Intersection Accident Lawyers in Houston, TX

Navigating the aftermath of an intersection accident in Houston can be an overwhelming and challenging experience. A Houston intersection accident attorney is essential if you find yourself in this situation.

With a deep understanding of both the legal complexities and the personal hardships you may be facing, our legal team at The Callahan Law Firm is dedicated to providing not only skilled legal representation but also the emotional support and understanding that is crucial during such a stressful period.

If you need help, don’t hesitate to contact The Callahan Law Firm to schedule a free consultation.

Car Accident Statistics in Houston and Texas

Intersection accidents across The United States are a serious concern, with alarming statistics underscoring the risks at these common road junctions. Unfortunately, Houston and Texas are no exception.

In urban areas across the United States, a red light is run approximately every 20 minutes at intersections.
Nationally, there are approximately 7 fatal crashes and 1,000 injuries per day at intersections with traffic signals.
Focusing on Houston TX, the city recorded 323 fatal crashes in 2022.
Additionally, 1,592 people sustained serious injuries that year due to Houston car accidents.
In Texas during 2022, there were 1,030 fatalities in crashes occurring at or related to intersections.

These statistics not only reflect the dangers present at intersections and serve as a stark reminder of the need for vigilant driving practices and adherence to traffic laws to prevent such tragedies. One important way to take these precautions is to be aware of the causes of intersection auto accidents.

Common Causes of Intersection Accidents in Houston

Intersection accidents in Houston are a critical concern, posing risks to motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians. Understanding the common causes of these accidents can help in prevention and awareness. These types of accidents most often occur as a result of the following:

Distracted Driving: A leading factor in intersection accidents is distracted driving. Motorists engaged in texting, adjusting the radio, or other distractions are less likely to engage in safe driving, leading to collisions.
Speeding: Exceeding speed limits reduces a driver’s ability to react to sudden changes, like a light turning red or a pedestrian crossing the street. This is particularly dangerous in busy urban areas.
Running Red Lights: Impatient or inattentive drivers often run red lights, creating a high risk of side-impact collisions (referred to as being t-boned), which are particularly dangerous.
Failure to Yield Right of Way: Misunderstandings or disregard for right-of-way rules at four-way stops or when making a left turn can lead to serious accidents.
Poor Weather Conditions: Rain, fog, or other adverse weather conditions can impair visibility and road traction, increasing the likelihood of accidents at intersections.
Driver Impatience and Aggression: In the hustle of city life, drivers often become impatient or aggressive at intersections, leading to reckless decisions like sudden lane changes or speeding through an intersection without proper caution.

These factors contribute to the frequency of intersection accidents in Houston and influence the injuries’ severity. The chaotic nature of these collisions often results in a range of physical traumas, from minor bruises to more serious and even fatal injuries.

Most Common Injuries From Intersection Accidents in Houston

Intersection accidents in Houston can lead to a variety of injuries, some of which can be life-altering. It’s crucial for the injured party and their families to understand the common injuries that can lead to a car accident claim. The most common types include:

Whiplash and Neck Injuries
Head Injuries
Spinal Cord Injuries
Crush Injuries
Traumatic Brain Injuries
Broken Bones
Internal Injuries
Lacerations and Bruises
Back Injuries

Dealing with the aftermath of such injuries involves seeking appropriate medical attention and navigating the legal complexities of determining liability – establishing who is at fault in an intersection accident so you can recover the full compensation you need to focus on your recovery.

Who Is Liable for Intersection Accidents in Houston, TX?

Determining liability in intersection accidents in Houston involves thoroughly examining various factors and the parties that were involved. The responsibility for an accident can fall on different entities, each playing a distinct role in the incident. Most commonly, one or more of the following is liable for an intersection accident:

Drivers: The most common party held liable in a car accident at an intersection is another driver involved – usually due to their negligent behavior. Liability may be attributed to actions like running a red light, speeding, distracted driving, or failing to yield. For instance, a driver who disregards a stop sign and causes a collision is typically held responsible.
Employers of Drivers: If a driver involved in the accident was performing work-related duties, their employer might also be held liable. This concept, known as “vicarious liability,” applies when employees cause accidents while acting within the scope of their employment.
City or Municipality: In some cases, the city or local government might be liable, especially if poor intersection design, inadequate signage, or malfunctioning traffic signals contributed to the accident.
Vehicle Manufacturers: If a vehicle defect, such as defective autopilot, malfunctioning airbags or roof crush, plays a role in the accident or the severity of the injuries, the manufacturer could be held liable.
Other Entities: Other parties, like construction companies responsible for road work, might also be liable if their actions created unsafe conditions leading to the accident.

Establishing liability requires a detailed investigation and comprehensive legal knowledge. While this aspect of a claim is best left to an attorney, it’s crucial that the injured parties know what steps they should take after an accident to protect their rights.

