Car accidents result in personal injury, property damage, as well as other losses for many Americans everyday. If you are injured in a car Accident in Austin, Texas, it is important to understand what caused the crash. This helps you identify the liable party.
Once you know the liable party, you can file a claim for compensatory damages. Texas is an at-fault state. This means the at-fault party is liable to pay damages in a personal injury case. More than one party may be responsible for causing your accident. When this is the case, Texas’ comparative negligence rule comes into play.
Below is a look at vital car accident statistics for Texas and some of the most common causes of car accidents in Austin, Texas.
Texas Car Accident Statistics
In 2019, a total of 256,797 people were injured in traffic accidents across Texas. Of these, 15,855 people suffered serious injuries. Another 3,623 were killed in road accidents. Nearly all the accidents were caused by a handful of reasons. These are listed below.
Top Causes of Traffic Accidents
Speeding
Speeding remains the top cause of traffic accidents in Austin and across the state. Crashes involving speeding can take place anywhere although they often occur at intersections. If you are hit by a speeding Driver, you may suffer serious to critical injuries.
Speeding is a civil infraction under city laws. If the other driver is found guilty of speeding, you may find it easier to hold them liable for your injuries.
Driving Under the Influence
Many road accidents and resulting injuries are caused by drunk drivers. This is particularly the case on popular holidays and during vacations. If you are hit by an intoxicated driver, you can seek compensatory damages for all the ways the accident affected your life.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving caused 94,876 accidents in Texas in 2015 alone. Texting, taking a phone call, adjusting the radio, or anything that requires the driver to look away from the roadway is a distraction. Distracted driving can result in serious accidents, especially when the driver is going at a high rate of speed.
Unsafe Lane Changes
Switching lanes without noticing other vehicles can result in high-speed collisions between vehicles. It is the responsibility of every driver to safely switch lanes. Failure to do so is a traffic violation. If you are hit by a driver who is switching lanes, you can seek damages for any injuries caused by the crash.
Why Hire an Austin Car Accident Lawyer?
It is important to get legal help after an Austin car accident. If your crash was caused by a speeding, drunk, or distracted driver, you must first prove negligence. You can get compensatory damages from the at-fault driver only after negligence is established.
Here at Slingshot Law, we help you bring together the relevant evidence to prove your claim for damages. We also work with you to file for punitive damages if the at-fault party is guilty of gross or obvious negligence.
Contact a reliable Austin car accident lawyer today to discuss your claim for compensation. Call at 800-488-7840 or visit our website for a free case evaluation.
