Common Causes of Car Accidents in Katy, TX

Car accidents

As per the latest stats, Katy, TX, witnesses 1 to 2 car accidents every day. Car accidents cause severe personal injuries and property damages. Some of these injuries may even be fatal. People involved in car accidents are required to follow specific procedures. 

The first thing to do is get immediate medical attention even if you feel fine. You must also check on other parties involved in the accident. If the accident caused any fatal injuries, you would have to report the incident to the police within 24 hours. 

Drivers should not try to flee the accident scene before the police arrive (unless it is to get medical attention). An expert Katy car accident lawyer can handle your case and help ensure that you get the highest compensation you are eligible for.

Distracted Driving

Over 9% of fatal car accidents in Katy, TX, are caused by distracted driving. Distracted driving is a serious offense. As per Texas laws, drivers are expected to follow traffic rules to maintain public safety. Texting while driving is illegal in Katy, TX. 

In fact, drivers with learner’s permits are prohibited from using their phones while driving. Cell Phone usage, however, is not the only cause of distracted driving accidents.

Even eating, drinking, smoking, driving with pets, talking to other passengers, or being mentally present while driving can cause accidents for which the Texas police department can charge you penalties of up to $200 for distracted driving.

DUI and DWI

Drunken driving and “driving while impaired” are two of the most common causes of road accidents in the US. Even first-time DUI offenders could be charged fines of up to $2000. The fine for third-time offenders is around $3000. 

Additionally, you could also face temporary license suspension and IID charges for DUI. DWI is considered a class B misdemeanor and carries a maximum fine of up to $2000 and a jail sentence of 180 days.

Rash and Reckless Driving

Driving over the speed limit (25 mph), diving through unsafe zones or two lanes, and other similar acts can cause rash driving accidents. Reckless or rash driving can cause severe property damages and personal injuries. 

You could be charged with a fine of $200 and jail time of up to 30 days for reckless driving in Texas. 

Rear-End Collisions

If you are involved in a rear-end auto collision that caused bodily injury, fatal injuries, or property damages of more than $1000. Tailgating is the most common cause of rear-end collisions in Katy, TX. High-impact rear-end collisions can cause severe property damages to your vehicle. 

Improper Roadway Maintenance 

Poor road maintenance can play a vital role in causing road accidents. Roads with ill-maintained gutters, potholes, slick roadways, poor road design, and view obstructions witness accidents frequently. 

Additionally, bad weather conditions can make the situation worse. In most cases, government entities are responsible for accidents in dangerous roadways in Katy, TX. In the event of an accident due to improper roadway maintenance, you can file for compensation. A Katy car accident lawyer can help you prove the government entity’s negligence or other authority responsible for road maintenance and help you put your case forward.

Wrapping Up

An accident is an unfortunate event that can result in significant loss physically, monetarily, and materialistically.  In case of an accident, a car accident lawyer will educate you on all provisions associated with car accidents in Katy, TX. It is, therefore, wise to deal with an accident prudently and go through the right procedure with the help of a professional in case of legal formalities.