Attorney Blog

Holiday pounds pose greater threat

Mon, 03 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

New research suggests that holiday pounds combined with holiday traffic add up to a greater threat to New Mexico motorists.
According to scientists from New York's University of Buffalo, obese drivers are more likely to be killed in serious car accidents than travelers of average weight. Large meals and rich foods associated with holiday parties and New Year's celebrations combined with long distances between holiday destinations mean New Mexico motorists are at greater risk during this season of celebration.
The team of researchers tapped into data from the Fatality Analysis Reporting System collected between 2000 and 2005, which indicated that moderately obese drivers face a 21 percent greater risk of death. Morbidly obese motorists, meanwhile, face an increased risk of 56 percent.
Dr. Dietrich Jehle, lead research, said the use of larger crash-test dummies that better represent an increasingly overweight American public could lead to improved safety features that save lives.
The study represents only the latest reminder to New Mexico motorists to exercise caution while driving. It also provides another reason to stay in shape during this season of excess.

Albuquerque boy survives hit-and-run, many peers not so fortunate

Fri, 08 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EST

Albuquerque, New Mexico – A close call for a New Mexico boy has provided a chilling reminder of a nationwide epidemic for America’s young people.

The Albuquerque Police Department reports that the boy was struck by a minivan near the intersection of San Pedro Drive and Montgomery Boulevard on the evening of Sunday, October 3. The boy was attempting to cross the street when the gold-colored Ford Windstar minivan struck him and drove off.

According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, fewer children were killed in motor vehicle accidents in 2009, but it still remains the leading cause of death for those 3 to 14. The young Albuquerque boy was lucky to escape with only minor cuts and bruises.

But many of his peers aren’t so lucky. The transportation department reports that 1,314 children under 14 were killed in 2009, roughly a 3 percent decline over the 1,350 fatalities in 2008. Car seats are recommended for children under 40 pounds and booster seats for those over 40 pounds but younger than 8 years old.

Seating children in the back seat will also help protect them in case of a crash.

Albuquerque police are still searching for the suspect in Sunday’s hit and run. To add insult to injury, he stopped to shout at the boy before speeding off.

DWI arrests in Santa Fe shine spotlight for all New Mexico drivers

Mon, 20 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST

Santa Fe, New Mexico – September 16, 2010
Within hours, the Santa Fe Police Department arrested two men for driving while intoxicated, shining the spotlight on an issue that puts all New Mexico drivers in peril.
Police said 33-year-old Santa Fe resident Matthew J. Royal was taken into custody around 11 p.m. Wednesday near the intersection of New Mexico 599 and New Mexico 14, on suspicion of DWI.
Roughly 90 minutes later, at 12:20 a.m., 30-year-old Daniel D. McVay of Phoenix was stopped on Agua Fria and arrested on suspicion of DWI and possession of drug paraphernalia.
According to the New Mexico Traffic Safety Bureau, Santa Fe County ranked fourth among the 33 counties in the state for DWI arrests in 2008 with 1,310. Bernalillo County ranked first with 7,065, followed by San Juan (2,020) and Dona Ana (1,743).
Alcohol and drugs were a factor in 128 traffic accidents in 2008, 148 of them fatal, according to the New Mexico Traffic Safety Bureau.
Drivers who drink or use drugs before getting behind the wheel not only risk their own freedom, but they endanger the health and safety of their fellow New Mexicans, who are more likely to suffer injury and death through their reckless behavior.

Carlsbad 2-year-old's death offers grave reminder of pedestrian safety

Mon, 20 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST

Carlsbad, New Mexico – September 7, 2010
The death of a 2-year-old child in Carlsbad has provided a grave reminder of the importance of safe driving when children are present.
Aubrey Michelle Chitwood was struck and killed in the driveway of her family home on Sunday by a car driven by her grandfather. The child was pronounced dead at Carlsbad Medical Center, according to the Eddy County Sheriff’s Department.
The child followed her grandfather outside while the family moved cars before leaving for church.
The New Mexico Traffic Safety Bureau reports that 11 children age 4 and under were killed in pedestrian accidents in 2008, that number was down from 18 in 2007. By contrast, 11 were killed in 2006 and 13 in 2005.
New Mexico motorists should keep in mind the state’s most vulnerable citizens, its children, when behind the wheel.

Bernalillo County Government Worker Caught Driving While Intoxicated

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

On July 15, 2010, an intoxicated government Bernalillo County worker in New Mexico ran a red light in a Water Authority truck and came extremely close to crashing into another truck. Witnesses reported the incident to police.

Later the same day, the Sherriff's Department found the same government truck by the side of the road. Police discovered thirty-one-year-old Gabriel Candelaria passed out behind the wheel of the still idling truck. Authorities say Candelaria slurred his words when questioned, and that he admitted to being on illegally purchased prescription painkillers.

New Mexico police conducted several field sobriety tests on Mr. Candelaria, all of which he failed. After looking into his record, police found that Candelaria had multiple previous arrests for DWI.

