Cautious drivers are generally less likely to be involved in collisions. Drivers who obey all traffic laws: avoid cellphone distractions, comply with posted speed limits, and never get behind the wheel when impaired don't pose any risk to themselves or others.
Even the best drivers in Texas are still at risk of being involved in car accidents, however. Responsible driving only lowers the risk of a crash, but doesn't prevent it entirely.
How likely am I to be involved in a collision?
If you're a responsible driver, the likelihood of being involved in a crash depends on these factors:
- How much time you spend behind the wheel: Obviously, the more you drive, the more at risk you are of being involved in a crash with a negligent driver.
- When you drive: The time of day you get behind the wheel could increase your chances of being involved in a crash. For example, you're more likely to be around more aggressive or distracted drivers during the morning or evening rush hour. You're also more likely to share the road with drunk drivers if you drive late at night, on a weekend, or during a holiday period.
- The type of roads you travel: High-speed, rural roadways tend to be dangerous, since drivers tend to exceed the speed limit more often. Some Texas roadways have speed limits as high as 85 mph. In addition, drowsy driving is often a problem on long, rural roadways with limited landmarks.
How dangerous are Texas drivers?
Texas is one of the most dangerous states in the U.S. to drive in. In fact, an average of 10 people die on Texas roads each day. If that's not shocking enough, there hasn't been a single day in nearly 20 years when there hasn't been a traffic fatality in Texas.
Here are the most recent facts and figures from the Texas Department of Transportation:
- 249,241 people were injured in traffic collisions on Texas roads in 2018
- Approximately 14,908 of those were serious injuries
- 3,639 people were killed in crashes
- 398 deaths were caused by distracted driving
- 940 deaths were caused by drunk driving
What should I do if I'm hurt in a car accident?
Being involved in a crash can be a frustrating ordeal. You have done everything you can to stay safe. Still, the reckless actions of someone else left you with damage to your car, costly medical bills, and lost wages.
A Texas car accident attorney at the Law Offices of Gene S. Hagood can help you recover all damages owed to you so you don't have to pay out of your own pocket. We serve clients in Alvin, Houston, and Galveston. Contact us online to schedule your free case evaluation.