While many think of New Mexico strictly as a desert state, in reality, much of the state sees quite a bit of snow during the winter months. Snow, perhaps more than rain or wind, greatly affects a driver’s ability not just to see the road ahead of them, but also to safely and effectively control their vehicle.
While adverse weather conditions affect all drivers, they present an especially difficult situation for those who operate large commercial vehicles, such as semi-trucks and buses. Indeed, a significant number of New Mexico truck accidents are caused by adverse weather conditions and the driver’s failure to adjust their driving behaviors to the conditions of the road.
Notwithstanding the difficulties adverse weather conditions present to New Mexico truck drivers, the responsibility remains theirs to ensure that they are safely operating their vehicles. This means slowing down when the road conditions call for it. It may even mean pulling off to the side of the road and waiting for conditions to improve. When an accident is caused due to a driver’s failure to make reasonable adjustments, the driver may be liable for any resulting injuries.