Houston Personal Injury Attorneys – Smith & Hassler

In honor of Distracted Driving Awareness Month, family members who lost loved ones in fatal distracted driving accidents in Texas have been telling their stories to remind the public about the dangers of not focusing on the road and causing serious or fatal collisions.

“Because somebody couldn’t put down their phone, my son and my daughter were killed,” said Dee Estelle in an interview with CW39 Houston News. “They shouldn’t have been. They should be here right now with us.”

Houston mother recalls fatal distracted driving crash

Estelle recently told her story to CW39 Houston News about her children’s deaths due to a distracted driving crash on Dec. 21, 2015. That day, Estelle, her husband, and their three adult children were driving home to Houston after going to see a Christmas light display in Fort Worth. On the way home, a texting driver slammed into the back of their car, going 70 mph.

The impact of the accident killed Estelle’s 19-year-old daughter, Gabbie Estelle, and 23-year-old son, Alex Trejo. “I tell my story, not so you can feel sorry for me,” Estelle said. “I tell my story so people don’t have to have a story to tell. This is what I’m trying to stop. So, from my family to everybody else, phones down — eyes on the road. The life you save just might be your own.”

Distracted driving is a problem in Texas

Distracted driving poses a significant problem across Texas, a reality tragically exemplified by stories like Estelle’s. Each year, thousands of individuals suffer injuries or lose their lives in car accidents caused by distractions behind the wheel, ranging from texting while driving to using GPS devices.

According to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT)), nearly one in six car accidents in 2022 originated from distracted driving, resulting in 2,824 serious injuries and 487 fatalities statewide. TxDOT emphasizes that all distractions, whether texting, eating, self-grooming, or conversing, pose significant risks on the road.

Unfortunately, distracted driving incidents have surged in recent years in Texas. The 2022 statistics marked some of the highest numbers of injuries and fatalities related to distracted driving since at least 2017, as highlighted by a study from the Texas Strategic Highway Safety Plan. While 2021 witnessed a higher number of injuries, with 2,932 individuals harmed, 2022 stands out for recording the most distracted driving-related fatalities in the state’s recent history.

Why is distracted driving so dangerous?

When drivers divert their attention away from the road, the results can be catastrophic. Even a momentary lapse in concentration can lead to devastating consequences on the road. This shift in focus can be particularly dangerous given the high speeds at which many vehicles travel. For instance, engaging in tasks like reading or composing a text can cause a driver to take their eyes off the road for approximately 5 seconds. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), during this brief period, a vehicle traveling at 55 mph would have traveled the entire length of a football field without the driver’s attention on the road.

Now, consider the faster speeds permitted on many highways in Houston and across Texas, often ranging from 65 mph to 70 mph. At these speeds, distracted drivers can cover even greater distances than the length of a football field while their focus remains on their phones rather than the road ahead.

Holding negligent drivers accountable

If you or a loved one was injured in a crash involving a distracted driver, it’s crucial to understand your legal rights and options. Seeking guidance from an experienced car accident lawyer can help you navigate the complexities of your case and pursue the maximum compensation you deserve for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

At Smith & Hassler, our attorneys are dedicated to advocating for the rights of those injured due to negligence. Our experienced team has the knowledge, resources, and determination to fight for justice on your behalf.

Shift your case into overdrive and get the Texas law firm that gets results. Contact us today and schedule a free case evaluation. We have four offices conveniently located throughout Texas, including three offices in Houston.

Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), including concussions, are among the most common injuries resulting from car accidents. If you or a loved one has experienced a TBI due to a car crash, the repercussions can be life-altering, with potential short-term or long-term effects.

It’s crucial to promptly seek medical attention to diagnose and address a concussion or TBI. Early medical intervention often improves the chances of recovery. But how do you recognize the signs of a brain injury? What are the red flags indicating a TBI?

Our Houston car accident attorneys at Smith & Hassler provide valuable insights into identifying and addressing traumatic brain injuries.

March is Brain Injury Awareness Month

Brain injuries resulting from car crashes are, unfortunately, quite prevalent. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 14 percent of all traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are a result of motor vehicle crashes.

This translates to roughly 490,000 brain injuries annually across the nation caused by car wrecks, as estimated by the Brain Injury Association of America (BIAA), the organization sponsoring Brain Injury Awareness Month.

Car accidents also consistently rank among the top 5 causes of brain injuries nationwide, according to data from the CDC.

What are common brain injuries?

Brain injuries sustained in car accidents can cover a wide range. Some of the most common brain injuries suffered by crash victims include:

• Concussions: Often classified as mild traumatic brain injuries (mTBIs), concussions are among the most frequently occurring brain injuries.
• Contusion: This type of brain injury involves bruising of the brain tissue.
• Brain hemorrhage: This refers to bleeding that occurs within or around the brain.
• Hematoma: Hematomas are blood clots that form within or around the brain.
• Diffuse axonal injury (DAI): DAI occurs when the brain undergoes twisting or rotational forces, leading to the tearing of brain cells.

