Are you planning to get your motorcycle license in Albuquerque, New Mexico? Learning about the state’s licensing requirements is important not only for staying legal on the road but also for protecting yourself if you are ever involved in an accident. Riding without proper licensing can create serious complications for both your driving record and any personal injury claim you may need to file.
Jones Injury Attorneys is here to help after a crash. Our Albuquerque motorcycle accident lawyers have 25 years of combined experience and have recovered tens of millions of dollars for our clients to date.
Contact us today at (505) 578-2620 for a free consultation to learn more about your case.
How Jones Injury Attorneys Can Help After a Motorcycle Accident in Albuquerque, New Mexico
Motorcycle accident cases usually face harsh bias from insurance companies that just want to make a profit. Having an experienced personal injury attorney with Jones Injury Attorneys in your corner can help level the playing field.
If you hire us after a motorcycle accident in Albuquerque, NM, we can:
- Investigate your crash and determine who is liable
- Collect the evidence needed to establish your claim
- Consult with accident reconstruction specialists and other experts as needed
- Calculate the full value of your damages
- Handle all communications with the insurance companies
- Negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf
- File a lawsuit and take your case to court if necessary
We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you only pay attorney’s fees if we win compensation for you. Call today to get started.
What You Need to Get a Motorcycle License in New Mexico
New Mexico’s Motor Vehicle Division issues three types of motorcycle endorsements based on engine size:
- A W endorsement allows you to operate any two- or three-wheeled motorcycle with an engine of 100 cc or more. This is the most common endorsement for standard motorcycles.
- A Y endorsement covers motorcycles with engines between 50 and 99 cc.
- A Z endorsement applies to motorcycles with engines under 50 cc.
Riders who are 15 or older can obtain any of these endorsements after successfully completing the Motorcycle Safety Foundation Basic Rider Course through the New Mexico Motorcycle Safety Program. This course also waives the MVD road test requirement, though a written knowledge test is still needed unless you already hold a valid Class D license or permit.
If you are 18 or older, you can obtain a motorcycle endorsement by passing the appropriate motorcycle road test or successfully completing the MSF Basic Rider Course. If you do not complete the course, you must also pass the motorcycle knowledge test. You will also need to pass a vision screening and bring proof of identity and your Social Security number.
How Licensing Status Can Affect a Personal Injury Claim
New Mexico follows a pure comparative negligence system, meaning your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. While riding without a proper endorsement does not automatically make you responsible for a crash, the other side may try to use it against you to argue that you were not qualified to be on the road.
Proper licensing also ties into other legal requirements that can strengthen or weaken your claim. Helmet use, for example, is required by law for riders and passengers under 18. Eye protection is mandatory if your motorcycle does not have a windshield. Failing to meet these requirements could give the insurance company ammunition to minimize its liability.
How Much Time Do I Have to File a Motorcycle Accident Lawsuit in New Mexico?
New Mexico’s statute of limitations generally gives you three years from the date of your motorcycle accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This is a strict time limit that must be met in order to preserve your right to take legal action.
However, note that there are rare exceptions that could adjust the amount of time you have. Contacting our attorneys for help as soon as you can is the best way to ensure you take timely legal action.
Contact Our Experienced Albuquerque Motorcycle Accident Lawyers for a Free Consultation
Riding a motorcycle in Albuquerque, New Mexico, requires the right license and a respect for the rules of the road. However, even the most careful rider can be seriously injured when another driver fails to pay attention. If that has happened to you, there may be legal options available to help you recover.
The Albuquerque motorcycle accident attorneys at Jones Injury Attorneys have 25 years of combined experience and have already recovered tens of millions for our clients. Reach out to us today to schedule a completely free initial consultation.