A rear-end collision can push one vehicle into another, creating questions about which impact happened first. Keller & Keller Injury Lawyers represented a motorist injured in that type of collision while exiting Interstate 25 in Bernalillo.
A Keller & Keller Case Involving an RV Towing an SUV
In 2022, our client was exiting Interstate 25 toward U.S. Highway 550 when an recreational vehicle pulling an SUV struck him from behind. The impact pushed his vehicle into the vehicle ahead of him.
Case highlights:
- Location: The I-25 exit toward U.S. Highway 550 in Bernalillo.
- Collision: An RV towing an SUV struck our client’s vehicle from behind.
- Injuries: A fractured left elbow and multiple soft tissue injuries.
- Recovery: Greater than two times our client’s medicals
Why Does the Order of Impacts Matter?
Front-end damage does not, by itself, explain why a vehicle struck the one ahead. An investigation should distinguish an independent forward collision from an impact caused by being pushed from behind.
Useful evidence may include:
- Occupants’ descriptions of separate impacts.
- Witness accounts.
- Damage to the front and rear of each vehicle.
- Available video.
- The vehicles’ positions and movements.
Which New Mexico Rules May Apply?
New Mexico requires reasonable and prudent following distance based on speed, traffic, and road conditions. NMSA 1978, § 66-7-318(A)
Drivers must also control speed as necessary to avoid a collision. NMSA 1978, § 66-7-301(B)(1)
The presence of an RV or trailer may make vehicle condition and handling relevant investigative questions. It does not establish an equipment defect or make every special following-distance provision applicable.
Checklist: What to Preserve After a Rear-End Crash
- Photographs of all damaged areas.
- The crash report or report number.
- Witness contact information.
- Available dashcam recordings.
- A factual description of the impacts you experienced.
- Medical records and bills.
- Documentation of missed work and daily limitations.
Keller & Keller’s injury-journal article explains how to record the effects of an injury. If the other driver left the scene, our New Mexico hit-and-run guide addresses additional duties and evidence.
Discuss Your Rear-End Collision With Keller & Keller
The Bernalillo recovery reflects one client’s circumstances, not a standard value for an elbow fracture or rear-end claim. Contact our New Mexico team for a free consultation about your collision and injuries.
Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Each case depends on its facts, applicable law, and available recovery sources. This article provides general information, not legal advice.