Warning signs of brain injury after a car accident

Recognizing the signs of a brain injury following a car accident is crucial for ensuring prompt medical intervention. If you experience any of the following symptoms after a collision, seek immediate medical attention:

• Dizziness or impaired balance following the accident.
• Persistent and severe headaches.
• Sudden changes in mood or behavior.
• Nausea or vomiting.
• Ringing in the ears.
• Sensitivity to bright lights or loud noises.
• Difficulty with cognitive functions, such as thinking or remembering.
• Trouble waking up from a deep sleep.

How do doctors diagnose a brain injury?

Diagnosing a brain injury often involves a variety of medical tests and procedures. Among the most common methods are imaging tests like MRIs, CT scans, and X-rays, which allow doctors to visualize any abnormalities in the brain’s structure. Additionally, cognitive assessments are often conducted to evaluate a person’s thinking abilities and motor skills, with a particular focus on speech and eye movements.

In addition to imaging tests and cognitive assessments, doctors may perform neurological examinations to diagnose a brain injury. During these examinations, healthcare professionals evaluate a patient’s reflexes, coordination, strength, and sensation to assess any abnormalities that may indicate a brain injury. Neurological examinations can help doctors determine the severity and location of the injury, as well as guide treatment decisions.

Furthermore, blood tests may be conducted to assess levels of certain biomarkers associated with brain injury, such as proteins released into the bloodstream following damage to brain cells. These biomarkers can provide valuable insights into the extent of brain damage and help healthcare providers monitor patients’ progress over time.

In some cases, doctors may also use specialized diagnostic tools, such as electroencephalography (EEG) or evoked potentials testing, to evaluate brain function and detect any abnormalities in electrical activity. These tests can be particularly useful in identifying subtle changes in brain function that may not be apparent through other diagnostic methods.

Overall, a comprehensive approach to diagnosing a brain injury may involve a combination of medical tests, physical examinations, and neurological assessments to provide an accurate assessment of the patient’s condition and guide appropriate treatment strategies.

Common brain injury medical treatments

When treating brain injuries, the approach can vary based on the severity and specific characteristics of the injury. Here are some common medical treatments:

Emergency Medical Care

In cases of severe or life-threatening brain injuries, immediate emergency medical intervention is crucial. This may involve stabilizing the patient’s condition, controlling bleeding or swelling in the brain, and ensuring proper oxygen supply to the brain tissues.

Brain Surgery

In certain cases, particularly those involving significant trauma or internal bleeding within the brain, surgical intervention may be necessary. Brain surgery aims to repair damaged brain tissue, remove blood clots or hematomas, or relieve pressure on the brain caused by swelling or fluid accumulation.

Hospitalization and Monitoring

Following a brain injury, patients may require hospitalization to be closely observed and monitored. This allows healthcare professionals to monitor vital signs, neurological status, and any changes in symptoms.

Medication Management

Depending on the nature of the brain injury and associated complications, patients may be prescribed various medications to manage symptoms and prevent further complications. These may include anti-seizure medications, pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, or medications to control blood pressure and reduce swelling.

Rehabilitation Therapy

Following the acute phase of treatment, rehabilitation therapy plays a crucial role in promoting recovery and improving functional outcomes for brain injury patients. This may include physical therapy to improve strength, coordination, and mobility, cognitive therapy to address memory, attention, and problem-solving skills, as well as speech therapy to address communication and swallowing difficulties.

Seeking legal help after a brain injury

Claims involving brain injuries often turn into complicated legal cases. That’s because head and brain injuries can have profound and long-lasting effects on the lives of victims, requiring extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and ongoing care.

Additionally, determining liability in brain injury cases can be challenging, especially when multiple parties may be responsible for the accident or when there are disputes over the extent of the injuries and their impact on the victim’s life. Insurance companies also often try to minimize payouts for brain injury claims, making it essential for victims to have experienced legal representation to advocate for their rights and pursue fair compensation.

Our Houston car accident lawyers at Smith & Hassler know the games insurance companies often try to play. That’s why we’re here to help. Our attorneys can help gather evidence, consult with medical experts, and build a strong case to seek the compensation you deserve for your losses, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future care needs.

Contact us and schedule a free case evaluation. We have four offices conveniently located throughout Texas, including three in Houston. Our lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless we secure a financial settlement or verdict on your behalf.

Could semi-truck speed limiters help prevent commercial truck wrecks?

Federal officials are considering requiring commercial trucks to be equipped with a device that limits how fast semi-trucks can travel in an effort to prevent speed-related truck accidents, according to a recent proposal from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).

“The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration now expects to publish its supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking (SNPRM) on a motor carrier-based speed limiter mandate in May of this year, according to an updated Significant Rulemaking Report from the Department of Transportation,” reports CCJ Digital, a commercial truck news website.

What is the proposed FMCSA speed limiter mandate?

