How Can Chiropractic Care Help With Your Injuries From a Car Accident or Collision?

By Julie Bowen

If you have been injured in an Albuquerque car wreck or some other accident, you know that you need to seek immediate medical attention at the Emergency Room and follow-up care from your primary care doctor. Chiropractors have an important role to play as part of the health care team treating accident victims as well. They can help to evaluate the full extent of your injuries from the accident, and provide treatment to mitigate worsening of symptoms. 

Whiplash Injuries from Car Accidents

Chiropractors can treat injuries from car accidents, commonly known as whiplash, which is caused during a rear-impact collision. The impact from the collision can result in a number of health problems, including:

Loss of resiliency in the spine or limbs

herniated discs

difficulty with movement

chronic pain

difficulty concentrating

Chiropractic Consultation

During a consultation, the chiropractor will meet with you to discuss your injuries, get a description of your symptoms and take a case history. Be prepared to discuss any other treatments you have undergone with your family doctor and other specialists during this part of the visit. Don't hesitate to mention the emotional symptoms you are dealing with following the accident to the chiropractor, such as difficulty concentrating, irritability, and trouble sleeping. It's important to raise any existing conditions you may have, too, as these may affect your tratment.

According to the results of a new study, for example, there is a link between Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and chronic whiplash symptoms. Patients who are living with PTSD have higher levels of pain than whiplash patients who do not have this disorder. Learning how to deal with PTSD following a car accident will require seeking treatment from other professionals, and needs to be diagnosed appropriately so that you can get the right type of treatment, which may include medications, psychotherapy, or both.

Chiropractic Care for Soft Tissue Injuries

The type of soft-tissue injury which presents following a car accident may need more than just pain relievers and muscle relaxers to heal properly. These measure provide symptom relief but don't really do anything to get to the root of the problem.

The damage caused to soft tissues will not necessarily heal within four to eight weeks. It does not simply get better on its own with time and rest. This type of injury requires specific treatment if you are going to be restored to the state you were in before the accident.

Drug-free Treatment 

Chiropractors can offer a safe, drug-free treatment option to accident victims. Their approach is non-invasive. These trained professionals can focus on the following types of injuries:

• Back pain
• Headache
• Neck pain

Once the whiplash has been diagnosed, the chiropractor has a number of treatment options available to offer you. The first thing you may think of when considering visiting a chiropractor is manipulation, "cracking" the neck. This is not the only means of treatment available. The chiropractor can also offer muscle relaxation or stimulation therapy or suggest exercises which may help. He or she may also be able to suggest some ergonomic or lifestyle changes which can help to lessen the neck pain and promote healing. 

The first phase of the injury lasts for approximately 72 hours, during which time the damaged tissue bleeds continuously. During this phase, the injured body part should be treated with ice.

At the 72-96 hour mark, the damaged blood vessels repair themselves. This step marks the beginning of the regeneration phase of treatment, which lasts for between six and eight weeks. At the end of this stage, the gap between the torn tissues is bridged.

The third, or remodeling, phase is where the tissues become stronger and change to become more like the original, undamaged tissue. Proper treatment from a chiropractor can help to ensure that they heal properly to avoid developing into a chronic problem. Experts say that it takes about one year for damaged soft tissues to heal properly.

Compensation for New Mexico Accident Victims

If you have been injured in a New Mexico motor vehicle, truck, motorcycle, bus or pedestrian accident or collision and the other driver was at fault, you may be able to recover money for your injuries and your reasonable medical expenses resulting from the accident, including the cost of doctor's and chiropractor's bills. You can make a claim for pain and suffering.  You may also be able to make a claim for compensation for loss of income (past and future), which is why you and your legal team need to understand the full picture regarding your injuries and the impact they will have on your life. 

The Albuquerque law firm of Caruso Law Offices is well prepared to assist you with your claims against the insurance company.  Mark Caruso, the owner of Caruso Law Offices, is a former insurance company attorney, and he will explain your right to compensation and what you are entitled to be paid for from the insurance company. 

You can contact Mark Caruso directly at 505-883-5000 or their web site at www.carusolaw.com  They have some great YouTube videos describing your rights following a car accident at http://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1CfFrQ5rMb3eegwRl_S3aQ

 

 

At Fault Driver Uninsured? Don't Give Up On Your Claim Without Speaking to an Attorney!

Former Insurance Company Attorney Mark Caruso Gives Honest Answers to Your Questions.

By:  Mark Caruso, Personal Injury and Wrongful Death Attorney (Albuquerque, NM)



At Caruso Law Offices, we deal with people who have been hurt in car accidents every day. Having auto insurance in place is a legal requirement in New Mexico, and our clients are shocked to discover that there are many people who get behind the wheel without this necessary coverage in place. When an accident occurs, they are at a loss to understand exactly what happens to their right to be compensated in a fair manner for their injuries and expenses. 

