In New Mexico, what constitutes a driver being responsible for property damage in an accident?

A driver in New Mexico is considered responsible for property damage in an accident primarily based on the concept of fault. When a driver is determined to be at fault for causing an accident, they are held liable for any damages that result from that accident, including property damage. This means that if a driver’s actions directly lead to damage to another person's property, they are legally obligated to compensate for that damage, regardless of other factors such as the amount of damage or whether the other party has insurance.

While other options may seem relevant, they do not directly address the core principle of liability in such cases. For example, the threshold of damage exceeding $10,000 is not a factor in determining liability; rather, it pertains to the requirement for reporting and processing claims. Similarly, the presence of insurance for the other driver does not absolve the at-fault driver from responsibility for damages caused. Lastly, the location of the incident, such as whether it occurred on a public road, does not influence the determination of fault. Hence, the fundamental aspect that defines a driver's responsibility in New Mexico is being at fault for the accident.