Flores Mendez Law Flores Mendez Law 2026-08-03T15:00:04Z https://www.floresmendez.com/feed/atom/ WordPress /wp-content/uploads/sites/1504773/2025/10/cropped-flores-mendez-site-identity-2-32x32.png On Behalf of Flores Mendez Law <![CDATA[New Mexico Counties with the highest car accident rates in 2024]]> https://www.floresmendez.com/?p=46984 2026-07-27T19:24:27Z 2026-08-03T15:00:04Z The counties with the highest crash totals in 2024 The following counties recorded the highest number of total crashes from 2020 to 2024:
  1. Bernalillo: 17,733 crashes in 2024, representing 39.4% of all statewide crashes
  2. Doña Ana: 4,456 crashes, 9.9% of all crashes
  3. Santa Fe: 3,314 crashes, 7.4%
  4. Sandoval: 2,327 crashes, 5.2%
  5. San Juan: 2,178 crashes, 4.8%
  6. Lea: 2,064 crashes, 4.6%
  7. Eddy: 1,767 crashes, 3.9%
  8. McKinley: 1,213 crashes, 2.7%
  9. Valencia: 1,087 crashes, 2.4%
  10. Chaves: 1,043 crashes, 2.3%
When measured by crash rate based on vehicle miles traveled, Bernalillo, Doña Ana, Curry, Lea and Santa Fe counties each recorded at least 170 crashes per 100 million vehicle miles traveled. Alcohol-involved crashes followed a similar pattern, with Bernalillo, Doña Ana and San Juan counties reporting the highest numbers statewide. Doña Ana County's ranking is particularly significant for Las Cruces residents. Las Cruces is the county seat of Doña Ana County, which ranked second in total crashes statewide over the five-year period, with a crash rate of 200.6 per 100 million vehicle miles traveled.

Which counties had the most fatalities

Fatalities in Bernalillo County rose in 2024 but remained below the decade-high levels recorded in 2021. Lea and Eddy counties saw crash-related fatalities climb to five-year highs, while McKinley County recorded a five-year low. Crash-related fatalities in Eddy, De Baca, Lea and Socorro counties also reached their highest levels in five years. In counties with the highest number of motorcyclist and pedestrian fatalities, those groups often accounted for a large share of total fatalities.

What these numbers mean for you

These numbers are a reminder that car accidents in New Mexico are not just statistics. Behind every crash is a person dealing with injuries, lost income and an uncertain recovery. If you were involved in a crash in any of these counties, knowing your legal options is an important next step. Insurance companies often move quickly to settle claims before you fully understand your rights, and having legal representation helps make sure you are not left with less than you deserve. Flores Mendez Law is ready to help. Contact us today at 800-381-9999 or complete our online contact form to schedule a free consultation.  ]]> On Behalf of Flores Mendez Law <![CDATA[Aumentan los accidentes de bicicletas eléctricas entre los jóvenes de Texas]]> https://www.floresmendez.com/?p=46983 2026-07-14T21:09:08Z 2026-07-14T21:06:36Z Las calles de nuestras comunidades están cambiando rápido. Seguramente has notado que cada vez más niños y adolescentes cambian las bicicletas tradicionales por las bicicletas eléctricas. Aunque estos vehículos son una alternativa divertida para estar al aire libre, también están generando lesiones. En Texas, el aumento de accidentes y de conductas imprudentes en estos vehículos es una realidad preocupante.  Es importante tomar en cuenta que las bicicletas eléctricas no son juguetes comunes. Cuentan con motores y baterías recargables que les permiten alcanzar velocidades de 20 a 30 millas por hora. Algunas versiones incluso superan este límite. Además, existen modelos que funcionan asistiendo al pedaleo y otros que avanzan usando solo un acelerador.  Esta alta velocidad es el factor principal que preocupa a las autoridades locales (enlace en inglés). En la ciudad de Nederland los oficiales de policía reportan que los jóvenes suelen pasarse las señales de alto, esquivar autos en movimiento y realizar acrobacias peligrosas en calles transitadas.