New Mexico is a Tort State

New Mexico operates under the tort system for car insurance purposes. The driver who is found legally at fault is responsible for paying for the damages he or she caused. People who have been injured have the right to sue to recover damages. Drivers are required to buy a minimum level of liability coverage, which pays for the injuries and damages they cause in an accident. The minimum requirements are as follows:

·  $25,000 in bodily injury coverage for a single accident victim

·  $50,000 in bodily injury coverage for all injuries caused in the same accident, regardless of the number of victims

·  $10,000 in property damage coverage

If You are Injured in a Car Accident

Caruso Law Offices, (505) 883-5000

In a situation where a car accident occurs and the other driver is at fault, you would be looking to him or her to compensate you for your injuries and damages. The first thing you would need to do is make sure that your health is looked after by getting appropriate emergency medical treatment, as well as any follow-up care recommended by the doctor. You will still need to continue paying off your car loans from Car Loan 4U, since you are responsible for this expense even if your vehicle is in the shop. In the normal course of events, the at-fault driver's insurance company would pay your claim for damages. You may be asked to get more than one estimate before starting the work on your car, but you also have the option of having your own insurer pay for the damage, less your deductible. This could get you on the road more quickly than waiting to get estimates or have the damage inspected.

 

Getting Compensation for Your Injuries from an Uninsured Driver

The Insurance Research Council estimates that one in seven drivers is uninsured (2011). If you have been injured in an accident where the at-fault driver does not have insurance, the first place you should look to seek compensation for your injuries and damages is whether you have coverage under your own insurance policy through uninsured driver coverage. If you have this type of insurance, your own insurer will pay your claim for damages.

If you don't have any insurance coverage in place and the at-fault driver does not have insurance, you still have the right to sue and get a judgment against him or her. Don't assume that it is not worth your while to make a claim against someone who does not have auto insurance coverage before speaking with an attorney about your situation. 

The last thing you want to do is assume that the person responsible for causing your injuries has no assets that can be recovered to pay for your damages simply because his or her auto insurance coverage may have lapsed at the time of the accident. Being involved in a motor vehicle accident is a high-stress situation and you need someone on your side to can provide advice about the best way to continue. 

Your attorney can look at the facts of the accident, as well as the damages you have incurred and provide you with an expert opinion about your case. You can get the facts you need about preserving your right to sue by acting within the time limits set out by law as well. The worst thing you can do in a situation where you have been injured in an accident with an uninsured driver is to do nothing. Get the facts from an expert who is on your side, and that means speaking with a licensed attorney as soon as possible, even if you don't know the full extent of your injuries after the accident.

Call Mark Caruso, personal injury and wrongful death attorney, at Caruso Law Offices for a free consultation at (505) 883-5000 or visit www.carusolaw.com


By:  Julie Bradgate

Discounted Attorney Fee, NM Car, Truck and Motorcycle Accidents and Collisions

Discounted 29% attorney fee  for personal injury and wrongful death cases that settle prior to a lawsuit, including auto, car, truck, motorcycle, bicycle and pedestrian accidents and collisions

By: Mark Caruso, Personal Injury and Wrongful Death Attorney (Albuquerque, NM) 

 

Discounted 29% attorney fee for personal injury and wrongful death cases that settle prior to a lawsuit is offered by Caruso Law Offices.  This includes personal injury and wrongful death cases resulting from auto, car, truck, motorcycle, bus, bicycle and pedestrian accidents and collisions.

This  29% discounted attorney fee  is unprecedented in New Mexico, and Mark Caruso was the first Albuquerque Personal Injury and Wrongful Death Attorney to give such a discount to his clients. Most every other  personal injury  and  wrongful death  attorney still charges the full 33 1/3% attorney fee.



This discounted attorney fee applies to all  personal injury  and  wrongful death  cases handled by Mark  Caruso including accidents, collisions, crashes and wrecks involving a  car,  truck,  semi-truck, 18 wheeler, tractor trailer, commercial vehicle,  motorcycle,  bicycle, bus,  pedestrian  and to all types of injuries and wrongful death including head trauma,  brain injury,  spinal cord injury,  broken bones, soft tissue injury, psychological injury including PTSD.

**The FORMULA  for the discounted attorney fee for all personal injury and wrongful death cases  is simple.

At the conclusion of the pre-litigation settlement of your personal injury or wrongful death claim only 29% is deducted for attorney fees, not 33 1/3%.

 

The math is simple, but the additional pocket money for the client can be enormous!

**The RATIONALE for the discounted attorney fee for all personal injury and wrongful death cases  is simple.

Caruso Law Offices  spends less money on expensive advertising than those other personal injury and wrongful death attorneys charging the   33 1/3% fee.

 

Caruso Law Offices  doesn't spend tens of thousands of dollars per month on television, radio, billboard and bus advertising. Because of the reduced advertising overhead, Mark Caruso can discount the attorney fee and put more money in the client's pocket. You don't really benefit from their advertising.

In fact, some jury polls indicate that juries don't like personal injury and wrongful death lawyers who advertise on television, radio, billboards and sides of buses. There is some evidence that they will award you less money because of who you have representing you in the courtroom.

Mark Caruso cites the NM Lawyers' Rules of Professional Responsibility which requires personal injury and wrongful death attorney to charge only a reasonable attorney fee based on the amount and kind of work performed. If the amount of work is less, why shouldn't the fees to the attorney be less. All personal injury and wrongful death attorneys should be following  Caruso Law Offices  example of the discounted fee. Fortunately, some attorneys have now begun copying Caruso's discounted fees.

