Texas road safety is of utmost importance, especially in light of the many people who perish daily due to accidents—in 2021, the first six months alone recorded 20,160 deaths after fatal crashes. This raises the question of the primary cause of such deadly rashes. 

According to the Texas Department of Transportation, speed is the leading cause of roadway fatalities in Texas. Usually, dealing with the aftermath of deadly crashes can be overwhelming for survivors and their families due to the emotional burden and subsequent legal processes.

At Cesar Ornelas Injury Law, we are dedicated to helping the victims of deadly crashes recover their damages. If you have lost a loved one on Texas roads due to someone’s negligence, you are entitled to compensation. A car accident attorney will help you file a Wrongful Death claim to ensure that your family recovers damages due to the loss of a loved one.

Common Causes of Fatal Car Accidents in Texas

Unfortunately, Car accidents are frequent on the roads of Texas and are worse if they result in fatalities. Knowing the cause of an accident is crucial for establishing liability. 

We have noted common causes of deadly car crashes in the Lone Star State as follows:

• Speeding: Speeding is undeniably a leading killer of travelers in Texas and the whole country. Drivers who exceed the posted speed limits or travel too fast for road conditions have less time to react to unexpected situations. This significantly increases the likelihood of deadly accidents.

• Distracted driving: Distracted driving is a big concern, not just in Texas but across the nation. On average, one person dies on Texas roadways daily due to distracted driving. This practice may involve texting, talking over the phone, eating, or adjusting the radio while driving. Distractions divert a driver’s attention from the road and reduce their ability to react to potential hazards.

• Unsafe lane changes: Changing lanes without proper signaling and without leaving enough space is a common cause of fatal accidents. This often leads to sideswipes, rear-end collisions, and multi-vehicle accidents.
• Driving Under the Influence (DUI): Driving under the influence is a serious cause of serious crashes in Texas. The Texas Department of Transportation reports that DUI caused the death of 1,141 people on Texas highways in 2021. Impaired drivers have reduced reaction times and poor judgment, making them a danger to themselves and others on the road.

The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) takes proactive measures to address the causes behind the deadly crashes. For instance, the “Be Safe. Drive Smart.” campaign aims to raise awareness and promote safer driving behaviors among motorists in Texas.

The Value of a Legal Legal Firm in Helping Accident Victims

After a deadly car crash, you don’t want to face reality alone. The physical, financial, and emotional burden can be unbearable. As such, seeking legal assistance from a reputable firm can provide critical support in several ways. These include:

Investigation and Evidence

The success of wrongful death claims requires strong evidence to support the claims. Attorneys have the ability and resources to conduct thorough investigations into the accident. This includes:

• Gathering evidence
• Interviewing witnesses
• Collaboration with experts to establish liability

Negotiation with Insurance Companies

Dealing with insurance companies can be challenging. Insurance companies will try to dispute the evidence and offer low settlement amounts. However, hiring a car accident attorney from a reputable legal firm can increase the chances of better settlements. 

Protection of Rights

An attorney will basically act as an advocate for the rights of the victims and their families. They will help you explore all the legal avenues to secure just compensation for the loss of a loved one.

Importantly, your attorney will represent you in court if there is a need for litigation. This is particularly true if negotiations do not result in a satisfactory settlement. Your legal advocate will ensure that your interests are protected and that you receive justice.

What To Do After a Deadly Accident?

Following a fatal accident, taking the proper steps can ensure the protection of your rights and that you maximize your chances of recovery.

Here are the steps to take:

Call the Police and File a Report

The first action to take following a fatal accident is to call the police immediately. Have an official police report for the incident, which forms the basis of your legal actions.

Seek Medical Treatment, if Possible

In cases where the fatality did not occur instantly, seek medical treatment promptly for yourself or the injured victim. This is not only for the well-being of the injured party but also to prevent treatment gaps that might be used against you through the legal doctrine of duty to mitigate. Proof that the deceased sought prompt medical care can improve chances of better compensation for wrongful death.

Consult an Attorney

It’s highly advisable to contact a wrongful death attorney to guide you through the legal processes. At this time, you need to understand your rights and have them protected during legal procedures. 

We usually advise people to be aware of their statements after car accidents. We have noted that insurance companies may contact victims after the crash to express sympathy and offer quick settlements. 

While their intentions may seem empathetic, their primary objective is to minimize their financial liability. They may seek statements that could be used against you later in the lawsuit. Let your attorney handle all communication with insurance companies to avoid such issues.

Contact Wrongful Death Attorney For a Free Case Review

The aftermath of an accident leading to death can be emotionally taxing on the deceased family. If negligence is established as the cause of the accident, Texas laws allow families of the deceased to pursue wrongful death benefits. However, you need to understand your legal options to succeed in a wrongful death claim.

Our legal team at Cesar Ornelas Injury Law has helped many victims secure their rightful compensation. A Texas wrong death lawyer will serve you with dedication, passion, and individualized focus. Fill out this online form or call us at (210) 934-2017 for your free consultation.

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