Concerned motorists want to know why Bernalillo County would hire a worker with a previous history of arrests and criminal charges. When Bernalillo County officials were questioned, they informed authorities that they conduct a drug screening at the time of hire but they do not run criminal background checks on their employees or on potential candidates.

Candelaria was hired in 2002, but his DWI charges date back to 1996. Bernalillo County has not decided whether they will begin screening their employees' backgrounds prior to hire or if they will start conducting random drug tests on current employees. The county has not made any decisions regarding Candelaria's employment at this time.

Children Are at Greater Risks for Dog Bites in New Mexico

Sun, 25 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

Most small children love dogs and want to pull their tails and chase them. If this sounds like your child, it would be wise to teach them how to act around dogs in order to avoid being bitten. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 800,000 Americans seek medical attention for dog bites each year; half of these are children.

Most dog bites occur in the home of the dog. If this information is alarming to you, it would be beneficial to learn what to do before bringing a dog into your home to decrease your child's chances of being bitten. Tips include:
• Research dog breeds and their personalities to find a fit for your home.
• Consult with a breeder or veterinarian regarding the behavior of various breeds.
• Spend time with the dog to observe its personality prior to bringing it into your home.
• If a specific dog breed is known to be aggressive, it is not a good fit for a home with children.
• Monitor the dog around infants, toddlers, and small children. Do not leave children alone with a dog.
• Train the dog to be submissive .
• Spay or neuter dogs to make them less aggressive.

Sadly, dog bites in New Mexico and across the nation are the second biggest reason why kids visit the emergency room, and studies show that children are most likely to suffer a dog bite between the ages of five and nine. Research shows that the incidence of dog bites increases with the number of dogs in the home.

According to the CDC, adults and children with multiple dogs in the home are five times more likely to suffer a dog bite than those without dogs in the home. Some dog bites require medical attention and could leave permanent nerve damage and scarring. If you or your child have suffered a dog bite in Albuquerque, contact the law firm of Keller & Keller and speak with an experienced New Mexico injury lawyer at (505) 938-2300.

Drunk Mom Causes Albuquerque Car Crash While Traveling With Kids in Ca

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

On Saturday, July 3, 2010 Albuquerque police arrested thirty-two-year-old Rose Montano, a mother of two, who allegedly caused a three-car crash in New Mexico. When police questioned the drivers involved, two of them accused Montano, the third driver, of causing the Albuquerque car accident.

Albuquerque police continued questioning Montano regarding the crash and noticed that she smelled strongly of alcohol. When asked if she had been drinking, Montano answered, "I had two shots earlier." The police arrested Montano when she failed a field sobriety test. Montano will most likely face charges of driving while intoxicated.

During their questioning, police discovered that Montano's seven and five-year-old children were traveling with her in the back seat. Thankfully, the children were wearing seat belts and did not sustain life-threatening injuries. No information has been provided about the condition of the children at this time.

Rose Montano faces charges of child endangerment and a felony charge of child abuse.

Our thoughts are with the victims and the children involved in this New Mexico car crash. We hope everyone makes a safe and quick recovery.

Albuquerque Drivers Learn to Share the Roads and Prevent New Mexico Truck Accidents

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

Most motorists are intimidated by semi trucks, and afraid to drive alongside them. This is especially true for new motorists and student drivers. One of the main reasons for this is that drivers are afraid that the trucks cannot see them. Giving new drivers safety tips and showing them the importance of sharing the road with semi trucks can help avoid Albuquerque car and truck accidents and alleviate some of this fear.

This is exactly what new drivers in Albuquerque experienced on Friday, July 9, 2010 when the Share the Road program (part of the American Trucking Associations) came to Albuquerque to teach new drivers the importance of sharing the road with semi trucks.

An eighteen-wheeler was on hand, which allowed Albuquerque student drivers to sit in the driver's seat and observe what truck drivers see on a daily basis from behind the wheels of their tractor-trailers. Professional semi truck drivers were available to point out the dangerous blind spots in a big rig. New motorists were able to see how dangerous driving a truck can be, and how important it is to share the road carefully with a large truck.

The goal of this hands-on event was to teach drivers the importance of safety when traveling next to an eighteen-wheeler. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, semi-truck blind spots account for 35 percent of large truck fatalities.

Since most Albuquerque truck accidents occur due to these blind spots, it is important for drivers to know how to drive around large trucks in order to prevent possible traffic accidents and fatalities.

If you or a loved one have been injured in an Albuquerque truck accident, contact the experienced New Mexico accident lawyers at the law firm of Keller & Keller today at (505) 938-2300.

Deadly Fourth of July New Mexico Car Accident

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

A Fourth of July New Mexico car accident turned deadly on Sunday night. Bernalillo County Police say the New Mexico head-on crash occurred northwest of Albuquerque around 6:30 p.m. near Rio Puerco on the frontage road of Interstate 40.
Reports indicated that the Ford Fusion driven by Alrejean Charley drove into the oncoming lane of traffic and crashed into the Honda Accord driven by Bernadette Chavez. Sadly, this fatal car accident left three dead.