**The  RESULT of the discounted attorney fee for all personal injury and wrongful death cases is simple.

A discounted attorney fee means more money in the client's pocket and less money in the attorney's pocket at the end of the case.

 

At the settlement of your case you are happier with our firm because you see more money going into your pocket with the  29% discounted attorney fee.

Mark Caruso continues to handle the property damage settlements and rental car for free.

A discounted fee does not mean discounted service!

 

Mark Caruso  has been practicing law since 1982--that's 31 years. An honors graduate of Pepperdine University School of Law, Mark is licensed in both California and New Mexico. He has been successfully handling personal injury and wrongful death cases for 31 years.

As a former insurance company attorney,  Mark Caruso  knows the ins-and-outs of the insurance claims business to get his personal injury and wrongful death clients the most money possible. He now uses that experience to help his clients against the same insurance companies. The lawyers and staff at  Caruso Law Offices  have been expertly trained by one of the most experienced and best personal injury and wrongful death attorneys in New Mexico.

There is no sacrafice in quality legal representation just because of the discounted attorney fee.

 

A discounted fee just means more money in your pocket when you settle your case.

Caruso Law Offices  gets new client referrals from prior clients, other non-personal injury attorneys, out of state attorneys, doctors, body shops and even insurance agents. These make up the majority of Mark Caruso's clients.

Some clients are attracted to the  discounted 29%  attorney fee.  Others are attracted to his experience as a former insurance company attorney who now works for the victims against these same insurance companies. Still others look at the high client ratings and testimonials as evidence of good work for their clients.

The attorney does less work in getting your case settled before a lawsuit is even filed,  and you should get a discounted fee since no lawsuit was required.

The discount applies to all  car accidents,  truck accidents,  motorcycle accidents, bus accidents, bicycle accidents  and  pedestrian accidents.  It applies to all personal injury claims and all wrongful death claims.

The people benefiting from this discounted fee are the clients of Caruso Law Offices. Call 505-883-5000 for a free consultation with Mark Caruso and find out why his  personal injury  and  wrongful death  law firm is so highly rated by clients and other attorneys. You can also see our website at www.carusolaw.com

Mark Caruso  is available NOW to discuss your  personal injury  or  wrongful death  case. Call him today at 505-883-5000
 

Call  Mark Caruso  for a FREE CONSULTATION to discuss your case by telephone or in person.
Once you personally talk to  Mark Caruso  you will understand why you need his history of experience and  skills in your personal injury and wrongful death claim.

Your consultation is FREE, so you have absolutely nothing to lose--and everything to GAIN!

Attorney Fees for Albuquerque Car Accident

Don't Pay the Higher 33 1/3% Contingency Attorney Fee in your Albuquerque Car Accident, Truck Accident or Motorcycle Accident

By: Mark Caruso, Personal Injury and Wrongful Death Attorney (Albuquerque, NM)

You have probably seen all the personal injury attorneys advertising on television, billboards and the sides of buses offering to represent you in your Albuquerque  personal injury or  wrongful death claim on a percentage fee basis.  This is called a contingency fee.

A contingency fee means that you pay the personal injury attorney no hourly fee, but instead pay a "percentage fee" at the conclusion of the claim.  If the lawyer recovers no money on the claim, the attorney gets no attorney fee.

The New Mexico Rules of Professional Conduct for Attorneys set the ethical rules for  New Mexico attorneys to follow when charging personal injury clients a contingency fee for their  car accident,  truck accident  or  motorcycle accident. The Rules require the contingent fee to be reasonable and that the contingent fee agreement be in writing and signed by the client and attorney.

Most every auto accident and personal injury  attorneys in Albuquerque, NM  charges a contingency fee of  33 1/3% for all personal injury or wrongful death cases that are settled prior to a lawsuit being filed. This seems a little steep, especially because so little work is done by the personal injury attorney before the lawsuit is filed. Most of the initial proof of liability against the at fault driver and gathering of medical records and bills for treatment of personal injuries are done by a paralegal or legal assistant supervised by the attorney.

The personal injury attorney becomes much more involved in the preparation of the settlement demand to the insurance company adjuster,  the negotiation of settlement and the conclusion of the claim with the client.

It's only if the insurance adjuster won't settle with the attorney and client that a lawsuit may be required.  The majority of our cases at Caruso Law Offices do in fact settle without a lawsuit.    If a lawsuit is filed because the case could not be settled, then the attorney has much more involvement and expenses in the claim.

Beginning in 2009  Mark Caruso  and  Caruso Law Offices  pioneered a new approach to contingent  attorneys fees in Albuquerque, NM. 

Caruso began discounting the attorney fee to 29% contingency fee in cases that settled before the filing of a lawsuit. Caruso believed that to be in compliance with the "reasonable fee" requirement of the Rules and knowing that less work was required to settle a case if no lawsuit was yet filed, that a discounted fee was warranted.

We currently discount the contingency fee to only 29% if a case is settled before a lawsuit is filed.

The result is that more money goes into our  client's pocket in every case that we settle before a lawsuit! We also believe  it also means quicker settlements for clients. As an example, using a settlement of a $50,000 case, the attorney fee would be $14,500 rather than $16,666.  That's $2,100 more into the client's pocket rather than the attorney's pocket.

The response from clients to the discounted contingency fee has been amazing. 

