Comprehensive Guide to Houston Car Accidents: Statistics, Knowledge, and Tips for Personal Injury Claims
Houston is the largest city in Texas and one of the most populous cities in the United States. With more vehicles on the road, the likelihood of a serious crash increases drastically. According to Texas Motor Vehicle Traffic Crash Facts, the number of motor vehicle traffic fatalities has spiked since 2020. The 2021 death toll of 4,489 increased 15.22% from the 3,896 deaths recorded in 2020. While motor vehicle accidents are an unfortunate reality in Texas, the city of Houston has the highest accident rate in the state.
If you are a Houston driver, you should be aware of the high risk of car accidents. Thousands of people are injured or killed in collisions on Houston's roads every year. In this blog post, we will provide you with all the information you need to know about car accidents in Houston. We will discuss the various factors that may contribute to crashes and what to do if you are involved in one. Plus, we will give you tips on filing a successful personal injury claim after a collision.
What Causes These Crashes?
One of the most important things to know about car accidents is that they can happen anywhere and at any time. While certain factors may increase your chances of being involved in a crash, such as driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, speeding, or running red lights, accidents can also occur when drivers are cautious and obey all traffic laws. This is why it is so important to always be alert and aware of your surroundings when you are behind the wheel.
Here are the most common causes of motor vehicle accidents in Houston:
Speeding.
Distracted driving.
Drowsy driving.
Poor road conditions.
Driving under the influence.
Defective auto parts.
Reckless driving.
Aggressive driving.
Poorly designed or maintained roads.
After an accident, it is vital to seek medical attention immediately. You may feel perfectly fine; however, you may not realize your injuries' severity. Often, car accident victims choose not to seek medical attention and end up suffering from delayed injuries.
Here are the most common injuries sustained in crashes in Houston.
Traumatic brain injuries (TBI).
Back Injuries.
Broken bones and fractures.
Whiplash.
Neck injuries.
Spinal cord injury.
Paralysis.
Lacerations.
Soft tissue injuries.
Amputations.
What Should You Do After a Crash?
Whether you are involved in a minor fender bender or a serious wreck, it can still be a traumatic experience. After an accident, the first thing you should do is stay calm and call 911. Once the police arrive, they will assess the situation and determine who is at fault for the collision. If you are deemed to be at fault, you may be issued a ticket or citation. However, if the other driver is found to be at fault, they may be held liable for any damages or injuries.
Time is of the essence, especially after a serious wreck. It is always a good idea to exchange contact information with the other party involved and gather evidence at the scene. These steps can significantly impact your car accident claim.
Filing a Personal Injury Claim
If you have been injured in a car accident, you may be entitled to compensation. In order to obtain this compensation, you will need to file a personal injury claim with the at-fault driver's insurance company. When filing your claim, be sure to include all medical bills, lost wages, and other damages that have occurred as a result of the accident. With a strong claim, you will have a much better chance of obtaining the full amount of compensation you deserve.
If you follow these tips, you will be well prepared in the event of a car accident. Stay safe on Houston's roads!
If you or a loved one was injured in a motor vehicle accident on Texas roads, The Shellist Law Firm, PLLC can help. Contact us today at (713) 999-6855 to schedule a free case consultation.