What to Do After an Intersection Accident in Houston

If you’re involved in an intersection accident in Houston, taking the right steps immediately afterward can significantly impact your ability to seek compensation later. Here’s what you should do:

Ensure Safety: Move to a safe area if possible to prevent further accidents. If the vehicles are operable and it’s safe to do so, it is oten best to move them to the side of the road or other safe space.
Check for Injuries and Call Emergency Services: Assess yourself and others for injuries. Call 911 immediately, even for minor accidents, as police reports and medical records are crucial evidence. Let the police know if anyone is injured and needs medical attention.
Document the Scene: Take photos of the vehicles, intersection, traffic signals, and any relevant road conditions or signs. Documenting the scene as it appeared at the time of the accident can be essential.
Exchange Information: Collect names, contact details, insurance information, and vehicle details from all parties involved. Also, get contact information from any witnesses.
Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, visit a healthcare provider as soon as possible. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent or visible without further examination and testing.
Notify Your Insurance Company: Report the accident to your insurer, but be cautious about making statements that could be construed as admitting fault.
Consult a Houston Intersection Car Accident Lawyer: One of the most important actions you can take is to consult with experienced Houston intersection accident lawyers, especially if the accident was serious or if there’s any confusion about who is at fault. You should do this before filing any insurance claims or accepting compensation for your crash at an intersection.

After taking these steps, the next step is to seek compensation for damages sustained in the intersection accident. Understanding the types of compensation you may be awarded and the type of evidence needed to file a successful claim will help ensure you obtain what you’re entitled to.

Seeking Financial Compensation for An Intersection Car Accident in Houston

Seeking compensation for an intersection car accident in Houston requires a thorough understanding of the types of evidence needed and the categories of compensation available. To build a strong case, the following evidence is crucial:

Photographic and Video Evidence: Collect photos or videos of the accident scene, including positions of vehicles, traffic signals, and any road conditions that may have contributed to the accident.
Witness Testimonies: Statements from people who witnessed the accident can provide crucial insights into how the incident occurred.
Police Report: A detailed police report can offer an official account of the accident, including any traffic violations.
Medical Records: Documentation of injuries, medical treatments, and prognoses are vital to establish the extent of physical harm and its impact on the injured person’s life.
Expert Testimony: Specialists like accident reconstruction experts can provide insights into how an accident occurred, while medical experts can testify about the extent of the injuries.

In terms of compensation, those injured on Houston roads can seek several types:

Economic Damages

Economic damages refer to the tangible, financial losses that an injured party incurs as a result of an accident. These damages are typically easy to quantify as they have specific monetary values associated with them. Common examples include medical bills, lost wages, and property damage.

Non-Economic Damages

Non-Economic damages are more subjective and compensate for the intangible losses a person suffers after intersection crashes. These are often more complex to quantify. The most common examples usually include pain and suffering, emotional distress or mental anguish, physical impairment, pain and suffering, and disfigurement.

Punitive Damages

In cases where the plaintiff’s injury resulted from fraud, malice, or gross negligence – such as driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, punitive damages may be awarded. These are intended to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct in the future.

When confronted with the intricate challenges of these claims, a steadfast guide through the labyrinth of legal complexities is essential. This is where the indispensable role of an intersection accident lawyer comes into play.

How Intersection Accident Lawyers Can Help with Your Case

A car accident lawyer can be a vital ally in navigating the complexities of a car accident case, especially one occurring at an intersection in Houston. Their skill can significantly impact the outcome of your case in various ways; here’s how they can help:

Gathering and Analyzing Evidence: Lawyers have the resources and know-how to thoroughly gather and review evidence. This includes obtaining accident reports, speaking to witnesses, securing video footage from nearby cameras, and consulting with experts like accident reconstructionists. Your experienced intersection accident lawyer will ensure that relevant facts are documented and preserved.
Handling Insurance Companies: Insurance companies will aim to minimize payouts. A skilled lawyer will negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, ensuring you don’t settle for less than you deserve. They are adept at dealing with insurance adjusters’ tactics and can make sure you are treated fairly.
Determining Damages: An experienced injury lawyer will be able to calculate both economic and non-economic damages. They will consider factors such as current and future medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, impairment and other relevant factors to ensure that the compensation covers all aspects of your loss and suffering.
Legal Representation in Court: If a fair settlement cannot be reached outside of court, your lawyer will be prepared to represent you at trial. They will manage all aspects of litigation, from filing legal documents to presenting your case before a judge or jury.
Emotional Support and Peace of Mind: Having a lawyer handle the legal aspects of your case can alleviate much of the stress and allow you to focus on your recovery. They provide support and guidance throughout the process, ensuring your interests are protected.

Securing the support of an intersection accident lawyer is crucial for effectively navigating the complexities of your case and ensuring maximum compensation. This underscores the importance of selecting a reputable and experienced firm, such as The Callahan Law Firm.

Why Choose the Callahan Law Firm?

Choosing the right attorney for your intersection accident case is crucial, and The Callahan Law Firm offers an option that stands out for several reasons. We bring over 25 years of experience to the table. This isn’t just about numbers; it’s about having a team that truly understands the ins and outs of personal injury cases, specifically those involving car accidents. We’ve seen it all and know how to handle the unique challenges your case might present.

At the helm of the firm is attorney Michael S. Callahan, a distinguished legal professional who is Board Certified in Personal Injury Trial Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. This certification is a testament to his expertise, skill, and dedication in the field of personal injury law, providing clients with the assurance that their case is in highly capable hands. We always offer a free case review, which means you can chat with us, ask all the questions you have, and get a feel for what your case might look like, all without spending a dime.

If you do decide to work with us, you still don’t have to pay us anything upfront. If you don’t win your case, you don’t need to pay us anything. This policy shows how confident we are in our ability to help you and also aligns our success with yours. If you’ve been injured in an intersection car accident, contact The Callahan Law Firm today to schedule a free consultation with one of our car accident attorneys.