Caruso Law Offices  receives most of its personal injury client referrals from word of mouth, and little advertising is really needed. Today, most of our clients with  car accident claims,  truck accident claims  and  motorcycle claims  are by word of mouth and referrals.

Lawyers insisting on the 33 1/3% fee try to argue that a discounted 29% fee means a lesser qualified attorney or law firm.   Not so with Caruso Law Offices!

Mark Caruso, the senior attorney at Caruso Law Offices, has 31 years experience and is a former insurance company attorney who now helps injured victims.   He is also licensed in both New Mexico and California, and he is a member of the New Mexico Trial Lawyers Association, the American Association of Justice and the prestigious Million Dollar Advocates Forum.  Caruso has been awarded Martindale-Hubbell's Client Distinction Award, AVVO Lawyer Ratings Superb 9.6/10.0 rating and Better Business Bureau's A+ rating.

Because Caruso Law Offices does not do television, radio, billboard or bus advertising, its law firm advertising overhead is much lower.  It doen't need to justify the higher 33 1/3% fee to pay for this expensive advertising. More importantly, the discounted fee of 29% helps who it supposed to help--clients of Caruso Law Offices.  It puts more money in the client's pocket, and less money in the attorney's pocket.

Helping the clients should be the number one priority of every attorney, and it is the priority at Caruso Law Offices.

Caruso Law Offices isn't spending lots of money on advertising and can afford to pass the savings to his clients.  Advertising is an expensive overhead.  Freeway billboards can cost $8,000 a month, and some attorney television budgets are $20,000 monthly.  This attorney advertising does not mean that the particular attorney is a better attorney, only that he is spending more on advertising and probably charging the higher 33 1/3% fee rather than the discounted 29% fee.

Mark Caruso would like to personally meet with you to confidentially discuss your car accident, truck accident or motorcycle accident. The consultation will be FREE and without any obligation whatsoever. We will discuss the facts of the accident, medical care you have received and future medical care that you may require.  We will discuss what to expect from the claims process and the "personality" of the automobile insurance company your claim is against.  We promise to answer all of your questions and give you honest and truthful answers.

 You can call Mark Caruso at 505-883-5000 or toll free at 800-657-9292.  We have two locations in Albuquerque-our Northeast Heights office and our  Westside office. Mark Caruso can also meet you at your home, work or hospital and on weekends and after hours.

We represent personal injury clients with vehicular accidents throughout the state of New Mexico and in the pueblos and reservations of our state.

You can also visit our web site at   www.carusolaw.com  or contact Mark Caruso at mark@carusolaw.com   We look forward to hearing from you.

Repair of Car After Albuquerque Car Accident

I Need My Car Repaired After an Albuquerque Car Accident!

By:  Mark Caruso, Personal Injury and Wrongful Death Attorney (Albuquerque, NM)

You have been in a  car accident,  truck accident  or  motorcycle accident  in Albuquerque, and it wasn't your fault. How are you going to get your car damages repaired?

New Mexico law gives you rights against the person at fault and their insurance company.

But delays in the claims process may mean that you are driving around with a damaged car for weeks after the wreck.  What can be done to speed up this process so you can get your vehicle fixed.

Because  Caruso Law Offices  only handles  personal injury  and  wrongful death  cases, we run into this problem almost every day.  Here is my advice as a  personal injury  and  wrongful death  attorney with 31 years experience. I would be happy to give you more advice during a  free consultation.  Just call me at 505-883-5000 or email me at mark@carusolaw.com






 First, you need to understand that most of the time the officer will not give you the name of the insurance company and policy number for the at fault driver at the scene of the collision. The officer will give you a police report number and tell you that the report will be available in 7 to 10 days.  This creates the first problem of delay.

 

 

Without knowing the name of the insurance company or policy number you don't know who to contact.

If you have collision/comprehensive on your vehicle with your own insurance company, you should immediately begin the vehicle damage  claim  by reporting the accident to your own insurance company.  The phone number to the claims office and your policy number should be on your proof of insurance card you carry in your car.

Let your insurance company know that you want them to begin the property repair process.  Let them know that you do not want to wait for the at fault person's insurance. Do not let your insurance company intimidate you into waiting to deal with the at fault person's insurance.

For instance you might be told that you will need to pay a deductible if you go thru your insurance company but no deductible if you go thru the at fault person's insurance.  This is true.  But as we explain below, the timing should work out that you don't need to pay the deductible.  And even if you do pay it, you will get it back almost immediately after the at fault person's insurance gets copies of the repair bills.

You might also be told that your rates will go up.  This is a lie. New Mexico law prohibits your own insurance company from raising rates or, cancelling you  so long as the accident report states that the accident was not your fault.

 The "property damage adjuster" will take a short statement of what happened in the accident and instruct you on how to proceed on getting estimates.

Some insurance companies require you to get 2 or 3 estimates, while others will want you to make an appointment with them to physically inspect your vehicle.  Regardless of the amounts of the estimates, your insurance company will be required to pay for all the repairs to your vehicle less the deductible.

Now here is where it gets interesting.  While you are getting your vehicle repaired, probably 7 to 10 days has passed and the accident report is now available.  You need to get a copy of the accident report.

