What Causes More Serious Injury and Death Than Any Other Factor in Traffic Accidents?

When we think of car accidents, most of us hope we’ll never be involved in one, let alone a severe crash. Unfortunately, some factors increase the risk of serious injuries and fatalities more than others. In this case, the answer is speeding, as it contributes to more serious injuries and fatalities than any other factor in traffic accidents. It’s a problem not just across the country but also right here in New Mexico. Excessive speed limits a driver’s ability to respond to sudden changes on the road, like an unexpected stop or a pedestrian crossing. The faster a car goes, the less time there is to react—and the more likely a crash will be deadly.

At Parnall Law, we understand how devastating these incidents can be, especially when someone is driving recklessly. If you’ve lost a loved one or been gravely injured, we are here to help.

How Common Are Fatal Accidents in New Mexico?

Unfortunately, these catastrophes are more common in New Mexico than in many other states. With long highways and open roads, it’s tempting for drivers to speed, and this action often leads to tragic outcomes. According to the New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT), in 2021, there were 470 fatalities from traffic accidents across the state. That number reflects an increase from previous years and highlights the critical risks drivers face on New Mexico’s roads.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that speeding was involved in nearly 29% of all traffic fatalities nationwide in 2020. With its mix of rural roads and bustling urban centers like Albuquerque, New Mexico is no stranger to these statistics. The open roads can make drivers feel more confident, but that false sense of security is precisely why speeding is so dangerous.

Main Causes of Fatal Injuries in Car Accidents

While speeding is the leading cause of severe injuries and deaths on the road, it’s not the only dangerous behavior. Other factors, especially when combined, make car accidents even deadlier. Below are some of the primary causes of fatal injuries in car accidents:

Speeding

We’ve already touched on this, but it’s worth noting again how impactful this factor is. Excessive speed doesn’t just make a car crash more likely—it makes the consequences of that crash far worse. Driving too fast increases the severity of crashes and results in more fatalities because drivers have less time to react to obstacles or sudden traffic changes at high limits. New Mexico’s long stretches of open road make this a serious issue across the state, and it’s particularly perilous in areas where emergency response may take longer to arrive.

Driving Under the Influence (DUI)

This is another major cause of fatal accidents in New Mexico. Alcohol or drug impairment significantly increases the risk of deadly crashes by impairing reaction times and judgment. In 2020, nearly 30% of traffic deaths nationwide were linked to DUI accidents, and New Mexico has been fighting to lower its DUI rates for years. Unfortunately, intoxicated driving remains a common cause of fatal crashes in our state, especially on weekends and holidays.

Distracted Driving

Lack of focus behind the wheel is more dangerous now than ever before. Nowadays, smartphones, infotainment systems, and even passengers can cause distractions, causing drivers to lose focus on the road easily. These circumstances are the leading cause of intense accidents because even a few seconds of inattention can result in catastrophic outcomes. In 2021, the National Institutes of Health emphasized the growing danger of distracted driving, which is responsible for a significant percentage of traffic deadliness, especially among young drivers.

Weather Conditions

Weather conditions play a major role, especially in New Mexico, where the climate can shift rapidly. Rain, snow, and dust storms reduce visibility and make roads slippery, contributing to disastrous accidents. Drivers not used to adverse weather conditions or who need to adjust their speed accordingly are especially vulnerable. While the weather may not directly cause a crash, failing to adapt to changing weather conditions often results in intense or lethal catastrophes.

Fatigued Driving

Driving while drowsy is another common but overlooked danger. Fatigued driving can be just as dangerous as driving under the influence, as it slows reaction times and impairs decision-making. Even momentarily falling asleep behind the wheel can result in a tragedy. The long, quiet roads of rural New Mexico can lull drivers into a sense of calm, making them more susceptible to fatigue-related accidents. This is especially true for truck drivers or those driving late at night or after long shifts.

What to Do After a Traffic Accident That Causes a Death?

If you or a loved one has been involved in a lethal car accident, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed and unsure of what steps to take next. In addition to dealing with the emotional aftermath, to help protect your legal rights and ensure your family receives the support it needs, there are several practical points to consider:

• Call 911 and Seek Medical Attention: Your priority should be to call 911 immediately following the disaster. Even if the situation seems straightforward, it’s crucial to have medical professionals and law enforcement on the scene as quickly as possible. The police will document the event, creating important evidence if you pursue a legal claim. Medical personnel can assess any injuries and provide care, which is especially relevant in the aftermath of a crash.
• Document the Scene: Gather as much evidence as possible if you are physically able. Take photos of the scene, including the vehicles, road conditions, and any visible damage or injuries. This documentation will be vital for building a legal case if the fault is disputed. Witness statements are also incredibly useful, so try to get contact information from anyone who saw the accident.
• Consult a Lawyer Before Speaking to Insurance Companies: After a misfortune, you may be contacted by insurance adjusters looking to settle claims quickly. Speaking with an experienced car accident attorney before making any statements or agreeing to any settlements is important. Insurance companies often try to minimize their payouts, and accepting an early offer may prevent you from receiving the total compensation you deserve.
• Consider a Wrongful Death Claim: If your loved one was killed because of another driver’s negligence, you may be entitled to file a wrongful death claim. This can help cover funeral expenses, lost income, and other damages your family has suffered.

Empower Yourself with the Right Legal Representation

You’ve been through enough. If you’ve experienced the devastation of a serious accident, don’t face the aftermath alone. Let Parnall Law take the legal burden off your shoulders so you can focus on what really matters—your recovery or seeking justice for your loved one. We’re here to guide you through the process and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.