Los riesgos viales y las leyes de Texas

La gravedad del impacto se define por la rapidez de la bicicleta eléctrica. A mayor velocidad, el golpe es más fuerte y las heridas son más graves. Los datos nacionales de la Comisión para la Seguridad de los Productos de Consumo indican que estos vehículos causaron unas 53,000 visitas a salas de emergencias y 104 muertes en un periodo de cinco años.  En nuestro estado ya hemos visto choques graves contra peatones y colisiones que destruyen vehículos estacionados. Si tú o tus hijos sufren un accidente en Texas, la ley evalúa el porcentaje de culpa de cada persona. Si se demuestra que tuviste alguna negligencia tu compensación final se va a reducir, y si tu responsabilidad supera el 50 por ciento no podrás reclamar nada. Por estos motivos de seguridad los profesionales de la salud recomiendan que ningún menor de 9 años use estas bicicletas. Los niños de 9 a 12 años tampoco deberían operarlas debido a que no tienen la madurez para controlar vehículos que superen las 10 millas por hora. Para los adolescentes mayores la recomendación es que tengan al menos 16 años y que conozcan muy bien las leyes de tránsito.

¿Cómo prevenir los accidentes de bicicletas eléctricas?

La prevención requiere de un esfuerzo compartido entre los padres y los jóvenes. Si vas a subirte a una bicicleta eléctrica o si estás pensando en adquirir una para un menor, debes seguir pautas estrictas para protegerte:
  • Utiliza un casco bien ajustado cada vez que salgas a la calle.
  • Evita la ropa holgada y utiliza prendas reflejantes durante la noche.
  • Instala luces potentes en el vehículo si planeas viajar en la oscuridad.
  • Guarda el teléfono celular en tu bolsillo y no utilices auriculares mientras manejas.
  • Conduce a la defensiva prestando atención a los peatones y a los baches del camino.
La popularidad de las bicicletas eléctricas no significa que sean la opción correcta para todos los jóvenes. La velocidad y la falta de experiencia forman una combinación peligrosa en las calles de Texas. Si tú o un ser querido pasan por una situación difícil debido a un choque, recuerda que la ley estatal protege tus derechos a recibir ayuda si la culpa fue de otra persona. ]]> On Behalf of Flores Mendez Law <![CDATA[The rise of e-bike accidents across the Southwest]]> https://www.floresmendez.com/?p=46980 2026-07-10T17:56:36Z 2026-07-10T17:56:36Z Local warnings and rising road risks Law enforcement in Texas recently issued a warning regarding a sharp increase in e-bike accidents involving young riders. Police officers have noticed that many teens operate these motorized cycles recklessly, often ignoring traffic signals or riding at speeds that catch drivers off guard. This trend extends beyond local borders and signals a broader safety challenge across the Southwest.

Knowing the risks to all road users

The increased weight and speed of e-bikes mean that any collision involves significantly more force than a standard bike crash. This creates dangerous scenarios for everyone sharing the pavement:
  • Pedestrians may not hear a silent e-bike approaching at twenty miles per hour on a sidewalk
  • Motorists often misjudge the closing distance of a cyclist moving at motorized speeds
  • Traditional cyclists face hazards when high-speed e-bikes pass in narrow bike lanes
These interactions can lead to severe injuries that require emergency medical attention and long-term care.

Legal pathways for injured parties

After a crash involving an e-bike happens, riders and other injured parties may have legal rights to pursue compensation. These options vary based on the details of the accident. Was the rider following traffic rules? Was a distracted driver at fault? One critical element that will impact legal options is the class of machine involved. E-bike classes define speed limits, age requirements and where riders are permitted. Classification is essential for determining negligence and identifying whether insurance policies cover the accident or exclude the e-bike as a motorized vehicle.

Community safety and recovery

Whether an e-bike accident involves a young rider or a distracted driver, the path to recovery starts with holding the responsible parties accountable. Ensuring that safety remains the priority on our roads helps protect the entire community.]]> On Behalf of Flores Mendez Law <![CDATA[New Mexico DOT launches improved online construction project platform]]> https://www.floresmendez.com/?p=46946 2026-06-12T12:45:47Z 2026-06-12T12:45:47Z In March 2026, the New Mexico Department of Transportation announced the upcoming launch of an enhanced online platform designed to provide the public with better access to information about road construction projects throughout the state.  The new resource is intended to give residents a centralized and dependable source for tracking both active construction work and projects that are still in the planning stages. In addition to viewing project information, community members may also have opportunities to provide feedback regarding transportation studies and proposed improvements.