Authorities identified the victims as Alrejean Charley and her brother Sparky Charley. The male victim from Chavez's vehicle was identified as her father, Remijio Baca. This car crash also left three others injured, but there are no reports on their conditions at this time.

The frontage road was closed down for several hours for police investigation and cleanup, but traffic on I-40 was not affected by this crash.

Bernalillo County Sheriffs Department are still investigating this crash, but recent reports show that open beer cans were found inside Charley's vehicle. Police believe alcohol was a factor in this deadly crash outside of Albuquerque.

Our condolences are with the victim's family and friends during this tragic time.

One Dead in Albuquerque Motorcycle Crash

Mon, 12 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

On the evening of June 9, 2010, a fatal New Mexico motorcycle crash occurred. Police say that a motorcycle driver lost control of his bike Wednesday night in the Nob Hill area. Authorities say this motorcycle accident in Albuquerque took place around 7:00 p.m.

Officials indicate that the motorcyclist was traveling eastbound on Central Avenue when he hit a dip in the road just east of Carlisle Boulevard. The driver lost control of his motorcycle, and both he and the bike slid down the street and crashed into the back end of a pickup truck. Police say the truck was in the process of making a U-turn at Solano Drive when the motorcycle slammed into it.

The seriously injured motorcyclist was transported to UNM Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Police have identified the man who died in this accident as thirty-nine-year-old Donald Harris of Albuquerque.

New Mexico police believe speed and alcohol may have been involved in this crash. There is no information on the condition of the pick-up truck driver at this time.

We offer our condolences to the victim's family and friends at this tragic time.

New Mexico Motorcycle Crash Claims Two

Sun, 11 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST

On Sunday June 27, 2010 multiple motorcycle crashes in Albuquerque occurred, causing two fatalities. Police say that two people died just after midnight in a motorcycle accident in Northeast Albuquerque near Morris and Osuna.

The early morning motorcycle crash resulted in the deaths of the 22-year-old driver, Billy Tharpe, and his passenger, 23-year-old Joshua Folse. Albuquerque police say the motorcycle was traveling north on Morris and hit a curb while turning at Osuna. The motorcycle lost control and hit a wall, killing the driver at the scene. The passenger was transported to a hospital, where he later died from his injuries.

Police are still investigating this crash, but they believe that speed was a factor, and that neither person was wearing a helmet.

That same day at approximately 11:00 a.m., another New Mexico motorcycle accident occurred involving a fire truck. The crash occurred near Sedillo Hill, east of Tijeras Canyon. Bernalillo Police say a motorcycle hit a fire truck after the fire truck took an emergency call and made a fast U-turn on a two-lane highway.

Authorities indicated the motorcycle was speeding and the fire truck made a fast maneuver. Both the driver and passenger of the motorcycle were injured and were taken to the hospital. Their conditions have not been released at this time.

Our thoughts are with those who have lost a family member or friend in these tragic accidents.

Vision Tests Help Decrease New Mexico Car Crashes

Wed, 30 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

The clarity of your vision can change at any time in your life, and in order to avoid car crashes, drivers need to have their eyes checked at least once a year. The numbers of drivers over sixty-five years of age continues to increase, and it is expected that these drivers’ risk for accidents will increase as well due to their failing eye sight. The CDC indicates that car accidents in New Mexico and in the rest of the nation are the leading cause of injury to seniors between the ages of sixty-five and seventy-five.

It is very important for older drivers to see their optometrist or ophthalmologist regularly for a vision test in order for them to keep their driver’s licenses and their sense of independence. Unfortunately, many states have relaxed rules regarding vision screenings for older drivers renewing their driver’s licenses. New Mexico, however, has more frequent vision-screening requirements for elderly drivers than most states. According to the New Mexico Department of Motor Vehicles (MVD), senior drivers have to renew their driver’s licenses in person every year after the age of 75.

A vision test is conducted during the course of the examination, and in some cases a written test is required for senior citizens. The New Mexico MVD accepts 20/40 vision in at least one eye. This standard is acceptable with or without corrected vision, and many people can get their eyesight corrected with glasses, contacts, or LASIK surgery.

These vision tests are a preventative measure for elderly drivers and other motorists, taken in order to help minimize car accidents in New Mexico.

If you have been injured in a car accident in New Mexico, call the law office of Keller & Keller today and speak directly with a New Mexico personal injury attorney at (505) 938-2300.

New Mexico Teen Driver Beats Odds

Sat, 26 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

On Sunday, August 9, 2009, a sixteen-year-old girl from Melrose was critically injured in a New Mexico car crash. The teenager was driving eastbound on U.S. 60/84 when her car hit an SUV head-on. The accident occurred just after 4:30 p.m. Some reports indicate that she was trying to pass another vehicle, but others said she had fallen asleep at the wheel.