The accident report will state the name and contact information of the driver and owner of the at fault vehicle and the name and policy number for the at fault driver's insurance.  You need to immediately telephone the insurance company.  They will take your statement and ask you to fax them a copy of the accident report.  Bec extremely careful what you say to the adjuster because it can be used against you later.

You need to let the property damage adjuster for this insurance company know that your vehicle is currently being repaired, where it is being repaired and the amount of the anticipated repairs.  You will need to also fax this adjuster a copy of your estimates or appraisals you received from your own insurance company.

In most instances the at fault driver's insurance company will directly pay the auto body shop the full cost of all repairs, and you will have no deductible. 

You were able to get the process started using your own insurance company, and finished the repair to your vehicle using the at fault driver's insurance.

Unfortunately, if you don't have collision/comprehensive insurance you will need to wait until you get the accident report before you have any idea who to contact about the repairs to your vehicle.

If you need any assistance on your property damage claim or personal injuries resulting from the collision, please contact  Caruso Law Offices  at (505) 883-5000. We only handle personal injury and wrongful death claims.  That's all we do.  This lets us focus our entire law firm on just one type of law--Personal Injury and Wrongful Death.

Attorney  Mark Caruso  is a former insurance company attorney who now represents individuals who have been injured  car accidents,  truck accidents,  motorcycle accidents,  bicycle accidents, bus accidents or as pedestrians.

Mark Caruso has been an attorney for 31 years.  We have  2 offices in Albuquerque to serve you...Northeast Heights (Montgomery and Carlisle) and Westside (Coors and I-40). We also represent clients statewide and in the pueblos and reservations of our state. 

Call us at (505) 883-5000 for a  free consultation  with Mark Caruso or another attorney at our  personal injury  and  wrongful death law firm.  The consultation is confidential and without obligation.  We can meet with you at either office or at your home, work or hospital.  We can also meet you after hours and on Saturdays.

We look forward to hearing from you.

 mark@carusolaw.com

Albuquerque Accident Attorney: 5 Steps You Should Take After a New Mexico Accident

Albuquerque Accident Attorney: 5 Steps You Should Take After a New Mexico Accident

Albuquerque Police Chase and Pursuit Accident Attorney

Police Pursuit and Chase

By:  Mark Caruso, Personal Injury and Wrongful Death Attorney (Albuquerque, NM)

Albuquerque Police Pursuit and Auto Accident Attorneys Serving Albuquerque and New Mexico Statewide

Have you been injured in a car, truck, motorcycle, bicycle or pedestrian accident or collision caused as a result of a police chase.  You may be entitled to compensation from the at fault driver and even the police department involved in the chase.

 

Albuquerque Police Chase Attorneys
 

Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for bystanders and innocent motorists to suffer personal injuries nd sometimes wrongful death, during police pursuits. According to data from the FBI, there are 300 deaths each year as a result of police chases. Innocent bystanders and motorists are the victims in 40% of these chases.
 

At Caruso Law Offices our auto accident attorneys understand the devastating effect an accident can have on  victims and their family. We support law enforcement  and all of those protecting our citizens. But we will fight to protect our clients if the law enforcement officer was negligent in the operation of his/her vehicle.
 

Unfortunately, there are instances when chases are unnecessary or when they are not performed in accordance with written police procedures. In these cases, only a lawyer who is experienced in bringing a claims on behalf of victims of a negligent police officers can successfully pursue a claim on behalf of an injured  victim.



 In these instances, Caruso Law Offices  with our proven track record of representing injured pedestrians and motorists in Albuquerque and other counties throughout  New Mexico can help you fight for compensation for medical expenses and other losses related to the accident. Call us at (505) 883-5000 if you have any questions.  We offer a free consultation with an attorney to confidentially discuss your claim.
 

Negligent Pursuit and Police Chases

Over the years Caruso Law Offices has  represented many families who have been affected by negligent police officers. Written policies provided to every officer set out specific procedures regarding safe pursuit. Often, either acting alone or as a result of a department's approach to chases, individual officers will disregard these procedures.
 

 

The officers then continue the chase well beyond the point when it is clear that the danger to the public outweighs the need to catch the suspect.

 

Often, the police can obtain a license tag number and use other investigative techniques to determine the identity of the driver without putting the public in danger. Avoiding pursuit at high speeds helps to avoid endangering innocent third parties.
 

If you received  personal injuries  or a family member suffered a  wrongful death  as a result of  a police chase or pursuit or any  vehicular accident  caused by a police officer, contact  Caruso Law Offices  today at (505) 883-5000.  Because of New Mexico's strict Tort Claims Act you are required to give written notice to the government  entity and file a lawsuit by specific deadlines.  Failure to do so will void your entire claim.  That's why it is so important to call us today.
 

 A lawyer with our office can help you hold the negligent or reckless police officer accountable for your injuries and accountable for his or her decisions and actions whether it be in Albuquerque, Bernalillo County or throughout New Mexico.  Our attorneys have recovered millions of dollars in settlements and awards on behalf of our injury victims. We can help you, too.
 

Taking on law enforcement officers who refuse to follow procedure and injure or kill someone is something that many lawyers refuse to do.  At  Caruso Law Offices  we believe that no one - law enforcement officers included - are above the law.  Good officers agree with us. Negligent ones who injure or kill innocent victims in police pursuits must be held accountable.
 