Why this new platform can help drivers stay safer

For drivers, this development could prove extremely valuable. Road construction often affects daily commutes, school routes, business travel and other routine activities. When motorists are unaware of upcoming work zones, they may encounter unexpected lane closures, detours, reduced speed limits and sudden traffic backups. These surprises can create frustration and, in some situations, contribute to accidents. Construction zones are notoriously unsafe. Traffic patterns may change overnight. Lanes can narrow or shift unexpectedly. Construction equipment, barriers and workers may be located close to moving traffic. Drivers who are unfamiliar with these changes may make sudden lane changes, brake unexpectedly or become distracted while trying to navigate altered road conditions. Having access to an official source of information can help motorists prepare before they leave home. Instead of discovering a major work zone only after arriving at it, drivers can review project information in advance and adjust their plans accordingly. This may include leaving earlier, selecting an alternative route or allowing additional travel time for expected delays. The new platform may be especially useful for individuals with time-sensitive schedules. Commuters, parents transporting children, delivery drivers and business travelers can all benefit from knowing where construction activity is occurring before getting behind the wheel. Of course, no single resource can eliminate every traffic hazard. Smart drivers should consider using the New Mexico Department of Transportation's project platform alongside local news reports, GPS traffic updates and other reliable traffic information sources. Combining these tools may provide a more complete picture of changing road conditions. The best approach is to remain proactive. Regularly checking for new construction activity can help reduce stress, avoid delays and improve safety. Drivers who understand what to expect are often better prepared to avoid injurious accidents when they can. ]]> On Behalf of Flores Mendez Law <![CDATA[Lawmakers consider new laws to address catastrophic DWI crashes]]> https://www.floresmendez.com/?p=46886 2026-05-20T19:00:12Z 2026-05-20T19:00:12Z Drunk driving crashes often lead to catastrophic and sometimes fatal results for innocent people. In April 2026, families who were affected by impaired driving gathered for the Reading of the Names ceremony at Ralph T. Cloud Park. The event was hosted by the El Paso District Attorney’s Office to give family members of victims a chance to remember their loved ones and discuss how an impaired driver’s decision to get behind the wheel changed their lives.  The stories were impactful and came from people of all different backgrounds and ages. A primary theme of the messages was that these crashes aren’t limited only to late-night hours. An impaired driver can make the choice to drive at any time of day. It’s also important to remember that not all these crashes are caused by people who consumed alcohol. Drivers who use certain illegal substances or drugs can also cause these wrecks. 

Lawmakers are addressing the issue

Lawmakers aren’t sitting around idly while innocent victims die and their family members suffer. Instead, there are some proposals that are based on how other states handle drunk driving cases. One of these is that a person would be subjected to breath testing devices or ignition interlocks after a first offense conviction on drunk driving charges.  Another idea that’s on the table is reducing the blood alcohol concentration limit. As it stands, adults who are 21 or older have a limit of .08% if they aren’t a commercial driver.  Supporters of these measures argue that stronger measures may prevent repeated events by offenders before innocent people are impacted. While having these changes proposed, they don’t take away the effects of crashes that have occurred or will occur. Victims who are injured and loved ones of those who die may choose to take legal action against the drunk driver. Working with someone familiar with these matters is beneficial so they can ensure the legal case is handled properly.   ]]> On Behalf of Flores Mendez Law <![CDATA[Commercial vehicles: More than just big trucks]]> https://www.floresmendez.com/?p=46882 2026-05-07T11:24:19Z 2026-05-07T11:24:19Z What qualifies as a commercial vehicle Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations define commercial motor vehicles based on weight, passenger capacity and business use. However, state laws in New Mexico and Texas extend liability to any vehicle operated for business purposes. This means the sedan that rear-ended you may carry commercial insurance if the driver was working. Commercial vehicles come in many forms beyond tractor-trailers:
  • Delivery vans and courier vehicles
  • Company cars and fleet sedans
  • Limousines and party buses
  • Landscaping trucks and contractor vehicles
  • Catering vans and food trucks
A company logo often signals commercial ownership, but not always. Some businesses use unmarked vehicles for their work. The key factor is whether the driver was working within their job duties when the crash happened.

Why commercial designation matters for your claim

Commercial vehicle accidents typically come with much higher insurance coverage than regular car policies. Companies in southern New Mexico and western Texas often carry policies worth hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars. When you do not realize a vehicle is commercial, you might settle for small personal policy limits. This is a missed opportunity when much larger commercial coverage actually covers your case. Insurance companies representing commercial interests send experienced adjusters and legal teams to the scene right after accidents happen. Without a lawyer on your side, you may accept far less than what your injuries actually cost you. Filing against the wrong policy wastes precious time you need to pursue full compensation. Remember, New Mexico gives you only three years and Texas gives you two years to file your lawsuit.