Jordan Beard, the teen driver, sustained multiple injuries and was airlifted to a hospital for medical care. For a few months she remained in a coma, and doctors did not expect her to live due to her severe head trauma.

Jordan came out of her coma and started her path to recovery. Because she sustained brain injuries, the doctors don’t know exactly what her outcome will be. But her family and the doctors are amazed at her progress so far. After spending nine months in the hospital, she came home on May 15, 2010, to Melrose, New Mexico, to continue her recovery and to graduate from Melrose High School.

Car accidents in New Mexico can lead to serious injuries, and New Mexico Police say that this was a near-fatal car wreck. We are glad to hear of Jordan’s positive progress and wish her well in her continued recovery.

One Dead in NW Albuquerque Car Crash

Fri, 25 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

On Thursday, June 17, 2010 a fatal car accident occurred on the West side of Albuquerque around 11:15 a.m. Albuquerque Police said the crash occurred on Paseo del Norte and Coors Blvd. NW, near Eagle Ranch Road NW.

Witnesses said two ladies in their sixties were traveling in a passenger vehicle and headed eastbound on Paseo del Norte on Thursday morning. They struck a pickup truck when they attempted to turn left. The car crumpled, and the truck flipped all the way over and landed on its roof.

Albuquerque Police did confirm that the female passenger in the car died at the time of impact. The driver of that car was airlifted to University of New Mexico Hospital for medical treatment. The extent of her injuries is unknown at this time. The male driver of the pickup truck sustained minor injuries, but officials say he is fine and is cooperating with the police.

Police are still investigating this fatal car crash in Albuquerque, as many details about the accident are still unknown. A section of Paseo del Norte was closed for several hours and traffic was re-routed until the collision was cleaned up and an investigation had been conducted.

Our thoughts are with the victim’s family and friends during this difficult time.

Symptoms of Spinal Cord Injury Following a New Mexico Car Crash

Fri, 25 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

The majority of people who witness a motorcycle or car crash in New Mexico do not know how to help someone who has just been injured in an accident. It is extremely important that we all understand the signs and symptoms of spinal cord injury and what steps to take in order to minimize the damage.

Spinal cord injury is a serious injury that can result from motor-vehicle accidents. If not treated properly, a spinal cord injury can lead to a lifetime of paralysis. If you or someone else has been injured in a New Mexico car or motorcycle accident, there may be warning signs and symptoms of spinal cord injury to watch for, including:

Numbness and loss of feeling or movement in your hands or feet
Severe pain in your head, neck, or back
Difficulty breathing
Weakness or lack of coordination in any area of your body
Trouble walking or balancing
Loss of bladder control

Sometimes numbness or paralysis will gradually occur as a result of swelling around the spinal cord. It is essential to see a doctor and get treatment for your injuries as soon as you can, especially if you have sustained trauma to the neck, head, or back.

If you witness someone getting injured in a car accident in Albuquerque or anywhere else in New Mexico, do not move the injured person if there is a possibility of a neck, head, or back injury. Call 911, and hold the victim’s head and neck still until the paramedics arrive.

If you believe the car accident in New Mexico was cased by the negligence of others, contact the law firm of Keller & Keller at (505) 938-2300 and speak directly with an experienced New Mexico injury attorney today.

New Mexico Highway Patrol Educates Holiday Drivers

Thu, 24 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

As Memorial Day has recently passed, we are reminded that holiday driving increases the number of accidents on New Mexico roads. This is due to greater numbers of drunk drivers and the presence of more people on the highways for longer periods of time.

The three-day holiday weekend is one of the most dangerous times for traffic accidents, after Thanksgiving, Labor Day, and Independence Day. In recent years there have been more motorists on the roads nationwide during holiday weekends, which increases the numbers of traffic accidents in New Mexico.

Police are cracking down on speeders, drunken motorists, and people not wearing their seat belts. Police statewide are focused on problem traffic areas in hopes reducing the number of accidents in New Mexico as part of the Combined Accident Reduction Effort (C.A.R.E.).

The C.A.R.E. project is dedicated to educating drivers about the importance of safety. Police want motorists to know how vital it is for them to wear safety restraints, abide by speed limits, and avoid drinking and driving in New Mexico.

In order to prevent New Mexico car accidents officials are urging motorists to be careful on the roads, not to drink and drive, to get plenty of sleep before driving, not to text or talk on the phone, and to obey traffic laws.

Albuquerque Driver Arrested for Killing Toddler

Wed, 23 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

On June 2, 2010, the Albuquerque police arrested Ramon Rascon, the driver who caused the Albuquerque car wreck that occurred on May 25, 2010. Rascon was the thirty-seven-year-old male driver who rear-ended another vehicle at Morris and Constitution NE. The car he plowed into was carrying twin toddler boys who sustained critical injuries.