Call us today for a free consultation with an attorney at (505) 883-5000 or email us at mark@carusolaw.com   Also, please visit our web site at www.carusolaw.com    We offer statewide representation, and can meet with you at our office, your home or other location that is convenient for you.   

Albuquerque Car Accident Attorney, Rear End Accidents

Highest cause of auto, truck and motorcycle accidents and collisions in Albuquerque is from rear end collisions.

By:  Mark Caruso, Personal Injury and Wrongful Death Attorney (Albuquerque, NM)

Rear End Collision, Mark Caruso--Albuquerque Auto Accident Attorney

Rear End Collision in Albuquerque Auto Accident

Rear-end  car accidents,  truck accidents  and  motorcycle accidents  in Albuquerque are a common occurrence, as they are throughout New Mexico.  Congested roads, older roads not build for high traffic volume, and the presence of red light cameras or other traffic control devices have all increased your risk of being involved in a rear-end collision.  Caruso Law Offices handle rear end accidents every day, because personal injury claims is all we do.  Call us at (505)883-5000 or e-mail us at mark@carusolaw.com or visit our web site at www.carusolaw.com

The Albuquerque Personal Injury Attorneys at the Caruso Law Offices are dedicated to helping accident victims recover losses through personal injury  and  wrongful death  litigation. Rear-end collisions are often described as whiplash claims. The fact of the matter is that they can lead to very serious, debilitating injuries.

With many types of accidents and collisions, a driver has some warning, and may even be able to take evasive action to avoid some of a collision's blunt force. With a rear-end collision, a vehicle's occupants typically have no such warning.

 

Caruso Law Offices has probably seen every type of possible rear end accident in the 31 years that we have been handling car accident claims. 

Common causes of rear-end crashes in New Mexico include:

• Tailgating
• Panick stopping
• Sudden stop by the first car
• Rapid acceleration by the second car
• Red-light cameras or other intersection technologies
• Congested streets
• Cell phone use
• Inattention

In many cases, the risk of serious or fatal injury is compounded by the size of the vehicles. Being struck from behind by a larger vehicle can be devastating, and may even force you into the vehicle in front of you. Conversely, hitting the rear of a larger vehicle, particularly a large truck, can result in an underride accident, in which your car is forced beneath the leading vehicle.

The rear driver is typically cited in such accidents.

 

A 2011 investigation by local Police Department found tailgating was the leading cause of injury crashes in the city - sending more people to the hospital than drunk driving or speeding.

In some cases, a defective vehicle claim may arise from a rear-end collision. Perhaps the brakes were defective.  In other cases, large commercial trucks without mandatory override guards or other protective equipment can result in a higher chance of serious or fatal injury.

Neck, Back and Whiplash Injuries From Rear End Collision in Albuquerque

Whiplash  is not a medical term. And unfortunately, it has become synonymous with injury lawsuits. Whiplash  is used to describe "Cervical Acceleration-Deceleration" injuries, which is the rapid movement of the neck.

It is very important to understand that the neck is a very delicate structure of tendon and bone. Neck, back, or shoulder injury as a result of a rear-end collision may include headaches, pain in the arms and legs and numbness. A  whiplash  injury may be the result of the stretching of the spine's anterior longitudinal ligament, which stretches or tears as the head snaps forward and then back.

We can refer you to local health care providers to treat your neck and back injuries. 

 

Most of these doctors will wait until you settle your case before any money is due them.  We work with orthopedic doctors, neurologists, chiropractors, dentists, internists, physical therapists, medical massage therapists, radiologists and other health care providers. 

You need to be evaluated if you are having any discomfort whatsoever.  We can arrange for a consultation with a doctor  if you have no health insurance or prefer not to pay a deductible or co-pay with your current health insurance.

Rear-end collisions can cause very serious neck and back injuries, which should not be dismissed and should not be taken lightly.

Victims should understand the long-term implications of such injuries. You should take injuries into consideration when determining whether to pursue a  personal injury  claim against an at-fault driver.

Remember that we offer a  29% discounted attorney fee.  Call personal injury and wrongful death attorney Mark Caruso today at (505)883-5000, e-mail us at mark@carusolaw.com or visit our web site at  www.carusolaw.com  to schedule a free confidential appointment with one of our attorneys. 

If your family is dealing with a New Mexico  car accident,  truck accident or motorcycle accident contact the Albuquerque personal injury and wrongful death attorney Mark Caruso at Caruso Law Offices today for a free and confidential consultation to discuss your rights. Ask about our discounted contingency fee.

Albuqueque Injury Lawyer - 505-883-5000 -- Free Consultation

Statewide Representation

Albuquerque, NM Wrongful Death Lawyers

WRONGFUL  DEATH  CLAIMS UNDER NEW MEXICO LAW

By: Mark Caruso, Personal Injury and Wrongful Death Attorney (Albuquerque, NM)

When you lose a loved one due to an accident caused by the careless actions of another, you want and need answers quickly. The New Mexico wrongful death attorneys at Caruso Law Offices can help you find out why the accident happened and help your family gain closure. 

 

The challenge of facing life without your loved one combined with funeral costs, loss of wages and support, and medical bills can be too much to handle alone. While no amount of compensation could ever make up for your loss, it’s our goal to help alleviate some of the financial responsibilities related to your loved one’s death, so that you can grieve with your family.
 

