How Common Are Car Accidents?
Are car accidents common? Unfortunately, yes. While there have been significant advances in vehicle safety technology in the last two decades, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports at least 35,600 people died in car crashes in 2018. In addition, more than 2.5 million injured parties had injuries that required medical treatment.
Whether bumps, bruises, or a broken bone, car accidents can turn your once-routine life upside down. A crash caused by another person can lead to drained savings, job loss, and endless pain and suffering. But with the help of a personal injury lawyer, you can get the money you need for a full recovery.
Learn more below about how common car accidents are and related information. Next, talk to The Francis Firm for more information about your legal options after a car accident.
Texas Car Accident Statistics
Texas is one of the most populated states in the country. So it isn’t surprising that it has its share of car accidents. The Texas Department of Transportation reports almost 500,000 car accidents in the state annually. The department also notes these sobering facts:
- One car crash occurs in Texas every 67 seconds.
- One person dies in a car accident every 135 minutes.
- One person is hurt in a car accident every 154 seconds.
- More than 13% of the country’s deadly truck accidents happen in Texas.
- Single-vehicle crashes comprised 34% of fatal accidents in 2020. These accidents led to 1,354 deaths.
- Head-on crashes killed 536 people in 2020.
- There were no days in 2020 without a death on Texas roads.
- 46% of car accident fatalities in Texas in 2020 involved someone not wearing a seatbelt.
- 25% of all deadly Texas accidents in 2020 involved an intoxicated driver.
Dallas and Houston have the most fatal car accidents and injuries. However, most Texans who die in car accidents are in rural parts of the state. It is estimated that approximately 51% of fatal car accidents happen in rural regions.
Unfortunately, many small Texas communities lack the funding to keep older highways and streets in good repair, which leads to more accidents.
Most Common Car Accidents
Car accidents are clearly common in Texas, but what are the most common accidents?
Rear-End Crashes
Rear-end collisions are one of the most common auto accidents in Texas and the nation. A rear-end crash happens when a vehicle hits the one ahead of it, usually at a stop sign, red light, or in traffic.
Most rear-end crashes are the vehicle's fault in the rear, but not always. For example, if the car in front has broken brake lights or stops for no reason, they could be at fault.
Avoid a rear-end crash by leaving at least one car-length space between you and the front vehicle.
Single-Vehicle Accidents
Texas accident statistics show that single-vehicle crashes are common, with more than 1,300 killed in 2020 alone. These incidents usually involve the car slamming into a stationary object, such as a tree or concrete barrier. Poor weather and speeding are leading causes of single-car crashes.
To reduce your chances of being a grim accident statistic, always obey the speed limit and slow down in bad weather. If you are on a road with two or more lanes, drive in the far right lane to avoid other cars hitting you. Drive at least five miles per hour under the limit in rain and snow.
Distracted driving also leads to many single-car crashes. Remember that it’s against the law to text and drive in Texas. In addition, some Texas cities have bans on using cell phones while driving.
Head-On Collisions
A head-on crash is when two cars driving in opposing directions hit each other. These incidents usually happen at high speed on two-lane roads, leading to severe and often fatal injuries.
Unfortunately, some drivers drive the wrong way on highways. Sometimes they are under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Many head-on crashes happen at night when visiblity is poor.
Avoid getting in a head-on crash by always being alert behind the wheel. Also, watch out for a driver coming the other way that drifts into your lane.
Side-Impact Crashes
This common Texas accident is also called a T-bone collision. They usually happen at intersections where one car slams into the other car’s side. Most side-impact crashes are caused by one driver speeding or running a red light or stop sign.
Avoid these accidents by using caution when entering an intersection, even when you have the right of way. Look left and right for oncoming traffic before entering the intersection.
Injured In A Car Crash? Contact A Personal Injury Attorney Today
Understanding how common car accidents are on Texas roads can be grim. However, anyone who lives in the Lone Star State should be aware of how common auto accidents are and take steps to protect themselves. If you were hurt in a Dallas, Fort Worth, or Southlake car accident, a car accident attorney could help you with compensation for your injuries and losses. Contact one of our car accident lawyers today for a free consultation.