Rascon was arrested on several felony charges. His bail was set at $150,000, but prosecutors and the child’s family begged the judge to set the bail higher. After review, the Metropolitan Court raised the bond on Friday, and Rascon will now have to come up with $1 million in cash in order to get out of jail.

Rascon admitted to police that he had taken Meth and Ambien the night of the car crash. Tests showed that drugs and a sleeping aid were found in his system, and he was charged with child abuse resulting in death.

Sadly, toddler Brandon Lucero suffered serious injuries from the crash and passed away a few days after the accident. His twin brother, Ryan Lucero, fortunately survived the car crash but was severely injured.

Albuquerque car crashes are serious and can lead to severe injuries or even death. Our thoughts are with the child’s family during this extremely difficult time.

Los Lunas Car Crash Leaves Bicyclist Dead

Sat, 19 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

On May 3, 2010 a man was riding his bicycle Monday night on Main Street, just south of N.M. 47 in Los Lunas, when he was struck by a car. The victim was identified as fifty-seven-year-old Robert Sanchez of Los Lunas. Sadly, he died at the scene of this New Mexico car accident.

Police said that it appeared Sanchez had just exited the parking lot of Albertson's grocery store when he attempted to cross Main Street and was hit by a car. The driver who hit Sanchez was taken to the Los Lunas Police station for questioning and testing due to suspicion that he was driving under the influence.

The Los Lunas Police asked the forty-one-year-old driver to take a field sobriety test, but he refused. Because he was involved in a fatal accident and there was suspicion that he was driving under the influence of alcohol, police officers obtained a search warrant and were able to administer a blood test. A toxicology test was also ordered, and both tests were sent to the state laboratory for review.

The Los Lunas Police say the driver will most likely face charges of vehicular homicide once the test results come back.

Our condolences go out to the victim's family and friends during this tragic time.

One Dead and One Injured in New Mexico I-40 Rollover

Thu, 10 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

An overnight car crash occurred on Interstate 40 in New Mexico on Wednesday, May 18, 2010. Bernalillo County deputies say a single vehicle was involved in this rollover crash that occurred on I-40 near Rio Puerco at mile marker 138 on the Laguna Pueblo, not too far from the Route 66 Casino hotel.

The driver, twenty-four-year-old Frank Garcia, was headed westbound on I-40 just after 2:00 a.m. when he crashed his 1991 Lexus into the median and rolled the vehicle onto the eastbound side. The driver was thrown from his car and sustained severe injuries, leaving him in critical condition. He was transported to the University of New Mexico Hospital (UNMH) and later died due to complications from his injuries.

The passenger, twenty-year-old Sheldon Phillips, sustained minor injuries and was also taken to UNMH for treatment. Police are investigating the accident to determine whether the driver was wearing his seat belt, and if alcohol or drugs may have contributed to the crash.

The early morning New Mexico car crash backed up traffic for hours as I-40 eastbound was closed until 6 a.m. Traffic was still backed up for much of the morning commute as lanes were reopened one at a time.

We extend our condolences to the victim's families and friends at this tragic time.

Drunk Driver Causes Albuquerque Car Crash

Thu, 10 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

Just after midnight on Friday, May 14, 2010, a driver of a white pick-up truck ran a red light in Northwest Albuquerque and struck a white passenger vehicle. The car was passing through the intersection on Broadway and Central when it was t-boned by athe pick-up truck.

After the truck crashed into the car, it continued out of control and ended up hopping a curb and crashing into the corner of the old Albuquerque High School building. This building is a landmark as it was the first public high school in Albuquerque, though it was later turned into apartments. According to the apartment manager, the complex called the Albuquerque Lofts unfortunately sustained severe structural damage due to this crash.

Police say they suspected the driver of the pick-up truck was drunk and gave him a field sobriety test, which he failed. Police arrested the driver and charged him with driving while intoxicated (DWI).

There were no reports of tenants being injured, and the drivers of both vehicles were treated for their injuries at the scene. Thankfully, no one was seriously hurt in this New Mexico car crash.

Drunk driving in New Mexico can cause serious car accidents and produce severe injuries or even death.

Stolen Car Involved in Downtown Albuquerque Car Crash

Thu, 10 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

A car -theft attempt turned into a car chase on Friday, May 7, 2010, resulting in a car crash in downtown Albuquerque. The chase started when residents of Rio Rancho called the police to report a suspicious man who matched the description of a suspected car thief.

Rio Rancho police arrived on scene near Pearl Drive in Rio Rancho and approached the suspect. When the suspect attempted to take one of the police officers' guns, the police subdued him and took him to a local hospital.

The suspect, Gabriel Valencia, unfortunately escaped and ran into a nearby residence, where he took a mother and baby hostage. He then stole their car from where it was parked in front of their home on La Merced. Police chased the suspect from Rio Rancho across I-25 to downtown Albuquerque, where he crashed the car near Lead Avenue and Coal Avenue.

Valencia faces charges of kidnapping and false imprisonment among other crimes. Thankfully, the woman and her baby were not harmed.