We can help you find out the real reason why your loved one’s death happened, and we can work with you to hold those who caused the death responsible.
 

How a N.M. Wrongful Death Lawyer Can Help

 

A wrongful death claim can help provide your family with the financial support needed to cover expenses associated with your loved one’s death. It may be difficult to receive compensation without an experienced New Mexico wrongful death lawyer who can help prove the party responsible for your loved one’s accident. Investigating the fault of all possible individuals and their various levels of insurance coverage can be complex.
 

Mark Caruso and his staff at Caruso Law Offices have been assisting families like yours in overcoming personal tragedies for more than 31 years. It’s our passion to help take care of your family’s needs during this difficult time.  You’re not alone—call us today at (505) 883-5000 or visit our web site at www.carusolaw.com
 

WHAT IS A WRONGFUL DEATH CLAIM?

 

Wrongful death claims are different than other personal injury cases. If you’re filing a wrongful death claim on behalf of your loved one, you’re not only facing outstanding medical bills and treatment costs; you’re dealing with grief, funeral preparations, and the difficulty of facing life without your family member.
 

In its simplest terms, a wrongful death claim is seeking compensation or money damages from the at fault people and their various insurance companies to pay for the loss of your loved one. Often there are several different layers of insurance that must be looked into before settlement can be made with any one particular insurance company.
 

 Mark Caruso and his staff at Caruso Law Offices will approach the legal process with compassion and understanding to get your family the legal support it needs. For more than 31 years, our legal team has helped the victims of tragedy receive the compensation necessary to rebuild their lives.
 

Who Can File a Claim?

 

Although many family members may be considered beneficiaries—or recipients—of wrongful death damages, only one family representative, who has been appointed by the District Court, can file the claim. We begin our involvement in the claim by talking to all family members who have any interest in becoming the lead person to handle the claim. Once a family decision is made on who this person will be, we file the appropriate court documents in the  court to name this person as  the representative (also known as the Administrator or Executor) of the estate.After the court appointment, we file a wrongful death claim against the at fault person.
 

Some of the family members who have traditionally been appointed by the Court to act on behalf of your loved one include a spouse, a child, an heir or heiress, a chosen beneficiary or a parent.
 

One of your duties as a representative of the estate is to hire a law firm to represent the estate. If you’re unsure if you’re eligible to file for wrongful death damages, a Mark Caruso can answer your questions and explain your family’s options.
 

Types of Damages in NM Wrongful Death Claims

 

In New Mexico, depending on the details surrounding your family member’s death, you may be able to recover damages for:
 

• funeral expenses,
• pain and suffering following the trauma causing the death,
• medical expenses resulting from the trauma leading to death,
• lost wages and future lost wages,
• lost benefits and future lost benefits,
• loss of support,
• loss of inheritance,
• loss of your loved one’s medical bills,
• mental anguish suffered by surviving family members.

•                                                                                                                                                          Mark Caruso and his staff of attorneys, paralegals, legal assistants, investigators and experts will use every resource possible to recover the full amount of compensation you need.

•  

We promise to leave no stone unturned in investigating every asset available to your family.

 

Mark Caruso can meet with you at either of his Albuquerque offices--Northeast Heights or Westside.  Consultations with Mark Caruso are FREE and without obligation.  He can meet you at your home, work, hospital on weekends and after-hours.  We represent wrongful death clients statewide New Mexico and in the Indian Pueblos and Navajo Reservation. Contact us at (505) 883-5000

 

 

New Mexico Car Accidents Prompt Parents to Regret Lack of Oversight

New Mexico Car Accidents Caused by Minors

 

By:  Mark Caruso, Personal Injury and Wrongful Death Attorney (Albuquerque, NM)

 

The Albuquerque Personal Injury Lawyers at Caruso Law Offices understand that what's more, some two-thirds said they wished they had spent more time practicing with their teen about what to do, and how to react, in a high-risk situation.

The fact is, motor vehicle crashes are the No. 1 cause of death for teenagers in this country. These incidents claim more lives than drugs, alcohol, sporting injuries, gun violence and other dangers.

Yet, 40 percent of parents don't know this, so it's unsurprising that few take the time to really drive home to their teens the important of the safety knowledge with which they should be armed before getting behind the wheel.

Researchers with Allstate Foundation have teamed up with the National Safety Council to launch a program called Drive It Home, aimed specifically at parents of newly-licensed or soon-to-be licensed drivers. The idea is to not only educate parents about the potential dangers new drivers face, but also to provide tools for how to educate, establish guidelines and enforce rules.

The program uses a combination of graphic images and videos to drive home the message.

Researchers say that parents are the top source of information for teen drivers. They can lead by example and also by setting up clear expectations and consequences for failure to meet those expectations. Still, many parents are reluctant to take on this role. They perhaps have some poor behind-the-wheel habits themselves or don't feel qualified to teach road safety. They leave it up to the driving instructors.

But even with graduated driver's license programs, which are now in place in most states throughout the country, driving instructors are only going to have a limited amount of time with each pupil. It's up to you to ensure your teen is getting enough practice and that he knows what to do when encountering things like ice or aggressive drivers. He also needs to truly understand the potentially devastating and deadly consequences for things like speeding and driving while intoxicated.

