Single-vehicle accidents can be as devastating as multi-car pile-ups, often leaving drivers and passengers with severe injuries or worse. In Texas, where the roads are as vast as they are busy, understanding the nuances of single-vehicle accidents is crucial for anyone affected by such an incident.
At Joe I. Zaid & Associates, we specialize in providing comprehensive legal support to those involved in these types of accidents.
Statistics Highlighting the Severity of Single-Vehicle Accidents
Texas has seen its fair share of car accidents over the years. In 2017, the state reported a staggering 1,237,216 car crashes. Among these, alcohol-related incidents were alarmingly high, with 56,657 crashes leading to 1,570 fatalities and 237,043 injuries.
The Texas Department of Transportation also noted that in the Greater Houston area alone, there were 64,076 total crashes in the first 11 months of 2022, with a significant 41% involving drivers over the legal limit for alcohol or drugs.
When breaking down the causes of these accidents, the statistics are telling:
- 29.9% of drivers were under the influence of alcohol.
- 23.3% were influenced by legal drugs, excluding alcohol.
- Prescription drugs played a role in 6.6% of incidents.
- Narcotics such as cocaine, heroin, and marijuana were involved in 5.0% of the crashes.
- A concerning 40.7% had the wrong blood alcohol count.
- 29.7% were not under the influence and below the legal limit.
- 10.0% had the wrong B.A.C. for drugs.
- Another 10.0% involved drivers under 21 years old using drugs.
In 2022, Texas saw 1,657 traffic fatalities, with pedestrian fatalities increasing by 6.88%. These figures underscore the importance of having a knowledgeable Texas Single Vehicle Car Accidents Lawyer by your side.
Liability in Single Vehicle Accidents in Texas
Determining liability in single-vehicle accidents can be complex. While driver error is often a contributing factor, other elements such as defective vehicle parts or poorly maintained roads can also play a significant role. For instance, if a driver swerves to avoid debris on the road and crashes, the state or local government responsible for road maintenance might be liable. Similarly, if a rollover accident is linked to a vehicle’s defective design, the manufacturer could be held accountable.
If you’ve been injured or have lost a loved one in a single-car accident in or around Houston, consulting with an attorney promptly is essential. Our team at Joe I. Zaid & Associates is well-versed in the intricacies of these cases and can help you determine the viability of seeking compensation.
Determining Fault
In Texas, fault is a critical factor in car accident claims. The law requires that a plaintiff be less than 51% liable to recover damages. When you’re considering a personal injury lawsuit, it’s necessary to examine the negligence of all parties involved, as it can significantly impact the compensation you may be entitled to receive.
In some instances, fault may be shared between the driver and one or more third parties.
Compensation Recovery & Insurance Coverage
In the Lone Star State, even if you’re found to be 50% responsible for your crash, you can still recover compensation. However, the amount you receive will be reduced according to your percentage of fault. Texas law mandates that drivers carry minimum insurance coverage, which includes:
- Bodily injury liability coverage: $30,000 per person and $60,000 per accident.
- Property damage liability coverage: $25,000 per accident.
These coverages are designed to ensure that, in the event of an accident, victims have a financial safety net. However, navigating the claims process and dealing with insurance companies can be overwhelming, especially when you’re recovering from an accident.
Contact a Texas Single-Car Accident Lawyer
The aftermath of a single-vehicle accident can be chaotic and confusing. That’s where we come in. The experienced legal team at Joe I. Zaid & Associates is here to guide you through this challenging time. We handle negotiations with insurance companies and strive to secure the best possible outcome for you and your family.
When victims of single-vehicle accidents in Houston turn to us, they can rest assured that their case is in capable hands. Our priority is to allow you to focus on your physical recovery while we take care of the legal complexities. We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning we don’t charge any fees unless we successfully recover compensation on your behalf.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a single-vehicle accident in Houston, having an attorney who understands the specific challenges of these cases is crucial.
Contact Joe I. Zaid & Associates today for a free case review. Let us help you navigate the legal landscape and fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.