Drugs and Alcohol Involved in Fatal I-25 Crash

Thu, 10 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

On March 23, 2010, at approximately 10:30 p.m., a fatal car crash occurred on Interstate 25 between Santa Fe and Las Vegas, New Mexico.

Authorities said that twenty-eight-year-old Cecilio Jaramillo of Santa Fe was driving the wrong way on I-25 and crashed into another vehicle driven by eighteen-year-old Mariah Arguello of Las Vegas, N.M. This head-on crash caused such a severe impact that both drivers died at the scene. Police said that both drivers were wearing their seat belts.

On Tuesday, May 18, 2010, the Santa Fe New Mexican reported that the test results from this Santa Fe car -crash investigation showed that Jaramillo's blood-alcohol content was 0.45, which is over five times the legal limit. In addition, benzoylecgonine was found in his system. Amy Boule from the Office of the Medical Investigator stated that this substance is the primary metabolite of cocaine.

Not only was Jaramillo driving drunk, he also had cocaine in his body at the time of the accident and caused a fatal head-on collision. In addition, reports show that Jaramillo had previously been arrested on two different occasions for drunk driving in New Mexico.

Car accidents in New Mexico can be deadly. We extend our condolences to the victims' families and friends at this difficult time.

Toddler Died in Albuquerque Car Crash

Thu, 10 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

On Friday, May 27, 2010, a fourteen-month -old baby boy died from injuries he sustained in an Albuquerque car crash. Earlier that week, toddler Brandon Lucero and his twin brother Ryan Lucero were traveling in the back seat of an SUV when it was hit by another vehicle.

The latter car accident occurred in Albuquerque on Tuesday, May 25, 2010, near the corner of Morris and Constitution. An SUV plowed into the Luceros's car from behind. Although the twins were strapped into their car seats properly they both sustained critical injuries.

They were taken to UNM Hospital for treatment, but Brandon Lucero had sustained head trauma and was taken off life support. He died Friday. His brother Ryan is expected to survive his injuries; although he remains hospitalized.
The police have not arrested the other driver yet, and the Lucero family is looking for answers from the police.

Albuquerque police took a blood sample from the other driver, whom they suspected of being on drugs at the time of the accident. They are awaiting the toxicology results before deciding whether to arrest him. Prosecutors may be able to try him for vehicular homicide, but they will need more time to build a case.

Our thoughts and condolences are with the victims' families and friends during this difficult time.

New Mexico car accidents can be deadly and can cause severe injuries or even death. Call the New Mexico personal injury lawyers, of Keller & Keller to discuss the details of your accident at (505) 938-2300 today.

Wrong-Way Driver Injures Two in Santa Fe Car Crash

Thu, 10 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

A wrong-way driver caused a serious car accident in Santa Fe on Friday, May 21, 2010. Police said the New Mexico car crash took place near Calle Pave on Rodeo Road.

Santa Fe police suspect the wrong-way driver, forty-year-old Patrick Jimenez of Rowe, N.M., of driving drunk. The Kia Optima driven by Jimenez went into oncoming lanes of traffic and collided with a Hyundai Accent driven by seventy-eight-year-old John Geier. Riding with Geier was eighty-two-year-old Shurley MacBarns,; both were from Eldorado.

Geier received minor injuries involving cuts and bruises, but his passenger, MacBarns, suffered a broken hip, a broken leg and a broken shoulder. She was transported to a local hospital. Jimenez sustained head and chest injuries and was admitted to intensive care.

Santa Fe police said that Jimenez had previously been convicted of DWI on two different occasions. In fact, his Kia Optima was equipped with an ignition interlock device. Santa Fe police believe Jimenez was driving drunk, citing as evidence of his careless and reckless driving, plus the fact that he smelled of alcohol when police arrived on scene. Tests are still pending, and an investigation is still ongoing.

Car accidents in New Mexico can cause serious injuries. Our thoughts are with the drivers and passenger involved in this crash, and we hope that each of them will make a complete recovery.

Falling Can Lead to a Severe New Mexico Construction Accident

Thu, 10 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

Many people have been injured on- the- job by falling. Whether there was an obstacle on the floor, liquid spilled, or a fall from a great heights occurred, injuries can happen in any situation. When a fall occurs in a New Mexico construction accident, dislocations and injuries to the joints are common, and severe injuries or even deaths can also occur, depending on the kind of fall involved. Typically, fall -on-the-job can be grouped into one of two different categories of falls. These are "same level falls" and "elevated falls."

Same -level falls are commonly known as "slip and falls," and they can occur in an office setting, or on a construction site. They may produce sprains, bruising, or broken bones. These falls are generally less severe in nature and often produce minor injuries. However, fall from heights involving scaffolding, ladders, or other equipment typically found on a New Mexico construction site are considered to be elevated falls.

