Texas experiences a significant number of car accidents, making road safety a priority for the state. According to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), factors like speeding, driving under the influence, and distracted driving contribute to collisions on Texas roads. These incidents often occur on busy highways such as Interstate 35 (I-35) and Interstate 10 (I-10), which are crucial for state transportation but are also sites for numerous crashes. Weather plays a role in the safety of Texas roads, with various parts of the state facing conditions that can lead to accidents.
For instance, heavy rain, fog, flash floods, and ice can make driving hazardous, especially in areas that are not accustomed to such weather. In densely populated urban areas, traffic congestion exacerbates the risk of car crashes, with more vehicles on the road leading to a higher likelihood of collision.
TxDOT addresses these challenges through safety campaigns focused on preventing impaired driving, encouraging seat belt use, and safeguarding pedestrians and cyclists. These initiatives aim to reduce the number of car accidents and collisions, making Texas roads safer for everyone.
For instance, heavy rain, fog, flash floods, and ice can make driving hazardous, especially in areas that are not accustomed to such weather. In densely populated urban areas, traffic congestion exacerbates the risk of car crashes, with more vehicles on the road leading to a higher likelihood of collision.
TxDOT addresses these challenges through safety campaigns focused on preventing impaired driving, encouraging seat belt use, and safeguarding pedestrians and cyclists. These initiatives aim to reduce the number of car accidents and collisions, making Texas roads safer for everyone.
Texas' extensive road network spans over 683,533 miles, making it the largest in the U.S. A study analyzing fatal crashes from 2018 to 2020 revealed some of the most hazardous stretches of road in the state. Here are the top 5 based on the number of fatal accidents, their crash per-mile rate, and fatalities:
These statistics highlight trends in accidents, car accidents, collisions, car crashes, traffic collisions, and fatal car accidents within the state.
After a car accident in Texas, here are the steps you should follow:
It is important to stay at the accident scene and provide any necessary help. Leaving can result in severe penalties like having your driving privileges revoked or your license suspended.
It is regulatory to fill a car crash report using Form CR-2 within 10 days if the accident wasn't investigated by a police officer and resulted in injury, death, or property damage over $1,000.
You should share information with all drivers involved in the accident, including insurance coverage details. It's crucial as sometimes police don't collect this information, and it may take a while to get the Crash Report.
You should not rely on the other party to report the accident; it is smart to call 911 and report it, too. A police report is essential for establishing who was at fault and filing insurance claims.
If you experience any discomfort or pain, even minor, request immediate medical attention. This is crucial for both your health and any future car accident claims. Documenting your injuries and treatments can significantly support your case.
You should take and keep detailed notes or video recordings of the accident scene. Capture the positions of the vehicles involved, any visible damages, and relevant environmental conditions. This documentation is invaluable for establishing the facts of the collision and can be crucial for your claim.
Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the car crash. It's important to promptly inform them about the accident but refrain from speaking to the other party's insurer without legal advice.
Before making any statements or admissions at the accident scene, it is wise to involve your attorney. Legal advice is crucial and can significantly influence the outcome of your claim or settlement, especially in cases of a fatal car accident.
Texas has established a comprehensive set of driving laws aimed at enhancing road safety for drivers, passengers, and pedestrians alike. Here's a summary of key Texas driving laws and facts gathered from various sources:
Seat Belt and Child Restraint ViolationsTexas mandates that all vehicle occupants must wear seat belts. Children under the age of 8 or shorter than 4 feet 9 inches must be secured in a child safety seat that complies with federal regulations.
Speed Limits and Safe Driving PracticesDrivers in Texas are required to adhere to posted speed limits. The state also employs a "Basic Speed Law," meaning that drivers should not exceed speeds safe for current road and weather conditions, even if this means driving below the posted limit.
Use of Electronic DevicesTexas enforces strict regulations against distracted driving, including the use of electronic devices while driving. Texting and making phone calls without a hands-free device is prohibited to minimize distractions and prevent accidents.
Right of Way and Pedestrian SafetyTexas law requires drivers to yield the right of way to pedestrians in marked or unmarked crosswalks. This is a critical measure to protect pedestrians and reduce the likelihood of accidents in pedestrian-heavy areas.
DUI/DWI LawsDriving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal in Texas, with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit of 0.08% for standard drivers. The penalties for DUI/DWI offenses can include fines, license suspension, and even jail time, emphasizing the state's zero-tolerance policy for impaired driving.
Following and Passing RulesTexas encourages safe following distances and specifies that the left lane on highways is primarily for passing.
Move Over LawWhen approaching stationary emergency vehicles, tow trucks, or Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) vehicles with flashing lights, drivers are required to move over or slow down.
Registration, Insurance, and InspectionVehicles in Texas must be registered, and drivers must carry proof of financial responsibility (insurance). Additionally, vehicles are subject to annual safety inspections.
HeadlightsTexas law mandates using headlights from 30 minutes after sunset until 30 minutes before sunrise. Additionally, headlights must be turned on during any conditions that reduce visibility to less than 1,000 feet, such as fog, heavy rain, or snow.