Since 2022, the FMCSA has been considering requiring commercial trucks that weigh more than 26,001 pounds (which would include most tractor-trailers) to be equipped with a speed-limiting device called an electronic engine control unit (ECU), according to an article published by CDL Life. The new FMCSA rules governing commercial truck speed-limiting devices are slated to be published in May 2024.

The FMCSA has not said what the maximum speed limit would be, if any, for the speed-limiting devices on commercial trucks. However, in September 2023, the FMCSA published a report that listed the maximum speed limit as 68 mph. However, the FMCSA then backtracked to remove a specific speed, CCJ Digital reports.

Many commercial truck drivers strongly oppose installing speed-limiting devices on trucks. “By limiting all trucks it will not improve safety in any meaningful way. In fact, it will most likely have the opposite effect by creating long lines of trucks on the roadways with no easy way to pass,” said one truck driver, according to some of the public comments published by CDL Life.

How common are speed-related tractor-trailer wrecks?

While some commercial truck drivers oppose the FMCSA proposal to install speed limiters on commercial trucks, it’s important to understand how common high-speed accidents involving commercial trucks are across the nation and how such crashes frequently cause severe injuries and death.

According to FMCSA data, speeding is the number one cause of fatal accidents involving large commercial trucks. Specifically, roughly 7 percent of all fatal motor vehicle accidents involving large commercial trucks were due to speeding truck drivers.

Other proposed rule changes

Requiring all large commercial trucks to be equipped with speed-limiting devices isn’t the only proposed rule change being considered by the FMCSA. Other proposed changes to rules governing commercial truck drivers include:

• Requiring commercial trucks to be equipped with automatic emergency braking (AEB) systems, according to CCJ Digital.
• Revising the knowledge test for new commercial truck drivers.
• Changing the FMCSA fitness rules governing commercial truck drivers, which is known in the trucking industry as the FMCSA’s “safety fitness determination” rule, according to CCJ Digital.

Holding negligent truckers accountable

Holding negligent truckers and trucking companies accountable for their actions is essential to ensuring justice for victims of commercial truck accidents. While it may seem straightforward that the at-fault party should cover all accident-related expenses, the reality is often different.

In Texas, where the at-fault car insurance system is in place, many truck accident claims don’t unfold smoothly. Despite being entitled to compensation, injury victims frequently encounter challenges in obtaining the full extent of their rightful compensation. That’s because the stakes are often high in commercial truck accident claims and lawsuits. As such, truck drivers, trucking companies, and their insurance representatives often employ tactics aimed at minimizing or even denying compensation altogether.

At Smith & Hassler, our team of Houston truck accident lawyers understands the injustices that victims face in these situations. We firmly believe that individuals harmed in accidents caused by commercial truck drivers deserve fair and full compensation for their losses. You shouldn’t bear the financial burden of someone else’s mistakes, and we’re here to fight for your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.

Get the Houston, TX law firm that means business. Contact us and schedule a free case evaluation with a truck accident attorney you can count on in a crisis. We have four offices conveniently located throughout Texas, including three offices in Houston. Our truck accident lawyers also work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay no fees unless we win your case. Schedule a free case review today to learn more.

During this time of year, many people are trying to maintain their New Year’s resolutions. According to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, one of the top priorities on everyone’s list should be actively contributing to preventing car accidents.

So, what’s the most effective way to enhance road safety? It begins with addressing and changing bad driving habits. AAA points out that bad habits, whether it’s texting while driving, speeding, disregarding stop signs, or neglecting to use turn signals, have become ingrained in many drivers. The challenge lies in breaking free from these habits.

To shed light on this issue, let’s explore some of the most common bad driving habits and examine whether they are a concern in Texas. Additionally, we’ll provide some valuable safe driving tips to help drivers change these habits. Our team of Houston car accident attorneys at Smith & Hassler is committed to promoting safer driving practices.

What are the most common dangerous driving habits?

The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety recently released the “2022 Traffic Safety Culture Index.” Based on responses from 2,500 drivers in 2022, the report identifies some of the most common dangerous driving habits, including:

• Distracted driving – 15 percent of the respondents said they drove distracted within the last 30 days, including texting while driving.
• Drowsy driving – 9 percent had trouble keeping their eyes open while driving within the past month.
• Not stopping at a red light – 8 percent of drivers surveyed stated they failed to stop for a red light at least once within the past 30 days.
• Speeding – 7 percent drove 15 mph over the speed limit on an interstate or 10 mph over the speed limit in a residential area.
• Aggressive driving – 3 percent of drivers described themselves as aggressive drivers.
• Drunk driving – 3 percent admitted to driving under the influence of alcohol within the past 30 days.

How safe are drivers in Texas?

Many drivers in Texas have bad habits that often result in serious or fatal car accidents. In fact, according to accident data collected by the Texas Department of Transportation and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 2021 was a record-setting year for three common bad driving habits.

• Driving under the influence of alcohol – 1,906 people died in drunk driving accidents that year, the highest drunk driving death toll in the state in at least a decade.
• Speeding – 1,568 deaths due to speeding, another decade-high record.
• Not wearing a seatbelt – 1,172 deaths, the highest death toll in more than a decade.

