In 2021, around 2.3 million people called Houston home. As well, over 22 million people visit Houston each year. This total includes both leisure and business travelers coming from elsewhere in the U.S. and from abroad. Many of these millions upon millions of people are on Houston’s roads at the same, causing traffic delays and accidents. If you’ve recently been in a car crash in the Houston area, you may have grounds to make a personal injury claim against the at-fault driver.
Some common causes of car accidents in Houston include:
Distracted Driving: One of the leading causes of accidents nationwide, distracted driving can involve activities such as texting, using a smartphone, eating, or adjusting the radio while driving.
Speeding: Exceeding the speed limit or driving too fast for road and weather conditions can lead to accidents, especially on Houston’s busy highways.
Drunk Driving: Impaired driving due to alcohol or drugs remains a significant problem in Houston and can result in severe accidents.
Reckless Driving: Aggressive behaviors such as tailgating, weaving in and out of traffic, and ignoring traffic signals contribute to accidents.
Fatigue: Fatigued or drowsy drivers are more likely to make mistakes on the road, including falling asleep at the wheel.
Running Red Lights and Stop Signs: Disobeying traffic signals and signs can result in intersection collisions and T-bone accidents.
Inexperienced Drivers: Inexperienced or newly licensed drivers may struggle to handle challenging driving situations, leading to accidents.
Poor Road Conditions: The at-fault party in your case may not be the other driver, but the city of Houston itself. Potholes, uneven road surfaces, and insufficient road maintenance can contribute to accidents.
Vehicle Defects: The at-fault party could also be the company who made the vehicle, or the parts in the vehicle. Mechanical failures or defects in a vehicle’s design or manufacturing can lead to accidents.
Tailgating: Following too closely behind another vehicle can reduce reaction time and lead to rear-end collisions.
Wrong-Way Driving: Driving in the wrong direction on a one-way street or highway entrance ramps can result in head-on collisions.
Construction Zones: Houston often has ongoing road construction, which can create congestion and confusion, increasing the risk of accidents.
Pedestrian and Bicycle Accidents: Houston’s size and traffic can make it dangerous for pedestrians and cyclists, leading to accidents involving motor vehicles.
Commercial Vehicle Accidents: The presence of large trucks and commercial vehicles on Houston’s highways can result in accidents, often with severe consequences.
Motor vehicle accidents are the most common causes of personal injury claims. If you are injured in a car, truck, or motorcycle accident due to another driver’s negligence, you may be able to file a claim against their insurance company. It’s advisable to consult with a qualified Houston car accident lawyer who can assess the details of the case and provide guidance on whether a claim is warranted.
When you’re ready to consult with an attorney who can provide you with guidance tailored to your situation, 1-800-Injured makes it easy to find one. Contact us, a medical and legal referral network, and we will connect you with a Houston car accident lawyer.