The number of car accident deaths in Texas dropped by about two percent in 2017 compared to 2016. In 2017, 3,721 individuals died in car accidents, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). In 2016, 3,794 people were killed in Texas auto accidents.
However, 37,133 people died in car accidents nationwide in 2017, meaning car accident deaths in Texas make up approximately 10 percent of the total number of motor vehicle accident fatalities in the nation. This made Texas the top state for motor vehicle accident fatalities.
The Fort Worth car accident attorneys at Anderson & Cummings can assist you in pursuing justice if your loved one was killed in a crash caused by a negligent driver. Our attorneys will also help you pursue compensation for the damages caused by your loved one’s passing. We are here to help you with every aspect of your claim. Schedule a free, no obligation legal consultation today.
Auto Accident Fatalities in Texas
The number of auto accident fatalities did drop in 2017 across the nation. Additionally, the number of fatal accidents between January and June 2018 was at the lowest reported level since 2015.
Of the 3,721 fatalities in Texas in 2017, some notable causes were:
- Cellphone use – 51 people lost their lives in accidents involving talking, texting or otherwise using a mobile device.
- Defective tires – 62 fatalities were attributed to slick or defective tires.
- Not obeying stop sign/light – 55 people died in accidents involving running a stop sign or red light.
- Inattention – 125 fatalities were caused by driver inattention.
- Failing to control speed – 180 fatalities were due to not controlling speed.
- Fatigue – 132 fatalities were caused by sleeping or fatigued drivers.
- Speeding – Speeding over the limit resulted in 92 deaths.
- Impaired driving – 304 people were killed in accidents involving impairment by drugs or alcohol.
- Unsafe speed – Another 291 people died due to accidents involving vehicles traveling at unsafe speeds.
Tips for Avoiding Car Accidents
To further reduce the number of traffic fatalities and reduce the number of accidents, follow these safety tips:
- Slow down – Many Texas traffic accidents in 2017 were caused by going over the speed limit or driving too fast for road conditions. Although many Texas roadways offer generous speed limits up to 75 mph, these limits are based on optimal road and weather conditions. Driving at a slower speed gives you more time to brake and avoid an accident, particularly in bad weather.
- Obey traffic signs – Pay attention to and obey all traffic signs and lights, including yield signs, construction zone signs and uneven road signs.
- Do not drink and drive – Even one alcoholic drink can lead to slight impairment. If you plan on drinking, have a backup plan for your transportation such as using a rideshare program or having a designated driver.
- Avoid distractions – Cellphones are an enormous distraction, but there are other distractions including using other devices in your vehicle, turning around to look at children who are fighting or adjusting temperature controls.
- Carpool – When there are more vehicles on the road, more accidents occur.
Contact Our Legal Team for a Free Consultation
If you were involved in a motor vehicle accident in Texas, it is important that you contact an experienced attorney for assistance. The dedicated car accident lawyers at Anderson & Cummings are here to help. We can help with all legal aspects of your claim while you focus on your recovery.
We use our extensive experience with car accident cases and personal injury law to help establish liability and assess your damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
We provide a free, no-obligation case consultation to learn about your case and discuss your legal options. If you have a viable claim, you can retain our services and pay nothing upfront. You will only pay us for our legal services if we successfully recover compensation for your claim.
Fill out a Free Case Evaluation form or call (817) 920-9000.