Houston Car Accident Attorney 

Reliable Representation for Wrongfully Injured Texans   

At The Law Offices of Jed Silverman, we understand that accidents can happen anywhere. When they do, they can leave you or your loved ones facing physical, emotional, and financial hardships. Our experienced firm is here to provide dedicated representation to individuals throughout Houston who have been wrongfully injured in various types of accidents, from construction injuries to car crashes.  

Our award-winning personal injury attorneys have a rich background in Texas law to fortify your case as much as possible, and our in-depth legal experience makes us well-equipped to pursue justice and maximum compensation on behalf of injured parties in Houston and beyond. From bringing lawsuits against negligent parties to preventing companies or insurers from getting away with lowball settlements, our advocates go above and beyond to ensure your rights are protected from start to finish.  

Call (713) 597-2221 to schedule a consultation with our seasoned Houston car accident attorney today.  

2022 Houston, TX Car Accident Statistics

Houston has a troublingly high rate of car accidents.

• Number of traffic accidents: 67,386 reported traffic accidents in Houston
• Traffic fatalities: The number of traffic fatalities in Houston has also been rising. There were 326 traffic fatalities in Houston during 2022.
• Injuries: Over 67,500 people were injured in 2022 alone.

Causes of Car Accidents In Houston, TX

Houston has a reputation for heavy traffic and unfortunately, that translates to a high number of car accidents. Here's a breakdown of the common causes of car accidents in Houston:

• Distracted Driving: Talking on phones, texting, eating, or messing with the radio can all take your attention away from the road.
• Driving Under the Influence (DUI): Alcohol and drugs impair judgment, reaction time, and coordination, significantly increasing crash risk.
• Reckless Driving: Speeding, tailgating, weaving between lanes, and running red lights are all dangerous behaviors.
• Drowsy Driving: Being tired behind the wheel can be just as dangerous as drunk driving.
• Traffic Volume: Houston's sprawling size and heavy traffic congestion can lead to frustration and more careless driving.
• Roadway Conditions: Poor road design, inadequate lighting, and lack of proper maintenance can all contribute to accidents.

Here are some additional factors specific to Houston that can play a role:

• High Speed Limits: Texas highways have some of the highest speed limits in the country, which can worsen accidents.
• Lack of Enforcement: Studies suggest fewer speeding tickets are issued in Houston, potentially contributing to a bolder disregard for speed limits.

Most Common Injuries Sustained in a Car Accident in Houston 

Car accidents can lead to various types of minor and severe injuries. In Houston, the most common injuries sustained in car accidents are: 

• Whiplash: This is one of the most frequently reported injuries from car accidents. Whiplash occurs when the neck and head are suddenly jerked forward and backward, causing damage to the muscles and ligaments in the neck. 
• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): These are serious and potentially life-threatening injuries that occur when a sudden impact damages the brain. TBIs can cause cognitive and physical impairments and, in severe cases, could lead to permanent disability or death. 
• Spinal Cord Injuries: These injuries can result from a car crash's sudden, violent jolt. They can lead to partial or complete paralysis, depending on the severity and location of the injury. 
• Broken Bones: The force of a car accident can easily break bones. The most commonly broken bones include ribs, arms, legs, and collarbones. 
• Internal Injuries: These injuries can be particularly dangerous because they are not always immediately noticeable. Damage to internal organs, such as the lungs, heart, or spleen, can cause serious complications. 
• Cuts and Lacerations: Broken glass and metal can cause deep cuts and lacerations during a car accident. These wounds can lead to significant blood loss and may require stitches or surgery. 
• Burns: Occupants can suffer burns if a car catches fire or explodes during an accident. Depending on the severity, burns can cause scarring and require long-term treatment. 
• Psychological Injuries: Car accidents can also lead to psychological injuries, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. These conditions can impact a person's ability to function normally in their daily life. 

It's essential to seek immediate medical attention following a car accident, even if no injuries are immediately apparent. Some injuries may not show symptoms until days or weeks after the accident. 

What To Do After A Car Accident

The immediate aftermath of a car accident can be stressful and confusing. Here's a general guideline of what to do after a car accident, prioritizing safety and documentation:

1. Ensure Safety:

• Check yourself and passengers for injuries. If anyone is seriously hurt, call 911 immediately.
• If possible, move your car to a safe location off the road to avoid blocking traffic. Turn on hazard lights.

2. Call for Help:

• Even for minor accidents, call the police to file a report. This documents the accident and helps determine fault for insurance purposes.

3. Document the Scene:

• If you are able, take pictures of the damage to all vehicles involved, the surrounding area (including traffic signs/signals), and any visible injuries.
• Gather information from the other driver(s) involved, including name, contact details, driver's license number, and insurance information.

4. Seek Medical Attention:

• Get checked by a doctor or medical professional, even if you don't feel immediate pain. Sometimes injuries can take time to manifest.

5. Contact Your Insurance Company:

• Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Be truthful about the details but avoid admitting fault.

6. Keep Records:

• Maintain copies of all police reports, medical bills, and any communication with your insurance company.

Additional Tips:

• Do not discuss fault at the scene: Focus on exchanging information and ensuring safety.
• Do not post about the accident on social media: Insurance companies may use social media posts against you.
• Consider legal counsel: If you have significant injuries or property damage, consulting with an attorney can help navigate the legal aspects of the claim.