What happens when you do not recognize commercial liability

A skilled personal injury attorney can check the commercial status of any vehicle involved in your crash and identify all available insurance policies. Missing a commercial vehicle claim can leave you drowning in medical bills. Recognizing it can secure the compensation you need to rebuild after someone else's negligence turned your world upside down.]]> On Behalf of Flores Mendez Law <![CDATA[Choques con vehículos comerciales: más allá de los camiones]]> https://www.floresmendez.com/?p=46871 2026-04-29T22:11:16Z 2026-04-29T22:10:21Z Si alguna vez has estado en la carretera y viste un camión de dieciocho ruedas, probablemente pensaste que ese es el ejemplo perfecto de un vehículo comercial. Tienes razón, pero la realidad es mucho más amplia. Un accidente con un vehículo comercial no siempre involucra a un camión enorme. Puede ser una van turística, una camioneta de entregas, entre otras opciones. Entender estas diferencias es muy importante si sufres un percance, porque las reglas cambian cuando hay una empresa de por medio.

¿Cómo identificar a un vehículo comercial?

Mucha gente cree que un vehículo comercial debe ser grande o pesado. Sin embargo, la ley también se fija en otros aspectos, como la capacidad de pasajeros del automóvil y su uso. Si un vehículo se utiliza para transportar materiales peligrosos o llevar a cierto número de personas a cambio de un pago, puede que entre en esta categoría.  La clave suele estar en la propiedad y el propósito (enlace en inglés). Si el vehículo es clasificado como comercial, sus regulaciones y los seguros que lo cubren pueden ser distintos a los de un auto de uso personal. Esto puede incluir desde las furgonetas de Amazon o FedEx hasta los vehículos de una empresa de construcción.

Los seguros corporativos funcionan de manera diferente

Cuando chocas con otro conductor particular (enlace en inglés), tratas con su seguro personal. En los accidentes comerciales, te enfrentas a pólizas mucho más grandes y complejas. Estas empresas tienen contratos de seguros que manejan millones de dólares. Aunque esto suena positivo para obtener una compensación, también significa que la compañía de seguros luchará con más fuerza para no pagar. Ellos cuentan con equipos de abogados dedicados exclusivamente a proteger sus intereses. Su meta es reducir el valor de tu reclamo o culparte por el accidente. Por eso, identificar correctamente el tipo de vehículo (enlace en inglés) desde el inicio es un paso que no puedes ignorar. No estás peleando contra un individuo, sino contra una estructura corporativa diseñada para proteger sus finanzas. Un choque con un vehículo comercial es una experiencia que nadie desea, pero estar informado es tu primera defensa. No importa si fue un camión enorme o un auto de entregas; si sospechas que se trata de un vehículo comercial, las reglas son distintas y un abogado con experiencia puede ayudarte a entenderlas. ]]> On Behalf of Flores Mendez Law <![CDATA[¿Qué pasa si le cae un objeto encima en una tienda de Nuevo México?]]> https://www.floresmendez.com/?p=46830 2026-03-14T02:43:37Z 2026-03-14T02:43:37Z inspeccionar sus instalaciones para garantizar la seguridad de los visitantes. Si una tienda pasa por alto estos cuidados, usted tiene derecho a buscar una compensación por sus lesiones.

¿Por qué caen los objetos?

La mayoría de estos incidentes ocurren por razones que pudieron evitarse fácilmente con una supervisión adecuada:
  • Estanterías defectuosas: El uso de anaqueles viejos, oxidados o dañados que no pueden sostener el peso de la mercancía.
  • Sobrecarga de estantes: Apilar demasiados productos en niveles superiores, creando una base inestable.
  • Objetos pesados en las alturas: Colocar artículos inadecuadamente pesados en estantes altos sin las medidas de seguridad necesarias.
Adicionalmente, algunos objetos pueden deslizarse fácilmente si no cuentan con barras de retención o cuerdas de seguridad.

