New Mexico experienced its first major snowstorm of the season on Wednesday, February 2, 2022, and the state was blanketed with snow. The winter weather proved dangerous for drivers and was even fatal for some.
The Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office responded to nearly 30 car crashes, including 13 traffic accidents with injuries and 4 rollover accidents. A multi-vehicle crash along Interstate 40 near Santa Rosa resulted in at least one fatality, and the I-40 was closed for much of the day.
Meanwhile, in Cedar Crest, a vehicle rolled 100 feet down a mountain off Sandia Crest Road, and 2 people were killed. Authorities closed Sandia Crest Road due to accidents and dangerous road conditions.
For more information, please see the report from KOAT Action 7 News (link will open in a new window) or view the updates from the Bernalillo County Sherriff’s office on Twitter.
Can I Avoid Winter Weather Car Accidents?
Unfortunately, winter weather often leads to serious car accidents, injuries, and deaths. Nevertheless, there are some steps you can take to reduce your risk of a crash:
- If possible, stay home during snowstorms, bad weather, and when road conditions are bad.
- Slow down when driving on snow or ice.
- Speed up and slow down slowly to avoid skids.
- Apply firm, even pressure when braking, and do not come to a complete stop on icy roads if you can avoid it.
- Increase your following distance to 5 or 6 seconds to give yourself more time in case you need to stop.
- Be extra careful on hills (try to build inertia before approaching the hill, maintain a steady speed until the crest of the hill, and proceed downhill slowly).
Even if you drive safely in winter weather conditions, other drivers may not. Stay home if you can, and if you venture out, and someone hits you, know who to call.
At Crow Law Firm, we help you and your family move forward when the unthinkable happens. We are always accessible to help you deal with the aftermath of a car accident and have nearly 20 years of experience recovering compensation for injured and bereaved individuals and families.
Additionally, we know New Mexico and we never charge fees unless we win.
Do not face the consequences of someone else’s actions alone. Instead, contact Crow Law Firm to learn more about your rights and legal options – call us at (575) 222-2702 or send us a message to get started with a free consultation.