Tips to be a safer driver in 2024

The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety and our legal team have several suggestions for drivers who want to break bad driving habits this year, including:

• Minimize distractions: Turn off your cell phone or switch it to “do not disturb” mode before you start driving. Distracted driving, especially due to texting or using a phone, significantly increases the risk of accidents.
• Obey traffic signals: Make it a habit to come to a complete stop at all red lights and stop signs. Rolling through stop signs or running red lights can lead to dangerous collisions.
• Plan ahead: If possible, leave a few minutes earlier when heading out so that you’re not in a rush to reach your destination. Rushing can lead to aggressive driving behaviors and reduced attention to road conditions.
• Never drink and drive: Always have a plan before heading out for the evening, especially if you’ll be drinking. Designate a sober driver, use rideshare services like Uber or Lyft, or rely on public transportation to get home safely.
• Take regular breaks: When driving long distances, make it a point to take breaks every two hours. This practice helps prevent fatigue and drowsy driving, reducing the risk of falling asleep at the wheel.
• Avoid eating and drinking while driving: Eating or drinking behind the wheel can divert your attention from the road. It’s safer to consume food and beverages when your vehicle is parked.
• Drive defensively: Adopt a defensive driving approach, which means being prepared for unexpected situations while driving. Always anticipate that other drivers may make mistakes, and maintain a safe following distance to give yourself time to react to sudden changes in traffic.

If you’ve been injured in an accident, tell them you mean business

Don’t let anyone push you around if you or a loved one has been injured by a negligent driver. Get a Houston car accident lawyer who means business. Get Smith & Hassler. Our dedicated legal team has the knowledge, skills, and experience you need to demand justice after your car crash.

Take command of your case right from the start. Contact us and schedule a free case evaluation with a Houston car accident attorney focused on winning your case. We have four offices conveniently located throughout Texas, including three offices in Houston. In addition, our lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. That means you only have to pay us if we secure a financial settlement or verdict for your car accident injury.

Texas considers ending right turns on red due to spike in crashes

Most states, including Texas, permit right turns at signaled intersections in the absence of oncoming traffic. However, an increase in fatal intersection accidents  – particularly in Houston – has prompted calls to restrict right turns on red lights.

Just this month, Houston has experienced several fatal accidents at intersections, including:

• A 2 a.m. crash by the intersection of Eldridge Pkwy and Clay Rd
• A fatal motorcycle accident at Homestead Rd and Mount Houston Rd
• A three-vehicle crash injured three and killed a teen at the intersection of Veterans Memorial Dr and Bammel N Houston Rd

According to a report from the Governors Highway Safety Association, this optional maneuver always posed a risk but has become more dangerous over time due to the popularity of large trucks and SUVs, which can limit a driver’s visibility. When scanning for gaps in traffic to take a right turn on red, the larger vehicles increase the potential for drivers to miss pedestrians, cyclists, and on-coming vehicles.

Determining who is at fault in a right turn on red accident is often complicated, but an experienced Houston car accident lawyer can guide injured victims successfully through the process.

Who has the right of way in a right-on-red turn?

In Texas, as in many other places, the right of way law says that drivers are allowed to make a right turn after coming to a complete stop, provided that it is safe to do so and there is no conflicting traffic. Here are the key points regarding the right of way for right turns on red lights in Texas:

• Come to a complete stop. Before making a right turn on red, the driver must come to a complete stop at the stop line or before entering the intersection.
• Check for traffic. Drivers must ensure that there is no oncoming traffic from the left and that it is safe to make the right turn. This includes checking for pedestrians and bicyclists in the crosswalk.
• Yield to pedestrians. Pedestrians have the right of way in crosswalks – even in intersections with RTOR options.
• No turn on red signs. Some intersections may have specific signs indicating that right turns on red are not allowed. In such cases, drivers must wait for a green signal.
• Traffic signal changes. If the traffic signal changes to green while a driver is waiting to make a right turn on red, they should yield to oncoming traffic and pedestrians and proceed with caution.

Who is at fault in RTOR accidents?

Fault and liability can be unclear in RTOR accidents, as well. Typically, the turning driver is at fault, but not always. There are many questions to ask and factors to consider, including:

• Did the crash involve any traffic law violations?
• Could the driver see the victim, or was their view obstructed?
• Did the driver fail to gauge the speed and distance of other vehicles?
• Was the driver impaired?
• Did they yield to pedestrians and others with the right-of-way?
• Did the driver safely execute the turn?
• Did the driver check for oncoming traffic?

An investigation by a car accident attorney with extensive experience handling claims in Texas can help injured victims find answers to these questions. They can interview witnesses and collect important documents and evidence to build a strong claim.

Compensation for intersection accident victims in Houston, TX

In Texas, victims injured in car accidents involving right turns on red lights may have options for financial compensation. When a driver’s negligence leads to such an accident, victims can seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other accident-related expenses.

