As a personal injury Law Firm based in New Mexico, We’ve seen first-hand the consequences that can arise from motorcycle accidents. One dangerous behavior that I constantly see on the roads, particularly here in Albuquerque and across New Mexico, is tailgating motorcycles. Many drivers fail to recognize the unique risks motorcyclists face, and tailgating only exacerbates these dangers.
In this blog post, I’ll explain why tailgating motorcycles are so dangerous, why it’s a problem here in New Mexico, and what you need to understand as a driver to protect yourself and the motorcyclists you share the road with.
Tailgating Puts Motorcyclists at Greater Risk of Injury in Albuquerque ![Aggressive Driving in New Mexico]()
Of course, motorcycles are smaller and less visible than other vehicles, which makes them harder to spot on the road. When a car follows a motorcycle too closely — often referred to as “tailgating” — it reduces the time and distance a driver has to react in case of an emergency. At Keller & Keller, we see these accidents all the time.
Motorcycles are more vulnerable to sudden stops or changes in traffic conditions, especially in New Mexico, where the terrain can change quickly. From the fast-moving traffic on I-40 to the winding mountain roads near Santa Fe, motorcyclists need to have enough space to maneuver safely. Tailgating a motorcycle puts both the rider and the following driver at risk. A motorcyclist’s ability to avoid an accident could be limited, and a rear-end collision could be catastrophic.
The Unique Risks of Riding a Motorcycle in New Mexico
New Mexico's diverse landscape includes desert highways, winding mountain roads, and city streets, all of which present unique challenges to motorcyclists. Here in Albuquerque, traffic congestion can create a sense of urgency for many drivers, leading to reckless behaviors like tailgating.
Additionally, our state’s wide open spaces, especially outside the cities, encourage drivers to speed. But speeding in these areas is particularly dangerous for motorcyclists. If a motorcyclist has to stop quickly, whether due to a sharp turn, gravel in the road, or a sudden change in traffic patterns, tailgating drivers will have little time to react. Through video and other proven techniques, we advance these cases throughout New Mexico.
Tailgating Can Lead to Serious Legal Consequences
As an Albuquerque motorcycle accident attorney team, it’s our job to help victims of motorcycle accidents navigate the legal system. If you’re injured in a crash caused by a tailgating driver, the legal implications can be significant. In New Mexico, the law requires drivers to maintain a safe following distance at all times, especially behind motorcycles. If you tailgate a motorcycle and cause an accident, you can be held liable for damages, including:
• Medical Expenses. Motorcycle injuries can be severe and expensive to treat. Injuries like broken bones, spinal cord damage, and head trauma often require long-term care.
• Lost Wages. Motorcycle accidents can prevent a rider from working for weeks or even months. As a result, you may be entitled to compensation for lost income.
• Pain and Suffering. The emotional and physical toll of an injury is often overlooked. If you’ve been injured because of a tailgating driver, you may have the right to seek compensation for pain and suffering.
In cases where the driver’s actions were particularly reckless, punitive damages may also come into play.
The Statistics: Why Tailgating is a Problem in Albuquerque and New Mexico
Motorcycle accidents are a serious concern in New Mexico. According to the New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT), motorcyclists make up a significant percentage of all traffic fatalities in the state. In fact, in 2021 alone, New Mexico had over 80 motorcycle fatalities, which represents a high rate compared to national averages. A large portion of these accidents involves crashes where other vehicles were too close to the motorcycle or failed to give riders enough space to operate safely.
Albuquerque, with its dense population and heavy traffic, is a hotspot for motorcycle accidents. Drivers who don’t understand the specific challenges of motorcycling can inadvertently cause harm. These issues are especially prevalent during rush hour or in areas where traffic moves quickly, such as near Interstate 25 or Uptown.
How You Can Help Prevent Motorcycle Accidents
As a driver, you have the power to prevent accidents by simply giving motorcycles the space they need to operate safely. We believe here’s how you can help:
• Maintain a Safe Following Distance. The general rule is to stay at least four seconds behind a motorcycle, though this distance should increase in poor weather conditions or when riding on unfamiliar roads. Motorcycles need more time to brake and maneuver, especially on winding roads in New Mexico.
• Be Aware of Lane Changes. Due to traffic conditions, motorcycles often need to switch lanes more frequently. When following a motorcycle, be sure to give it extra room to maneuver safely.
• Watch for Road Hazards. Motorcycles are more susceptible to hazards like debris, potholes, or wet surfaces. By maintaining a safe distance, you give the rider the time they need to react to road conditions.
• Avoid Aggressive Driving. Tailgating can be a symptom of aggressive driving. Stay calm, practice patience, and drive defensively.
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident or if you’ve been involved in a crash due to a driver’s tailgating, don’t hesitate to reach out to my office for a consultation. Together, we can work toward achieving justice for you.
