Over the last several years, there have been advancements in technology and improvements in road safety measures. Roads and cars should be safer for motorists than ever before. However, car accident statistics prove otherwise.
The United States has had over a 16% increase in fatal car crashes from 2018 to 2022. Texas had 4,496 fatal car accidents in 2022, a 36% increase from 2019. It has the leading number of fatalities associated with motor vehicle accidents in the entire country.
What do these numbers mean for drivers in Texas?
Texas has the second-largest population in the U.S. after California; consequently, there will be more road users. It also has the most total lane miles, nearly 70% more than California. With more people on the road and more potential areas for motor vehicle accidents to occur, Texas drivers should take the necessary steps to protect themselves. Not only physically but legally as well.
Drivers should exercise due prudence when driving and ensure they always have their full attention on the road. That way, if they ever get into a collision, they will be in a better position to get compensation for the damages. After all, the Lone Star State follows a traditional fault-based system when it comes to motor vehicle accidents. The party responsible for the crash should pay for the damages they caused to the other driver because of the collision.
What are the legal options for drivers in Texas?
In Texas, drivers do not have to go to their insurance providers for compensation. Drivers who suffered injuries from a car crash can recover damages through a third-party car insurance claim. If the at-fault driver does not have enough coverage to pay for all the damages, the victim can file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver in court. Therefore, proving and establishing fault in a car crash is especially critical.