Losing a loved one in a fatal car accident is unbearable. We are here to provide compassionate representation and seek justice for those left behind.
Causes of Fatal Car Accidents
According to NHTSA crash data, there were recently around 40,990 deaths in a single year. Fatal accidents can occur for a wide variety of reasons. Some of the most common include the following:
- Drunk driving. Driving under the influence is one of the leading causes of fatal crashes. Alcohol impairs judgment and affects drivers’ reaction times and motor skills, significantly increasing the risk of a deadly collision.
- Distracted driving. Distracted driving involves doing things that divert the driver's focus from the road. These include activities like using infotainment systems, texting, talking on the phone, or eating - all of which can distract drivers from the road and lead to catastrophic outcomes.
- Reckless or aggressive driving. Tailgating, weaving between lanes, and other aggressive behaviors can lead to fatal accidents.
- Inexperienced drivers. Novice drivers usually don't have the skills and experience needed to manage complex traffic situations safely. This may increase the risk of deadly accidents.
- Vehicle defects. In some cases, a car’s faulty parts or systems, such as brakes or airbags, contribute to fatal injuries. In such cases, a defective product lawsuit can help hold the manufacturer liable for the damages.
- Road conditions. Poorly maintained roads, lack of signage, and inadequate lighting can contribute to accidents, especially in high-traffic areas.
- Weather conditions. Adverse weather conditions can make driving really risky. Conditions like fog and icy roads reduce visibility and create slippery surfaces, increasing the likelihood of fatal crashes.
- Speeding. According to TxDOT, there were around 2,630 traffic crashes related to speeding, with 295 of them being fatal. Driving at high speeds not only reduces a driver’s ability to react to road conditions but also amplifies the force of impact in a crash, making fatalities more likely.
- Failure to obey traffic signals. Driver behavior, such as running stop signs, can lead to severe collisions, especially at intersections where vehicles are crossing paths.
A Texas fatal car accident lawyer will collect and analyze all the details related to your loved one’s accident and determine whether you can file a wrongful death claim.