The experienced car accident attorneys at Smith & Hassler, Attorneys At Law, can investigate the crash, gather evidence, and negotiate aggressively with insurance companies for maximum compensation.

If you were injured in a car accident in Houston or the surrounding community, contact us for a free case evaluation. A member of our team is available 24/7 to hear from you. We can answer your questions, explain your potential legal options, and help you decide how to move forward.

The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) recently approved $345 million worth of projects, including bicycle paths and pedestrian walkways, designed to make the state safer for everyone and reduce the number of bicycle and pedestrian accidents in Texas.

“This is a major investment in communities across the state that will help make it safer and easier to get around on foot or a bike,” Texas Transportation Commissioner Robert “Robie” Vaughn said in a statement recently released by TxDOT. “This optionality supports safety, active lifestyles, health and wellness, and can provide alternatives to traveling by vehicle.”

Pedestrian and bicycle projects in Houston, Texas

The $345 million will be spent on 83 projects throughout the state. According to TxDOT officials, “These projects will help improve safety for people walking, biking, or using wheelchairs, including 24 projects that will go in areas with a high pedestrian crash history.”

In the Houston area, such bicycle and pedestrian projects include:

• Construction of West Loop shared-use path and Bayou Bridge in Harris County, Texas – $18.45 million.
• Multi-modal path construction in University Asia Town area – $8.87 million.
• Construction of shared use path in The Woodlands, Texas – $7.47 million.
• Construction of Emancipation Trail shared use path in La Marque, Texas – $4.5 million.
• Bicycle lane and sidewalk construction in Angleton, Texas – $4.27 million.
• Sidewalk construction, traffic signal improvements, and other pedestrian projects in Dickinson, Texas – $2.8 million.
• Construction of sidewalks and other public safety improvements in Hitchcock, Texas – $2.45 million.
• Sidewalk improvement project in West Columbia, Texas – $2.26 million.
• Bicycle transit study in Harris County, Texas – $920,000.
• Planning study for Improving Safety and Access to White Oak Bayou – $460,000.
• Pedestrian and bicycle master plan designed to improve bicycle and pedestrian safety in Houston – $368,000.
• Transportation plan in Clute, Texas – $288,075.

Pedestrian accidents on the rise

One of the driving forces behind these projects is the dramatic increase in the number of pedestrian accidents and fatalities throughout Texas in recent years. Between 2013 and 2022, the number of pedestrian accident deaths in Texas has increased by 72.9 percent, from 480 deaths in 2013 to 830 deaths in 2022, according to accident data collected by TxDOT and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Bicycle accidents are also a problem

Along with pedestrian fatalities, fatal bicycle accidents have increased sharply in the past decade in Texas. Between 2013 and 2022, bicycle accident deaths have increased by a staggering 91.6 percent, from 48 deaths in 2013 to 92 bicycle fatalities in 2022, according to the NHTSA and TxDOT.

“People who walk and bike make up about 1 out of every 5 deaths on roadways here in Texas,” said Texas Transportation Commissioner Alvin New in a recent statement. “These projects will help the state move closer toward the goal of zero deaths by giving people a place to walk and bike separate from traffic.”

Contact a Houston, TX pedestrian accident attorney

An insurance claim involving a cyclist or pedestrian hit by a car might initially seem straightforward. But many times, they become complicated legal cases. That’s because the stakes can be high, and rather than paying injury victims the money they deserve, insurance companies will often do everything they can to reduce or deny injury claims.

Our Houston pedestrian accident lawyers at Smith & Hassler know how to handle insurance companies and can help you every step of the way. We know how to investigate such accidents and what evidence to look for to build a strong legal case. Many insurance companies agree to negotiate in good faith once they see we’re serious about your case. If not, we’re not afraid to file a pedestrian accident lawsuit on your behalf, seeking the compensation you deserve.

Get the law firm that gets results for injured Texans, and schedule a free case evaluation with a Houston pedestrian accident attorney who puts your best interests first. We have four offices conveniently located throughout Texas, including three offices in Houston. We also offer legal representation on a contingency fee basis. That means you pay no fees unless we win your case. Contact us today to learn more about your potential legal options.

AAA Texas and the Insurance Council of Texas are launching a campaign called Survive the Drive to combat a troubling trend on Texas roads that has emerged since the COVID-19 pandemic. Before 2020, Texas drivers were heeding warnings about the dangers of reckless driving. However, when the pandemic began, risky driving behaviors such as speeding, impaired driving, distracted driving, and aggression became more prevalent. As a result, Texas experienced a surge in roadway deaths and serious car accidents.

Roadway deaths spike in Texas

From 2019 to 2022, deaths due to impaired driving increased by over 22%. The Insurance Council of Texas also reported a rise in claims from serious car accidents.

According to the Texas Department of Transportation, Texas saw a concerning rise in the fatality rate on its roadways in 2021 alone. That year, the state had 1.58 roadway deaths per hundred million vehicle miles traveled. This marked a 5.45% increase compared to 2020.

