Parnall Law Wins $1.5M Settlement in New Mexico Drunk Driving Crash

Attorneys secured compensation for a couple severely injured by an intoxicated driver in Rio Rancho.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 11:30pm

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An extreme close-up of a shattered car windshield reflecting a bright flash of light, conceptually illustrating the sudden and violent impact of a drunk driving crash.The aftermath of a devastating drunk driving collision exposes the human cost of impaired driving.Albuquerque Today

Parnall Law obtained a $1.5 million settlement on behalf of a New Mexico couple who suffered life-altering injuries after a drunk driver rear-ended their vehicle, causing a multi-car collision. The wife sustained a traumatic brain injury, rib fractures, lung damage, and a brain bleed, while the husband also suffered a TBI and orthopedic injuries. The drunk driver later pleaded guilty to felony charges.

Why it matters

Drunk driving remains a major public safety issue in New Mexico, which consistently ranks among the worst states for alcohol-related crashes. This settlement will help the victims pay for their extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.

The details

The collision occurred in January 2024 when a speeding, intoxicated driver slammed into the back of the couple's vehicle, forcing it into another car and triggering a multi-vehicle crash. Law enforcement determined the drunk driver's intoxication, inattention, and excessive speed were the sole causes of the crash.

  • The collision occurred in January 2024.
  • The drunk driver later pleaded guilty to felony charges.

The players

Parnall Law

An Albuquerque-based personal injury law firm that represented the couple in this case.

Brian Murry

An attorney at Parnall Law who handled the case.

The Plaintiffs

A New Mexico couple who were severely injured in the drunk driving crash.

The Drunk Driver

An intoxicated driver who rear-ended the couple's vehicle, causing the multi-car collision.

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What they’re saying

“This married couple was simply stopped at a red light, and in a moment their lives changed forever.”

— Brian Murry, Attorney, Parnall Law

What’s next

The settlement funds will go towards covering the couple's extensive medical expenses and ongoing rehabilitation.

The takeaway

This case highlights the devastating impact of drunk driving crashes and the importance of holding intoxicated drivers accountable for their actions. The substantial settlement will help the victims recover and rebuild their lives.