Elevated falls can seriously hurt New Mexico construction workers as there is a greater chance for serious injuries to occur, including neck injury, back injury, knee injury, head trauma, traumatic brain injury, paralysis, or even death.

Unfortunately, not every New Mexico construction accident can be prevented; however, most falls are preventable if equipment is inspected, safety gear is worn, and the right procedures are followed. If you have been injured in a construction accident contact the law firm of Keller & Keller, experienced New Mexico construction accident attorneys, at (505) 938-2300 for a free legal evaluation today.

One Dead, One Injured in Albuquerque Crash

Fri, 28 May 2010 08:00:00 EST

On Saturday, May 15, 2010 in the early morning at approximately 4:00 a.m., two Mitsubishis collided with each other in Northeast Albuquerque. Police said this fatal car crash occurred near the intersection of Tramway and Spain NE.

Authorities believe that a male in a white Mitsubishi was traveling eastbound on Spain, in the far right lane, and turned right onto Tramway. During that time, a female in a white Mitsubishi Galant was driving southbound on Tramway. Sadly, the two cars collided, killing one driver and injuring the other driver. Authorities say and investigation is still underway.

The unidentified woman sustained severe injuries and was taken to a local hospital for treatment.

The driver killed was a 19-year-old male, identified by police as Brent Schroeder. Authorities said he was killed on the scene. Police also said he was not wearing his seat belt at the time of the crash.

Albuquerque police are waiting for the toxicology report to come back, as they believe the man could have been under the influence of alcohol. No determination has been made at this time as an investigation is still underway.

Albuquerque car accidents cause serious injuries or even death. Our thoughts are with the female driver for a full recovery. Also, our condolences are offered to the victim’s family and friends during this difficult time.

Two Dead in Las Cruces Multi-Car Crash

Fri, 28 May 2010 08:00:00 EST

On Friday night, May 7, 2010, a Las Cruces multi-car accident occurred on U.S. 70. There were many vehicles involved, including a semi-truck, but according to police it started with one vehicle making an improper lane change near the Sonoma Ranch exit.

Police said that 28-year-old Ruben Espinoza, the driver of the 2004 Chrysler sedan, was traveling westbound on U.S. 70 and attempted to change lanes. He crashed into a 2004 GMC pickup driven by 30-year old Robert Walters Jr. Both cars got tangled together and slid across the median into the oncoming lanes of traffic.

The GMC pickup and Chrysler sedan were both hit by a semi-truck traveling eastbound. The pickup was flipped over and torn in half after colliding with the semi. This GMC pickup was then was hit by a 2002 Ford truck. Both Walters, the driver of the GMC pickup, and 42-year-old Manuel Campos of the Ford truck died at the scene from their injuries.

Isaiah Compos, grandson of victim Manuel Compos, was in the backseat of the Ford truck during the time of the accident. The 10-year-old boy is in stable condition but sustained serious injuries and was taken to a local hospital for treatment. Also, the driver of the semi-truck, 55-year-old David Hayes was taken to the hospital for minor injuries.

Espinoza suffered severe injuries and was airlifted to a local hospital where he remains in critical condition. Police believe alcohol was a factor in this accident. Espinoza has not been charged with any crime at this point, but the results of the blood test are still pending. New Mexico State Police are still investigating this fatal crash.

Our thoughts and condolences are with the victims’ families and friends during this tragic time.

Will New Mexico Pass a Cell Phone Ban?

Fri, 28 May 2010 08:00:00 EST

Currently, New Mexico does not have a statewide law that bans handheld cell phones and/or text messaging. However, it does appear that the state is reviewing proposed legislation that would ban handheld cell phones while driving.

The use of cell phones behind the wheel is a huge concern as lawmakers are seeing what distracted driving in New Mexico can do. There has been an increase in car accidents on the road due to texting and driving and distracted driving in New Mexico, as well as the rest of the nation in general.

Albuquerque has already passed a city ordinance against the use of cell phones behind the wheel. The law does not allow for a driver to use a handheld phone to call, create, read or send text messages while driving. If caught, Albuquerque police will fine drivers $100 the first time and $200 for repeat offenses. Hands-free phones are allowed as well as calling emergency services. Other cities with similar restrictions in place include Santa Fe, Las Cruces, Gallup, Taos, and Espanola.

The new 2010 legislation that the New Mexico House approved on February 9, 2010 would make it illegal for drivers to use handheld phones or send text messages from behind the wheel throughout the state. Under bill HB10 drivers who break the law will be fined $25. This bill is now being reviewed by the Senate.

Research does connect an increase in traffic accidents on the roads with texting and driving in New Mexico. If you have been involved in an Albuquerque car accident and you believe it was due to someone else’s negligence, contact the law firm of Keller & Keller at 505-938-2300 for a free legal evaluation today.

Arizona's immigration law influences New Mexico

Fri, 21 May 2010 08:00:00 EST

Albuquerque, New Mexico - There have been an abundance of issues regarding the new Arizona Immigration Law that takes effect in July. The law authorizes officials to ask a persons immigration status if there is "reasonable suspicion" to their presence in the country and providing proof Some feel the law is unconstitutional, violates civil rights, discriminates, and considered racial profiling.