It's a parent's job - or both parents' job - to underscore those points.

Some of the additional findings discovered by the Allstate Foundation's research include:

• Many parents simply don't understand how dangerous it is for their teenager behind the wheel. Inexperience is the top cause of crashes involving teenagers. And yet, three-fourths of parents think that the leading cause is unnecessary risk taking. That may lead parents to assume that because their child isn't a risk taker, he doesn't need additional guidance. But that's not he case.


• Although 90 percent of parents say it's critical for teenagers to learn how to drive at night and with other passengers, one-third of parents concede they haven't gone over these skills thoroughly with their child. In the end, this does a new driver a great disservice.


• About a third of parents of new drivers don't set any rules at all with regard to the teen's access or use of a vehicle. In fact, many aren't requiring their child to get permission before taking the vehicle somewhere. This leads to a perception that driving is a right, rather than a privilege. This kind of thinking can lead to more careless behavior.

The NSC recommends making it a priority to ride at least a half an hour each week in the vehicle with your teen driving.
Some things you can work on specifically with your teen include:

• Carefully watching the road ahead and learning to recognize certain hazards and how to react to them;


• Being mindful to control speed, turning, stopping and following distance;


• Becoming more skilled in judging the gap between vehicles in traffic;


• Managing high risk situation, such as driving at night and with passengers.

If you are injured in an auto accident in New Mexico, call Caruso Law Offices for a free and confidential appointment -- (505) 883-5000-- or visit our web site at wwwcarusolaw.com.
Statewide Representation.

New Mexico Semi Truck, 18 Wheeler, Tractor Trailer Accident Attorney

New Mexico Truck Accident Attorney for 18 Wheeler, Tractor Trailer, Commercial Vehicles and Semi Truck Crashes, Accidents and Wrecks

By:  Mark Caruso, Personal Injury and Wrongful Death Attorney (Albuquerque, NM)

New Mexico Truck Accident Attorney Mark Caruso. 31 Years Experience in Trucking Cases.   Free Consultations Available by Calling 505-883-5000

 New Mexico truck accidents between small passenger vehicles and massive commercial vehicles like delivery trucks, 18-wheelers, semi trucks and tractor trailers can present unique legal challenges. A commercial vehicle’s owner is most likely be a national or even international corporation. Usually these large commercial vehicles are owned by out of state corporations.

Damages and injuries experienced by a car or light-truck driver are typically severe. Oftentimes, the result is death or severe and crippling personal injuries. With large amounts of money at their disposal and even employment and trucking licenses at stake, commercial vehicle drivers have ample motive to be dishonest.

 New Mexico truck accident attorney Mark Caruso at Caruso Law Offices in Albuquerque, New Mexico has successfully handled many legal disputes involving 18-wheelers, semi trucks, tractor trailers and other types of commercial vehicles.

Have you been injured in a New Mexico truck accident or crash involving a semi truck, 18-wheeler, tractor trailer or other commercial vehicle? We can help.  Albuquerque, New Mexico truck accident attorney Mark Caruso and his staff of attorneys, paralegals, legal assistants and experts are fully familiar and experienced with the unique challenges of motor vehicle crashes involving large commercial trucks, and can help you achieve a fair resolution of your case.

• Drivers often deny the essential facts of an accident. We can obtain the driver’s log, depose the driver and interview witnesses, and work to prove fault and liability.
• Drivers sometimes leave the scene of an accident. We can use the truck’s GPS system to prove the vehicle was at the scene of an accident.
• Drivers sometimes have two sets of official books. We can work to obtain both sets, illustrate discrepancies and prove liability.
• Drivers sometimes useillegal drugs, prescription drugs and alcohol when driving, or drive with insufficient sleep.
• Trucking companies and other companies often fail to properly maintain vehicles. We can obtain maintenance records to prove negligence.
• We work with some of the country's best and most renowned trucking experts in proving that the driver AND his company were negligent.

     Commercial vehicles are often highly insured, helping you obtain the financial compensation you deserve. Contact New Mexico truck accident attorney Mark Caruso at 505-883-5000 for a no-charge discussion of your case. With 31 years of experience and successful multi million dollar settlements, awards and judgments to back up his reputation, Mark Caruso will get you the most money possible on your 18 wheeler, tractor trailer and semi truck crash. Call us for a free consultation at 505-883-5000 or mark@carusolaw.com or visit our web page at www.carusolaw.com

When you partner with New Mexico Truck Accident Attorney Mark Caruso, you have a winning team on your side to stand up to the large commercial trucking companies. We require no money up front and accept all New Mexico truck accident cases on a contingency fee.  You pay no attorney if we don't recover money for your claim.

We offer a 29% discounted attorney fee for all cases that we can settle without a lawsuit.  This discounted fee is lower than the 33 1/3% fee charged by most other attorneys.  By discounting our fee you put more money in your pocket. You still get the same 31 years of experience and former insurance company attorney helping you get the most money possible.

We have two offices in Albuquerque to serve you--NorthEast Heights and West Side. We can consult with you at your home, work or hospital and can meet you after hours or on weekends.   We also travel statewide and handle cases statewide in New Mexico and in the pueblos and reservations in our state. Call Mark Caruso today at 505-883-5000.