Common Causes of Car Accidents
How an El Paso Car Accident Attorney Can Help
Car accidents may be caused by a number of factors, but many times, they are the result of another person’s negligence. When someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing causes you harm, you may be entitled to compensation for your damages. Damages in a car accident claim may include compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more, which is why reaching out to a car accident attorney promptly is essential.
Determining who or what caused the accident can be challenging without the help of an attorney. In many cases, liability is not straightforward. There may be one or more parties that can be held legally responsible for your damages.
If you are involved in a car accident in Texas, it is strongly recommended that you speak with an El Paso car accident attorney as soon as possible. Luckily, Aranda Law Firm is here to help. Contact us online or call (915) 996-9914 today to get started.
What Are the Most Common Causes of Car Accidents?
The vast majority of car accidents are preventable. They are frequently caused by operator negligence, such as speeding or distracted driving. In the immediate aftermath of a collision, it can be challenging to determine how the accident was caused and who is to blame. In most instances, it will take evidence to prove what happened.
Leading causes of car accidents:
- Speeding: Traveling too fast for roadway conditions or beyond the posted speed limit is one of the most common causes of car accidents in Texas and across the country. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Speeding has been a contributing factor in approximately one-third of all traffic accident fatalities over the last two decades.
- Distracted driving: Over 3,000 people were killed in a single year as a result of distracted driving. It can involve any activity that diverts a motorist’s attention from the road, including texting while driving, finding a radio station, talking on the phone, or eating while operating a vehicle.
- Driving under the influence: An estimated 37 people die every day in drunk driving accidents across the United States. Tragically, each of these deaths is 100% preventable. In addition to driving under the influence of alcohol, many motorists operate a vehicle while impaired by drugs. Drugs that impair your ability to drive may include illicit or illegal substances, as well as prescription and over-the-counter medications. If you were driving under the influence or were hit by someone who was, it is imperative to speak with a car accident attorney.
- Unsafe lane changing: Another common cause of accidents is when a motorist makes an unsafe lane change. Many motorists fail to check their blind spot or attempt to abruptly change lanes without looking, causing dangerous accidents.
- Reckless driving: Reckless or aggressive driving also causes a substantial number of wrecks each year. Any time that a motorist fails to operate a vehicle safely or does not obey traffic laws, they may be held liable if their actions cause an accident.
It is important to note that there may be multiple factors that contributed to the accident that caused your injuries. Working with a car accident attorney in El Paso can help determine whether you have a valid claim for damages and who can be held liable for your harm.
What If You Are Partly to Blame?
In some cases, it may be determined that you were partially responsible for the accident. There is a common misconception that an injured party is not able to obtain compensation from another liable party if their negligence contributed to the collision.
Under Texas law, an injury victim is still able to secure financial recovery from a party who caused them harm as long as their own percentage of responsibility or blame for the accident did not exceed 50%. Therefore, even if you believe that your actions may have contributed to the crash, you may still be entitled to compensation from another party and should speak with an El Paso car accident attorney right away.
It is imperative not to make any statements to an insurance company or accept a settlement without first speaking with a car accident attorney. The insurance company may try to get you to settle for less than your case is worth by downplaying their insured’s responsibility for the accident.
How to Determine Liability After a Car Accident
Determining liability after a car accident is not always easy. It may take several pieces of evidence to prove who can be held legally responsible for the crash and your injuries. In order to help bolster your claim, it is important to contact 9-1-1 immediately after the accident. A reporting officer will investigate the crash and write an accident report. While not definitive, the accident report may help to determine who can be held liable. Because of this, it is important to have an El Paso car accident attorney represent you.
Additionally, you will want to take pictures and videos at the scene. Document any hazards or conditions that may have contributed to the crash. Common hazards include road and weather conditions, unsafe or unclear signs, or traffic obstacles. The more evidence you can collect, the stronger your case may be.
Finally, you need to consider contacting an El Paso personal injury attorney. Your lawyer can help guide you through the claims process and ensure you get the compensation you deserve. Call (915) 996-9914 today.
