Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of summer across New Mexico. For many, it’s a time to gather with friends and family, head out on a road trip, or spend the long weekend enjoying the state’s natural beauty—from lakes and rivers to national forests and campgrounds. But while the holiday offers a welcome break and a chance to recharge, it also brings a significant spike in travel-related accidents and injuries.

Year after year, this weekend ranks among the most dangerous times to be on the road or water. Whether you’re boating at Ute Lake, hiking in the Gila, or navigating I-25 on your way to a barbecue, staying safe should be part of your holiday plan.

The Memorial Day Surge: Travel, Traffic, and Trouble

According to national estimates, more than 45 million people travel 50 miles or more during Memorial Day weekend, with many heading to popular lakes, parks, and campgrounds. In New Mexico, that means packed highways like I-25, I-40, and US-70, along with rural roads leading to beloved recreation spots. Drivers may be towing trailers or boats for the first time all year. Roads become more congested, especially near lake entrances and small towns. People are often distracted or fatigued from travel, and many are driving under the influence. Unfortunately, New Mexico has historically ranked among the highest states for DUI-related traffic fatalities, and long holiday weekends tend to make that problem worse.

However, the road isn’t the only source of accidents involving injuries this time of year. Crowded recreation areas present their own risks. Boat ramps become chaotic, ATV trails see heavy traffic, and campgrounds fill. A single bad decision, like boating without a life jacket or lighting fireworks in a dry area, can have serious consequences. When you multiply that risk across thousands of holiday travelers, the odds of something going wrong increase dramatically.

If you’re planning to take the boat out on Ute, Conchas, or Caballo Lake, or planning a hike in Elephant Butte or White Sands, it’s best to be on the lookout for potentially dangerous situations.

Common Memorial Day Weekend Accidents Involving Injuries

Memorial Day weekend consistently ranks as one of the most treacherous travel periods of the year. Here’s a look at the most frequent types of accidents, along with statistics that highlight why vigilance matters:

• Traffic fatalities and injuries: In 2025, the National Safety Council estimated that approximately 443 people would die in preventable traffic crashes during the Memorial Day holiday, a 6% increase over 2024. Traffic fatality rates during the holiday run roughly 8–10% higher than comparable non-holiday weekends.
• Boating accidents and drownings: According to New Mexico State Parks, Memorial Day boating accidents are common and frequently lethal. Seventy-five percent of boating-related deaths in the state are drownings, and 87% of victims were not wearing life jackets at the time of the accident.
• ATV-related incidents: Historical data collected by the Consumer Product Safety Commission reveals that during the four days surrounding Memorial Day in 2012, there were approximately 14 fatalities and 2,750 injuries treated in emergency rooms as a result of ATV use.

Staying Safe: Tips for Memorial Day Travelers and Adventurers

A little preparation can go a long way in preventing accidents over the holiday. These simple precautions can help keep you and your loved ones safe this weekend:

On the Road

• Buckle up: Always wear your seatbelt and make sure children are secured in the correct car seat.
• Drive sober: Designate a driver, or use a rideshare if you plan to drink.
• Avoid peak travel times: Choose to drive during hours when fewer drivers are on the road.
• Take breaks on long drives: Stop to stretch and recharge, or let someone else drive to avoid fatigue.
• Watch your speed: Especially on rural roads where wildlife, sharp turns, and trailers are common.

On the Water

• Wear a life jacket: This applies to everyone, not just kids or weak swimmers.
• Don’t drink and boat: Alcohol impairs balance and judgment just as much on water as on land.
• Know the rules: Be familiar with local boating laws and right-of-way rules before launching.
• Inspect your boat: Make sure your vessel and gear are in good condition before you hit the water.

Outdoors and at Campgrounds

• Keep fires contained: Use designated fire pits, never leave a fire unattended, and fully extinguish it before leaving. Also, never start a fire if a burn ban is active in the area.
• Use fireworks legally and cautiously: Keep a water bucket nearby, follow all local laws, and never let children handle fireworks.
• Practice ATV safety: Always wear a helmet, stick to marked trails, and don’t let kids ride adult-size ATVs.
• Stay hydrated and weather-aware: High temperatures and New Mexico’s dry climate can lead to dehydration or heat stroke quickly.

What Happens When Someone Else Is Negligent on Memorial Day?

No matter how careful you are, you can’t control the actions of others. Unfortunately, many Memorial Day injuries happen because someone else made a reckless or negligent choice, whether that’s a drunk driver running a red light, a boater ignoring safety rules, or a campsite neighbor mishandling fireworks.

When someone else’s carelessness causes harm, you may have the right to seek compensation. This can help cover medical bills, lost wages, long-term recovery costs, and pain and suffering. In some cases, insurance won’t be enough to fully address the impact, especially when serious injuries or permanent disabilities are involved.

New Mexico law allows injury victims to hold negligent individuals or businesses accountable. If you’re unsure whether your situation qualifies, speaking with an attorney can help clarify your options. An experienced injury lawyer can investigate what happened, gather evidence, and work to ensure you’re not left paying the price for someone else’s mistake.

Enjoy the Weekend — But Stay Alert

Memorial Day is a time to relax, reconnect, and honor those who served. But it’s also a weekend when emergency rooms, law enforcement, and first responders brace for a sharp rise in accidents. A little extra caution can mean the difference between a great memory and a tragic one.

Drive smart. Boat responsibly. Look out for your family and keep an eye on those around you. And if something does go wrong, especially because of someone else’s negligence, know that help is available.

If you or a loved one is injured this Memorial Day weekend, the Law Office of Samuel I. Kane is here to help. We’ll work to understand what happened, protect your rights, and pursue the compensation you may be entitled to. Schedule a free, no-obligation consultation today.

Stay safe, New Mexico—and enjoy your holiday.