Car accidents are an unfortunate reality in Texas and the United States. According to the Texas Department of Transportation, there were 4489 deaths on Texas roads in 2021 alone, with more than 288.227 billion miles driven in the state that year. Here are the top five causes of car accidents in Texas—and how you can avoid them.
1. Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is one of the significant causes of car accidents in Texas. Data suggests that one-third of Americans admit to looking at or sending a text message while driving. Texting and using apps, such as Snapchat and Instagram, on your phone are also common causes of these accidents. Electronic devices can cause you to take your eyes off the road for a long time without taking a break from the app, which can result in slamming into another vehicle, swerving into the other lane, or running red lights.
In 2021, distracted driving accounted for 17% of fatalities in Texas. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that drivers who use their phones have an eight times higher risk of crashing than those who don’t touch them. However, if you suffer injuries due to someone else’s negligence or distracted driving, contact a car accident attorney in San Antonio immediately to help you claim the compensation you deserve.
2. DUI Cases
The highest percentage of DUI cases comes from those previously convicted of DUI. These people have the propensity to take an unsuspecting driver with them if they cannot stay sober. It is best to avoid them at all costs, but if you can’t help it, please remain calm and do not aggravate the situation. According to the Texas Department of Transportation, there were 1077 deaths due to DUI, accounting for about 24% of all fatalities.
The same applies to those with a bike. Make sure you stay at a safe distance if you see anyone coming on a bike drunk. Yes, you guess it right. Bikers can cause an accident too. The most frequently asked question about DUI is, “can you get a DUI on a bike?” So, the answer is Yes. So, don’t ever think you can escape a DUI by riding a bike when drunk.
The department reports most of these accidents to have occurred in the 2 am hour and mostly on Sundays. It’s, therefore, essential to be aware of what’s happening around you, especially at night, so that authorities do not find you off guard. If someone is acting erratically or recklessly, maintain a safe distance.
3. Intersections
According to the NHTSA, most accidents at intersections happen when one vehicle turns left and crashes into a car that’s going straight. Be aware of these hazards while driving to adjust your speed and ensure you’re paying attention. If pedestrians or other vehicles are crossing the intersection on foot or if it looks like someone might cross before you get there, try to wait for them to cross before proceeding. And if possible, it’s always better to merge back onto another road or use an alternative route rather than turning at an intersection where two streets meet. In 2021 according to the Texas Department of Transportation, there were 1037 deaths due to crashes at intersections. Hence, it’s crucial to stay alert and focus on what’s happening around you, especially when approaching intersections, so you’ll be able to avoid collisions.
4. Single Vehicle Run-Off Road Crashes
Single-vehicle run-off-road accidents typically happen when a driver is driving too fast and take a turn too quickly, or the car loses control, driving off the road. Drivers more likely to experience this type of crash include those with sleep deprivation, distracted by electronics, or under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
No matter what, you should always focus on keeping your attention on the road and avoid distractions! That type of accident resulted in 1550 deaths in Texas, accounting for about 34% of all fatalities in 2021. Keep an eye out for these types of wrecks as you drive around!
5. Pedestrian Fatalities
According to the Texas Department of Transportation, a pedestrian is any person on foot or other non-motorized means of transportation. In 2021, there were 824 pedestrian fatalities in Texas alone, accounting for about 15% of all deaths. Distractions such as cell phone use and not paying attention to the road can also lead to car accidents involving pedestrians. Also, failure by pedestrians to wear reflective clothing, especially at night or during adverse weather conditions, can contribute to such accidents.
Drivers should always be aware of their surroundings and watch for pedestrians when crossing corners or entering intersections. Cyclists should follow traffic laws like cars, including signaling, before turning into traffic lanes and wear proper protective gear such as helmets that protect their heads from injury if they fall off their bikes. Drivers should always be mindful of their surroundings and remain attentive to take appropriate action when needed.
Conclusion
Drivers in Texas must be aware of their surroundings, avoid distractions, and abide by the law. Failure to do so can result in major car accidents that lead to severe injuries or death. Responsible driving is a must if you live in a city like Texas with a high rate of car accidents. To minimize your risk of being involved in an accident, drive responsibly and follow the law. However, if you find yourself in a car accident due to another driver’s negligence, you must contact an experienced Houston accident lawyer as soon as possible. A qualified attorney will help determine liability and how much compensation you are entitled to for your injuries, property damage, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