The total number of motor vehicle traffic fatalities also increased, with 4,497 recorded in 2021, signifying a significant 15.43% uptick from the 3,896 deaths reported the previous year. Furthermore, 2021 saw 15,769 serious injury crashes in Texas, involving 19,456 individuals who sustained severe injuries.

Contributing factors

According to Rich Johnson, Director of Communications for the Insurance Council of Texas, the increase in population is one contributing factor to the surge in traffic accidents. “We’re getting bigger. We have more people on the roads,” he said in a statement.

Other common factors include:

• Distracted driving: In 2021, there were 3,522 roadway deaths caused by distracted driving in the United States.
• Speeding: In 2021, speeding contributed to 12,330 traffic fatalities.
• Drunk driving: Alcohol-impaired driving fatalities resulted in 13,384 traffic fatalities in 2021.
• Drowsy driving: Drowsy driving caused 684 traffic deaths in 2021.

Safety advocates respond

As a response, Survive the Drive aims to educate Texans about safe driving habits on the road. One important tip is to use rideshares or other transportation alternatives instead of driving impaired. They also advise drivers to put away their phones while driving to minimize texting and other distractions. That can be either in the glovebox, with a passenger, or in the trunk.

The message becomes particularly vital as the days grow shorter during the fall season. Survive the Drive encourages a return to safer, more responsible driving habits to help reverse the trend of increased Texas crashes and fatalities.

Protect your rights if you were injured in a crash

While safety advocates are doing their part to address the growing number of Texas roadway deaths, the problem could persist for years. That’s why it’s important to understand your rights if you or a loved one was hurt in a crash on Texas roads.

The Houston car accident attorneys at Smith & Hassler can be your ally in the pursuit of justice. Our legal team understands the physical, emotional, and financial devastation that you may be going through. We’re committed to holding negligent drivers accountable and fighting to maximize compensation for injured motorists and their families.

To find out how we can help you, contact us online. We would be glad to answer any questions and help you explore your potential legal options during a free consultation.

Houston’s Vision Zero report for 2022 indicates a slight decrease in traffic fatalities compared to the previous year, but the reduction is modest, and more work still needs to be done. Despite this decrease, over 320 individuals died on Houston’s roadways in 2022, and nearly 1,600 others suffered severe injuries in traffic-related incidents.

In concrete terms, the report reveals that eight fewer car accident fatalities were recorded in 2022 compared to the previous year, alongside 28 fewer injuries. While these improvements are encouraging, they are a reminder that Houston is still far from achieving the ultimate vision of zero lives lost due to traffic accidents.

Houston’s 2022 Vision Zero report

In 2022, Houston witnessed 323 fatalities due to traffic-related incidents, marking a 2.4% decrease compared to the previous year’s statistics. The death toll includes motorists, passengers, pedestrians, and cyclists. The report also revealed that 1,592 people sustained severe injuries while navigating Houston’s roadways throughout the year.

Here are other key takeaways from Houston’s Vision Zero report:

• There were 115 pedestrian fatalities in 2022, an 8.5% increase compared to 2021
• 245 pedestrians suffered serious injuries, up 11% from 2021.
• 37 people died in motorcycle accidents, a 9% increase over 2021.
• 165 motorcyclists sustained severe injuries, marking an 11% increase.

However, there were positive developments as well, as drivers and passengers witnessed a decline in traffic fatalities and serious injuries last year. These findings are notable, especially considering the 20% increase in traffic fatalities from 2020 to 2021. Encouragingly, the number of people who suffered serious injuries decreased from 1,624 in 2021 to 1,592 in 2022, marking a 1.7% decrease.

‘No loss of life is acceptable’

In response to the Vision Zero report, Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner emphasized that “no loss of life is acceptable.” He highlighted concerns regarding the increasing number of cyclist fatalities in 2023, with 12 bicyclists tragically losing their lives.

However, Turner also noted the positive aspect of the overall reduction in fatalities and serious injuries in 2022. During his eight-year tenure as mayor, the city has implemented significant safety measures, including comprehensive street overhauls and the expansion of multimodal transportation options. These efforts take into consideration the needs of pedestrians, cyclists, public transportation users and other alternatives to personal vehicles.

Street safety projects in Houston

The report highlighted the effectiveness of these safety initiatives by spotlighting five specific street safety projects completed since 2019. These projects involved reducing vehicle lanes, expanding sidewalks, and introducing protected bicycle lanes.

The areas that underwent these transformations include:

• Austin Street between Holman and Commerce streets
• Bagby Street from Clay to Franklin streets
• Gray Street between Bagby and Hamilton streets
• Hillcroft Avenue from High Star to Westward streets
• McKinney Street between Main and La Branch streets

According to a report by Houston Public Media, all these areas experienced a reduction in crashes, fatalities, and injuries resulting from crashes. Notably, no fatalities were reported among those using protected bike lanes.

