What to Know About Autonomous Vehicles in Albuquerque

Autonomous Cars and Trucks in Albuquerque

The discussion of self-driving vehicles in Albuquerque has been going on since 2017. In September of 2020, Torc Robotics started testing autonomous semi-trucks on I-25 and other highways throughout New Mexico. Citizens of Albuquerque may not have seen self-driving cars around the city as much as other metropolitan areas, but there is a reason for that.

In The Article

Are There Driverless Rideshare Options in New Mexico?

As of July, 2026, there are no driverless rideshare options in New Mexico. Although Waymo testing in New Mexico, they never launched driverless taxis in Albuquerque or anywhere else in the state.

What Are the Autonomous Vehicle Laws in New Mexico

According to N.M. Admin. Code § 18.24.1.9, “The testing and operating of autonomous motor vehicles on public roads in New Mexico require compliance with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations and municipal ordinance that govern motor vehicle operations, unless an exemption waiver has been granted.” Additionally, if a driver is in a self-driving car, he or she may be held responsible for what that vehicle does, even if it was on an autopilot mode.

While these may be simple restrictions, many are pushing to ensure heavy restrictions on autonomous vehicles are put into place.

Why Do People Want Heavier Restrictions on Self-Driving Vehicles in New Mexico?

In most cases, safety is the top concern for most New Mexicans who advocate for stricter laws on self-driving vehicles.

This is especially true in the case of self-driving semi-trucks.

Although testing has been going on for a long time in New Mexico, the technology has been known to fail across the country, and it’s important to ensure that we have public safety over profits.

Who is Liable for Self-Driving Truck Accidents in New Mexico?

Self-driving truck accidents can cause catastrophic injuries, but who is really liable for damages? As with most semi-truck accidents, liability can come in layers. People and entities that may be liable for driverless truck accidents in New Mexico can include:

• The truck’s manufacturer: Should there be a defect in design or corners were cut during the manufacturing process, a self-driving truck’s manufacturer may be held liable.
• Third parties: If a software company, maintenance company, or navigational company is negligent on updates or common maintenance, the third party who is responsible for these things may be held liable for a truck crash.

Because self-driving trucks experience wear and tear just like any other vehicle, mechanical failures can happen. Additionally, self-driving trucks can have difficulty maneuvering through extreme weather and have software or sensor failures that can lead to accidents. However, you still have rights if you’ve been injured in a self-driving vehicle accident.

What to Do if You’ve Been Injured by an Autonomous Vehicle

A proper investigation is necessary for those who were injured in a car crash involving a self-driving vehicle. It’s important to contact a car accident attorney as soon as possible. The New Mexico car accident attorneys at Ron Bell make sure that evidence is preserved, the liable party is found, and your rights are protected throughout the legal process. If you or someone you loved was injured in a wreck involving a driverless or autonomous vehicle, contact Ron Bell Injury Lawyers today for your free case evaluation. 898-BELL