Hundreds of people have lost their lives simply trying to walk New Mexico's streets. For the eighth straight year, no state has had a higher pedestrian fatality rate—a gut-wrenching pattern that destroys families and diminishes communities daily. While the statistics are shocking, the stories behind them are even more heartbreaking.
At Keller & Keller, our experienced Albuquerque pedestrian accident lawyers see the human toll of this crisis every day as we seek justice for devastated families. If your family has suffered an unthinkable loss, our skilled attorneys can fight for the accountability your loved one deserves. But making our streets safer will take all of us working together to understand the causes and demand change.
New Mexico's Staggering Pedestrian Fatality Statistics
Despite a slight decline in 2024, New Mexico's pedestrian fatality rate remains among the highest in the nation:
- In 2024, New Mexico's pedestrian fatality rate was 4.41 deaths per 100,000 population, a decrease from 4.62 in 2023 but still more than double the national average.
- New Mexico had the highest pedestrian fatality rate in the U.S. in 2024.
- The majority of pedestrian fatalities occur in urban areas, with Bernalillo County, which includes Albuquerque, accounting for more than half of NM deaths.
- Bernalillo County experienced a decrease in pedestrian fatalities in 2024, with 46 deaths reported compared to 52 in 2023. However, this still represents a fatality rate nearly triple the national average.
While the slight decrease in fatalities is a step in the right direction, New Mexico still has a long way to go to address this public health crisis. Each death represents a life cut short and a family left to grieve. As Albuquerque pedestrian accident attorneys, we remain committed to fighting for justice for these victims and advocating for safer streets throughout the state.
Factors Fueling New Mexico's Pedestrian Death Epidemic
So why has New Mexico topped this grim list for eight straight years? The causes are complex, but certain factors stand out:
Excessive Speed and Impaired Driving
In Albuquerque, speed contributes to over 40% of deadly pedestrian accidents, and alcohol plays a role in more than half. The faster and more impaired the driver, the less reaction time they have to avoid a collision.
Lack of Safe Infrastructure
Statewide, missing sidewalks, inadequate lighting, and long stretches between crosswalks force pedestrians into the roadway and into harm's way. In many communities, safe routes simply don't exist. New Mexico is notorious for its dangerous intersections.
Socioeconomic Disparities
Pedestrian death rates are highest in underserved neighborhoods, often along high-speed arterial roads that cut through residential areas. The very communities most reliant on walking face the greatest dangers.
Distracted Driving and Walking
Both drivers and pedestrians are increasingly distracted by smartphones, reducing awareness and reaction times. Distraction-related pedestrian deaths have surged 50% in the last decade.
After a Fatal Pedestrian Accident: Legal Rights for Grieving Families
No amount of money can ever replace a loved one. But pursuing a wrongful death claim can provide a measure of justice, hold negligent parties accountable, and push our communities to prioritize pedestrian safety.
In New Mexico, the spouse, child, or parent of someone killed by negligence can file a wrongful death lawsuit. You typically have three years from the date of death, with limited exceptions. Damages may include:
- Medical and funeral expenses
- Lost income and benefits your loved one would have earned
- Your family's pain, suffering, and emotional distress
- Loss of companionship, guidance, and household services
An experienced Albuquerque pedestrian accident attorney can guide you through the process, ensure your rights are protected, and fight for the full compensation your family deserves.
What New Mexico Must Do to Protect Pedestrians
Reversing this devastating trend will require action at every level. Our leaders must prioritize proven strategies:
- Reducing speed limits on high-fatality corridors
- Installing pedestrian safety infrastructure in underserved areas
- Increasing penalties for distracted and impaired driving
- Funding public awareness campaigns about pedestrian right-of-way
- Improving public transportation to reduce pedestrian exposure
As Albuquerque pedestrian accident lawyers, we're committed to advocating for these life-saving measures. However, we also need your voice. Together, we can demand safer streets for all New Mexicans.
If you've lost a loved one in a pedestrian accident, the road ahead can feel impossibly dark. But you don't have to go it alone. At Keller & Keller, we've helped countless families find justice, accountability, and a path forward after unthinkable tragedy. We're here to listen, to guide, and to fight for you every step of the way. Nothing can erase your pain. But we can work together to ensure your loved one's story is heard—and to build a future where no other family has to endure this heartbreak.