Understanding Fault In Texas Car Accidents

Texas follows a system called modified comparative negligence to determine fault in car accidents. This means a few key things:

• Fault can be shared: More than one driver can be responsible for an accident, and the blame gets assigned based on their percentage of contribution.
• 51% rule: If you're found 51% or more at fault, you cannot recover any compensation for damages.
• Comparative impact on compensation: The percentage of fault you bear directly affects how much compensation you can receive.

Factors Influencing Fault Determination

Several factors are considered when assigning fault in a Texas car accident. Here are some key ones:

• Traffic Law Violations: Disobeying traffic laws like speeding, running red lights, or failing to yield right of way can significantly impact fault determination.
• Witness Statements: Credible witness accounts of the accident can help establish how the collision occurred and who might be responsible.
• Police Report: The police officer's investigation and report will detail the scene, contributing factors, and possible citations issued.
• Severity of Damages: The extent of damage to vehicles can be indicative of the force of impact and potentially which party was responsible for the initial collision.
• Driver Actions: Examples include distracted driving (texting, talking on phone), driving under the influence, or reckless maneuvers.

Evidence is Crucial

Having strong evidence to support your case is essential. This can include the factors mentioned above, along with:

• Police Reports
• Witness Statements
• Photos of the accident scene and vehicle damage
• Medical records documenting your injuries
• Dashcam footage (if available)
• Cell Phone Records

Statute of Limitations for Car Accidents in TX

Texas has a two-year statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit stemming from a car accident. This means you generally have two years from the accident date to file a lawsuit.

Most Dangerous Roads In Houston, TX

Houston has a reputation for traffic congestion and unfortunately, that translates to a high number of car accidents. Here's a breakdown of the most dangerous roads in Houston, based on data of accidents and fatalities:

• Interstate 45 (I-45): Nicknamed "the Gulf Freeway" I-45 is notorious for its heavy traffic volume and high-speed limits. It has been labeled as one of the most dangerous highways in the United States. A stretch between Exit 63 (Airtex Drive) to Metro TX 249 has been identified as having the highest number of fatal accidents per mile in the state.
• Interstate 10 (I-10): I-10, also known as the "Katy Freeway" is another major highway passing through Houston with a high incidence of accidents. The most dangerous stretch is reported to be the one that runs through Harris County.
• Westheimer Road: This major thoroughfare is known for heavy traffic congestion and a high accident rate, especially during rush hour.
• U.S. Highway 59 (US-59): US-59, also known as the "Southwest Freeway" is another major artery with a high number of accidents.
• Beltway 8 (Sam Houston Tollway): This beltway encircling Houston sees its fair share of accidents despite being a toll road.
• Bissonnet Street: While not a highway, Bissonnet Street has been identified as having the most fatal accidents within Houston city limits.

How a Seasoned Houston Car Accident Attorney Can Help You 

Hiring a seasoned attorney can provide several significant benefits when you've been involved in a car accident in Houston. Here are some of them: Expert Knowledge of Laws and Regulations: Experienced car accident attorneys are well-versed in the laws and regulations specific to Houston and Texas. They can accurately interpret these laws, ensuring your rights are protected. Their proficiency in the local legal landscape can differentiate between a successful claim and a disappointing outcome. They can navigate the complex legal system on your behalf, freeing you from the burden of dealing with legalities while you recover. 

Here are some of them:   

• Expert Knowledge of Laws and Regulations: Experienced car accident attorneys are well-versed in the laws and regulations specific to Houston and Texas. They can accurately interpret these laws, ensuring your rights are protected. 
• Effective Negotiation Skills: Insurance companies often try to minimize their payouts. A seasoned attorney has the negotiation skills needed to ensure you get a fair settlement. They can effectively argue your case and counter any lowball offers. 
• Accurate Damage Evaluation: Experienced attorneys can accurately evaluate your sustained damages. This includes not only physical injuries but also emotional distress, loss of earning capacity, and other non-economic damages. 
• Proving Liability: Proving who was at fault in a car accident can be complex. A seasoned attorney knows how to gather and present evidence effectively to establish the other party's liability. 
• Court Representation: Having an experienced attorney by your side is invaluable if your case goes to court. They can build a strong case, cross-examine witnesses, and present compelling arguments on your behalf. 
• Reduced Stress: Having a seasoned attorney handle your case allows you to focus on your recovery. They will take care of all the legal aspects, reducing your stress and giving you peace of mind. 
• No Upfront Fees: Most car accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. This means you don't have to pay any upfront fees. They only get paid if they win your case. 

Hiring a seasoned Houston car accident attorney can greatly increase your chances of receiving a fair settlement. They bring knowledge, experience, and peace of mind, making them an invaluable ally after an accident. Having such a professional at your side can make the entire process smoother and less daunting. It's not just about winning the case, but also about ensuring that the journey towards justice is as comfortable and stress-free as possible for you. 

Contact a Houston Car Accident Attorney 

At the heart of our law firm is our founding attorney, Jed Silverman, who is among the elite 10% of lawyers recognized by the Texas State Board of Legal Specialization. This distinction equips our firm to handle a broad spectrum of intricate legal cases. Whether you're pursuing damages after a car crash or lodging a premises liability claim, our empathetic team possesses the comprehensive knowledge and skills to represent injured Texans across various legal scenarios.  

Reach out to us at (713) 597-2221 to discover how our seasoned advocates can lead your journey toward justice with insight and precision.