Houston's Deadly Highways

An article published by the Houston Chronicle details how dangerous Houston roads are for drivers. According to the report, 640 people die each year in accidents on Houston area roadways. According to the analysis, this makes it the deadliest major city in the country. To analyze these findings, the Chronicle reporters gathered information from an average week in June. What they found corroborated the details in the report.

During a one-week period, they gathered information from accidents in and around the Houston area. They found that there were 2,777 crashes reported during that time period. Serious injuries were reported in 40 of those crashes. 12 people died as a result of these accidents. This all occurred in just seven days.

Unfortunately, this turned out to be a typical week on Houston roadways. Many factors caused or contributed to the accidents, including distracted driving, speeding, intoxicated driving, and many others. Many of the casualties were still under investigation.

What Causes Houston Accidents?

There are a number of factors that contribute to Houston accidents. In general, factors that contribute to crashes are grouped into three main categories. These include driver behaviors, mechanical failure, and outside conditions.

Driver behaviors are likely the most common factors that contribute to crashes. They include things that a driver does that are considered negligent. Speeding, improper lane changes, driving while distracted, and tailgating are all examples of human errors made while driving. The driver should have known that taking part in the activity could cause an accident with injuries or fatalities.

A report published by the National Highway Transportation Safety Bureau, NHTSB, looked into the causes of crashes. They found that in an overwhelming 94% of the crashes they investigated, human error was the main factor that led to the accident. Most of the car accidents in Houston are minor. But crashes that involve high speeds or a crash with an 18-wheeler are frequently serious.

What to do After a Houston Accident

With so many accidents on our Houston roads, you are bound to get involved in one sooner or later. Luckily, most accidents are minor. When an accident is serious and results in severe injuries, you may need legal action to get the compensation you deserve.

Report the accident to authorities so they can investigate and make a report. Seek medical treatment for your injuries as soon as possible. Do not admit guilt or apologize for the accident since these statements could be used against you later.

Do not talk to the insurance company or accept a settlement offer until you speak with an experienced personal injury attorney. Your lawyer will always work to protect your rights and ensure that you get the money you need to cover medical expenses, rehabilitative therapy costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

If you were seriously injured in an accident, do not delay. The law limits the time you have to file a claim. Contact the skilled legal team at Baumgartner Law Firm to discuss the details of your car accident in a free case consultation. Learn more.