Dealing with the aftermath of a car accident can be stressful. Not only are you left to cope with your physical injuries and emotional trauma from the incident, but you can also incur significant medical expenses related to your injuries.
You can pursue financial compensation through a personal injury lawsuit when you are injured in a car accident due to someone else’s negligence. One of our experienced auto wreck attorneys could help you file the claim and gather evidence to build a case. We could also go over the common causes of car accidents in Houston in an initial consultation.
Common Causes of Car Accidents in Texas
No one expects to be involved in a car accident on their commute or when going about their daily life, yet crashes are all too common. When another driver is careless or reckless behind the wheel, it can cause devastating collisions. Some of the factors that commonly cause auto accidents in Houston include:
Distracted Driving
One of the leading causes of car accidents is distractions. Texting while driving requires drivers to take their eyes off the road and hands off the wheel, making the chance of an accident more likely.
Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
Likewise, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is often a factor in serious collisions.
Speeding or Reckless Driving
Many severe car accident injuries result from accidents where speed or aggressive driving were factors. Driving at a high rate of speed can make it easy for drivers to lose control of their vehicle.
Traffic Violations
Many collisions happen at intersections where drivers fail to yield or stop at stop signs or other traffic signals. Traffic violations can result in serious collisions.
Fatigue
Driving while tired can be just as dangerous as driving under the influence as it impairs a driver’s ability to respond and can delay their reaction time.
Road Conditions
Hazards and poor road conditions can require drivers to stop short and increase the chance of a collision.
Bad Weather
Inclement weather is also a frequent factor in car accidents. Icy or slippery roadways can be treacherous, and drivers should exercise caution.
Vehicle Defects
Although less common, it is worth noting that vehicle defects can cause some car accidents. A defective tire or brake system can contribute to a serious collision.
Recoverable Damages After a Car Accident
After suffering injuries in a car accident due to someone else’s negligence, someone can pursue compensation for their injuries and losses. If the accident victim is out of work for a few weeks or permanently, a personal injury attorney could advocate for damages that compensate the victim fully for their losses. Such damages will include economic ones like past and future expenses for medical care, lost income, and reduced earning potential. Additionally, the court may award non-economic damages to compensate for pain and suffering or emotional trauma.
Depending on the severity of the auto accident, resulting injuries, and the cause, an injured person in Houston may seek to settle with the at-fault driver’s insurance company. However, the person should consult a lawyer to review the proposed settlement offer to ensure it adequately compensates your losses. In this state, the personal injury statute of limitations is two years, which means victims only have two years from the date of their accident to file a lawsuit against the party responsible for their injuries.
Speak With a Houston Attorney Today about Common Factors in Car Crashes
When you get hurt in a collision caused by another driver’s negligence, you have legal options and should not feel alone. We could work with you to determine the cause of the crash, investigate who is legally responsible, and negotiate with the at-fault driver’s insurance on your behalf or file a lawsuit for damages.
If you have questions about common causes of car accidents in Houston, contact our office today. We could discuss your legal rights and remedies if you are considering legal action after a car accident.