More safety enhancements scheduled for Houston

The city’s commitment to enhancing safety and accessibility includes the construction of 6 miles of sidewalks and 20 miles of bikeways in 2022. The city has ambitious plans to add an additional 155 miles of bike lanes in 2023, according to the recent Vision Zero report.

“Houston is committed to Vision Zero and making the city more accessible for people of all modes,” Turner said. “The results speak for themselves – our comprehensive approach of safety and multimodal planning is making Houston a safer city.”

Holding negligent drivers accountable in Houston

For safer roadways in Houston, it’s essential not only to focus on preventive measures but also on accountability. When car accidents occur due to negligent drivers, it’s important for crash victims to seek justice and accountability through the justice system.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a Houston car accident involving negligence, Smith & Hassler is here to help. Our Houston car accident lawyers understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a serious accident can have on crash victims and their loved ones. That’s why our dedicated legal team is committed to protecting your rights and fighting for the compensation you deserve.

To learn more about how we can help with your potential legal case, contact us today for a free case evaluation.

Every year, countless lives are affected by people who make the reckless decision to drive while under the influence of alcohol. It’s a particularly severe issue in the Houston area. With a staggering number of drunk driving-related car crashes, Harris County has earned a sobering distinction in Texas.

According to a recent report by the Courier of Montgomery County, new data from the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) says Harris County has earned the unfortunate title of having the highest number of drunk driving-related car crashes in the state. In 2022 alone, Harris County recorded over 3,500 crashes involving impaired driving.

Drunk driving in Harris County, TX

The crash statistics are nothing short of sobering: over 115,000 reported car accidents within Harris County in a single year. What’s even more concerning is that out of these incidents, 3,553 crashes were directly attributed to drivers under the influence of alcohol.

One key element in this equation is the county’s remarkable growth and diversity. With a population that surpasses 4.7 million, Harris County is the largest county in Texas and the third-largest in the entire nation. This sheer number of residents introduces a dynamic set of challenges that can influence statistics, including those pertaining to drunk driving crashes.

The interplay between Harris County’s population influx and its drinking culture is a complex one. As people from all walks of life converge on this vibrant county, a diverse range of behaviors, habits, and attitudes towards alcohol come together. This diversity, while contributing to the richness of the community, also means that there is a broad spectrum of attitudes toward responsible alcohol consumption. Unfortunately, a surge in intoxication-related fatalities has been a consequence of this particular social landscape.

Lynn Nguyen, the section chief of the vehicular crimes division at the Harris County District Attorney’s Office, told the Courier of Montgomery County: “We’re obviously a huge county. I think that’s what drives the numbers every year. And we’re kind of one of those growing counties, where people are coming from all over to live here…and so with the influx of people and the drinking culture that we do have here, that unfortunately means there’s going to be an increase in intoxication-related fatalities.”

Understanding the dangers

Drunk drivers are at risk of causing serious and fatal car accidents because their impaired state hampers their ability to operate a vehicle safely and respond effectively to the dynamic challenges of the road. As a result, not only are drunk drivers themselves in danger, but so are passengers, pedestrians, bicyclists, and fellow motorists who share the road.

Driving under the influence of alcohol is dangerous because it results in:

• Impaired cognitive function: Alcohol impairs cognitive functions, including attention, judgment, and reaction time. This compromised mental state significantly increases the likelihood of accidents.
• Reduced motor skills: Alcohol affects motor skills and coordination, making it difficult for drivers to maintain control over their vehicles and respond appropriately to unexpected situations.
• Decreased inhibition: Intoxication can lead to reckless behavior and a decreased sense of caution, resulting in drivers taking unnecessary risks on the road.
• Slower reaction times: Impaired drivers have slower reaction times, which can prevent them from effectively avoiding collisions or stopping in time to avoid a collision.
• Increased likelihood of high-speed collisions: Drunk driving accidents often occur at higher speeds due to impaired judgment, resulting in more forceful collisions and greater damage.
• Higher severity of injuries: The combination of high speeds and impaired judgment leads to more severe injuries in accidents involving drunk drivers, especially when they drive on the wrong side of the road and crash into other vehicles head-on.

Drunk driving is dangerous and can lead to legal consequences, including fines, license suspension, and jail time. The tragic truth is that these accidents are preventable, underscoring the critical need for responsible choices, increased awareness, and accountability to curb the devastating impact of drunk driving on our roads.

Holding drunk drivers accountable

At Smith & Hassler, our car accident attorneys recognize the seriousness of crashes caused by drunk drivers and the profound impact they can have on victims’ lives. With a deep understanding of the nuances of Texas law and extensive experience in complex cases, we are ready to help you fight for the justice and financial compensation you deserve.

If you were hit by a drunk driver or your loved one died in a crash involving a driver under the influence of alcohol, your path forward starts with us. Contact us today for a free and confidential case evaluation. We’re located in Houston, TX, and we look forward to speaking with you about your potential legal case.

A sobering look at a troubling trend

The U.S. has witnessed an alarming increase in pedestrian fatalities in recent years. And according to a new report by the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA), the number of pedestrian deaths has now soared to levels unseen in the past 41 years.

