Polar Vortex Causing New Mexico Trucking Crashes Due to Snow and Ice
The news across the country is that the polar vortex had plummeted temperatures for the majority of Americans throughout the Midwest and Northeast. Here in New Mexico, temperatures did not drop to arctic levels but were still below freezing for several days in a row. This trend will continue at night with temperatures dropping at or to freezing. This is significant because if can lead to freezing and icy conditions. There will also be a freeze-thaw-cycle since the day temperatures will be above freezing, meaning there will be refreezing over night of new ice formations. This is dangerous for motorists because the refreezing could result in very slippery black ice. When icy conditions exists on any roadway, it could lead to New Mexico trucking crashes causing serious personal injuries.
This is especially true on New Mexico roadways where most motorists do not encounter significant formations of ice. Additionally, interstate trucking companies may also not expect ice on New Mexico highways, including I-10, I-40, and I-25. This means they may be caught by surprise when they fail to slow down to compensate for such accumulations. If snow and ice causes serious New Mexico trucking crashes, our Albuquerque trucking accident lawyers are ready at the NM Truck Accident Attorneys to help victims. Learn more by dialing (505) 883-5000 for a free consultation.
What Laws Apply for Snow and Ice Conditions Resulting in New Mexico Trucking Crashes?
Under New Mexico common law, or judge-made law, motorists must use reasonable care under the circumstances in the use and operation of their motor vehicle. This applies to truck drivers as well. Under New Mexico statutory law, of legislatively-made law, NM Stat. section 66-7-301 (B) (1)provides that “[i]n every event, speed shall be so controlled by the driver as may be necessary to avoid colliding with a person, vehicle or other conveyance on or entering the highway.” This includes when weather conditions do not permit safe operation. Thus, a motorist may have to drive slower on roadways with inclement weather.
There are also federal regulations which apply to large commercial vehicles. Under Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations section 392.14, truck drivers must exercise “extreme caution” in hazardous conditions. This regulations lists some hazardous condition as “snow, ice, sleet, fog, mist, rain, dust, or smoke, [or conditions which] adversely affect visibility or traction.” When these conditions are present, a truck driver’s “[s]peed shall be reduced when such conditions exist.”
Injured Because of Snow and Ice During the Polar Vortex in a New Mexico Trucking Crash? Call us
If you or a loved one have been injured in a New Mexico trucking crash due to snow and ice from the polar vortex, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. Please call the NM Truck Accident Attorneys by dialing (505) 883-5000 to schedule a FREE consultation with one of our experienced Albuquerque trucking accident lawyers. We handle cases throughout New Mexico, including in Las Cruces, Rio Rancho, Santa Fe, Roswell, Farmington, Hobbs, Lordsburg, or anywhere else in the state, including Albuquerque where our law office is located. You can also contact us on our website through the easy to use and convenient Contact box located by clicking here.