Hobbs Car Accident Leaves Two Dead and One Injured

Thu, 20 May 2010 08:00:00 EST

On Saturday, May 15, 2010, a deadly car accident occurred in Hobbs, New Mexico. The Saturday afternoon crash left two people dead and one injured. New Mexico state police say the car was traveling on State Road 18 near Hobbs when it went off the road and flipped.

The car came in contact with loose dirt and flipped three and a half times before coming to a stop. The car was driven by 19-year-old Johnny Garcia. He was traveling with two passengers, 23-year-old Jeremy Turner and 19-year-old Mario Molina. All three men were residents of Hobbs.

Police say both Garcia and Turner did not have their seat belts fastened at the time of the crash. Unfortunately, both were ejected from the vehicle and pronounced dead. Molina, the only surviving passenger, was the only one wearing his seat belt. Molina was taken by helicopter to a local hospital for medical treatment.

Police say that failure to use seatbelts may have contributed to this fatal crash. They also believe excessive speed by the driver may have contributed to this deadly accident as well.

We are sad to hear of this fatal Hobbs car accident and our condolences are with the victims’ families and friends during this difficult time.

Albuquerque Car Crash Kills Pedestrian

Thu, 20 May 2010 08:00:00 EST

On Thursday, May 6, 2010 at approximately 9:30 p.m. a pedestrian was hit by a vehicle. Sadly, the victim died on the scene. The fatal Albuquerque car accident took place on Central Avenue and Alvarado Drive Southeast.

Witnesses said the unidentified woman was walking in the crosswalk across Alvarado Drive when a car hit her. Albuquerque police said the car was traveling on Alvarado Drive and proceeded to make a left turn on Central Avenue and struck the pedestrian.

The driver was identified as Charlene Krummel of Albuquerque. Witnesses said it appeared that Krummel ignored the signal light. Police shut down eastbound Central for several hours to conduct an investigation.

The driver was not arrested and no allegations have been made against Krummel at this point; however, the District Attorney may still file charges. At this time it is unknown what charges Krummel will face.

The Office of the Medical Investigator is investigating the identity of the female pedestrian victim.

Our thoughts are with the victim’s family and friends during this tragic time.

The Law Says I Don't Have to – What is the Importance of Wearing a Helmet in New Mexico?

Tue, 18 May 2010 08:00:00 EST

We know the law in New Mexico states that a motorcyclist over the age of 18 does not have to wear a helmet, but why wouldn’t you want to? Most motorcyclists in Albuquerque say they love the freedom of not feeling confined in a helmet and they love to feel the wind against their face. However, statistics paint a realistic picture, and current studies show the effectiveness that motorcycle helmets have on saving lives.

According to research from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), more motorcyclists died in 2008 than ever before. Because a motorcycle is unenclosed, this leaves a rider vulnerable and at greater risk for severe injuries. When a rider comes in contact with the road, it is usually catastrophic. Protective gear, especially a helmet, can help prevent harmful injuries in New Mexico.

A NHTSA study from 2003 shows 3,661 motorcycle riders died. If helmets were worn, they believe 1,158 motorcyclists would still be alive. As we know, helmets cannot prevent all deaths in motorcycle accidents. Some injuries are far too severe, and a rider could still die from injuries to other parts of the body. The main cause of death of unhelmeted riders is head injury. Since helmets can help to prevent a head injury, why are so many motorcyclists riding without them?

Unfortunately, motorcycle deaths continue to rise as helmet wear continues to decline. If you or a loved one has been involved in an Albuquerque motorcycle accident, contact the law firm of Keller & Keller at 505-938-2300 for a free legal evaluation of your New Mexico motorcycle accident.

Two Women Died in Albuquerque Car Crash

Mon, 17 May 2010 08:00:00 EST

On Tuesday, April 6, 2010 around lunch time, two women were hit by an alleged bank-robber’s minivan. Police say the two women were waiting in their car at a red light at Coors and Quail in northwest Albuquerque when a van crashed into them.

At the time of this deadly Albuquerque car accident, police were chasing driver Jeremiah Jackson. Jackson was trying to get away after he robbed the New Mexico Bank and Trust. According to the police report, after Jackson robbed the bank he fled in his minivan and was chased by police on I-40. He exited on Coors, turned right on Quail, and lost control and collided into these two women.

Jackson was just let out of jail six week prior to this accident and has been in and out of prison for ten years. He was arrested again after this fatal accident and remains in federal custody. If Jackson is convicted of murder, he may face the death penalty.

The two victims who were killed tragically were driver, Kimberly Aragon-Nunez and passenger Janice Flores. They worked together at First Choice Community Health and were on their lunch break picking up lunch for themselves and other co-workers.

Our thoughts are with both of these victims’ family and friends.