In 2022 alone, at least 7,508 pedestrians died, marking the highest death toll in four decades. And since 2010, pedestrian fatalities have increased by 77%, well ahead of the 25% increase in other traffic-related deaths.

“Every day, 20 people go for a walk and do not return home,” Jonathan Adkins, chief executive officer of the safety group, said in a statement published by Forbes. “These are people living their daily lives – commuting to and from school and work, picking up groceries, walking the dog, getting some exercise – who died suddenly and violently.”

This rise in serious and fatal pedestrian accidents is primarily attributed to dangerous driving habits, insufficient infrastructure, and the popularity of larger, heavier vehicles like SUVs. The report underscores the urgent need to address the ongoing crisis of pedestrian safety on our roads and highlights the need for injured pedestrians to hold negligent drivers accountable.

Pedestrian accident statistics

The GHSA report, titled “Pedestrian Traffic Fatalities by State,” presents preliminary data from 2022 and highlights the ongoing increase in pedestrian deaths over the past decade.

It also emphasizes that dangerous driving behaviors that emerged during the pandemic in 2020 have not subsided.

The report provides several insights into pedestrian safety trends from 2010 to 2021, including:

• Most pedestrian fatalities occur at night, and nighttime deaths have increased in recent years.
• Due to their taller profile and bigger blind spots, SUVs and light trucks pose a greater risk to pedestrians on a per-vehicle basis. While fatal pedestrian crashes involving passenger cars remain the highest in number due to the sheer quantity of cars, deaths involving SUVs have increased at a much faster rate (120% compared to 26% for passenger cars) in the past decade.
• The absence of sidewalks continues to be a significant factor in pedestrian fatalities, with 69% of deaths occurring in areas without sidewalks in 2021, showing a steady increase from 59% in 2017.
• The risk of pedestrian death exponentially increases with higher vehicle speeds, ranging from 10% at 23 mph to 90% at 58 mph. In 2021, 8.1% of pedestrian fatalities involved speeding drivers, slightly lower than the previous year but higher than pre-pandemic levels.
• Drunk driving is the main contributing factor in 19 percent of pedestrian accident deaths.
• Non-freeway arterial roads pose the highest risk to pedestrians, accounting for 60% of all fatalities. These roads typically have high traffic volumes, high speeds, and eventually connect to freeways. About 18% of pedestrian deaths occur on freeways, often involving stranded motorists, first responders, and tow truck drivers. The report recommends strengthening and promoting Move Over laws that require drivers to slow down and change lanes when approaching stopped vehicles.

The GHSA report also listed the number of pedestrian fatalities by state from 2019 to 2022. In 2019, there were 661 pedestrian deaths in Texas, which increased to 714 in 2020. In 2021, the number rose further to 826 fatalities. In the most recent data available, the preliminary figures for 2022 show a slight increase to 834 deaths.

Addressing the problem

The report emphasized the importance of addressing dangerous driving behaviors such as speeding, impaired driving, and distracted driving through targeted traffic enforcement.

It also highlighted the need to educate new drivers about their responsibility to be aware of and yield to pedestrians and other road users.

Additionally, the GHSA advocated for adopting the Safe System approach to road safety, which originated in Sweden in the 1990s. This approach aims to eliminate all road deaths and serious injuries by implementing various layers of protection, including safer road design, safer vehicles, safer speeds, and improved post-crash care.

Claims involving pedestrian accidents can be complicated

Insurance companies often employ various tactics to downplay or deny pedestrian accident claims to minimize their financial liability. Common strategies include:

• Challenging fault: The insurance company for the at-fault driver may try to shift blame onto the pedestrian by arguing that the pedestrian was distracted, jaywalking, or acting negligently at the time of the accident, thereby reducing or eliminating the insurance company’s responsibility to provide compensation for the victim’s losses.
• Disputing injury severity: Insurers may claim that the pedestrian’s injuries are less severe than stated or attribute damages to pre-existing conditions.
• Questioning medical treatment: Insurance companies may raise doubts about the necessity or extent of medical treatments, aiming to reduce the claim amount.
• Delay tactics: Prolonged investigations and excessive documentation requests can be used to frustrate a claimant and discourage them to the point of accepting a lowball settlement offer or giving up on the claim altogether.

To navigate these complexities and ensure their rights are protected, it is crucial for victims to seek the guidance and representation of a lawyer experienced in pedestrian accident claims. An attorney can help gather evidence, negotiate with the insurance company, advocate for the pedestrian’s best interests, and pursue the maximum compensation they are entitled to under the law.

Contact Smith & Hassler for a free case evaluation

Our Houston-based law firm is committed to fighting for the compensation injured pedestrians deserve. With decades of experience, we understand what it takes to get meaningful results for accident victims and their families.

If you were hit by a car or a loved one died in a pedestrian accident, we can guide you through the legal process and help you hold the at-fault driver accountable for your losses.

To learn more about how we can help with your potential legal case, contact us today for a free case evaluation.