Runner and Jogger Accidents in Albuquerque

Many people enjoy running and jogging in and around Albuquerque, but the negligence of others could cause serious injuries to these pedestrians. If a liable party is responsible for runner and jogger accidents in Albuquerque, you have the chance to recover compensation in a claim with the help of the right pedestrian accident attorney.

Learn about the different causes of these accidents and what happens when a motorist breaches their duty of care.

The Responsibilities of Drivers

In Albuquerque and throughout New Mexico, right-of-way laws apply to drivers and pedestrians, including runners and joggers. In the majority of circumstances, runners, joggers, and other pedestrians always have the right-of-way when crossing streets and running alongside the road. However, pedestrians must also adhere to traffic signals at intersections and crosswalks.

Generally, drivers have multiple responsibilities in keeping the roads safe for themselves, other motorists, and pedestrians alike. For example, they must:

• Give enough space to runners and joggers to avoid hitting them on the roadsides, particularly when driving around them
• Come to a complete stop to allow pedestrians to safely cross the street
• Give the right-of-way to pedestrians who are already crossing an intersection, regardless of whether the pedestrian is obeying the walking signal
• Maintain consistent awareness of their surroundings and any runners or other pedestrians present
• Turn on their headlights when visibility is low to improve their own visibility while ensuring pedestrians see their vehicle
• Remain prepared to stop for pedestrians who cross the street at unmarked crossings

Failure to meet any of these responsibilities could make drivers in Albuquerque liable for a runner accident. However, pedestrians must also maintain safe roadways to the best of their abilities, obeying traffic signals and only crossing at designated crosswalks when they have the right of way.

Common Causes of Runner and Jogger Accidents

There are multiple causes of runner and jogger accidents in and around Albuquerque, such as:

Failure to Yield

Drivers may drive through crosswalks and intersections without yielding to pedestrians, putting them at risk of injury, either by intentionally crossing illegally or failing to stay aware of their surroundings.

Distracted Driving

Drivers could experience various physical, visual, or cognitive distractions on the road that take their attention away from the task of driving and any nearby pedestrians.

Impaired Driving

Another common cause of runner and jogger accidents in Albuquerque is driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Slowed reaction times, impaired judgment, and reckless behavior could all result from chemical impairment.

Low Visibility

Runners and joggers often like to exercise in the early morning hours or after sunset, which can make it harder for motorists to see them and for pedestrians to see vehicles. Runners and joggers could wear reflective gear to increase driver visibility, while drivers must turn on their headlights at the appropriate time.

Contact an Attorney for Help With a Potential Case

Many people suffer extensively from runner and jogger accidents in Albuquerque. Victims could determine who was liable and potentially seek compensation from negligent parties through a third-party claim or lawsuit. Engaging in this process alone could put your case at risk, as you may struggle to calculate compensation, gather evidence, or negotiate a settlement with insurers.

For help with the legal process following a runner or jogger accident, reach out to an Albuquerque injury attorney for help with a potential case.