street in Carlsbad was the site of a fatal crash in 2017.
The North Mesa Street and Riverside Drive intersection was also the site of a deadly car crash.
Additionally, intersections at Boyd Drive and National Parks Highway have been especially dangerous.
There were two separate fatal car crashes at these nearby intersections in 2017 alone.
What to Do After a Carlsbad Car Accident
If you were involved in an accident that resulted in injury at an intersection in Carlsbad, it is natural to be in shock, confused, or disoriented in the immediate aftermath.
Once you’ve gathered yourself, remember to take the following steps to protect yourself and those you love:
- Remain at the scene and don’t leave unless EMS transports you away, or until after the police finalize their report. Leaving the scene of a crash (especially an injury collision) could carry harsh criminal penalties.
- Call 911.Make sure that police and EMS are called to the scene right away.
- Seek medical attention. If you’ve been hurt, make sure to get medical attention right away. You should still get a thorough medical exam even if you don’t initially think you’ve suffered serious injuries. Some dangerous conditions have delayed symptoms.
- Take pictures or video of the scene. Because vital evidence could be moved, cleaned up, or may disappear over time, be sure to take as many pictures you can of the vehicles, the damage, and the surroundings.
- Exchange information with the other parties involved. Be sure to get their contact information, drivers’ license numbers, license plate numbers and vehicle identification numbers, and insurance information.
- Talk to any eyewitnesses. If anyone saw the crash, get their contact information and a statement about what they saw.
- Notify your insurance company. Be sure to alert your insurance company as soon as possible after a crash, but do not give a written or recorded statement without the advice of a lawyer.
- Save your medical bills. Be sure to keep copies of all medical expenses that you incur. You’ll want to make sure that the responsible parties pay you back for all of the financial losses caused by their actions. Keep records of all treatment and payments.
- Don’t accept a quick settlement offer. The other drivers’ insurance company might offer you money soon after the crash. Don’t accept these initial offers. They are designed to make you go away, and sometimes victims find out too late that their injuries or losses are far worse than initially thought. If you accept a quick settlement, you could miss out on the money owed.
- Hire an experienced car accident lawyer. This should be done sooner rather than later. Having an attorney on your side will reduce the stress and strain on your life and will ensure that your case is handled by someone who knows how to get results and make the other side pay.
How Can Parnall Law Firm Help Me?
The team of personal injury lawyers at Parnall Law knows that the aftermath of a car accident can be stressful for you and your loved ones.
Our Carlsbad trial attorneys are here to help you get your life back on track.
Our client bill of rights ensures that you get top quality, ethical care at all times. If you’ve been hurt, call Bert. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.
