Fatalities in Motor Vehicle Accidents Remain High in Texas

March 02, 2013

Fatalities in Motor Vehicle Accidents Remain High in Texas

Whether it is a short drive to a local business, or a longer trip across the state, any time a motorist is on the road there is the potential for a motor vehicle accident to occur. Most of these accidents only involve slight property damage, and do not result in any injuries to any of people inside of the vehicles.

However, serious motor car and truck accidents are extremely common within Texas. According to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), the state has had at least one fatality as a result of a motor vehicle accident each day since November 7, 2000. That's 12 years of one person dying each day, a number that is concerning to officials.

Last year, TxDOT states that there were over 3,000 deaths in motor vehicle accidents. When examining the 2011 accident, the agency has discovered three frequent causes of the accidents. Drinking and driving is still a major problem within the state, as nearly 35 percent of the fatalities occurred in accidents related to drunk driving. Failing to wear a seat belt was next on the list, with nearly 29 percent of deaths happening to occupants not wearing seat belts at the time of the crash. Distracted drivers caused nearly 14 percent of motor vehicle accident deaths.

With the holidays fast approaching, many communities across Texas will be conducting extensive sobriety campaigns in an effort to reduce the number of deaths caused by drunk drivers. Those drivers found to be intoxicated can find themselves facing serious criminal charges.

While there are harsh penalties in place for those motorists who are driving under the influence, Texas has not enacted widespread rules that prohibit drivers from using their cellphones or texting while driving. Each year new efforts are made are creating rules to address this issue, but each year they fail to garner the support necessary to become law.

Currently, there are few distracted driving laws within the state. Bus drivers with passengers aged 17 and under are prohibited from a cellphone or texting while driving. This includes the use of hands-free devices. Also, novice drivers, that is, those within the first 12 months of driving, are also prohibited from using a cellphone, texting or using a hands-free device to call or text while driving.

TxDOT has issued some tips to motorists to help them stay safe during the busy traveling season. Be sure to wear a seat belt, even if you are just driving around the block. Always be alert while behind the wheel, and do not call or text while driving. Taking your eyes off of the road for even a split second can lead to an accident. If you are going to be drinking, be sure to appoint a designated driver. Never drink and drive.

If you have been injured in a motor vehicle accident, contact an experienced personal injury attorney to understand the options that may be available to you. Each case is different, and you may not know the extent of your injuries. Insurance companies want to resolve your case as soon as possible, and do not have your best interests in mind.

Article provided by The Crim Law Firm
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