A head-on collision on U.S. 285 near Clines Corners, New Mexico killed one person and caused other serious injuries.
The woman killed was later identified as Leticia Lancaster-Valois, a 66 year old woman from Oklahoma City, OK. The crash occurred around 2 pm on Sunday, August 20, and involved several vehicles.
According to reports, Leticia was the passenger in a 2015 Lexus, heading southbound on 285. The driver of the Lexus attempted to pass the car in front of her, but they collided head-on with a 2020 Ford F-150 traveling northbound. Another car, a 2021 Toyota, was behind the pickup and was also involved in the collision.
The woman who attempted to pass hit the pickup hit head-on, and the car behind the truck was also involved. Paramedics took all the other passengers and drivers to a local hospital, although their conditions are currently unknown. Leticia was a passenger in a 2015 Lexus which was attempting to pass the vehicle. The pickup was a 2020 Ford F150, and the car behind it was a 2021 Toyota.
According to KOB 4, the initial investigation by New Mexico State Police found that all drivers and passengers were properly wearing their seatbelts and alcohol was not a factor in this crash.
“According to what we know, the impatience of one person cost a woman her life and caused serious injuries to everyone else involved,” said Brian Colón, managing partner of Singleton Schreiber’s New Mexico offices. “Our hearts go out to the family of the woman who was killed, as well as to those who were injured through no fault of their own.”
If you’ve been injured in a Clines Corners car crash, contact the personal injury attorneys at Singleton Schreiber by calling 505-605-2076 or by emailing info@singletonschreiber.com.
Clines Corners Wrongful Death Car Crash
New Mexico’s diverse and scenic landscapes draw countless travelers to its roads, both local residents and visitors. However, the state has seen its share of tragedies in the form of fatal head-on car crashes. While many factors contribute to these catastrophic accidents, it is vital to acknowledge the significance of the problem and work towards reducing its occurrence.
Head-on car crashes are among the most dangerous types of vehicular accidents. By definition, they involve the frontal impact of two vehicles traveling in opposite directions. The force of such collisions is substantial, often magnifying the potential for severe injuries or fatalities. While roadways everywhere see these types of collisions, the unique characteristics of New Mexico’s roads can sometimes exacerbate the situation.
The state’s vast and often rugged terrain means that there are many two-lane highways with limited visibility due to curves, elevation changes, or other natural obstacles. These highways, while picturesque, can sometimes pose challenges for drivers, especially if they are unfamiliar with the roads or are driving in adverse conditions. A momentary lapse in concentration, misjudgment of an oncoming vehicle’s speed, or an attempt to overtake another car can lead to dire consequences.
Furthermore, New Mexico’s climate can introduce additional hazards. From the arid deserts to the snow-capped mountains, drivers may encounter a wide range of weather conditions. Sudden rain storms can render roads slippery, while fog can severely limit visibility. In winter months, some areas, especially in the northern part of the state, can experience snow and ice, which can be particularly treacherous for drivers not accustomed to such conditions.
Another contributing factor to fatal head-on collisions is driver fatigue. The vast expanses of New Mexico mean that drivers often undertake long journeys without adequate breaks. Tired drivers can easily drift into the oncoming lane or fail to recognize potential hazards in time to react. Furthermore, with many remote areas in the state, help may not be immediately available, delaying emergency response times and potentially exacerbating the consequences of a crash.
Recognizing the issue, various stakeholders from government agencies to community organizations, have taken steps to address the problem. Infrastructure improvements, such as the addition of rumble strips and better signage, have been implemented in many accident-prone areas. Public awareness campaigns highlight the dangers of distracted driving and the importance of regular breaks during long journeys.
New Mexico sees a concerning number of fatal head-on car crashes. Addressing this issue requires a combined effort from the community, policymakers, and individual drivers. Through heightened awareness, infrastructure improvements, and responsible driving habits, it is possible to reduce the number of these tragic incidents.
“After they’ve received the medical treatment they need, the next call from every injury victim in this head-on crash should be to a qualified Clines Corners car accident lawyer,” Mr. Colón added. “There are serious legal issues to sort out here, and without a knowledgeable attorney, they’ll be left to fend for themselves and pay hefty hospital bills with no help.”
Anyone in need of a Clines Corners car crash attorney contact Singleton Schreiber by calling 505-605-2076 or by emailing info@singletonschreiber.com.
