A crash involving a semitrailer and a motorcycle is currently under investigation in northeast Albuquerque.
The crash occurred on Carlisle Boulevard NE and Claremont Avenue NE. According to Albuquerque police two motorcyclists were transported to the University of New Mexico with injuries. The semitrailer driven by Michael Cartagena, failed to stop for traffic when turning left onto Claremont.
Witnesses and police at the scene of the incident said the semitrailer driver appeared to be impaired. Following a search of Cartagena, drug paraphernalia and cocaine substances were discovered. He was arrested for two counts of great bodily harm with a vehicle, failure to yield before turning, and drug possession charges. Cartagena’s blood was also drawn after a warrant was approved.
The crash is still under investigation and the names of the motorcyclists have not yet been released.
“The circumstances of this incident are unfortunate, two people are lying in a hospital bed with serious injuries because someone used illicit drugs,” said Brian Colón New Mexico personal injury attorney at Singleton Schreiber. “Truck drivers operating their vehicles that weigh several tons while under the influence is extremely harmful.”
If you’ve been involved in a truck accident, contact Singleton Schreiber at 505-605-2076 or via email at info@singletonschreiber.com.
Northeast Albuquerque Truck Crashes
Impaired driving remains a prevalent concern, even within the trucking industry. The risks associated with impaired semi-truck driving in Albuquerque, New Mexico, demands the urgent need for preventive measures and stricter regulations.
Impaired driving encompasses various factors, including alcohol, drugs, fatigue, and distractions. When combined with the immense size and weight of semi-trucks, the consequences can be devastating. Albuquerque, being a significant transportation hub, witnesses a considerable volume of truck traffic daily. As such, the presence of impaired semi-truck drivers poses a grave danger to the local community and road users.
- Alcohol and Substance Abuse: Alcohol and substance abuse are among the leading causes of impaired driving incidents. While commercial truck drivers are subject to stricter regulations regarding alcohol consumption compared to regular motorists, violations still occur. The consumption of alcohol and drugs significantly impairs judgment, coordination, and reaction times, amplifying the likelihood of accidents on the roads of Albuquerque.
- Fatigue and Sleep Deprivation: Truck drivers often face demanding schedules and long hours on the road, which can lead to fatigue and sleep deprivation. Fatigue diminishes a driver’s ability to stay alert, respond quickly to hazards, and make sound decisions. This problem is particularly concerning for long-haul truckers who may push themselves to meet tight delivery deadlines. Addressing fatigue and implementing comprehensive rest regulations is crucial to mitigating the risks of impaired semi-truck driving.
- Distracted Driving: Distracted driving, such as using mobile devices or engaging in other activities that divert attention from the road, is a prevalent issue among all drivers. However, the consequences are exacerbated when it involves operators of large commercial vehicles like semi-trucks. Distracted truck drivers are more likely to cause accidents due to delayed reaction times and reduced situational awareness. Efforts must be made to raise awareness and enforce stricter regulations to combat this dangerous behavior.
Often, the companies that employ truck drivers are liable as well for injuries. While the investigation is ongoing, it could have been that Cartagena was using drugs to stay awake during a long delivery. With strict deadlines, it’s been discovered that many trucking companies are pushing drivers to use drugs as a means of doing business.
The presence of impaired semi-truck drivers on Albuquerque’s roads poses a significant threat to public safety. Addressing this issue demands an approach that encompasses education, stricter regulations, technology implementation, and industry wide collaboration within trucking associations.
The legal complexities involved in truck crashes require an attorney who understands the issues at hand following a collision. Truck crashes have the potential to cause catastrophic injuries, loss of life, and extensive property damage.
The regulations, liability issues, and insurance matters can make seeking justice and obtaining fair compensation challenging. Federal and state regulations, liability, insurance coverage and limits, multiple jurisdictions, and investigative expertise are all required factors that need to be taken into consideration.
“The victims in this unfortunate semitrailer collision need an experienced attorney to help them tackle the challenging legal issues that arise following a truck crash,” added Mr. Colón. “My thoughts are with the families of the victims and for their speedy recovery.”
Singleton Schreiber New Mexico truck accident attorneys can be reached at 505-605-2076 or via email at info@singletonschreiber.com.