Qué debe hacer si resulta herido

Si un objeto le golpea en una tienda, recuerde priorizar su salud es lo primero, pero proteger sus derechos legales es el segundo paso más importante:
  • Reporte el incidente: Asegúrese de que el gerente de la tienda redacte un informe oficial y pida una copia.
  • Tome fotografías: Documente el estante, el objeto que cayó y el área cercana antes de que el personal limpie la escena.
  • Busque testigos: Obtenga la información de contacto de otras personas que hayan visto el accidente.
  • No firme nada: Las aseguradoras de las tiendas pueden intentar ofrecerle un pago rápido a cambio de que usted renuncie a su derecho de demandar. No acepte sin hablar con un abogado.
Las lesiones por objetos caídos pueden variar desde conmociones cerebrales y fracturas hasta lesiones graves de cuello y espalda. Bajo las leyes de Nuevo México, usted puede recuperar fondos para cubrir facturas médicas, salarios perdidos y el dolor y sufrimiento causado por el impacto. No permita que la negligencia de una corporación afecte su futuro financiero y físico. Si usted sufrió una lesión mientras estaba de compras, puede consultar con un equipo legal sus diferentes opciones legales.  ]]> On Behalf of Flores Mendez Law <![CDATA[Watch Out for Falling Objects While Shopping: Causes and Compensation]]> https://www.floresmendez.com/?p=46829 2026-03-13T22:36:48Z 2026-03-13T22:36:01Z Why Do Items Fall from Shelves? While stores are supposed to be safe places to shop, several common mistakes by staff or management can lead to dangerous falling objects. Here are the primary reasons items fall from shelves:
  • Old or faulty equipment: Over time, metal shelving units can become rusty, dented or structurally weak. If the store uses damaged or faulty shelving, the racks may lean or collapse under the weight of the products.
  • Poor stacking and overloading: Store employees might try to fit too much inventory into a small space. When they overload a shelf or stack boxes too high, the entire pile becomes unstable and can tip over with just a small vibration.
  • Inappropriate weight distribution: Putting very heavy or bulky items on high shelves is a major safety risk. If these items are not secured with brackets or bars, they can easily slide off and cause serious injuries to anyone walking below.
  • Lack of secure placement: Sometimes items are simply pushed too far forward or placed haphazardly on the edge of a display. Without proper "fencing" or shelf edges to hold them back, merchandise can fall due to gravity or a customer reaching for a nearby item.
  • Negligent maintenance: If a store fails to inspect its displays regularly, they might miss loose bolts or shifting stacks. Regular safety checks are required to ensure that everything remains securely positioned for shoppers.
You should always keep your eyes open when you shop in places with high displays or warehouse-style shelves. Avoid walking too close to stacks that look leaning or messy.

How New Mexico’s personal injury laws protect you

In New Mexico, we use a rule called pure comparative negligence. This means that even if you were a little bit distracted, you can still usually recover money for your injuries as long as the accident wasn't entirely your fault. The court just looks at what percentage of the accident was the store's fault versus yours and adjusts the payment based on that. If you are injured by a falling object in a store due to negligence, you have the right to seek compensation for damages like medical expenses, lost wages and pain and suffering through a premises liability claim. Consulting with an attorney who can help you prove the property owner’s negligence is essential.]]> Flores Mendez Law <![CDATA[Flores Mendez Law Founding Partners Selected to the 2025 Texas Super Lawyers List]]> https://www.floresmendez.com/?p=46145 2025-09-29T19:34:44Z 2025-09-18T05:00:00Z Connie J. Flores, Esq. is a tenacious advocate for clients injured in catastrophic accidents, including car and truck crashes and wrongful death cases throughout Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona. Understanding that personal injury extends beyond physical harm, Connie is committed to helping clients rebuild their lives while securing justice and substantial compensation. With extensive experience in litigation and alternative dispute resolution, she has recovered millions of dollars for her clients. Connie holds a 9.8 Avvo rating and is a recipient of the Outstanding Young Lawyer Award from the El Paso Young Lawyers Association. She has been consecutively named to Super Lawyers since 2019 and was recognized on the Rising Stars list in 2018. Jessica Mendez, Esq. focuses her practice on employment and personal injury law, representing clients in cases involving workplace accidents, sexual harassment, discrimination, retaliation, and other civil rights violations. Having started her career as a defense attorney before transitioning to plaintiff representation, Jessica co-founded Flores Mendez Law to provide comprehensive, client-focused services. Active in the community, Jessica was honored with the Melvin Jones Fellowship Award from the El Paso Executive Women Lions Club. Super Lawyers recognizes outstanding attorneys in more than 70 practice areas across each state. Selections are based on peer nominations, professional achievements, and independent research. Rising Stars highlights top attorneys under age 40 or with less than 10 years of experience. Flores Mendez Law is a personal injury law firm serving clients in Texas and New Mexico from offices in El Paso and Las Cruces. To learn more or to schedule a free consultation, call 800-381-9999 or contact online. *The awards and accolades displayed on this website were issued to the attorney(s) or the entire law firm by the respective providers of these honors. Please note that no aspect of this advertisement has been approved by the Supreme Court of Texas. A description of the Super Lawyers selection methodology can be found by clicking here.]]>