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Texas Car Accident Death Statistics

March 2, 2025 | By Francis Injury: Car & Truck Accident Lawyers
Texas Car Accident Death Statistics

🚗 Car Accident Deaths in Texas: Understanding the Causes, Statistics, and Legal Rights

Car accident fatalities in Texas remain a serious concern, with thousands of lives lost each year due to reckless driving, speeding, and impaired driving. If you've lost a loved one in a fatal crash, you may have legal rights to compensation under Texas law. In this guide, we will cover the latest car accident death statistics, the common causes, Texas' traffic laws, and what families can do to seek justice.

📊 Latest Texas Car Accident Death Statistics (2023)

According to the Texas Department of Transportation, Texas sees some of the highest rates of fatal car accidents in the U.S.. Here’s a look at the 2023 fatal crash data for the largest Texas cities:

City Number of Car Accident Fatalities Year
Houston 283 2023
Dallas 187 2023
San Antonio 167 2023
Fort Worth 118 2023
Austin 89 2023

⚠️ Common Causes of Fatal Car Accidents in Texas

  • 🚗 Speeding – Excessive speed is a leading cause of fatal crashes in Texas.
  • 🍺 Drunk Driving (DUI/DWI) – Alcohol-related accidents account for a significant percentage of deaths.
  • 📱 Distracted Driving – Texting or using a phone while driving increases the risk of deadly collisions.
  • 💨 Reckless & Aggressive Driving – Tailgating, road rage, and unsafe lane changes contribute to fatal accidents.
  • 🌧️ Weather Conditions – Rain, fog, and icy roads make driving hazardous.
Texas Car Accident Death

🚦 Texas Laws on Fatal Car Accidents

Texas has strict traffic laws and penalties for drivers who cause fatal accidents. Some key laws include:

  • 🔹 Negligent Homicide – Drivers who cause a fatal crash due to reckless driving can face criminal charges.
  • 🔹 Dram Shop Laws – Bars and restaurants can be held liable if they overserve an intoxicated driver who later causes a fatal accident (Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code).
  • 🔹 Wrongful Death Claims – Families of victims can sue for damages against the at-fault driver (Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code).

💰 Compensation for Families After a Fatal Car Accident

Families who have lost a loved one due to **another driver's negligence** may be entitled to financial compensation. Potential damages include:

  • 🏥 Medical Expenses – Coverage for hospital bills incurred before death.
  • ⚖️ Funeral & Burial Costs – Families can recover the costs of laying their loved one to rest.
  • 💼 Loss of Income – Compensation for lost wages the victim would have earned.
  • ❤️ Loss of Companionship – Emotional distress and suffering endured by surviving family members.

📝 What to Do After a Fatal Car Accident in Texas

If you’ve lost a loved one in a car accident, take these steps:

  • 📞 Contact Law Enforcement – File a police report and obtain a copy for your records.
  • 📑 Gather Evidence– Collect medical reports, witness statements, and accident scene photos.
  • ⚖️ Consult a Wrongful Death Lawyer – An attorney can help you file a claim and seek justice.

📢 Contact a Texas Car Accident Lawyer Today

If you’ve lost a loved one in a fatal car accident, **Francis Injury** is here to help. Our experienced attorneys specialize in **wrongful death claims**, helping families **fight for justice and compensation**.

🛑 What Can We Do to Prevent Car Accident Deaths?

Preventing car accident fatalities requires a collective effort from **drivers, lawmakers, and communities**. While Texas has implemented various safety regulations, **individual responsibility and proactive measures** play a significant role in reducing road fatalities. Below are some effective strategies to prevent car accident deaths.

🚘 Safe Driving Habits

  • ⚠️ Avoid Speeding – Speed limits exist to prevent fatal crashes. Drive within posted speed limits and adjust for **weather and road conditions**.
  • 🍺 Never Drink and Drive – Drunk driving remains a top cause of fatal accidents. Always designate a sober driver, use rideshare services, or call a friend if you’ve been drinking.
  • 📵 Eliminate Distractions – Texting, using a phone, or adjusting the GPS while driving can be deadly. Keep your attention on the road at all times.
  • 🔄 Use Turn Signals and Follow Traffic Laws – Failing to signal, improper lane changes, and aggressive driving behaviors increase accident risks.
  • 🔆 Drive Defensively – Always anticipate the actions of other drivers and maintain a safe following distance.

🚗 Vehicle Safety and Maintenance

  • 🛠️ Routine Vehicle Inspections – Check brakes, tires, and lights regularly to ensure your car is in safe working condition.
  • 🛑 Ensure Seatbelt Use – Seatbelts reduce the risk of death in an accident by nearly 45%. Always buckle up and ensure passengers do the same.
  • 🚗 Use Advanced Safety Features – Newer vehicles come equipped with lane departure warnings, automatic braking, and blind-spot detection, which help prevent collisions.
  • 👶 Secure Child Passengers – Use the appropriate car seat or booster seat for children based on their age and size. Texas child safety laws provide guidance on proper restraint systems.

🏛️ Strengthening Traffic Laws and Enforcement

  • 🚔 Increase DUI Checkpoints – Strict enforcement of DUI laws helps deter drunk driving.
  • 🚦 Improve Road Infrastructure – Well-lit roads, clear lane markings, and safer intersections help reduce accident risks.
  • 📢 Public Awareness Campaigns – Promoting safe driving education through schools and community programs can help prevent reckless driving behaviors.
  • 📸 Red Light & Speed Cameras – Automated enforcement can deter speeding and red-light running, reducing fatal crashes at intersections.

🚴 Protecting Pedestrians and Cyclists

  • 🚶 Enhance Pedestrian Safety – Cities should build **more crosswalks, pedestrian bridges, and designated walking areas.
  • 🚴 ncrease Bike Lanes – Dedicated bike lanes separate cyclists from vehicle traffic and help prevent fatal accidents.
  • 🚦 Enforce Right-of-Way Laws – Drivers must yield to pedestrians in crosswalks and be aware of bike lanes.

Everyone has a role to play in making Texas roads safer. Whether it’s practicing defensive driving, maintaining your vehicle, or supporting stricter traffic laws, your actions can help save lives. By taking responsibility and promoting awareness, we can reduce car accident deaths and create safer roadways for everyone.

If you’ve lost a loved one in a car accident, the legal team at Francis Injury is here to help. Contact us today at 817-329-9001 for a free consultation.

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